Best Space Sim games on Steam
Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated space sim games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free space sim games are available at the bottom of the page.
Filters & Lists
Starpoint Gemini 2
Captain your own space ship and roam the galaxy in 3D in this tactical space simulator with tons of RPG depth ! Space has never looked so inviting - but images can betray...It has been two years since the end of the second Gemini war, the situation in the wartorn system is further from resolution than ever.
Freespace 2
FreeSpace 2, the follow up to the classic Descent: FreeSpace – The Great War is ready to engage you in the second round. Follow the Grand Terran Vasudan Alliance further into the mysteries of the Shivans. Get your flight stick and hit the flight deck. The last time was just a warm up.
Parkan 2
Parkan II is an original concept game that will allow you to feel as a pilot of a spacecraft lost somewhere in the universe. Become a pirate or mercenary, get money to buy the most powerful cruiser and show them all who is to be the new master of the galaxy. Unforgettable adventures in the Parkan II universe await you!
Strike Suit Zero: Director's Cut
In the year 2299, an interstellar war rages on. In a bid to save Earth from destruction, you must take control of the Strike Suit – a revolutionary fighter craft with the ability to transform into a lethal suit of space armor.
Artemis Spaceship Bridge Simulator
Artemis is designed for anyone who watched Star Trek and dreamed of what it would be like to sit on the bridge of a star ship. Artemis simulates a spaceship bridge by networking several computers together. You cannot play Artemis single-player!
Star Conflict
Star Conflict is an action-packed, massively multiplayer space simulation game that puts players in the role of elite pilots engaging in a widespread interplanetary skirmish. The whole world for PVP and PVE!
Strike Suit Zero
Immerse yourself in massive fleet battles where your dog-fighting skills will directly affect the fate of the cosmos.
FTL: Faster Than Light
This "spaceship simulation roguelike-like" allows you to take your ship and crew on an adventure through a randomly generated galaxy filled with glory and bitter defeat.
Galaxy on Fire 2™ Full HD
A hyperdrive malfunction sends Keith T. Maxwell tumbling through space and time to fight for his life against a mysterious alien armada that is wreaking havoc.
Sins of a Solar Empire®: Rebellion
Command a space-faring empire in Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion, the new stand-alone expansion that combines 4X depth with real-time strategy gameplay.
Evochron Mercenary
The life of an independent mercenary is rarely without excitement. Your spacecraft awaits and your adventure begins in the Sapphire star system.
Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity®
In Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity, you are the leader of a civilization embroiled in a galactic war, fighting for the survival of your entire race against relentless foes.
X: Beyond the Frontier
The Human Race had advanced to the point where we could travel among the stars, we developed giant automated machines to help us colonise other worlds, but there was a fault in their programming and they turned and attacked. Forcing us to lay a trap to protect Earth and exiling the Human race to stay on Earth once again.
X3: Terran Conflict
It is the year 2938. The long wished-for encounter of the X Universe and the Earth holds both joy and sorrow for the people. Despite flourishing trade, the clash of the diverse races, cultures and life forms creates new tensions, mistrust and open conflict that need to be overcome!
Darkstar One
Darkstar One offers a fantastic amount of freedom of choice. The story-based missions gradually lead you deeper into the galaxy to new races, new technologies and ever stronger opponents. Explore a vast array of solar systems in search of hidden artifacts of ancient races, essential objects for upgrading your ship--the Darkstar One.
X3: Reunion
X3: Reunion continues the epic space saga, blending deep space trading and intense real-time combat. Explore a vast universe, establish your empire, and shape the new frontier. With enhanced graphics and intricate economies, it's a journey of strategy, simulation, and interstellar intrigue.
X2: The Threat
X²: The Threat is of a new generation of space simulator games, you play the role of Julian Gardna who continues the story set by X: Beyond The Frontier. The updated graphics engine gives the universe a fresher feel with newly designed ships and stations adding to the complexity of the universe.Most played space sim games on Steam
Take a look at the top space sim games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of April 16th 2025.
1. Elite Dangerous
Take control of your own starship in a cutthroat galaxy. Elite Dangerous is the definitive massively multiplayer space epic. Elite Dangerous is a space sim, space and open world game developed and published by Frontier Developments. Released on April 02nd 2015 has received 98,919 reviews of which 76,509 were positive and 22,410 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played space sim game, thanks to its 5,805 peak concurrent players over the last day.
7.7
76,509
22,410
5,805
players
2. X4: Foundations
X4: FOUNDATIONS brings our most sophisticated universe SIMULATION ever. Fly every ship, EXPLORE space or manage an empire; TRADE, FIGHT, BUILD and THINK carefully, while you embark on an epic journey. Experience tons of improvements with the massive 7.50 Update! X4: Foundations is a space sim, simulation and sandbox game developed and published by Egosoft. Released on November 30th 2018 has received 23,304 reviews of which 18,494 were positive and 4,810 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. While seeing 3,115 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among space sim games based on player count.
7.8
18,494
4,810
3,115
players
3. Avorion
A procedural co-op space sandbox where players can build their own space ships out of dynamically scalable blocks. Fight epic space battles, explore, mine, trade, wage wars and build your own empire to save your galaxy from being torn apart by an unknown enemy. Avorion is a exploration, sandbox and space sim game developed and published by Boxelware. Released on March 09th 2020 has received 13,503 reviews of which 12,192 were positive and 1,311 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. While seeing 646 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among space sim games based on player count.
8.8
12,192
1,311
646
players
4. Void Crew
Void Crew is a Chaotic, Co-op Roguelite game for 1 to 4 players: Outfit your spaceship and crew for thrilling quests, brave fierce enemies in Space Battles... and try not to panic! Void Crew is a co-op, multiplayer and space sim game developed by Hutlihut Games and published by Focus Entertainment. Released on November 25th 2024 has received 6,282 reviews of which 5,522 were positive and 760 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. With 248 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played space sim games.
8.5
5,522
760
248
players
5. Spaceflight Simulator
In Spaceflight Simulator, you will get to build your rockets, plan launches and flights, attempt landings, deploy payloads and explore new worlds. Spaceflight Simulator is a sandbox, space sim and space game developed and published by Team Curiosity ✦. Released on February 17th 2022 has received 6,158 reviews of which 5,931 were positive and 227 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. With 121 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played space sim games.
9.3
5,931
227
121
players
6. Starcom: Unknown Space
Starcom: Unknown Space is an action RPG of space exploration and adventure. Build your own starship while discovering an epic story in a universe of strange mysteries, alien factions and uncharted worlds. Starcom: Unknown Space is a space, exploration and open world game developed and published by Wx3 Labs and LLC. Released on September 02nd 2024 has received 3,017 reviews of which 2,785 were positive and 232 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 119 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played space sim games.
8.9
2,785
232
119
players
7. Star Trucker
Haul cargo, trade salvage and keep your space suit close as you search for fame and fortune among the stars in a game that puts an interstellar twist on the truck sim genre. Star Trucker is a transportation, space sim and automobile sim game developed by Monster and Monster and published by Raw Fury. Released on September 03rd 2024 has received 4,147 reviews of which 3,296 were positive and 851 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. The game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played space sim games.
7.7
3,296
851
68
players
8. Star Conflict
Star Conflict is an action-packed, massively multiplayer space simulation game that puts players in the role of elite pilots engaging in a widespread interplanetary skirmish. The whole world for PVP and PVE! Star Conflict is a online co-op, free to play and space sim game developed by Star Gem Inc. and published by Gaijin Network Ltd. Released on February 27th 2013 has received 14,815 reviews of which 10,868 were positive and 3,947 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. The game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played space sim games.
7.2
10,868
3,947
68
players
9. PULSAR: Lost Colony
The co-op open-world space sim where everyone has a role! Pilot the ship. Reroute power. Launch nukes. Explore alien planets. Research new talents. Work together to find the Lost Colony! ...or just deliver some biscuits PULSAR: Lost Colony is a space sim, open world and simulation game developed and published by Leafy Games. Released on June 22nd 2021 has received 5,552 reviews of which 4,997 were positive and 555 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. The game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played space sim games.
8.7
4,997
555
65
players
10. Astrometica
Astrometica is a space exploration and base-building survival game. After a catastrophic event, explore vast space, gather resources, build bases, and uncover cosmic mysteries. Use advanced technology, craft tools, and discover new blueprints to survive and thrive in the unknown. Astrometica is a space sim, survival and first-person game developed by BeryMery and published by RockGame S.A.. Released on December 10th 2024 has received 1,827 reviews of which 1,616 were positive and 211 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. The game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played space sim games.
8.4
1,616
211
64
players
Best deals on space sim games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of space sim games available on Steam right now, updated on April 16th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted space sim games.
1. Juno: New Origins
Bring to life anything you can imagine from rockets and airplanes to cars and more. Automate them with a visual programming language. Explore 3D planets and make your own. Share your creations online. Complete contracts, conquer milestones, and unlock technology in the newly added Career Mode. Juno: New Origins is a building, science and space sim game developed and published by Jundroo and LLC. Released on January 26th 2023 has received 3,066 reviews of which 2,762 were positive and 304 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Featuring a massive 93% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for space sim category.
8.7
2,762
304
-93%
18.43€
1.29€
2. PULSAR: Lost Colony
The co-op open-world space sim where everyone has a role! Pilot the ship. Reroute power. Launch nukes. Explore alien planets. Research new talents. Work together to find the Lost Colony! ...or just deliver some biscuits PULSAR: Lost Colony is a space sim, open world and simulation game developed and published by Leafy Games. Released on June 22nd 2021 has received 5,552 reviews of which 4,997 were positive and 555 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 87% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in space sim games.
8.7
4,997
555
-87%
20.23€
2.63€
3. X3: Reunion
X3: Reunion continues the epic space saga, blending deep space trading and intense real-time combat. Explore a vast universe, establish your empire, and shape the new frontier. With enhanced graphics and intricate economies, it's a journey of strategy, simulation, and interstellar intrigue. X3: Reunion is a space, simulation and strategy game developed and published by Egosoft. Released on July 21st 2006 has received 683 reviews of which 492 were positive and 191 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 85% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in space sim games.
6.9
492
191
-85%
9.73€
1.46€
4. Darkstar One
Darkstar One offers a fantastic amount of freedom of choice. The story-based missions gradually lead you deeper into the galaxy to new races, new technologies and ever stronger opponents. Explore a vast array of solar systems in search of hidden artifacts of ancient races, essential objects for upgrading your ship--the Darkstar One. Darkstar One is a action, space and sci-fi game developed by Ascaron Entertainment ltd. and published by Strategy First. Released on February 13th 2008 has received 574 reviews of which 472 were positive and 102 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 80% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for space sim games.
7.8
472
102
-80%
8.79€
1.75€
5. Elite Dangerous
Take control of your own starship in a cutthroat galaxy. Elite Dangerous is the definitive massively multiplayer space epic. Elite Dangerous is a space sim, space and open world game developed and published by Frontier Developments. Released on April 02nd 2015 has received 98,919 reviews of which 76,509 were positive and 22,410 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 79% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for space sim games.
7.7
76,509
22,410
-79%
19.86€
4.17€
6. Interstellar Rift
Interstellar Rift is an open world starship simulator with an emphasis on ship construction and multi-player interaction. Survive in a hostile galaxy with your own custom designed and constructed starship. Invite other players to join your crew or fight them across the galaxy! Interstellar Rift is a space sim, building and open world game developed by Split Polygon and published by Iceberg Interactive. Released on September 24th 2020 has received 1,615 reviews of which 1,120 were positive and 495 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 77% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for space sim games.
6.7
1,120
495
-77%
19.52€
4.49€
7. X4: Foundations
X4: FOUNDATIONS brings our most sophisticated universe SIMULATION ever. Fly every ship, EXPLORE space or manage an empire; TRADE, FIGHT, BUILD and THINK carefully, while you embark on an epic journey. Experience tons of improvements with the massive 7.50 Update! X4: Foundations is a space sim, simulation and sandbox game developed and published by Egosoft. Released on November 30th 2018 has received 23,304 reviews of which 18,494 were positive and 4,810 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 73% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for space sim games.
7.8
18,494
4,810
-73%
49.33€
13.32€
8. Deep Space Battle Simulator
Two teams of players control their capital ship in an epic battle. Customize your ship, control its movement, weapons, and energy distribution or go to one of the hangars to join the battle in a smaller fighter! Deep Space Battle Simulator is a action, multiplayer and strategy game developed and published by yeswecamp. Released on November 05th 2021 has received 395 reviews of which 312 were positive and 83 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 70% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for space sim games.
7.4
312
83
-70%
9.99€
2.99€
9. SPACERIFT: Arcanum System
At the sunset of human life on planet Earth, you are a military pilot controlling a space ship, and you find yourself at the very epicenter of the battle in the solar system. You are forced to retreat into the unknown, distant Arcanum system through hyper-jumping. SPACERIFT: Arcanum System is a early access, massively multiplayer and open world game developed and published by Arcanum Team. Released on December 17th 2020 has received 420 reviews of which 329 were positive and 91 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 60% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for space sim games.
7.4
329
91
-60%
19.50€
7.80€
10. Astrometica
Astrometica is a space exploration and base-building survival game. After a catastrophic event, explore vast space, gather resources, build bases, and uncover cosmic mysteries. Use advanced technology, craft tools, and discover new blueprints to survive and thrive in the unknown. Astrometica is a space sim, survival and first-person game developed by BeryMery and published by RockGame S.A.. Released on December 10th 2024 has received 1,827 reviews of which 1,616 were positive and 211 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a 35% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for space sim games.
8.4
1,616
211
-35%
19.35€
12.58€
Free space sim games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play space sim games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on April 16th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play space sim games.
1. Star Conflict
Star Conflict is an action-packed, massively multiplayer space simulation game that puts players in the role of elite pilots engaging in a widespread interplanetary skirmish. The whole world for PVP and PVE! Star Conflict is a online co-op, free to play and space sim game developed by Star Gem Inc. and published by Gaijin Network Ltd. Released on February 27th 2013 has received 14,815 reviews of which 10,868 were positive and 3,947 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. The game currently holds the #1 spot among the most played free space sim games on Steam.
7.2
10,868
3,947
68
players
2. Sputnika Game
A Cosmic twist on a Suika-style game with space gravity. Help our little friend Sputnik on his journey to become the Sun. Sputnika Game is a casual, strategy and puzzle game developed and published by egunan. Released on February 11th 2024 has received 448 reviews of which 401 were positive and 47 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 out of 10. The game currently holds the #2 spot among the most played free space sim games on Steam.
8.3
401
47
9
players
3. Space Commander: War and Trade
Fight, explore the stars, trade, and lead your fleet across the galaxySpace Commander: War and Trade is an ultimate single player space-sim featuring spectacular graphics, intuitive combat and deep mechanics. Space Commander: War and Trade is a action, rpg and base-building game developed and published by Home Net Games. Released on November 04th 2020 has received 649 reviews of which 438 were positive and 211 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.5 out of 10. The game currently holds the #3 spot among the most played free space sim games on Steam.
6.5
438
211
5
players