A game where you explore planets. Top space online games. Cosmonautica – cozy time management with good humor

In 2148, artifacts of an ancient civilization were first discovered on Mars. Soon, terrestrial scientists were able to fully understand the technology of aliens, which provided a serious breakthrough in the technological development of our planet - space and time became subject to man, flights to space to distant star systems. Humanity emerged from its cradle and came into contact with other civilizations of the Galaxy... Almost forty years have passed since the discoveries on Mars. The Alliance of Systems is a dynamically developing interstellar state. The ship "Normandy" - the most modern starship of the Alliance is sent on its first mission. Your name is Shepard, you are assigned as an officer on this ship. Your journey to space begins!

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Mass Effect 2

• PC games: space
• Year: 2010
• Genre: RPG action shooter
• Developer: BioWare

Two years after Commander Shepard repelled the Reaper invasion, humanity has a new enemy, methodically exterminating human colonies on the outskirts of the explored space. To counter the looming threat, the legendary Specter will have to cooperate with the powerful and ruthless organization Cerberus, whose goal is to save humanity from destruction at any cost. To carry out an extremely responsible and dangerous mission, Shepard will have to assemble a squad of experienced and strong fighters and take command of the most powerful spaceship in the Galaxy. However, many believe that even with such resources, the operation is doomed to failure. Shepard must prove the naysayers wrong.

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Mass Effect 3

• PC games: space
• Year: 2012
• Genre: RPG action shooter
• Developer: BioWare

Not everyone is destined to survive. An ancient alien race known as the Reapers has launched a global invasion, leaving ruins of civilizations in their wake. The Earth has been captured, the galaxy is on the verge of complete destruction, and only you can fix the situation. The price of error is nothingness. Your role is Captain Shepard, a character you create yourself. Only you decide how events will unfold, which planets will be explored, and who will be part of the alliance you will assemble to eliminate the Reaper threat once and for all. You will lead this war at your own discretion: you can attack head-on, pouring fire on the enemy, or draw up a cunning plan for a surprise attack. Gather a versatile squad of professionals or choose the path of a lone wolf. Attack your enemy from a distance or engage him in brutal hand-to-hand combat. Mass Effect 3 will react to every decision you make - this story is up to you to write.

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Space Rangers

• PC games: space
• Year: 2002
• Genre: RPG tactics quest
• Developer: Elemental Games

The action takes place in the distant future, in the year 3000. By that time, people already knew for sure that they were not alone in the Universe, and not only did they know, they had already managed to fight with four extraterrestrial civilizations and sign a peace treaty with them. Naturally, most of the Universe has been explored, many space technologies are open and widely used, people have become part of outer space. It seems that everything is in order, the Universe lives in peace, even the pirates began to calm down after the last joint campaign of the five races against them, but as usual, if everything is fine, then trouble must be expected. A new race of Klisans has appeared, which destroys everything in its path without giving explanations or communicating.

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Space Rangers 2

• PC games: space
• Year: 2007
• Genre: RPG quest strategy
• Developer: Elemental Games

3300 year. Our galaxy has been invaded by Dominators - combat robots that have gotten out of control. A coalition of five races - the Maloks, the Pelengs, the Humans, the Faeans and the Gaalians - is relying on the Space Rangers to destroy the Dominators. You are now a ranger. Choose a race, get a ship, go on the road. Fight in space and hyperspace. Do trade. Complete government tasks. Free the planets from dominators. And, of course, solve text quests, each of which is a separate adventure. It is impossible to predict how events will develop. The game can end in victory for either side or last indefinitely. Everything depends on the actions of the player and the inhabitants of the living world, in which you can make a career as a vile pirate or a famous hero who will understand the reasons for the appearance of the Dominators and be able to stop this bloody war.

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Parkan: Chronicle of the Empire

• PC games: space
• Year: 1997
• Genre: simulator shooter
• Developer: Nikita

The PARKAN spaceship sets out to search for a missing research vessel and, as a result of an accident, accidentally finds itself cut off from the outside world in an abandoned star sector, in which, after a devastating war, robotic clans remained on scorched planets, extracting fuel and building factories for the production of weapons and repair of starships. The point of the game is for the PARKAN pilot to complete the assigned task and survive in conditions of complete uncertainty and given freedom of action. There are many ways to survive in the game, directly related to the player’s behavior: from petty speculation and peaceful trade to the colonization of planets and outright robbery.

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Parkan 2

• PC games: space
• Year: 2005
• Genre: simulator shooter
• Developer: Nikita

Parkan 2> is a non-trivial fusion of several genres at once, allowing the player to feel like the pilot of a spaceship lost in the Universe. You have to explore hundreds of star systems, take part in a series of heated battles and meet a new enemy - a mysterious creature calling itself Hegemount. The game takes place at the same time as the action of the first part. The player actually has the same goals and objectives, but has an assistant - AI Irene. Become a pirate or a mercenary, get money for the most powerful star cruiser, colonize planets, create your own clan and show everyone who will be the new master of the galaxy. To improve relations with other clans, the player can complete tasks received from their planetary bases. For completion, money is paid in the form of fuel. Depending on how a particular race treats you, additional opportunities open up.

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Darkstar One

• PC games: space
• Year: 2006
• Genre: simulator
• Developer: Ascaron Ent.

Centuries have passed since the end of the General Intergalactic War. An uneasy peace has established between the races inhabiting the developed part of the Universe. A Great Council was created to enforce the truce and control the growing power of each empire. However, recently attacks on civilian ships have become more frequent, and the culprit was a race whose representatives live on the very edge of the explored part of the Universe...

With the exception of starting a career as an astronaut or hitchhiking into deep space on an unmanned probe, computer games are the best and so far the only way available to humanity to leave Earth and go on a journey towards the unknown. Peaceful trade or pirate fishing in the vastness of the Milky Way, or escaping from a terrible alien monster in an abandoned orbital station - all this is on our list of the best games for PC, one way or another dedicated to space.

Leaving their planet behind, humans begin to colonize Mars: you are now entirely responsible for the outcome of this process. Your new civilization will begin its development from a small settlement in the Martian desert and grow into a vibrant, growing and extraterrestrial metropolis. But we advise you to monitor your oxygen and electricity levels, because a deficiency of either of these components will lead to a terrible death of the population on the red planet.

Released: 2017 | Developer: Fullbright | Buy

The space squad mysteriously disappeared from the Tacoma lunar mobile station. You are sent to investigate this situation and restart the artificial intelligence of the lunar station. This is an atmospheric, sci-fi story from the creators of Gone Home.

Characters reveal a compelling story in detail through interactive augmented reality recordings. Extreme attention to detail adds to the mystery of the story. The more thoroughly you explore every meter of the station, the more immersed you become in solving the mystery.

Elite: Dangerous

Released: 2014 | Developer: Frontier Developments | Buy

In this large-scale and exciting simulator, an entire galaxy plays the role of an open and accessible world for exploration. Starting the game with a simple ship and a handful of credits, you become the master of your own destiny. Become a fearsome pirate? A famous merchant? Or an outstanding discoverer?

The beauty of Elite Dangerous is that it gives the player complete freedom of action. Intense space battles or serene exploration of the nooks and crannies of space - here everyone can find something to their liking. On top of that, the ships in the game are simply fabulous: controlling the nimble fighters and massive cargo ships in Elite is definitely worth blowing off the dust from the old joystick.

Released: 2003 | Developer: CCP Games | Buy

Providing the opportunity to live a fulfilling life in space, EVE Online is an unparalleled MMORPG where the development of the world lies entirely in the hands of the players. This is a galaxy teeming with life, where thousands of capsule players fight, trade, mine resources, and explore the unknown side by side. Once you leave the confines of the relative safety of the police-patrolled launch system, you will find yourself in the middle of an uncompromising Wild West in a vacuum of space.

Whether you prefer to fight in large-scale space battles, each of which consists of thousands of ships costing thousands of real dollars, or explore the vast expanses of New Eden alone, EVE will provide you with many unforgettable experiences.

Released: 2017 | Developer: Rockfish Games | Buy

There is no way to recover in this rogue game. But the money earned in this battle will remain and will be used by you to improve the characteristics of the ship, which will help you win in the future. Improving these features will allow you to visit the far reaches of space with complete determination.

The game process itself is a continuous cycle. If your character dies, you won't be upset and will happily start playing again to see how far you can go this time.

Released: 2006 | Developer: Petroglyph | Buy

The game was developed by a group of experienced programmers from the Petroglyph company, who once worked at Westwood. This real-time strategy game is the best PC game in the Star Wars series. The simplified interface and low system requirements may turn off avid fans of the genre.

However, the sheer amount of chaotic and exciting battles on earth and in space are simply stunning and will excite any Star Wars fan. And such key characters as Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker make the game even more popular.

Released: 2017 | Developer: Suspicious Developments | Buy

In this 2-D sci-fi game, you find yourself on board a spaceship, where your main task will be to destroy the crew using a huge variety of weapons and gadgets. The genius of the game is how strongly your imagination is developed, which will allow you to play according to your own scenario. The reaction and chaos from the revelation of your presence on the ship turns the game into one continuous joke. Sometimes things can go wrong, which is what makes the game fun in its own way.

Released: 2016 | Developer: Misfits Attic | Buy

Despite its minimalistic, retrofuturistic interface, Duskers is one of the most frightening modern sci-fi horror games on PC. In it, the player will need to take on the role of the pilot of a small “vehicle fleet” of drones, with their help searching abandoned ships in search of fuel, spare parts and threads to understand why the unknown galaxy in which the main character finds himself is completely devoid of life.

However, almost completely: the ships being explored are infested with creepy and aggressive creatures, which makes moving through their dark, narrow corridors an unexpectedly stressful experience.

Released: 2017 | Developer: Bungie | Buy

Bungie is a massively multiplayer first-person shooter hybrid that features alien environments and is simply addictive. The forested ruins of the planet Earth, the vast seas of the planet Titan, the red forests of the planet Nessus and the volcanic nature of the planet Io - all these areas delight the eyes of those who like to shoot and shoot.

The game's end goal is vague, but fans of the sci-fi genre will enjoy the lively and vibrant setting.

Released: 1995 | Developer: LucasArts | Buy

Point-and-click adventure game from LucasArts, for some reason never received due recognition. A mission to deflect the flight path of an asteroid threatening to collide with the Earth turns into a disaster for the participants: due to mysterious circumstances, they find themselves in a distant and lifeless world.

Some of the game's mysteries are difficult to understand, even by LucasArts standards, but the colorful and bizarre planet that serves as the setting is one of the most compelling extraterrestrial worlds of all time. Special mention is due to the voice acting with The X-Files and Terminator star Robert Patrick in the title role.

Released: 2014 | Developer: Giant Army | Buy

A space god simulator that allows you to control exact 3D copies of real galaxies and star systems and observe the catastrophic results of your intervention. You can start your interstellar experiments by increasing the mass of Jupiter to such a value that all other objects in the solar system will begin to revolve around it, or by completely removing the Sun, which will lead to the scattering of the Earth and other planets in different directions.

Released: 2016 | Developer: Ocelot Society | Buy

Drifting alone around Jupiter in an old spaceship, your only hope of returning home is connecting with an artificial intelligence suffering from severe emotional disturbances. You will have to communicate with Kaizen exclusively through the keyboard, and if you choose the right words and arguments, then in the end he will agree to cooperate.

Only to suddenly change his mind the next moment and close the external airlock, leaving the player suffocating from lack of oxygen outside the ship. Overall, it's a thoughtful adventure game with a subtle '70s sci-fi style.

Released: 2010 | Developer: BioWare | Buy

If you've ever imagined yourself in the role of Captain Kirk, commanding his own ship, coming into contact with various types of alien aliens and making difficult decisions that will affect the survival of the crew, then Mass Effect 2 gives you the opportunity to experience all of this and more. Combining space opera elements with a plot that rivals the best Star Trek episodes, Mass Effect 2 is one of the best sci-fi games on PC.

It has a rather linear story and does not have the freedom of choice that Elite is famous for, but instead the on-rails plot takes the player on an unforgettable journey through the galaxy, including visiting phantasmagoric planets and communicating with their peculiar inhabitants. In principle, the entire Mass Effect series is worthy of mention on this list, but our choice fell on the second part.

Released: 2016 | Developer: Paradox | Buy

The game was developed by Paradox, known for such creations as Crusader Kings and Europa Universalis. Such a large-scale, sci-fi story made a huge contribution to the strategy genre. You have the opportunity to explore the universe, create alliances with alien factions, and take part in large-scale space confrontations. The diversity of the system makes the game a powerful generator of random stories. You will never be able to predict what kind of creature you will meet on your space journey.

Released: 2014 | Developer: Creative Assembly | Buy

In this spine-chilling survival horror, Amanda, daughter of Ellen Ripley from the Original Cinematic Universe, hides in a falling apart space station from a relentlessly pursuing xenomorph. As a large-scale homage to Ridley Scott's 1979 film, the game is a benchmark for slowly building tension.

The Sevastopol station itself is designed in the style of low-budget science fiction and is replete with bulky retrofuturistic technological devices and terrifying flashing lights. The developers managed to present the world with one of the most bona fide live-action film adaptations of all time, but at the same time, Alien: Isolation remains an outstanding representative of horror even if you take away its rich cultural baggage aimed at fans.

Released: 2016 | Developer: Hello Games | Buy

This is not to say that No Man’s Sky lived up to all the expectations placed on it, but nevertheless, you can still spend many exciting hours in its procedurally generated galaxy. Its sci-fi setting is one of the most aesthetically distinctive, and the ability to jump from outer space to a planet's atmosphere without loading screens is a pretty impressive technical feat.

Of course, the planets here are still empty and lifeless, but the ability to build bases, introduced in the recent Foundation update, brings some variety to the activities on their surface.

Released: 1994 | Developer: Totally Games | Buy

A rare chance to step into the shoes of a George Lucas space opera villain. Given its compelling storyline and variety of missions as an Imperial Stormtrooper - including fighter-to-fighter combat, VIP escorts, and capital ship attacks - this is one of LucasArts' best Star Wars games.

Basically, the same could be said about Star Wars: X-Wing, if only playing as the Rebel Alliance forces wasn't so boring. A separate advantage of this line of space simulators is the fact that they have all received re-releases from GOG.com and are compatible with modern computers.

Released: 2012 | Developer: Subset Games | Buy

In FTL, the player takes on the role of the captain of a Star Trek-style spaceship, which will have to be controlled through gameplay that combines elements of turn-based and real-time strategy. A solid roguelike action game takes place in a painfully familiar, but no less fascinating sci-fi setting.

Full of discreet humor, additional quests and unexpected encounters make every attempt to achieve the final goal exciting and unique. And the ability to give your own names to the crew members and the ship makes you really worry about their fate when they find themselves in yet another dangerous situation in the depths of hostile space.

Released: 1993 | Developer: Origin Systems | Buy

Fans of the series are unlikely to ever stop arguing about which part of Wing Commander is the best, but our choice fell on Privateer thanks to its more. This is a sandbox rich in possibilities, allowing you to become a mercenary, a pirate, a merchant - or something in between these three options.

Most of the gameplay consists of hopping between systems in search of wanted criminals to capture and cargo ships to loot, but it's worth it - the space combat here excites the imagination. The plot is built linearly, but this does not take away the player’s freedom of action and choice.

Released: 2016 | Developer: CCP Games | Buy

If you have a set for playing in virtual reality, then you should not bypass this game. Here, online, you will test yourself in the role of a spaceship pilot who participates in space battles. On a subconscious level, you will feel the comfort of the cabin and the strength of the ship rushing at great speed. The battle mode is specially configured for a virtual reality helmet.

Released: 2015 | Developer:Squad | Buy

Defy gravity and the laws of physics as you try to build your own spaceship and explore space! It's a deep, complex and entertaining sandbox, full of both fun and science-based possibilities. The first successful liftoff from the surface of the planet Kerbin and landing on its moon Moon using a ship designed by oneself is one of the most magical sensations that can be obtained while spending time in a computer game.

Released: 2013 | Developer: Bohemia Interactive | Buy

Take On Mars from Bohemia, the developer studio behind the well-known Arma, is an ideal choice for those who prefer a more scientific approach to simulators - the process of space exploration here is based on real astrophysics. In it you can build a Mars rover a la Curiosity and use it to study the surface of the red planet or build your own lunar base. In general, this is a game for people who prefer science without a dash of science fiction.

Released: 2008 | Developer: Ironclad Games | Buy

Combining real-time strategy and 4X elements, Sins is all about galactic conquest. Choose a faction, accumulate enough forces and resources and become the all-powerful ruler of space. Slowly managing large-scale battles in real time is exciting, but the game's capabilities are not limited to this: you can also expand your influence through diplomacy.

Released: 2013 | Developer: Keen Software House | Buy

Basically Minecraft in space or something. The gameplay consists of extracting building materials from asteroids and making space bases and ships from them. Asteroid exploration is carried out using jetpacks or gravity generators pre-built on them. This is one of the best, which, moreover, constantly receives updates from the developers.

Released: 2013 | Developer: Chucklefish Games | Buy

SpaceEngine will allow you to experience all the delights of an existential crisis and feel small and insignificant, as the events of the game unfold on the scale of the entire universe - or, in any case, the part of it known to us. Taking off from Earth and accelerating the engines to full speed, you quickly realize that you are just a speck of dust rushing through an endless void.

The variety and elaboration of technologies in the game, allowing you to travel between galaxies and land on planets, is amazing. But, unfortunately, aside from exploring the vast open world, this game doesn’t have much else to offer.

On July 20, 1969, the presence of a man on the Moon, flying the flag of the United States of America, marked three brave astronauts. However, this was only a foretaste of the cosmic conquests of our species, who always dreamed of colonizing the universe. Below we have collected seven of the most interesting games that take place in space.

EVE Online

EVE Online is one of the largest MMO games currently available on the market. Here, the story is shaped by the players, and their decisions can affect almost every aspect of the production - which is why the gameplay is so non-linear and shaped by each EVE Online user. They can enter into alliances, but nothing stops them from betraying each other. The world of EVE Online lives because it is created collaboratively by players who directly influence current events. And did I mention the giant space battles, whose participants number not tens or hundreds, but thousands of players? (example - "Slaughterhouse in B-R5RB", in which over 7,000 vessels took part). Politics, war and betrayal - this is how EVE Online can be described in a nutshell.

Star Citizen

Around Star Citizen, a game still in development at Cloud Imperium Games, has already caused a lot of controversy. This fact should not surprise anyone - a game worth almost 230 million dollars, which the creators collected from players in the form of crowdfunding! What's most surprising is that despite such huge funds raised through social fundraising, this game is still in early alpha (you can join the game now, but you have to pay dearly).

The lucky ones who are already playing Star Citizen are very impressed with the project, as is everyone who has watched the gameplay online. Almost everything is good here, from the crazy animations (and the hired Hollywood star actors - including Mark Hamilla) brought in to participate in the motion capture sessions, to the plethora of gameplay features that have been implemented into the game. The main question is not “is it worth the wait,” but “how much longer should we wait?”

No Man's Sky

No Man's Sky from Hello Games has been repeatedly called "One Man's Lie." Most responsible for this state of affairs is Sean Murray, the face of the development team behind No Man's Sky. Murray, following other industry visionaries such as Peter Molyneux, presented some (or most) of his statements to the media, which led to too much high expectations of players and representatives of the gaming industry. But there would not have been such a big storm around No Man's Sky if Murray had not made many promises. But a product that does not live up to the expectations placed on it has hit the market. After the game was released, the creators spent two years repairing their work - as a result, many patches and additions appeared that significantly improve the gameplay. Thanks to them, we can now recommend No Man's Sky with a clear conscience, because traveling through a randomly generated space is a lot of fun.

Anthem

Anthem may not be one of the best AAA games released in the first quarter of 2019, but it's worth giving Electronic Arts' latest effort a chance. There are real complaints about the game regarding the repetitiveness of the tasks, but in a good team this will not have a negative impact on the entire game. Moreover, the game gives great pleasure... shooting and flying javelins - combat armor used to destroy enemies and move not only horizontally, but also vertically! Plus, the beautiful visual design makes Anthem one of the best-looking games set in space. Thanks to Anthem's powerful graphics engine, it was possible to squeeze out some of the most beautiful space landscapes in gaming history.

Kerbal Space Program

Kerbal Space Program is a game that at first glance may seem like a production intended for the little ones. This impression is especially noticeable when you take a closer look at the characters, who look like... green alien toys from Disney's Toy Story. This association quickly fades because KSP is the best simulator in the world - the player's task is to plan the entire space mission and send the children into orbital space (and beyond). However, this will not be easy - at each stage of the game you need to reckon with physical forces and a huge number of options that can affect the success of not only the flight into space, but also the safe landing of a machine designed by the player on another body in the Kerberus system (equivalent to the solar system).

Dead Space

The list shouldn't be missing a game that horror movie fans will enjoy. Dead Space, produced by Visceral Games, was released in October 2008. The story focuses on Isaac Clarke, an unrecovered engineer who finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. As a result of unfortunate events, he was left alone on the American ship Ishimura - a giant spaceship dominated by bloodthirsty beasts that lurk in almost every corner of it. Many players liked this title. Why? First of all, thanks to the use of a number of innovative solutions - how to minimize the number of hud elements (the health bar was placed in the overalls on the back of the main character) and the ability to deprive opponents of their limbs (which could delay or change their behavior). Subsequent installments weren't "as good" as this one, but it's worth testing your fear tolerance with Dead Space. In the evening, being alone at home...

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (not to be confused with the Star Wars: The Old Republic online games), released in 2004, is one of the most important video games created by BioWare. None of the developer's later games - not the fairly average Dragon Age series, or even the (unwinning) insanely good Mass Effect trilogy - have been as good as good old SW: Kotor. This project isn't as good today as it was on release day, but it's worth giving the game a chance because it makes up for visual shortcomings with a well-written story, moral choices, and well-thought-out RPG elements.

Hi all! Below is a selection of the 33 best games about space and spaceships for the computer. The selection was collected over 3 years and was first stored on my computer, now it is here. Games are constantly monitored and the most delicious things are added here regularly.

Separately, I made a selection only. Games of other genres are also more represented here.

Freelancer

Release date: 2003

Genre: Space simulator

Far from new, but a truly Great (yes, with a capital G) space simulator, which many modern developers still look up to. Easy to learn and well thought out, Freelancer became an icon of space games for many years to come. The premise of the game is very simple - the young pilot Trent loses his ship and takes on any orders, retraining in the game from an errand boy to the savior of all mankind...

Players will find a huge living and believable world with its own political life, a wide variety of ships with unique upgrade options and weapons, an interesting and original plot, and even a free game, which can be started after completing the main campaign. In addition, today there are a great many different mods that significantly expand and improve various aspects of the game.

EVE Online

Release date: 2003

Genre: MMORPG

An online multiplayer game set in space. The player here acts as the captain of his own spaceship and, almost from the very beginning of the game, is free to act as he wants (extract resources, trade, fight, engage in piracy, and much more). A distinctive feature of the project is that the players themselves influence both the economic and political situation in the game world.

Four playable factions, 7 thousand star systems, countless ships, upgrades and leveling options, and simply limitless opportunities to play your own role in this truly monumental game will not leave you indifferent. It is worth noting that the game is paid (a monthly subscription is paid), but there is a free mode with certain restrictions on character development and payment of a subscription for in-game currency.

Space Empires: Starfury

Release date: 2003

Genre: space strategy

Space Empires: Starfury- a space strategy that opens up endless outer space for the player.

In this game you have to create your own empire and develop it as best as possible. Explore outer space, appropriate new territories, destroy enemies, develop diplomacy, because you are a star general. All that remains is to choose the path of development and, sticking to it, reach the victorious end.

X2: The Threat

Release date: December 2003

Genre: simulator

X2: The Threat- an exciting and very realistic space simulator with elements of research, trade, construction and military battles. Vast space worlds, an intriguing plot, an abundance of choice of spaceships (about 70 types), the ability to create your own intergalactic cruiser to achieve given goals, many objects and mysteries - all this is appreciated by players who are able to spend many hours at the helm of a starship.

The space of space is divided into sectors, of which there are more than a hundred in the game. Between the sectors there are gates called hypergates. There are hostile, peaceful and unknown sectors. The player is given complete freedom of action, he can develop as he pleases. For example, build stations and factories, earning money from it. Or, for example, engage in piracy. Or even easier - just follow the plot of the game.

Space Rangers 2: Dominators

Release date: 2004

Genre: It combines so many genres that you’ll just get hooked: RPG, text quest, real-time strategy, action and arcade

People who play and love games for quite a long time know what Space Rangers are. For many Russian and not only Russian players, the game has become a cult. Many spent more than one day playing this game. The game takes place in space in the year 3400, where interaction occurs between five civilizations: Maloki, Pelengi, People, Faeyans, Gaalians. The player can choose a race, character, appearance. The game is on the all-time list.

After which the player can travel through space completing various quests, battles, trade, resource extraction, and so on. The world in Space Rangers is open and lives its own independent life around it. There are other rangers who, just like you, earn credits (game currency) and carry out their missions. Pirates can attack you at any time in the game.

There is humor in the game; you can often hear one or another joke in the dialogues of the characters. As you develop and earn credits, you can improve the equipment of your spaceship, improving its characteristics.

X3: Reunion

Release date: 2005

X3: Reunion– a space simulator with trading elements. The game was created for true connoisseurs of endless outer space, major intergalactic battles, freedom of movement, diplomacy, construction and trade. The game has its own plot line, but this does not limit the user’s freedom of exploration and action. The plot is built around the warlike and aggressive civilization of Haaki. In Khaaki society there is a strict hierarchy, where they obey a single leader. Their war fleet attacked the Earth and killed millions of people. The player must unravel the weak point of the warlike race and save humanity from death.

The game world is represented by a huge universe, in which there are 162 sectors. Each of them has portal gates through which you can quickly move from sector to sector. Representatives of eight different races live in the universe, including friendly and enemy ones. The development of the system of industrial production and trade relations is of great importance in passing the game. The construction of new plants and factories, the establishment of trade relations will help in the development of intergalactic business, improving your ship and much more.

Parkan 2

Release date: 2005

Genre: Space simulator, shooter

An old but very exciting space simulator from, which is a continuation of the game Parkan: Chronicle of an Empire, however, very different from its predecessor. And although the main features of the two games were similar, the second part made significant progress in terms of graphics, combat physics and the overall beauty of what was happening on the screen. A number of innovations were also added, for example, combat robots for planetary attacks.

In general, the second part of Parkan is a solid simulator with more than 500 different star systems. You have space, a ship and yourself, unlimited by any boundaries. The player can explore galaxies, land on planets (and even capture them!), fight, trade, communicate, fight again... The surface of the planets, by the way, is randomly generated, which significantly increases the replayability of the project. In a word, it’s better to try Parkan 2 yourself once than to read reviews about it.

STAR WARS Battlefront II

Release date: March 2005

Genre: First and third person shooter

A tactical team shooter in the Star Wars universe, which is a continuation of the game Star Wars: Battlefront. The second part is not fundamentally different from its predecessor, and the closest project with similar game mechanics can be called the Battlefield series. The game contains a variety of equipment from Star Wars, almost all the key characters, recognizable locations, and also plays out some important battles of the saga.

The second part of Battlefront has a larger number of different modes (compared to its predecessor), many maps, 4 opposing armies (two for each era represented in the game) and several classes of fighters for each side. Battles take place both on planets and in space, which significantly diversifies the gameplay. A definite must-play for both Star Wars fans and fans of games like Battlefield.

Release date: 2006

Genre: Spaceship simulator, open world

A space simulator with non-linear gameplay and first-person view. The player controls the control of a spaceship capable of moving between neighboring planetary systems using wormholes that create the spacecraft's power plants. Each system has only one habitable planet, around which an orbital station circles. Based on the name of the inhabited planet, the player selects a destination. Despite the fact that if there is a sufficient amount of fuel, a wormhole can be made anywhere within the system, the player will still have to navigate the ship to the station through outer space.

On his way, he may meet other ships, some of which will have to engage in mortal combat. The vehicles of space travelers in the game are armed with missiles and lasers. Most fights take place at close range with the enemy. However, in outer space the forces of gravity and inertia do not act. This makes the combat system very unpredictable.

Darkstar One

Release date: March 2006

Genre: Space simulator

A good space “flying game” with extensive capabilities and a strong, well-developed plot (there are a good 50 minutes of 3D videos alone). According to the plot, our protagonist gets his father’s unique spaceship, on which we begin our adventure. And although the game is not considered a standard of the genre, fans of space games will definitely like it.

At your service: more than 200 different improvements to the ship and its systems, endless expanses of space completely open for exploration, many unique races (each with its own characteristics), various opportunities for earning money (trading, smuggling, escorting, bounty hunting, killing pirates and etc.). It is noteworthy that “good” and “bad” roleplaying does not affect the plot, but somewhat changes the style of play.

Space Force: Rogue Universe

Release date: 2007

Genre: Simulator, open world

Space Force: Rogue Universe- space simulator. The game features realistic graphics, dynamic space battles, exploration and trading. You will be transported to outer space with picturesque planets, hot stars, comets, asteroids and black holes. In this simulator, in addition to military affairs, you can engage in trade, intelligence activities, diplomacy and earn money to improve the level of your skills.

The player can choose from one of 14 types of spaceships, which can be classified into three categories: heavy, medium and light. Starships can be improved according to their main characteristics: protection, weapons, cargo compartment volume, speed, etc. The game world is inhabited by ten unusual civilizations. The creators of Space Force: Rogue Universe placed the main emphasis on the development of the spaceship, as well as the free exploration of space. There really is a lot to explore - the game contains 46 star systems of the Milky Way. Each of them has its own characteristics, including asteroids, black holes, hostile races, etc.

Mass Effect series

Release date: 2007-2017

Genre: Third person shooter

Mass Effect has branching dialogues and many side quests, an element of space exploration and the worlds you visit, thoughtful leveling, excellent action component and much more! The decisions made by the player during the game influence the further development of the plot, while some of the choices made in the first part of the trilogy will be reflected, for example, in the final part. If you have not yet played this masterpiece, then urgently correct the situation, since this project has gained fame as one of the best games of all time.

Dead Space series

Release date: 2008-2013

Genre: Survival Horror, third person shooter

Dead Space is a series of games in the survival horror genre, which tells the story of the adventures of engineer Isaac Clarke. A seemingly simple mission pits him against bloodthirsty necromorphs (monsters into which dead people turn under the influence of a certain Obelisk). Over the course of three parts of the game, the main character tries to survive and at the same time figure out the devilry going on around him.

For fans of atmospheric games in general and horror films in particular, this game is highly recommended, since it skillfully plays on the player’s emotions, evoking in him such feelings as: fear, panic, a feeling of loneliness, fear of closed spaces, etc. The gameplay of Dead Space is something reminiscent of games such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill, but at the same time differs from them in the original setting and some game design “tricks”.

Precursors

Release date: March 2009

Forerunners is a project that combines elements of genres such as Action, RPG and space. People have long conquered space, and the meeting with extraterrestrial civilizations was surprisingly peaceful. Ultimately, the evil aliens became the people themselves, who split into several warring factions.

The main game events take place on planets. Here the hero takes on quests, completes certain tasks, fights, trades, etc. Gradually, the hero gains experience and acquires all sorts of perks. Once you receive your first starship, the game begins to resemble Freelancer-style simulators - the player can freely travel through various systems, each of which has planets available for landing with a new heap of tasks. Some quests can be solved in several ways. The plot is somewhat banal, but nonlinear, and a couple of times the player will face situations with a choice on which what happens next will depend.

Evochron Mercenary

Release date: 2010

Genre: space simulator

Evochron Mercenary is a space simulator that is based on the principle of the player freely searching for his own tasks and goals in the game world. At the start of the game, the user has the opportunity to decide on a gaming style, which determines the features of the gameplay: the roles of a merchant, mercenary, military man and racer. Thanks to the simulator's simulation of the real behavior of bodies in outer space, taking into account gravitational forces, the player gets an unrivaled feeling of being on a spacecraft. The game supports single and multiplayer modes.

At the beginning of the game, you will have only one spaceship at your disposal, consisting of a “frame” (the main part) and additional modules: stabilizers, fuel tanks, engines. By saving a little money, you can buy more advanced modules and frames. The types of frames available depend on the role the player chose at the start of his career. You can also purchase and install new specialized equipment on the ship. This includes, for example, construction mechanisms that make it possible to set up stations in undeveloped locations in space.

The player can hire several additional crew members for his ship, which will increase the characteristics of his starship.

Starpoint Gemini 1 and 2

Release date: 2010

Genre: space Strategy,

Starpoint Gemini is an excellent space strategy containing all the components of a true hit. Events take place in free galaxies, the vastness of which is trying to be captured by different game parties. It all starts with small ore miners and prospectors. Subsequently, it is possible to qualitatively develop technologies by bringing large spaceships - frigates and battleships - onto the battlefield. The pinnacle of military power is cruisers. Having accumulated sufficient military force, the player can launch a massive attack on the enemy ship.

Events in the game Starpoint Gemini unfold in a three-dimensional world, thanks to which you can completely immerse yourself in what is happening. One of the foundations of economic well-being is the development of trade routes. First of all, this is a high-quality game, playing which you can isolate yourself from boring reality for many hours and be transported to the fascinating world of space battles. Perhaps you will be the next ruler of the Galaxy?

Starpoint Gemini 2

Release date: March 2014

Genre: Space simulator

Starpoint Gemini 2- the gameplay is presented in the form of a classic space simulator, in which the player takes on the role of captain of a large spaceship. The player is given a choice of one of 70 spaceships. You can choose between free mode and campaign. In the game world you are allowed to do whatever you want. To do this, the game has various in-game professions: miners, traders, space pirates, research scientists and keepers of the law. There are 3 classes in the game: Commander, Engineer and Shooter. The Commander's specialization is to control the entire fleet, the Shooter has developed attacking abilities. The Engineer is a mix of these two classes and has special support abilities.

The weapons of a spaceship are placed on turrets; the number of installed weapons, their position and the angle of attack of the turrets depend on the type of ship. During the game you can increase or decrease the number of turrets on your ship.

The weapon system includes light weapons (rail, beam, plasma weapons) and heavy weapons (missiles). The protective system is also non-standard - instead of a complete system, it consists of 4 parts of the shield. The player is allowed to use special equipment that affects his combat abilities and up to four skills, depending on the hero’s class. Thanks to all this, fast and tactical gameplay is achieved.

FTL: Faster Than Light

Release date: 2012

Genre: strategy, simulator, RPG

FTL: Faster Than Light– a space simulator with RPG elements. It describes fantastic events in the distant future. The Federation is in a state of civil war. Evil rebels are attacking from all sides. Only one small Kestrel-class ship managed to break through the rebel outposts and retrieve important data. The player's task is to get to a star system under the control of the federation. You become a brave captain of a spaceship with loyal crew members.

Land on the surface of planets, explore space, board your opponents - all means are good in war! The main thing is to get out of the cordon and get to your allies. Perhaps your heroism will play a key role and bring peace to a war-weary galaxy. But this will not be easy, because the small ship has a whole fleet of rebels on its tail.

Kerbal Space Program

Release date: 2013

Genre: Space simulator, open world, sandbox

KSP is a multi-genre game in which the player needs to build a rocket or spaceship capable of taking people into space. At your disposal are numerous components from which you can build a starship. Each part has its own functions and affects the flight characteristics of the vessel. There is also a hangar in which orbital and conventional aircraft are assembled. The ships are controlled by “Kerbanauts”, residents of the planet Kerbin. The main navigation device in the game is the “navball”, an analogue of the attitude indicator, which displays the vector and anti-vector of speed, the course of the ship and its speed. The cockpit also has a radar altitude indicator.

In research mode, the player needs to conduct scientific experiments and earn “science points” for this. They can be used to discover new devices and parts in the development of the “technology tree”. When choosing a career mode, in addition to accumulating science points, you will also need to complete contracts, for which you will be given the money necessary to build devices.

The Swapper

Release date: March 2013

Genre: Platformer, puzzle

An indie puzzle-platformer game in which the player takes control of a female astronaut stranded on board an abandoned space station. At this station, the heroine discovers a device that allows her to create her own clones and transfer her consciousness into one of them. Using this device, the player will have to solve many puzzles and learn about the fate of the missing inhabitants of the station.

The game has original mechanics, excellent visual style and a high-quality atmosphere. The levels become progressively more difficult, while the player also gradually discovers new possibilities for using the cloning device. It is worth noting that the project received many positive reviews and even won a number of awards, including “Best International Game” at Freeplay 2011.

Space Engineers

Release date: March 2013 In early access

As for the gameplay itself, it is very diverse. The field of activity in the game is vast. Organize the extraction of resources, build and upgrade starships using the obtained blueprints, occupy enemy territories and, of course, engage in battles with other users. The weapon system of the ships is also well thought out in the game. It is recommended to equip your combat vessel based on your own needs and skills. Install plasma cannons, super-powerful missiles, catapults for combat robots, and automatic miners on the spaceship.

Star Conflict

Release date: 2014

Genre: MMORPG, arcade, open world

Star Conflict - is a new dynamic MMO action game created by StarGem Inc studio together with Gaijin Entertainment. The game allows you to take the helm of a space starship and take part in massive battles of star armadas! At your disposal are dozens of different ships, from fast scouts to heavy frigates armed with guns and missiles. Each ship can be prepared to perform various tasks: reconnaissance, hunting the enemy, supporting allies, powerful attack, support with long-range sniper weapons.

PLAY

The player controls combat spaceships of different types and roles. The game has PvP and PvE game modes, as well as (starting with the Open World sandbox version. There is also a “Battle for the Sector” mode, in which only corporations (clans of players) participate. The developers position the game as a team game, where the interaction of players in battle and tactics are critical to victory. Participation in battles brings players synergy and income in the form of game currency and items that are used to improve ships and purchase new ones. On average, a session PvP battle lasts 5-10 minutes and involves from 6 to 32 players. The duration of the session in the Open World is not limited.

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This category contains shooters that take place in space. Throughout the history of its existence, humanity has made many attempts to escape beyond the boundaries of its home planet, but at the moment only space shooters allow anyone to do this.

More details

Such an alluring space

The sci-fi setting - distant future, futuristic weapons, exploration of interstellar space and unknown planets - does not lose its popularity. People want to find out what is beyond our planet, star system, galaxy - and space games, including shooters, give them the opportunity to personally fly around all corners of the Universe, visit fantasy worlds, and meet representatives of extraterrestrial civilizations.

Online space shooters can be roughly divided into two categories: in the first, the player controls a starship and fights enemies in interstellar space; in the second, a character comes under his control, who enters into shootouts with enemies on spaceships, bases, planetary surfaces, and so on. At the same time, some games combine both approaches: for example, cosmosim, where the player spends most of the time as a starship pilot, at certain moments turns into a first-person space shooter.

Third or first person – what to choose?

Game developers work tirelessly to release interesting projects, so the “Space shooters” category is regularly updated with fresh new products.

Star Conflict is an online action game in a space setting. Features of the game - a large selection of ships, various modes, an interesting plot...

Battlezone Combat Commander is a re-release of Battlezone 2, a fantastic first-person shooter from 1999 with RTS elements

Project Nova is a free multiplayer shooter whose fantastic setting is based on the universe of the popular MMO EVE Online.

Pantropy is a sci-fi MMOFPS with unknown worlds, robots and monsters, in which players themselves will create history in...

Mass Effect 2 is a continuation of the fantastic action RPG. According to all the rules, the sequel is bigger, bigger and better than the first part

Mass Effect is an action game with RPG elements from the famous BioWare studio, the first part of the cult fantasy saga about saving the galaxy from...

Outpost Zero is a survival simulator about robots who need to prepare the planet for the arrival of earthling colonists

Beyond Good & Evil 2 is a continuation (prequel) of the 2003 cult adventure action game

TauCeti Unknown Origin is a fantastic open-world shooter with RPG elements in which players will explore a mysterious...

Destiny 2 is a sequel to the online shooter Destiny, in which the Guardians are forced to confront the Red Legion - the army of an ambitious commander...

Take On Mars is a Mars exploration simulator from the authors of DayZ and Arma 3, characterized by a high degree of hardcore and realism