Games like Polaris Sector
by SoftWarWare
Can anyone build an empire in a place like this? Other factions are naturally suspicious of newcomers and may wage war at the first sign of unidentified craft. Here, a natural death is an uncommon luxury.
View on Steam · $39.99 →
Ranked by how similar the games actually are, not by sales. Released and Price are remembered for next time.
Closest matches
$49.99Stellaris
May 9 · Paradox Development Studio
Both: Space · Grand Strategy · 4X
Explore a galaxy full of wonders in this sci-fi grand strategy game from Paradox Development Studios. Interact with diverse alien races, discover strange new worlds with unexpected events and expand the reach of your empire. Each new adventure holds almost limitless possibilities.
SpaceStrategyGrand StrategySci-fi4XExplorationSandboxSimulationMultiplayerReal-Time with Pause👍 142,911
$19.99The Last Federation
Apr 18 · Arcen Games
Both: Space · 4X · Grand Strategy
From the creators of AI War: Fleet Command comes an all-new grand strategy title with turn-based tactical combat, set in a deep simulation of an entire solar system and its billions of inhabitants. You are the last of a murdered race, determined to unify or destroy the 8 others.
StrategySpaceSimulationIndieTurn-Based4XSci-fiGrand StrategyReal-Time with PauseTactical👍 380
$29.99Distant Worlds: Universe
May 23 · Code Force
Both: 4X · Space · Grand Strategy
Distant Worlds is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game. Experience the full depth and detail of turn-based strategy, but with the simplicity and ease of real-time, and on the scale of a massively-multiplayer online game.
Strategy4XSpaceSci-fiSimulationGrand StrategySingleplayerReal-TimeRTSReal-Time with Pause👍 1,417
$29.99StarDrive
Apr 26 · Zero Sum Games
Both: 4X · Space · Real-Time
As a space bear, human or any other race, venture forth into the galaxy, create custom ships, conquer new worlds, build new colonies and defend your very existence against those who would take what is yours.
Strategy4XSpaceIndieSci-fiRTSSingleplayerReal-TimeExploration👍 1,253
$39.99Galactic Civilizations IV
Oct 19 · Stardock Entertainment
Both: Space · Grand Strategy · 4X
Take command of a civilization that has just achieved faster-than-light travel in Galactic Civilizations IV, the newest entry in the award-winning space 4X strategy game series. Explore the galaxy, colonize worlds, shape cultures, make alliances, fight wars and pioneer new technologies.
SpaceGrand StrategySimulation4XStrategySci-fiExplorationSandboxMultiplayerTurn-Based Strategy👍 2,210
$29.99Horizon
Feb 6 · L3O Interactive
Both: Grand Strategy · Space · 4X
Horizon is a turn-based space strategy game of galactic exploration and conquest in which you are in control of humanity’s destiny. You will explore deep space, find new frontiers and discover alien artifacts hidden on long-abandoned planets.
StrategyGrand StrategySpace4XSimulationSci-fiExplorationSandboxSingleplayerTurn-Based👍 377
$7.99Star Ruler
Sep 20 · Blind Mind Studios
Both: Space · 4X · Grand Strategy
Take command of a vast interstellar empire and safeguard your species from total extinction in a procedurally generated 3D galaxy (with the option to flatten it) from 1 System to 10,000+! Prove your species' ingenuity through a deep and intricate combat system where anything (from individual components on ships to the stars themselves)...
StrategyIndieSpace4XRTSSci-fiGrand StrategyGreat SoundtrackSingleplayerMultiplayer👍 261
$14.99Stellar Monarch
Dec 5 · Silver Lemur Games
Both: Grand Strategy · 4X · Space
Asymmetric space empire builder where you feel like the Emperor, not a logistics officer. No micromanagement, grand scale, fast paced, audiences, assassins, imperial court, disloyal admirals.
Grand Strategy4XTurn-BasedStrategySci-fiTurn-Based StrategySpaceSingleplayerDiplomacyManagement👍 207
$24.99Master of Orion
Aug 25 · NGD Studios
Both: 4X · Space · Grand Strategy
The ascendant spacefaring 4X strategy game returns! A new chapter in the epic Master of Orion saga is poised to once again capture the imaginations of millions of gamers.
Strategy4XSpaceTurn-BasedSci-fiMultiplayerSingleplayerGrand StrategyClassicRemake👍 7,333
-60%$13.99Dune: Spice Wars
Sep 14 · Shiro Games
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy · Real Time Tactics
A 4X real-time strategy game from the developers of the critically acclaimed Northgard. Set in Frank Herbert’s groundbreaking Dune universe, you must lead your faction and battle for control and dominance over the harsh desert planet of Arrakis.
ManagementSingleplayerSci-fiRTSStrategy4XGrand StrategySimulationReal Time TacticsBuilding👍 11,562
STAR WARS™ Rebellion
Mar 1 · Coolhand Interactive
Both: Grand Strategy · 4X · Space
It is a time of great upheaval. The first Death Star has been destroyed, marking a major victory for the Rebellion. But the Empire remains strong. As commander, you must choose to take control of either the Rebel Alliance or the Galactic Empire. Your goal: complete domination of the galaxy.
StrategyGrand StrategySci-fiClassicRTS4X1990'sSingleplayerSpace👍 1,272
$5.99Master of Orion 2
Feb 25 · SimTex
Both: 4X · Space
Forge an empire in a universe where population growth is stripping away planetary resources. Colonize unknown planets and trade with other races for their knowledge.
Strategy4XTurn-BasedSpaceSci-fiClassicTurn-Based StrategyMultiplayerSingleplayerRetro👍 1,658
$39.99ENDLESS Space™ 2
May 18 · AMPLITUDE Studios
Both: Space · 4X · Grand Strategy
ENDLESS Space™ 2 is a Strategic Space Opera, featuring the compelling “just one more turn” gameplay, set in the mysterious ENDLESS Universe™. As the leader of your civilization, will you impose your vision and build the greatest stellar empire?
StrategySpaceSci-fi4XTurn-Based StrategyMultiplayerTurn-BasedGrand StrategyGreat SoundtrackSingleplayer👍 17,284
-50%$19.99Terra Invicta
Jan 5 · Pavonis Interactive
Both: Grand Strategy · 4X
An alien invasion has fractured humanity into seven ideological factions each with a unique vision for the future. Lead your chosen faction to take control of Earth’s nations, expand across the Solar System, and battle enemy fleets in tactical combat.
StrategyGrand StrategySimulation4XEconomyWarHistoricalTurn-Based StrategyTacticalManagement👍 9,064
$19.99AI War 2
Oct 22 · Arcen Games
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy · Real Time Tactics
The most devious and acclaimed artificial intelligence in strategy gaming is better than ever. A grand strategy/RTS hybrid that reverses many conventions of both genres. Take territory without attracting attention, build your empire with care, and adapt to an ever-evolving galactic battleground.
4XGrand StrategyMultiplayerCo-opTower DefenseRTSReal Time TacticsEconomyManagementMilitary👍 1,130
$29.99Star Trek: Infinite
Oct 12 · Nimble Giant Entertainment
Both: Grand Strategy · 4X · Space
Star Trek: Infinite is a grand strategy experience that lets you play your own Star Trek story as the leader of one of four major factions in the galaxy. Follow the specially crafted story or blaze your own trail in the first Star Trek grand strategy game.
Grand Strategy4XSpaceExplorationSandboxManagementRTSDiplomacyPvEPvP👍 3,031
$29.99Galactic Civilizations III
May 14 · Stardock Entertainment
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy
Build a civilization that will stand the test of time in the largest space-based strategy game ever! Choose from dozens of unique races and make a name for yourself across the galaxy through diplomacy, espionage, technological advances, and more.
AliensSci-fi4XTurn-Based StrategySandbox3DGrand StrategyModdableHex GridPvE👍 8,337
$49.99X4: Foundations
Nov 30 · Egosoft
Both: Space · 4X
Your journey to building a vast space empire begins behind the controls of a single ship. Explore, trade, fight, and build as you rise to command fleets, stations, and entire economies in a living, fully simulated universe that reacts to every decision.
SpaceSimulationOpen WorldSpace SimExplorationSandboxSci-fi4XStrategyEconomy👍 25,274
$5.99Master of Orion 1
Feb 25 · SimTex
Both: 4X · Space
Forge an empire in a universe where population growth is stripping away planetary resources. Colonize unknown planets and trade with other races for their knowledge.
Strategy4XTurn-BasedSpaceClassicSci-fiSingleplayerTurn-Based Strategy2D1990's👍 441
-80%$2.99Space Empires V
Oct 16 · Malfador Machinations
Both: 4X · Space
Space Empires V is the latest edition in the Space Empires series. This new chapter completely updates the UI and takes the player into a real-time rendered 3D universe. Watch space battles played out in glorious detail and realistic effects. Expand, Explore, Exploit, and Exterminate in a huge living breathing galaxy.
Strategy4XSpaceTurn-BasedSci-fiSingleplayerTurn-Based StrategyMultiplayer👍 423
$29.99Interstellar Space: Genesis
Jul 25 · Praxis Games
Both: 4X · Space
Interstellar Space: Genesis is a turn-based space 4X strategy game in which you attempt to build a thriving galactic empire. Discover mysteries among the stars, colonize worlds, and engage enemies in tactical turn-based combat on your journey to becoming the ruler of the galaxy!
StrategyIndie4XSci-fiSpaceTurn-BasedTurn-Based StrategyExplorationSingleplayerTurn-Based Tactics👍 712
$7.99Structura
May 6 · Binary Station Studio
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy · Real Time Tactics
Structura is a rather unique sci-fi real-time strategy set in space. Its a hybrid of rts and fps, with emphasis on combat and survival. Build your economy for war, modify the unit by adding components, explore, expand, and survive the savage waves of enemy attacks.
StrategyRTS4XSpace SimGrand StrategyBase BuildingReal Time Tactics3DStylizedFuturistic
$9.99ENDLESS Space™ - Definitive Edition
Jul 4 · AMPLITUDE Studios
Both: 4X · Space
ENDLESS Space™ is a turn-based 4X strategy game, covering the space colonization age in the ENDLESS Universe™, where you can control every aspect of your civilization as you strive for galactic domination.
Strategy4XSpaceSci-fiTurn-Based StrategyTurn-BasedMultiplayerSingleplayerIndieExploration👍 6,626
$49.99Sins of a Solar Empire II
Aug 15 · Ironclad Games Corporation, Stardock Entertainment
Both: Space · 4X
Battle for galactic dominance in this real-time 4X strategy game with unrivaled scale! You’ll explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate through military force, diplomacy, trade, culture, influence, and other underhanded tactics.
SpaceStrategyRTS4XSingleplayerSci-fiMultiplayerTacticalCo-opPvE👍 7,158
$19.99Armada 2526 Gold Edition
Feb 28 · Ntronium Games
Both: 4X · Space
Conquer the Galaxy In This ‘4x’ Strategy Game. Lead one of 18 different alien races to become a mighty pan-galactic empire. Manage your colonies, deploy your fleets and conduct research. Plot your strategy and turn your planets into mighty bastions.
StrategyIndie4XTurn-Based StrategySpaceSci-fi
$19.99The Pegasus Expedition
Jun 20 · Kalla Gameworks
Both: Grand Strategy · 4X · Space
The Pegasus Expedition is a story-driven sci-fi grand strategy game set in a key moment for humankind’s survival. Facing an overwhelming threat at home, humanity sends expeditions to the Pegasus Galaxy in a desperate attempt to find a refuge for the population of Earth.
Grand StrategyStrategy4XSpaceSci-fiDiplomacyExplorationWarStory RichNarrative👍 242
$9.99AI War: Fleet Command
Oct 21 · Arcen Games
Both: Space · 4X · Grand Strategy
"You are outgunned. You are massively outnumbered. You must win." These are your orders. Humanity has already fought its war against the machines -- and lost. AI death squads stand watch over every planet and every wormhole, the few remaining human settlements are held captive in orbiting bubbles, and the AIs have turned their...
StrategyRTSSpaceIndieSci-fiCo-op4XGrand StrategyDifficultTactical👍 993
Outscape
Oct 22 · IDA Games
Both: Space · 4X
Outscape is everything you love about traditional strategy games, but places your empire within a vast online galaxy alongside other real players. Outscape rewards skillful long-term strategic gameplay with a brilliantly refreshing new take on the 4X genre.
StrategySci-fiOnline Co-OpRTSPvPSpaceExploration4XManagementEconomy👍 394
$9.99Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity®
Nov 16 · Ironclad Games Corporation, Stardock Entertainment
Both: 4X · Real-Time · Space
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.
4XPvPPvEReal-TimeStrategyRTSSpace Sim3DBase BuildingSpace👍 687
$29.99Sid Meier's Civilization® V
Sep 21 · Firaxis Games, Aspyr (Mac), Aspyr (Linux)
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy
Create, discover, and download new player-created maps, scenarios, interfaces, and more!
Turn-Based StrategyStrategyTurn-BasedMultiplayerHistorical4XAddictiveSingleplayerHex GridGrand Strategy👍 128,211
-80%$1.99Star Traders: 4X Empires
Dec 16 · Trese Brothers
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy
Take command of humanity’s last survivors and rebuild an empire in the stars. In this immersive turn-based strategy game, you will have to fight to protect your people, control rival factions, and unlock lost technology.
4XSci-fiTurn-Based StrategyTop-DownDiplomacyTurn-Based CombatEconomyGrand StrategyManagementBuilding
$24.99Stars in Shadow
Jan 19 · Ashdar Games
Both: 4X · Space
Stars in Shadow is a turn-based 4X strategy game and a vivid tribute to the genre classics. Compete with alien factions to explore and colonize nearby starsystems, build fleets to defend against rivals, negotiate or conquer them. Win by unifying the galaxy, through diplomacy or force.
Strategy4XIndieTurn-Based StrategySpaceTurn-Based CombatSci-fiTurn-BasedTurn-Based Tactics👍 734
$19.99Void War
Jun 2 · Tundra
Both: Space · Resource Management · Real-Time with Pause
Command an ancient starship and fight your way to the heart of a dying Empire. Fend off attacks from demented cultists, craven space pirates, and xenophobic Imperial soldiers. Discover powerful artifacts and use them to build your ship into a fearsome war engine.
SpaceRoguelitePerma DeathChoices MatterStrategyDifficultReplay ValueRoguelikeResource ManagementReal-Time with Pause👍 3,661
$19.99Star Ruler 2
Mar 27 · Blind Mind Studios, Glacicle
Both: Space · 4X
Massive scale 4X-RTS set in space. Control hundreds of planets, manipulate galactic politics, research numerous advanced technologies, and command thousands of units and hundreds of planets in your quest for galactic dominance.
StrategySpace4XSci-fiRTSIndieMultiplayer👍 661
$19.99Star Trek: Starfleet Command Gold Edition
Nov 22 · Interplay Entertainment Corp.
Both: Space · Real Time Tactics · Real-Time
Dozens of missions & more than 50 ship designs put you in the captain’s chair for an amazing real-time space combat experience commanding ships from the United Federation of Planets, the Klingon Empire, the Romulan Star Empire, the Hydran Kingdom, the Gorn Confederation or the Lyran Star Empire!
StrategySimulationActionSpaceSci-fiReal Time TacticsReal-TimeSpace SimSoftwareSolitaire👍 211
-80%$0.79Space Empires III
Oct 8 · Malfador Machinations
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy
The third game within the Space Empires series brings the dawn of a new age of exploration. Your race keeps running through the fabric of space and moves to other solar systems beyond your own.
StrategyRetroTurn-Based StrategyTurn-Based Tactics4XBase BuildingExplorationManagementGrand StrategySci-fi
$19.99Lord of Rigel
Aug 25 · Rhombus Studios
Both: Space · Grand Strategy · 4X
Lord of Rigel is a turn-based 4X space strategy game inspired by the classics. In a galaxy divided by two elder races, will you unite with other species or forge your own path? Navigate galactic politics and defeat threats using espionage, research, and military force. How will you shape the galaxy?
MilitarySpaceGrand StrategyStrategy4XSci-fiSimulationExplorationTurn-Based StrategySandbox👍 113
$14.99Particle Fleet: Emergence
Sep 29 · Knuckle Cracker
Both: Space · Real-Time with Pause
Build and design your own fleets and stand opposed to the Particulate in this physics/strategy/RTS/fleet hybrid. Build partially destructible and self repairing ships that interact with enemies less controlled by some scripted logic and more driven by a real time massive physics particle simulation.
StrategyIndieSimulationSpaceRTSReal-Time with PauseSci-fi2DSingleplayerPixel Graphics👍 1,198
-80%$1.99Space Empires IV Deluxe
Feb 7 · Malfador Machinations
Both: 4X · Space
The award-winning Space Empires IV Deluxe is the latest edition in the Space Empires series. A grand strategy title in the space 4X (explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate) genre, Space Empires has already found a place in the heart of strategy gamers everywhere.
Strategy4XSci-fiSpaceTurn-Based StrategyTurn-BasedSingleplayer👍 260
$29.99NEBULOUS: Fleet Command
Feb 11 · Eridanus Industries
Both: Grand Strategy
Take command of your hand-tailored fleet of space warships and use realistic radar, electronic warfare, advanced movement controls in 3D space, and precision targeting to outmaneuver and outwit your opponents in a simulation-heavy tactical space game like no other.
StrategyGrand StrategyWarMilitarySimulationMultiplayerAlternate HistoryHistoricalTacticalRTS👍 4,074
$29.99StarDrive 2
Apr 9 · Zero Sum Games
Both: Space · 4X
StarDrive 2 is an exciting and evolutionary step forward for the StarDrive franchise. In this eagerly anticipated sequel, the core mechanics have evolved to incorporate a turn-based strategic layer, featuring spectacular realtime battles.
StrategyIndieSpaceSci-fi4XManagementTurn-BasedSingleplayer👍 1,933
-70%$0.89Space Empires II
Oct 13 · Malfador Machinations
Both: 4X · Grand Strategy
Explore the galaxy, discover and colonize new planets to acquire enough resources. Design your ships, choosing from different hulls, weapons, shields, and several devices. Once you advance with technologies, new systems will be available, and you will have to update your designs.
StrategyBase BuildingExplorationManagementTurn-Based Strategy4XGrand StrategyTurn-Based TacticsSci-fiEconomy
$19.99Galactic Inheritors
Jun 9 · Crispon Games
Both: Space · 4X · Grand Strategy
Colonise solar systems and watch them grow. Explore the galaxy to find its strategic choke points. Build up your empire and your fleet and then use the power of the media to prepare your people for the inevitable war. At the same time watch your opponents, keep on an eye on their own media and watch for threats and opportunities.
StrategySpace4XIndieSci-fiGrand Strategy
$4.99Solar War
Jan 6 · Snipefish Entertainment
Both: Grand Strategy · Space · 4X
A turn-based grand strategy game in space, set in the near future: Defend Earth against an alien invasion from the edge of the Solar System and expand your campaign to push them back to their base.
StrategyIndieGrand StrategySpaceTurn-Based StrategyTurn-Based Tactics4XWargameSpace SimSpaceships
$19.99Sword of the Stars II: Enhanced Edition
Nov 30 · Kerberos Productions
Both: 4X · Space
The Enhanced Edition contains Sword of the Stars II: The Lords of Winter and the first expansion, the End of Flesh. The new expansion introduces the new playable race, the Loa. All previous DLCs containing new avatars, new combat music, alternate voices, skins, and new badges for the warships are also included.
Strategy4XSpaceSci-fiSingleplayerMultiplayerTurn-Based StrategyLore-RichTacticalTurn-Based👍 680
$24.99Lords of the Black Sun
Sep 12 · Arkavi Studios
Both: 4X · Space
Take command of one race to join the struggle for supremacy in the galaxy. As the leader of your empire you are tasked with exploring the stars, colonizing new worlds, managing your empire and conquering whoever dares to oppose you.
Strategy4XIndieSpaceTurn-BasedSci-fiTurn-Based StrategyAdventureSingleplayer👍 330
-50%$7.49Final Theory
Sep 21 · Monticube
Both: 4X · Space
Final Theory is a 4X-lite turn-based strategy game where you command fleets of battleships engaged in a galactic civil war. It presents an exciting experience for both veteran players and those new to the genre. It features innovative combat mechanics but also hearkens back to some of the classics.
StrategyTurn-BasedSpaceshipsHex Grid4XSci-fiTurn-Based TacticsTurn-Based StrategyTurn-Based CombatSpace👍 386
$24.99Executive Assault 2
Oct 18 · Hesketh Studios Ltd
Both: Space · Real-Time
The RTS/FPS phenomenon has moved into space! Build your base on an asteroid, command fleets of starships for epic battles, pilot fighters, mine and trade resources, assemble robots to defend or assault other stations. Take sole command or share the glory as you fight for control of the quadrant.
RTSBuildingSpace SimStrategyBase BuildingSpaceReal-TimeFPSActionSingleplayer👍 1,604





