Best Space Flight Simulation Games

Space: the final frontier. Space often finds itself as the landscape of various media properties. In many ways, space and space flight are equal parts fantastical and realistic in a way. This is especially true in sci-fi games; some games lean into the fantastical, like Mass Effect, while others like Elite: Dangerous capitalize on the wonders of space travel itself.

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Over the years, many companies have created their own takes on space flight simulations. It’s risky, considering how easy it is to botch a simulation game. There are many different varieties and all game players have their preferences, but which ones are the best of the best? This list will serve to highlight the best space flight simulation games.

Updated on February 24, 2025, by Mehrdad Khayyat: Exploring space has always been a popular theme for video games, but different developers have taken different approaches to it. While some games just put the player on an alien planet, some other games try to focus on the traversal in space as well.

Traveling in space itself can go deep enough that sometimes the entire game is built around maintaining a spaceship and keeping it safe for exploration. But, again, there are degrees to it, with some games taking it further enough to deliver a truly immersive experience.

20

No Man’s Sky

An Unlimited Space With Endless Exploration

Adventure

Action

Survival

Released

August 9, 2016

OpenCritic Rating

Fair

No Man’s Sky‘s redemption arc is far more satisfying than most, particularly given the circumstances that led to its car-crash release. Such was the hype surrounding the game at launch that it was never going to be able to live up to the lofty expectations placed upon it, but few could have predicted just how badly the game would flop.

It would have been very easy for developer and publisher Hello Games to simply take the money and run, but the studio ended up taking a very different approach. Many years and many more updates and patches later, No Man’s Sky finally began to live up to the promise it showed during the early stages of development and is now quite rightfully heralded as one of the best space exploration games around.

19

Star Trek: Bridge Crew

Board The Ship With A Crew Of Friends And Explore Deep Space

• Developer: Ubisoft
• Release Date: May 30, 2017
• Platforms: PS4, PC, Meta Quest

Just as certain games can be over-hyped, so too can certain tech. This was arguably the case with VR gaming, with the technology experiencing many teething problems when it first became available to the public. Aside from the somewhat sickening issues with inertia, one of the biggest issues was a lack of unique and worthwhile games. After a few years though, things did start to pick up, with Star Trek: Bridge Crew one of many great VR games to be released in 2017.

Though the idea of having players team up to take on the roles of a starship’s bridge crew may sound a little dry on paper, the execution was spot on. The co-op gameplay works surprisingly well too, with players having to put their trust in friends or strangers to ensure that their mission ends in success. Granted, the learning curve is steep, and the novelty wears off after a while, but players can expect to have a lot of fun with Star Trek: Bridge Crew nonetheless.

18

Star Wars: Squadrons

Taking The Space Battles Of Star Wars To The Competitive Environment

Released

October 2, 2020

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Star Wars: Squadrons is nowhere near as good as some of the fantastic dog-fighting games which preceded it, but it’s still a solid title, with responsive controls and a decent community helping to make the experience an awful lot of fun. Better still, despite both Rogue Leader and Starfighter aging fairly gracefully, neither comes close to matching Squadrons in the visual fidelity department.

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The players can either choose to play as a New Republic Vanguard or a Galactic Empire Titan and engage in the story or play online.

Of course, a few decades of technological advancement will usually make sure of that, but the fact remains, Squadrons is arguably the best-looking Star Wars game to date. PSN subscribers were even able to pick it up for free back in June of 2021, while it’s also spent time on Xbox Game Pass; both of which helped to breathe some much-needed new life into the game’s player base.

17

FTL: Faster Than Light

Managing A Spaceship Through A Variety Of Challenges

Systems

Released

September 14, 2012

Developer(s)

Subset Games

FTL: Faster Than Light offers a fairly unique approach to space travel. Rather than placing players at the wheel, they are instead expected to manage every aspect associated with the operation of the ship. It might sound a little dry when compared to weaving between asteroids and the like, but it’s actually a lot of fun and can lead to some incredibly tense and exciting moments.

Every decision matters and there are plenty of variables that players will need to take into account. Some things, like crew members getting sick, are out of the player’s hands but nearly every other mishap can usually be traced back to a bad decision somewhere throughout the journey. It’s a game that can be replayed multiple times and one that really manages to stand out in a crowded sky that’s filled with plenty of brightly shining stars.

16

EVERSPACE

Fast-Paced Space Combat With Ships

Released

September 14, 2016

Developer(s)

ROCKFISH Games

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

EVERSPACE, like most of the games that are on this list, isn’t going to be considered pure “space flight simulations.” As it turns out, there aren’t too many pure space flight simulations. However, EVERSPACE definitely qualifies. The game is a 3D space shooter with roguelike elements, loaded with gorgeous sights and fun combat.

Many critics praised the game for its fresh take on the roguelike genre. EVERSPACE comes with a massive replayability value, as the player learns something new after every defeat. So, each fresh beginning is an experience like no other.

15

Star Wars: Starfighter

Experience Space Dogfight From Three Different Perspectives

Released

February 21, 2001

Developer(s)

LucasArts, Blitz Games, Secret Level Studios

The Star Wars franchise, unsurprisingly, holds many space-flight games under its belt. And unlike most games based on movies, Star Wars is consistently a solid brand. The first on this list is Star Wars: Star Fighter for the PlayStation 2. The game takes place before the Battle of Naboo, and the player will have to navigate a number of harrowing missions with the three fighter pilots to stop the invasion.

The game jumps between multiple perspectives as the story unfolds. While not as iconic as other Star Wars titles on the PS2, Star Fighter still remains in the top caliber of space flight shooters.

14

Outer Wilds

A Relaxing Space Exploration

Released

May 28, 2019

Developer(s)

Mobius Digital

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Outer Wilds is a game about exploration and discovery and does a fantastic job of capturing the isolation of space. It looks great and slowly uncovering more information about the enigmatic Nomai species provides more than enough reason for players to keep coming back. Each planet is home to its own mysteries and each mystery has an explanation that’s just waiting to be uncovered.

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Where the game differs from other space sim games (and the vast majority of games in general, for that matter) is through its innovative gameplay loop. Rather than one long slog, players are given twenty minutes to explore before their progress is partially reset. This may sound frustrating, but it actually works incredibly well and really helps with the game’s pacing while also encouraging players to really think about how they are going to use their allotted time.

13

Star Wars: Rogue Squadron

Fighting Empire In Luke Skywalker’s Shoes

Systems

Released

December 3, 1998

Franchise

Star Wars: Rogue Squadron

One of the definitive great Star Wars titles according to many fans, Rogue Squadron is an all-time classic in the franchise. The game puts players in the shoes of Luke Skywalker as they play through a number of missions based on events from the movie.

Some critics consider this title to be a quintessential Nintendo 64 game, right up there with Nintendo’s catalog. It spawned its own series of critically acclaimed space flight games as well. For any game player and Star Wars fan, Rogue Squadron is a classic title that earns its spot near the top.

12

Freelancer

An Expansive Space Combat With Small RPG Mechanics

Freelancer

Systems

Freelancer was originally the brainchild of Chris Roberts, creator of the Wing Commander series. However, production problems led the game to be delayed and eventually picked up by a new team. This didn’t harm the game’s reputation entirely, as it still met critical acclaim from the top gaming websites.

The concept for the game was to create a true virtual galaxy, and that dream is still reflected in the systems of trading and combat within the world. Its ambition may have harmed it in the long run, but it still remains a classic. At the very least, the game can say it released, unlike Roberts’s latest project and cash cow Star Citizen.

11

Allegiance

A Multiplayer Combination Of FPS Ship Combat And RTS

In terms of the multiplayer space, few space simulator games could compete with Allegiance, released for PC in 2000. The game mixed two popular PC genres: first-person shooter and real-time strategy. Players work in teams to capture the opponent’s bases and force them to surrender.

In many ways, the game was incredibly ambitious in terms of gameplay, and it managed to create an incredible multiplayer experience. However, it suffered from low sales despite a dedicated player base. Players are still maintaining the community to this day, which is certainly impressive. It can definitely be said Allegiance deserves the praise it has received.

10

Sins Of A Solar Empire

Lead Massive-Scaled Space Battles

Sins of a Solar Empire

Real-Time Strategy

Tactical

Systems

Released

February 4, 2008

Space skirmishes have been around in video games for decades now, but there are few titles that have managed to incorporate all-out war. The sheer size of some of the battles that players will preside over in Sins of a Solar Empire can be a little overwhelming at times, but it can also be quite exhilarating to watch one’s master plan unfold on a legion of unsuspecting AI enemies.

Trying to mix together elements from multiple genres doesn’t always pay off and some purists will likely be a little disappointed with some of the compromises made to accommodate this merger. For the most part, however, the game does a fantastic job of combining these contrasting ideas and mechanics and is able to provide players with a one-of-a-kind experience as a result.

9

EVE Online: Special Edition

Living A Life In Space With Numerous Jobs

Systems

Released

May 6, 2003

ESRB

T for Teen: Violence

As far as MMOs go, they don’t come much bigger than EVE Online. At least not when it comes to the sheer scale of the game’s universe, that is. There are endless planets to explore and plenty of activities in which to partake. It might not be the most accessible game out there (especially for those who are new to the world of MMO gaming) but it shouldn’t take too long to get into the swing of things.

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While interacting with other players can be a fun way to spend time, some of the best moments in the game can be found flying around through empty space exploring. One never knows who or what they might encounter. There are also huge record-breaking space battles from time to time which can be a real sight to behold; not to mention a reminder to always remain alert!

8

Kerbal Space Program

Building Spaceships With Creative Tools

Released

April 27, 2015

Franchise

Kerbal Space Program

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Kerbal Space Program is certainly one of the most unique titles in the galaxy. This wacky simulation game focuses on crafting the perfect spacecraft. The player is tasked to build a spacecraft that can actually launch into space. It’s a long process of trial-and-error with a quirky physics engine and adorable little creatures.

Few things are as satisfying as finally achieving a successful launch. It’s no wonder that the game is one of the top space flight simulators, although the “space flight” part is a stretch. Still, it’s no surprise that Kerbal Space Program is one of the top space flight simulators.

7

Galaxy On Fire 2

A Lone Space Wolf Against Hordes Of Aliens

• Developer: Fishlabs Entertainment
• Release Date: July 23, 2013
• Platform: Android, iOS, PC

It was certainly a shock to see Galaxy On Fire 2 near the top of the list. After all, most mobile titles have low expectations for them. However, it’s a game to look out for. Many reviews cite that this is a game that shows that mobile games can be just as good as console or PC titles.

It’s a game that pushes the limits of the platform it’s on and creates something entirely new. It definitely looks like it stands head and shoulders above other popular mobile titles. For the price it is offered at, Galaxy On Fire 2 might be the perfect mobile game to give a shot. The game became successful enough that a PC port was released on Steam a year later.

6

Star Wars Rogue Leader: Rogue Squadron II

Experience Chaotic Combat With Unique Spacefighters

Systems

Released

November 9, 2001

ESRB

t

Platform(s)

Nintendo GameCube, Wii

The sequel to the N64 classic, Rogue Leader shows Factor5 at its best in terms of game design. It’s not just an incredible space flight game, it’s an incredible game overall. The game features similar locals to the previous game, along with a whole host of new bits of content to experience. Nintendo Power even gave the game a perfect 100 score back in the day, a significant achievement for a game not from Nintendo themselves.

Its best feature is the strong visuals, which still hold up to some degree in the modern landscape. It’s easily one of many incredible GameCube titles. There’s a reason fans have been demanding a return to Rogue Squadron for years now.

5

Colony Wars

A Cult Classic Spaceship Combat With Alternative Endings

This PlayStation 1 classic was both a critical and commercial success back when it was initially released. Critics at the time were amazed by just how detailed the world was, along with how great the game felt to play. It was ranked as one of the best space-combat games on the console.

Additionally, the game was successful enough to receive two sequels, although afterward, the series kind of just fizzled out. Considering the resurgence of space-flight and space-combat games, it’s a wonder that Sony hasn’t dug back to pick out this game. Perhaps Sony could consider adding it to their future PS5 lineup.

4

Space Engineers

Build Ships In Space And Put Them In Good Use

Released

February 28, 2019

Developer(s)

Keen Software House

By far, Space Engineers is one of the most addictive space-themed sandbox games out there that can keep players entertained for months if not years. The game just offers endless replayability value, and that’s mostly because the sky is the limit for the creativity of the gamers.

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With all the tools provided, players can build any kind of ship they desire with a unique look and feel. But building ships is not all the fun, as surviving and exploring space is also a big part of the gameplay loop. While the sequel is already in Early Access, the original Space Engineers offers a better and more comprehensive experience at the moment.

3

FreeSpace 2

A Space-Sim Way Ahead Of Its Time

Freespace 2

Systems

Released

September 30, 1999

ESRB

e

FreeSpace 2, like other games on this list, was a huge commercial failure despite its critical success. However, it’s appropriate that at the top of this list is a true space-flight simulator.

It received a number of game-of-the-year awards, and it even stays relevant today. The game has a strong modding community, using the source engine to build some incredible recreations of other popular sci-fi franchises. It may be a game that time forgot, but with stellar graphics and gameplay light-years ahead of its time, FreeSpace 2 reigns supreme over any other space-flight game.

2

Homeworld

An Epic Space RTS With An Abundance Of Fighter Ships

Homeworld

Systems

Franchise

Homeworld

Released

September 28, 1999

The original Homeworld games and their expansions remain some of the best space sim games ever created despite having first released more than two decades ago. Watching the game’s countless ships fly around unsuspectingly through the vastness of space is like poetry in motion and the rest of the game’s components are equally well-versed.

Its visuals and gameplay are impressive in equal measures, but it’s perhaps the game’s sound design that really stands out the most. It does a wonderful job of immersing the player and contributes towards the game’s status as one of the best RTS games ever made. Anybody looking to experience the game for themselves can do so fairly easily too thanks to the Remastered Collection that was released back in 2015 and with a third Homeworld game expected in 2022, there’s plenty to look forward to.

1

Star Citizen

The Ultimate Space Flight Simulation With Impressive Visuals

Systems

While still in development and while still being buggy, Star Citizen is the most immersive space flight simulation to ever exist. The game just excels at delivering a realistic Zero-G flight experience with jaw-dropping visuals and deeply customizable flight-control options.

Featuring a massive variety of spaceships, Star Citizen is a dream come true for any gamer who ever wanted to explore space, be it with a lightning-fast fighter like Anvil Arrow or a giant capital ship like RSI Polaris. The game lets the players feel the tiniest difference in the flight performance of each ship, and it also comes with a long learning curve to master flight skills.

While the atmospheric flight experience still needs more improvements, the differences in flight inside and outside the atmosphere are sensible.

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