10 best space RPGs of all time: Explore the galaxy in these stellar role-playing games

Space games today are an entire ocean of genres, but it’s RPGs that truly let you live your own sci-fi story: become the captain of a starship, a Jedi hero, or an intergalactic adventurer. While we wait for Exodus and the next Mass Effect, Space.com presents ten of the best space RPGs you can dive into right now. From massive online universes to deep single-player narrative adventures — there’s something here for every taste.

10. EVE Online
    Platforms: PC, macOS
    Developer: CCP Games

EVE Online (2003) is a gigantic MMORPG in which thousands of players simultaneously fight for influence across more than 7,000 star systems. Here you can be anyone: a miner, pirate, trader, or the head of a corporation. The economy is entirely player-driven, and wars and political intrigue affect real money.

Yahtzee Croshaw once called it “a second job you have to pay for,” and he’s not wrong — but it’s the job of a starship captain, so we’re in. It may be too harsh for casual players, but for true space fans it’s a legend.

9. System Shock Remake
   Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
   Developer: Nightdive Studios

The 2023 remake brought the cult classic System Shock back to modern times with plenty of improvements and conveniences. You are once again on Citadel Station face-to-face with the AI SHODAN — one of the most terrifying villains in gaming history. Although it’s more of an immersive sim, there are plenty of RPG elements here. The perfect time to experience a classic.

8. Star Trek Online
   Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One
   Developer: Cryptic Studios

The best Star Trek game of all time. A free-to-play MMORPG with missions on planetary surfaces and space battles, a huge amount of content, and the perfect spirit of the franchise. Even without spending money, you can explore the Trek universe for years, complete quests, and fight in PvP. Perfect after watching the films.

7. Starsector
   Platforms: PC, Linux, macOS
   Developer: Fractal Softworks

The most underrated game on the list. In early access since 2013 (still sold only on the developer’s website), but it already offers incredibly deep simulation. A procedural galaxy, complete freedom, complex economy, and tactical battles. Ideal for those who want real freedom and challenge without unnecessary gloss.

6. Warframe
   Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
   Developer: Digital Extremes

Since 2013 Warframe has grown from a simple free-to-play shooter into one of the most content-rich games around. You are a Tenno — an ancient warrior in a combat suit fighting the factions of the future. Melee combat, acrobatics, abilities, space battles, huge open areas, and an ongoing storyline. More than ten years of updates — and it’s all free.

5. The Outer Worlds 1 & 2
   Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
   Developer: Obsidian Entertainment

If you like Fallout but want it in space, this is your choice. A satirical corporate galaxy where every decision affects the outcome. The first game is already a classic, and the second (with Microsoft funding) became even bigger and deeper. Choices, companions, gunfights, and dialogue — everything is top-tier. Both games are available in Game Pass.

4. Citizen Sleeper 1 & 2
   Platforms: PC, macOS, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
   Developer: Jump Over The Age

An unusual series that plays like an interactive novel with tabletop elements. You are a “Sleeper,” a human consciousness placed into a robotic body that escaped to a space station. Dice determine your fate, resources are limited, and the story is deeply emotional. Perfect for fans of visual novels and thoughtful sci-fi.

3. Destiny 2
   Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
   Developer: Bungie

Even if you join Destiny 2 late, the “Light and Darkness” saga has already concluded — meaning you can play through the entire epic story from start to finish. One of the best sci-fi shooters, with magic-like abilities, raids, deep lore, and constant updates. The base game is free, expansions cost extra, but they’re worth it.

2. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 1 & 2
   Platforms: PC, macOS, Linux, Android, Xbox, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
   Developer: BioWare, Obsidian Entertainment

A classic that hasn’t lost its charm. A party-based RPG set in the Star Wars universe 4,000 years before the original trilogy. The choice between the Light and Dark sides, lightsaber customization, an incredible story, and memorable companions. The influence of these games is still felt today. We’re still waiting for the remake of the first one!

1. Mass Effect Legendary Edition
   Platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One
   Developer: BioWare

The legendary trilogy in a single edition (2021) with improved graphics, all DLC, and modern conveniences. Tactical shooter + deep RPG + space opera about the fight against the Reapers. Romance, politics, and choices that affect the entire galaxy. You can replay it endlessly. While we wait for the next Mass Effect, this is an absolute must-play.

In brief

The best space RPGs of all time range from complex simulations like EVE Online and Starsector to narrative masterpieces like Mass Effect Legendary Edition and Knights of the Old Republic. The list also includes Warframe, Destiny 2, The Outer Worlds, Citizen Sleeper, Star Trek Online, and System Shock Remake. Each game offers its own vision of exploring the galaxy, making choices, and experiencing space adventures — pick what suits your taste and dive in.