Space Exploration Games

Inspired by illustrations from sci-fi books, this game has outstanding visuals and a variety of worlds to explore. To survive you need to harvest different materials, such as iron and nickel, climb mountains and sometimes protect yourself. You also have a huge map to choose what planet to explore next. Despite some problems with controls, this game is perfect for those who like walking through new gorgeous landscapes more than actually fighting.

Elite Dangerous is a sequel to a legendary 80s game Elite. It was released in 2014 for PC and then ported to other platforms. Dangerous is a space simulator where you are to choose a role (for example, a trader or a pirate) ans then explore galaxies, trade and upgrade your spaceship.

This game can be played solo, in co-op or as MMO. There is no main campaign to complete so feel free in the open world of Elite. Choose your destiny, learn to manage everything around you, travel and enjoy the views.

Sins of a Solar Empire is a great space strategy, strongly recommended for those who like RTS and space setting. You start with a single planet and need to explore more worlds and colonize new planets to get resourses. Aside from adding new planets to your empire, you can establish relations with other nations and interact with pirates. And, as a good strategy, Sins of a Solar Empire constantly forces you to make important decisions about the distribution of resourses.

An oldie but a goodie. It's not fair to compare this one (released in 1993) to modern games because the graphics and gameplay have gone far far away. However, Wing Commander still has a strong story and a huge and involving world. The plot is built around a mysterious alien artifact that includes a map you need to explore. Additionally, it's a good trade simulator, so explore, trade and fight across the galaxy for as long as you want.

Starpoint Gemini 2 is a space trading and combat simulator that was released in 2014. The main feature of this game is freeroam mode. Choose your class and go explore different professions and travel the space. You can also start a campaign and investigate the death of your father. Note: this game is only single-played so no one will get in your way.

Start exploring the universe with EVE Online - the game offers you 7,800 star systems to visit. But you won't be alone there - the game has more than 380 thousands subscibers worldwide. Feel free here: trade, travel, fight, be a pirate, at least.

Unlike other MMORPGs, EVE Online has verified cultural value. The Museum of Modern Art added Eve Online to its permanent collection of video games. It was also placed on the list of 100 Greatest Games of All Time, according to PC Gamer.