Science fiction games (sci-fi games) have always interested players as they push the boundaries of imagination with their futuristic environments, alien encounters, advanced weaponry, and thrilling storylines that tie in with sci-fi movie themes. We look at the top games in this category and what makes them stand out.

The Allure of Sci-Fi Games

The question of whether life exists outside our planet has always resulted in varying answers. But for sci-fi lovers, the answer is clear – life does exist, and it is exciting. Sci-fi games lean on this notion, allowing players to enjoy the perks below:

  • Access to futuristic environments, including diverse planets.
  • Travel through space.
  • The chance to play with advanced weaponry.
  • Encounters with extraterrestrial life.
  • Opportunities to be part of exciting storylines.
  • Creative freedom to develop characters and shape stories.

The Best Titles in the Market

With so many games boasting sci-fi themes, choosing the ones that top the rankings can prove challenging. However, the following unique titles take the cake for their unique takes on this growing game category:

Starfield game review

Starfield

This game takes on a modernistic approach to sci-fi by presenting a 24th-century environment set in the Milky Way. Players love that this game is scientifically accurate, which makes it easier to invest in the storyline. Players must travel through space, discovering diverse planets, engaging with other characters, and unveiling secrets that can further their missions. This game has gotten a boost with its Starfield: Shattered Space expansion, which is now on the market. This version focuses on a storyline hinging on the 50 new locations in the game, allowing players to explore new environments and enjoy increased combat opportunities as they encounter more aggressive and intelligent aliens.

Star Wars game review

Star Wars

Sci-fi lovers enjoy this film series and it is thus quite expected that the game would have as much success. This game leans on sci-fi but also combines fantasy and space opera elements that add to its uniqueness. In it, players get to encounter alien species, travel through space, and work with advanced technologies while exploring fantastical themes. Players who are eager to try a version that focuses on sci-fi can play Star Wars Outlaws, which takes place in an open-world environment.

The Outer Worlds

This role-playing game transports players to the Halcyon colony at the edge of the galaxy, where they must strategize to beat their opponents and come out on the other side as victors. Players must battle aliens, learn how to make use of the new technologies, journey through different space stations, and upgrade their characters to complete quests. To sweeten the deal, the game has a sequel that focuses on a new star system, enabling players to set their eyes on a new world where the technologies outrank those in the original game, thus making combat even more exciting.

Warhammer 40,000

Nothing says dystopian future as much as this game. Not only do players encounter aliens, but they also interact with supernatural beings. But as you may have guessed, the interactions are not always friendly, and combat is always in the offing. Players who want to succeed must use everything in their power to beat their adversaries, including their own supernatural powers. Its extension (Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine) introduces third-person angles and more weapons, making the combat even more exciting.

Cyberpunk 2077 game review

Cyberpunk 2077

Storylines make or break a game. And in this case, the developers struck gold. This game takes place in an urban environment where players must explore the various districts which offer different challenges. Players take on the role of a mercenary who is after an implant that offers immortality to its beholder. To achieve this, they must upgrade and customize their characters to ensure they have what it takes to engage in hacking, combat, and other essential activities, including side quests that play into the overall mission.

No Man's Sky game review

No Man’s Sky

If diversity is the goal, this game wins. It offers more than 18 quintillion planets to its players, allowing them to explore countless opportunities in various environments. As a player, you can focus on discovering new species in these locations, exploring what each option has to offer, and keeping records of your encounters. But discovery is not all that awaits you. Hostile creatures and space pirates exist, forcing you to figure out how best to protect yourself, be it by combat or by trade. Survival is not easy, and you must learn to make the most of scarce resources.

Conclusion

While sci-fi games lean on the same foundations (futuristic environments, advanced combat, and extraterrestrial interactions), some offer players more depth and creative freedom, making them the top choices in the industry. What’s more, those with sequels or expansions tend to earn more popularity with their target audiences.