Stellaris

Availability: Windows (Steam Deck YMMV), macOS, Linux, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5

Stellaris is a game I have lost every single time I’ve played, but I still return to it at least once or twice a year for the pure joy of sci-fi space simulation it offers. If you’re a 4X strategy vet, then you probably already know about this game (and are likely much better at it than I am), but if not, here’s the basic gist: You are in charge of the fate of a interstellar civilization, responsible for its maintenance and expansion across the cosmos. It’s a big galaxy out there, and you’ll come into contact with other civilizations, some of which might provoke epic battles in the vacuum of space.

But even if you’re not up for the challenge of managing a whole-ass civilization, the fantasy of space exploration is really well satisfied by Stellaris. It’s why I keep coming back despite cratering several ambitious civilizations at this point. The visuals alone are lovely, with an excellent view of an entire star system that also lets you zoom in and get up close to various planets and ships. It’s also accompanied by a soundtrack that has since found its way into my various ambient and electronic playlists as it’s just perfect to zone out to.

Though very different from what Starfield aspires to achieve, Stellaris has become one of my favorite ways to spend time in space. Maybe this time my civilization will actually—nope, sorry, that one’s been snuffed out by militaristic expansionists yet again. Oh well…