Top 10 Exciting Video Games Featuring Astronauts as Main Characters
For many of us, the idea of venturing into space has been a captivating dream. Luckily, we can now embark on space adventures without the associated risks, all from the comfort of our cushy chairs using engaging simulations.
Exploring the cosmos, whether through thrilling space battles or serene landings on uncharted planets, offers a unique and versatile set of experiences that few careers can match. The sci-fi genre has inspired countless imaginative worlds—ranging from dystopian to utopian settings—each pushing the boundaries of our creativity and fascination.
Video games that spotlight astronauts bring together various elements, such as science fiction, survival, exploration, and even existential dread. This article examines a collection of games that vary from tightly woven narratives filled with suspense to expansive environments that encourage free exploration.
10 Deliver Us Mars
A Puzzle-Heavy Adventure
Deliver Us Mars emphasizes puzzle-solving and platforming while maintaining a narrative-driven focus, offering a more relaxing experience compared to some of the action-heavy titles. This game engages players in a mystery as they explore the hauntingly desolate landscapes left behind on the Red Planet.
Set after its predecessor, Deliver Us The Moon, this sequel centers on unraveling a baffling disappearance using climbing mechanics and elaborate puzzles. Though not without its flaws, Deliver Us Mars delivers an immersive astronaut experience complemented by diverse gameplay features.
9 Fort Solis
A Highly Cinematic Horror Story
Starring Roger Clarke from Red Dead Redemption 2, Fort Solis unfolds within the eerie confines of an abandoned Martian mining facility. Despite its straightforward narrative, the game excels at immersing players in its haunting atmosphere, giving a palpable sense of isolation.
Though the action is primarily confined to the facility, the detailed environment invites exploration through interactive elements, including logs and artifacts of the staff’s mission. With stunning visuals representing some of the highest-quality graphics in the genre, Fort Solis offers a truly captivating experience devoid of any HUD distractions, enhancing its immersive appeal.
8 Astroneer
A Unique Survival Space Game
If you seek a lighter take on space exploration, Astroneer might just be your ideal choice. Players are tasked with terraforming barren planets into lush, resource-rich environments.
As a true sandbox experience, you enjoy unprecedented freedom in designing alien worlds, though resource management, such as power and oxygen, remains crucial for survival. While primarily grounded on planets, the game allows you to traverse multiple celestial bodies.
Astroneer’s charming low-poly visual style adds to its laid-back vibe. The immersive mechanics, coupled with the absence of combat, heighten the excitement as environmental dangers present the primary challenge.
7 The Invincible
An Iconic Sci-Fi Story
Inspired by the iconic novel by Stanislaw Lem, The Invincible immerses players in a narrative revolving around missing engineers on the enigmatic planet of Regis 3. This title, while linear, entices players with its rich storytelling and philosophical undertones.
The game constructs an introspective journey that resonates emotionally, enhanced by its stunning audio-visual execution. The memorable score crafted by Brunon Lubas, utilising retro analogue synthesizers, reinforces the game’s nostalgic sci-fi ambiance.
6 Space Engineers
Creative Sandbox Spaceflight
Space Engineers, developed by Keen Software House, has garnered a robust and dedicated following since its inception. Primarily focused on building and constructing spacecraft and structures, the game features intuitive mechanics that keep players engaged, whether alone or with friends.
Its open-ended nature allows players to choose between settling on a planet or assembling a fleet to conquer the cosmos. Though a sequel has entered early access, the original game remains the superior version in terms of polish and content.
5 Starfield
The Sky Is Not The Limit
Despite mixed reviews, Bethesda’s ambitious Starfield has demonstrated a range of admirable qualities, including an abundance of explorable planets and extensive customization options. Players can delve into engaging side quests and unearth intriguing lore scattered throughout the massive game world.
From infiltrating high-security facilities on hostile planets to participating in unique challenges, Starfield recaptures the magic reminiscent of classic titles such as Oblivion and Fallout 3. Players can create bases virtually anywhere in this expansive universe, making exploration even more rewarding.
4 Elite Dangerous
Incredibly Immersive Experience
Elite Dangerous is synonymous with space exploration, offering players a vast array of roles and one of the most immersive experiences in any sci-fi game. It stands out not only for stunning visuals but also for its mellow gameplay, which celebrates long voyages across different systems.
With ongoing updates, players can now delve deeper into previously unreachable planets, engage with factions, and discover various mission types to earn rewards. The future of Elite Dangerous appears bright, and with VR and joystick support, the game promises an unparalleled experience for space enthusiasts.
3 No Man’s Sky
Endless Cosmic Exploration
In terms of open-world exploration, few games rival No Man’s Sky. Its virtually infinite universe consists of countless planets, each with unique ecosystems. Following a rocky start, the game has rehabilitated its reputation with substantial content updates, positioning it among the finest in space-themed gaming.
Players can dive into a rich array of planets, creatures, and environments while also engaging with a more comprehensive narrative filled with missions and factions. The freedom to leave the atmosphere and travel to any celestial body adds to the allure of this vast galaxy.
2 Dead Space
A Dark & Disturbing Astral Tale
The Dead Space trilogy has become a benchmark of sci-fi horror in gaming, remembered for its strong narrative, visuals, and architectural design. The 2023 remake of the original game has revitalized interest, making it a worthy title despite its age.
Players assume the role of Isaac Clarke, navigating complex spaceship interiors while confronting the terrifying necromorphs. Beyond combat, the storyline is rich with depth and surprise, ensuring an unforgettable experience commonly appreciated by fans of astronaut-themed narratives.
1 Mass Effect
The Ultimate Space Opera
One of the most celebrated sci-fi franchises, Mass Effect consistently stands out due to its lore-rich universe, interactive characters, and engaging RPG elements. Players step into the boots of Commander Shepard, undertaking missions across various planets, where meaningful interactions with diverse allies and foes unfold.
While Mass Effect 2 is often hailed as the pinnacle of the series, each installment offers distinct experiences, and newcomers should consider starting with the Legendary Edition, which consolidates the first three titles for an expanded journey.
If you haven’t yet embarked on the Mass Effect saga, it deserves a prominent place on your gaming wishlist.
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