Whether you own the standard console or the processor-heavy Xbox One X, Microsoft’s line of consoles is perfect for the space genre. These machines run smoothly and can put out some amazing graphics. Pair that with Xbox’s robust online multiplayer network and you’re ready to start exploring the cosmos with friends in the best space games for Xbox One!
There’s no shortage of great space-themed games to try out. Here are some of the best space games you can play today on Xbox. Read on to learn more about what these games have to offer!
Best Space Games For Xbox One Reviewed
[easyazon_link identifier=”B01N3S1OI3″ locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Mass Effect Andromeda[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01N3S1OI3″ locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51oiW4ERCOL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”386″]
The Mass Effect series from BioWare is considered to be one of the best space games of all time! This title is the fourth mainline entry into the series. Like the previous games, Andromeda features beautifully detailed worlds to explore.
This game has an intense storyline and a larger branching narrative. As you interact with characters and progress through the game, you’ll have the chance to make several important decisions. Those decisions shape your character and the storyline as a whole. With multiple ending and plenty of fast-paced action, this game has a lot of replay value.
Make different decisions on your second playthrough and watch a new story unfold.
Key Features:
- Branching storyline
- Destructible environments
- Beautiful graphics
- Detailed character building
- Weapon progression tree
- Several worlds to explore
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B071HW86L3″ locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Elite Dangerous: The Legendary Edition[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”281″ identifier=”B071HW86L3″ locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51wmeNpOkAL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”500″]
The Elite series is another game franchise that holds a special place in video gaming history. The original game had a huge influence on modern space-themed video games. The latest entry, Elite Dangerous builds upon what made its predecessors so great.
This game is absolutely massive. There’s an entire galaxy to explore. But it’s not just any galaxy. It’s our own Milky Way Galaxy! The developers recreated a 1:1 scale of the galaxy complete with some real-world elements. You can discover actual planets, encounter dangerous black holes, and more.
Of course, you can’t forget about the space battles! As the captain of your spaceship, you can defeat potential enemies or work with rivals to become the most powerful starship in the galaxy.
Key Features:
- Massive game universe
- Based on realistic physics and scientific principles
- 1:1 scale of the Milky Way Galaxy
- Elements of action and strategy
- Multiplayer mode
- Several expansions
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07SR34FJ7″ locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]The Outer Worlds[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B07SR34FJ7″ locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51NJ9t5XKWL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”367″]
In The Outer Worlds, you play as a spacefarer who has been abandoned in deep space. You wake up in a new star system colonized by humans. The game is set in an alternate reality. As a result, it takes on a unique art style.
There are several iconic Americana themes. However, everything is set in the mysterious backdrop of alien planets. Fight through hordes of macabre beasts while you let the unique storyline unfold.
Key Features:
- Set in an alternate reality
- Several planets, space stations, and bases
- NPC companions
- Character and weapon building
- Faction reputation system
- Interesting story
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07CB6YFYC” locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]No Man’s Sky[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”281″ identifier=”B07CB6YFYC” locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/41bIn9zOCL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”500″]
No Man’s Sky was originally released by Hello Games on the Playstation 4. However, it’s now available on the Xbox One! This game is a shining example of how video game technology can create endless universes to explore.
Every planet you discover in this game is procedurally generated. That means they’re completely random. In total, there are over 18 quintillion different planets in the game’s universe! Best of all, they’re living planets that continue to change.
You can visit planets previously visited by other players. Find their leftover supplies and see what they did to alter the planet for good or worse.
Key Features:
- Procedurally generated planets
- Multiplayer
- Elements of survival and action
- Several expansions and DLC
- Countless planets to explore
- Versatile gameplay
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B079M1SY4B” locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Surviving Mars[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”313″ identifier=”B079M1SY4B” locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/41Cy47MrAiL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”500″]
Ever want to explore the Red Planet? In Surviving Mars, you finally can. This is a simulation-style game with a relatively simple plotline. As the first colonizer of Mars, you must build a city that can support human life!
Take advantage of the planet’s existing resources. Research new building types and receive packages from Earth. As your colony develops, you can unlock new features and invite even more colonies to your planet.
Learn how to survive on the desolate planet and use your wits to solve any obstacle that comes your way!
Key Features:
- City-building simulation
- Sandbox gameplay
- Great replay value
- Mod support
- Unlockable features
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B087V5WPF7″ locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Stellaris Console Edition[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B087V5WPF7″ locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/516Qv6WAf6L.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”391″]
Stellaris is an action-packed strategy game that’s more challenging than it seems. This game has many elements. It features deep space exploration, allowing you to visit countless procedurally generated galaxies.
There are also elements of resource management, warfare, and political strategy. As you explore the cosmos, you will encounter a litany of alien races. These aliens could be hostile or peaceful. Your job is to determine if you should battle to the death to keep your civilization safe or work with them to flourish.
Key Features:
- Procedurally generated galaxies
- Strategy gameplay
- Beautiful graphics
- Includes two DLC
- Diverse alien races and factions
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B01GV7XWEG” locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Prey[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”281″ identifier=”B01GV7XWEG” locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51BbPuYOVaL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”500″]
If you are a fan of games with a dark and scary undertone, Prey is for you! This is a science-fiction action game that manages to perfectly mix in elements of survival horror.
It’s a tense game filled with edge-of-your-seat action sequences. There are also areas of the game where you must use stealth to evade danger and make your way through the setting unscathed!
Prey features a highly detailed world with some amazing graphics. While the plot itself is great, the developers used environmental storytelling to create an immersive experience.
Key Features:
- Elements of survival horror and action
- Realistic graphics
- Environmental storytelling
- Unique weapons and abilities
- Fast-paced action and stealth
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07XFWFT3P” locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Astroneer[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B07XFWFT3P” locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51t8CY3lA4L.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”388″]
Want a game that you can play at your own pace? Check out Astroneer. While this game is still set on mysterious planets, it takes a more relaxed approach. As you explore new worlds, you can uncover rare discoveries and unlock the mysteries of the universe!
All the while, you’ll have the opportunity to create the space station of your dreams. Use the in-game tools to reshape the planet around you. Terraform the soil, destroy rocky outcrops, and build a settlement.
The game features four-player co-op, so you don’t have to explore alone!
Key Features:
- Sandbox adventure game
- Online co-op
- Cartoonish art style
- Open-ended gameplay
- Destructive worlds
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B00KSQHX1K” locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Halo: The Master Chief Collection[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00KSQHX1K” locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51NYn5Lc3wL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”393″]
Halo is one of Xbox’s most prized franchises. The Halo series is exclusive to the Xbox brand and is arguably the series that popularized competitive online multiplayer gaming.
The Master Chief Collection features four games. These include remakes of older games from the original Xbox and Xbox 360. Microsoft has polished the older titles to look great on the newer Xbox One console.
With this collection, you can relive the Master Chief’s entire story. Play through 45 different campaign missions. Then, complete even more multiplayer missions for hours of replay.
Key Features:
- Includes four games
- Packaged remakes of older games
- Single and multiplayer missions
- Fast-paced action
- Unique enemies
- Several weapons and vehicles
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07SH7MWDW” locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Outer Wilds[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B07SH7MWDW” locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/41KJ95nI9L.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”358″]
Outer Wilds is a unique indie game that garnered a lot of attention when it first came out. Not only does it have a quirky art style, but the story is one that you won’t forget.
You play as an astronaut who is investigating a solar system. The solar system is stuck in a 22-minute time loop. With every reset, you gain new knowledge that will help you progress the storyline. The worlds can change, too, resulting in unique gameplay.
The game has multiple endings and an interesting plotline that can be interpreted in many different ways.
Key Features:
- Action-adventure gameplay
- Unique art style
- Cinematic story
- Changing worlds
- Multiple endings
- Space flight
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B06XPLD1C6″ locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Destiny 2[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”281″ identifier=”B06XPLD1C6″ locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/4117rIvX4gL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”500″]
From Bungie comes Destiny 2. While a sequel title, this game is considered by many to superior to the original. It builds on the great features of the first game and builds upon them to create a truly impressive title!
This is a game that you can play alone or with others. It has a multiplayer co-op, so you can band together with others to form a clan. Progress through the story and gain experience to level the entire clan up.
You can also participate in competitive multiplayer matches. The game features high-powered weapons, fast-paced action, and beautifully designed worlds to discover.
Key Features:
- Action shooter
- Fast-paced combat
- Multiplayer co-op
- Competitive multiplayer modes
- Expansive game universe
- Cinematic campaign
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B07DKKS9X3″ locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Doom: Eternal[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B07DKKS9X3″ locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51GQ67GyML.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”388″]
The original Doom game is one of the first titles to person the first-person genre on the map! The latest entry into the series, Doom: Eternal, continues that heart-racing action.
In this game, you return to Earth to discover that it is in the middle of a demon invasion! You must fight your way through hordes of grotesque demons to protect your domain.
Doom: Eternal has all the fast-paced combat this franchise is known for. But, it has all-new weapons to take out your enemies. There are also newer demons and zombies to encounter.
Key Features:
- FPS gameplay
- Multiplayer mode
- Several demon enemies
- Fun weapons
- Fast-paced action
- Exciting soundtrack
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
[easyazon_link identifier=”B0773RCY75″ locale=”US” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″]Star Wars Battlefront II[/easyazon_link]
[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B0773RCY75″ locale=”US” src=”https://theplanets.org/123/2020/09/51DCkZytPL.jpg” tag=”theplanetsorg-20″ width=”395″]
If you’re a fan of Star Wars, Battlefront II is a must-have game. Set in the Star Wars universe, it adds to the already-deep lore of the franchise. You’ll see familiar characters and visit some of the most iconic settings in movie history!
Not only that, but you’ll be able to wield a lightsaber as a Jedi! The game features a great combat system. Participate in ground battles and declare your class to experience a new way to fight. Then, line up your X-wing squadron to attack enemies in an intense space battle!
The game features a story-driven single-player campaign as well as multiplayer modes. There are also several post-launch content packs you can buy to expand the game.
Key Features:
- FPS game
- Single and multiplayer modes
- Detailed visuals
- Familiar characters and settings
- Several DLC
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Space Game Buying Guide
Some of the best games on the Xbox One are space-themed. It’s not hard to see why.
The backdrop of space provides endless opportunities for unique settings and great storytelling. These games let you explore the cosmos while participating in out-of-this-world battles.
Space games have come a lot way from the old-school shoot-em-up arcade titles. Rather than basic sprites and simplistic gameplay, these games have enormous universes to discover. Thanks to the capabilities of the Xbox One, you can enjoy beautifully rendered graphics that put you right in the thick of the action.
While the space genre is typically associated with science-fiction, these games are much deeper than that. Many of the titles on our list combine genres to create a unique playing experience. Detailed lore, captivating plotlines, and some of the best battle sequences in gaming are up for the taking!
Space Game Styles
It doesn’t matter whether you prefer edge-of-your-seat action or more relaxed gameplay, the space genre has something for everyone! The only qualifier to be a space game is the setting. Everything else is up for creative interpretation for the developers.
You can find space games in a wide range of gameplay styles. Here are some of the most popular!
FPS
First-person shooters are one of the most popular game styles on the market today. These games are action-packed. They focus on combat, allowing you to utilize powerful sci-fi weapons to obliterate your enemies.
As you can guess from the name of this game style, first-person shooters put you in the shoes of the main character. Instead of seeing your character in third-person, you see what they’re seeing. You can explore the galaxy from the character’s perspective, leading to some beautiful sights and experiences.
Simulation
Simulation games tend to be more relaxed. Perfect for casual and hardcore gamers alike, these titles offer hours of replay. While there are several types of simulation games out there, most focus on completing real-world activities. Of course, as a space game, there’s always going to be a galactic twist!
You could be tasked with building a space colony, assembling robots, managing ships for space travel, and more.
Action-Adventure
Action-adventure games offer detailed storylines for you to uncover. Most titles feature vast worlds and in-depth lore. With some clever game design, developers can create an immerse world with tons of small details that bring the setting and plot to life!
These games are action-packed, too. However, they usually feature several gameplay elements for a fun and exciting experience.
RPG
Like action-adventure games, role-playing games have beautifully crafted stories. What sets an RPG apart from other game styles is its dedication to the plot! They can be more thoughtful and orderly, allowing you to truly appreciate the world the developers created for you.
Many RPG titles also feature rich character-building systems. You can truly develop your character as you play, making you feel more connected to the digital world in front of you.
Survival
For the ultimate challenge, pick up a survival game! These titles are open-ended. Most don’t feature a detailed plotline. Instead, you’re able to develop a story for yourself.
Thanks to sandbox-style gameplay, these games are very flexible. Play how you want. The goal is to survive! Gather resources, build a base, and fight off enemies. Do all of this while exploring the vast expanse of space!
Strategy
Last, but not least, there are strategy games. The space genre is rife with strategy games! These titles involve careful planning and great skill to master.
There are a lot of ways that developers can take strategy games. The game might involve elements of politics, colonization, and quick decision-making. Either way, they provide a rewarding challenge.
What to Look for in a Space Game
Now that you know what types of games are available, it’s time to identify the features you want. This is all a matter of personal preference. But, there are some features and elements that can enhance the gameplay experience.
Here are some things to keep in mind while you search for that perfect game.
Open-World Settings
One of the best things about current-generation gaming consoles is that they’re powerful enough to generate massive worlds. An open-world game refers to a title with miles and miles of digital terrain to explore! Rather than smaller boxed-in levels, you’re free to roam the universe and explore at your own pace.
A game doesn’t have to be open-world to be good. But, it can do a lot to improve replay value and create an immersive experience. No one likes to wait on lengthy load screens. In an open-world game, you can travel straight to your destination without any interruptions. Or, you can take a detour and discover something new. The choice is yours!
Engaging Audiovisual Elements
Video game graphics have gotten to the point where it’s sometimes difficult to differentiate between reality and animation! Technologies like motion-capture make characters more realistic than ever. Meanwhile, the hard work of environmental designers results in some of the most beautiful graphics to ever grace a console.
Engaging graphics helps to sell the story and setting. With good graphics, it’s easy to get lost in the game universe.
The same goes for high-quality audio. Audio cues and a killer soundtrack can make all the difference. As gamers, we use our eyes and ears to navigate the game world, find enemies, and explore.
Exciting Storylines
Why play a game if you find the storyline dull? Video games are a fantastic medium to tell stories. While movies, television shows, and books can do a lot to help you connect with characters, they’re all linear. There is a single beginning and end. That’s not the case with video games.
Many space games these days feature branching storylines that change based on your actions. What you do in-game can affect the outcome of the overarching tale. Not only that, but many titles feature hidden secrets, side-stories, and multiple endings to discover!
Multiplayer Modes
Xbox was one of the first big-name consoles to really popularize online multiplayer. The Xbox Live and Xbox GamePass networks are robust and allow you to play with other gamers from around the globe!
Choose a game with multiplayer modes to experience new and exciting ways to play. Some games feature competitive modes where you can battle several players at once. Others have a co-op mode, which lets you and your friends team up to accomplish a goal. You can even find MMOs with lots of players to interact with!
Good Replay Value
Generally, most developers aim to provide 30 to 40 hours of gameplay. There are some exceptions, but that’s what you can expect from most plot-driven games.
However, some games offer several hours of replay. These titles usually feature multiplayer modes, tons of collectibles, and a slew of side-missions to complete. Once you’ve finished up the main story, go back and find the other content to get your dollar’s worth!
Another way to add replay value is through a competitive online multiplayer mode. Some developers will also offer additional downloadable content after release. Whatever the case, all of those extra features ensure that you’re getting a lot of gameplay for the purchase price.
Conclusion
These space-themed games are some of the best Xbox has to offer. These titles all have beautiful graphics, smooth gameplay, and great storylines to keep you immersed for hours. Give these Xbox One games a shot to go on your very own space adventures without even leaving the couch! If you prefer to do your gaming on a different platform, check out our space games for PC and space games for PS4 guides here!