The Ultimate Guide to the Best Science Fiction Games to Explore in 2025
The tapestry of science fiction in gaming is vast and ever-expanding, offering players unparalleled opportunities to traverse galaxies, grapple with existential threats, and ponder the very nature of humanity. At Gaming News, we’ve meticulously charted a course through the stars, dedicating ourselves to uncovering the most compelling and immersive science fiction experiences available. As we venture into 2025, the genre continues to flourish, blending established, beloved franchises with innovative, genre-defining new titles. This comprehensive exploration delves deep into the virtual universes that await, providing an in-depth look at the games that not only define science fiction but also push its boundaries.
Embarking on Grand Space Odysseys: Galactic Exploration and Colonization
The allure of the cosmos has always been a powerful draw for science fiction enthusiasts, and the gaming world has responded with titles that allow players to truly experience the grandeur and challenges of interstellar travel. In 2025, the spirit of exploration remains a cornerstone of the genre, inviting us to chart unknown territories and shape the future of humanity among the stars.
Starfield: A New Frontier in Open-World RPGs
Bethesda Game Studios, renowned for their expansive and meticulously crafted worlds, delivered Starfield on September 6, 2023, to PC and Xbox Series X|S. This monumental RPG places players at the helm of a deeply personal journey within a universe where human civilization has successfully colonized an entire galaxy. Beginning as a humble miner, fate intervenes, thrusting the player into the heart of an ancient and ongoing cosmic conflict. Starfield distinguishes itself with its unparalleled scope, allowing for the acquisition, customization, and construction of bespoke starships. This freedom extends to interplanetary travel, where players can establish bases on diverse celestial bodies, undertake a myriad of quests, and forge their own path across a breathtakingly vast expanse. The sheer scale of Starfield’s universe, coupled with Bethesda’s signature depth in character development and world-building, makes it an essential experience for anyone seeking an epic space adventure. The ability to truly personalize your spaceship, from its weaponry to its aesthetic, adds a layer of immersion rarely seen, allowing players to craft their ultimate vessel for exploration and survival. The procedural generation of planets ensures that each landing is a unique encounter, filled with undiscovered resources, intriguing flora and fauna, and the potential for unexpected discoveries.
No Man’s Sky: The Infinite Universe Unfolds
Released on August 9, 2016, and continuously expanded upon with significant updates, No Man’s Sky by Hello Games continues to redefine the concept of an infinite universe. Available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch, this game offers a procedurally generated sandbox where the sheer number of explorable planets across thousands of galaxies is functionally limitless. Players are empowered to build and customize their starships, facilitating journeys to uncharted worlds. Upon landing, one can explore unique ecosystems, establish personal bases, and then seamlessly transition to the next celestial body. The game also features central hub areas within each galaxy, fostering player interaction, providing opportunities for quests, and serving as vital marketplaces for essential supplies. The evolution of No Man’s Sky from its initial release to its current state is a testament to developer dedication, transforming it into a truly boundless exploration experience that consistently surprises and delights with new content and gameplay mechanics. The continuous influx of updates, introducing features like base-building, alien companions, and enhanced vehicle mechanics, ensures that the universe of No Man’s Sky remains dynamic and engaging, offering endless possibilities for discovery and adventure.
The Outer Worlds: A Corporate Dystopia in a New Galaxy
Obsidian Entertainment, a studio celebrated for its narrative depth and player choice, brought us The Outer Worlds on October 25, 2019. This action-RPG, available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch, transports players to a distant galaxy hundreds of years after humanity’s departure from Earth. Awoken by an enigmatic doctor, the player is the sole survivor of a colonizing mission fleet, finding themselves embroiled in a galaxy dominated by powerful corporations. The Outer Worlds offers an open-world experience where player decisions profoundly impact the narrative and its ultimate conclusion. Players will amass a wealth of loot, assemble a crew of diverse companions, and traverse visually stunning environments. The game’s satirical take on corporate greed and its engaging dialogue, coupled with its robust RPG mechanics, makes for a darkly humorous and deeply satisfying space adventure. The strength of The Outer Worlds lies in its character-driven narrative and the sheer freedom it grants players to shape their journey, making each playthrough a distinct experience. The companion system is particularly noteworthy, with each recruit offering unique skills, backstories, and witty banter that enriches the player’s journey through the Halcyon colony.
Facing the Unknown: Survival Horror and Psychological Thrillers in Space
Science fiction often delves into the darker corners of human experience, exploring our fears of the unknown, isolation, and the terrifying consequences of unchecked technological advancement. The survival horror and psychological thriller subgenres within sci-fi gaming offer some of the most intense and memorable experiences.
Dead Space (2023): Rebirth of a Sci-Fi Horror Masterpiece
The Dead Space remake, released on January 27, 2023, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, revitalizes a classic survival horror experience from 2008. Players are plunged into the claustrophobic confines of a derelict mining spaceship, the USG Ishimura, after mining a mysterious artifact on an alien planet. The original game garnered a significant cult following, and this modern reimagining elevates the terrifying journey with significantly enhanced graphics and a palpable increase in atmospheric horror. The story and characters remain faithful to the original, but the visual fidelity and sound design create an unparalleled sense of dread and tension. Dead Space (2023) is not for the faint of heart; it demands resourcefulness, strategic dismemberment of grotesque necromorphs, and a constant battle against overwhelming odds. For players seeking a visceral, heart-pounding sci-fi horror experience that will linger long after the credits roll, the Dead Space remake is an absolute must-play. The strategic dismemberment mechanic, a hallmark of the series, is more brutal and satisfying than ever, forcing players to carefully consider their shots and exploit enemy weaknesses to survive. The environmental storytelling is also incredibly effective, with the Ishimura itself becoming a character, its decaying corridors and chilling audio logs painting a grim picture of the unfolding catastrophe.
Alien: Isolation: The Ultimate Xenomorph Encounter
Released on October 6, 2014, Alien: Isolation stands as the pinnacle of video game adaptations of the iconic Alien franchise, available across a multitude of platforms including PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android. Set 15 years after the events of the first film, players step into the shoes of Amanda Ripley, searching for answers about her mother’s disappearance. Her quest leads her to a desolate space station, Sevastopol, where the terrifying presence of a single, relentless Xenomorph is an ever-present threat. This survival horror game masterfully captures the dread and vulnerability of the original film, forcing players to scavenge for scarce resources, utilize stealth, and constantly evade the perfect organism. Alien: Isolation excels in its tense atmosphere, intelligent AI that learns and adapts to player tactics, and its heart-pounding moments of near-discovery. The sound design is particularly noteworthy, amplifying the terrifying sounds of the creature’s movements and adding to the pervasive sense of unease. The game’s commitment to recreating the aesthetic and oppressive atmosphere of the original “Alien” film is commendable, making it a true fan-pleaser and a standout in the survival horror genre. The procedural nature of the Xenomorph’s patrols ensures that no two encounters are ever the same, leading to genuine moments of terror and triumph as players narrowly escape its clutches.
Prey: A Space Station of Unforeseen Horrors
Arkane Studios’ Prey, released on April 27, 2017, for PS4, Xbox One, and PC, is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game that artfully blends the science fiction genre with elements of survival horror and immersive sim gameplay. Set aboard the Talos I space station, a research facility that has fallen victim to a catastrophic alien outbreak, players must unravel the mystery behind the disastrous experiments. As a protagonist who wakes up with amnesia and a growing sense of dread, you are tasked with navigating the now-hostile environment, utilizing a combination of conventional weapons, unique alien-derived abilities, and your intellect to survive. Prey is renowned for its intricate level design, offering multiple pathways and solutions to challenges, and its ability to create a palpable sense of isolation and suspense. The game masterfully plays on player expectations, with seemingly innocuous objects capable of transforming into dangerous Mimics, keeping you perpetually on edge. The narrative is rich with philosophical undertones and unexpected twists, making Prey a thought-provoking and deeply engaging experience that rewards meticulous exploration and strategic thinking. The emergent gameplay possibilities, allowing for creative problem-solving using the game’s robust systems, are a hallmark of Arkane’s design philosophy and contribute significantly to Prey’s replayability.
The Evolution of Humanity: Robots, AI, and the Future of Society
Science fiction has long been a fertile ground for exploring the complex relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence, the ethical implications of advanced robotics, and the potential futures these technologies might forge. The following games delve into these profound themes.
Cyberpunk 2077: A Dystopian Vision of Tomorrow
CD Projekt Red, the acclaimed studio behind The Witcher series, delivered Cyberpunk 2077 on December 10, 2020, for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch. This ambitious open-world RPG is set in the sprawling, neon-drenched metropolis of Night City in the year 2077. In this future, technology has irrevocably transformed society, introducing flying vehicles, ubiquitous AI, and widespread cybernetic augmentation. Cyberpunk 2077 places technology at the forefront of its narrative, centering on a race against time to save the protagonist’s life and thwart the nefarious plans of a powerful corporation. The game offers an incredibly deep RPG experience, boasting diverse combat styles, a massive, intricately detailed world to explore, and stellar voice performances from a remarkable cast. Despite a rocky initial launch, subsequent updates and expansions have solidified its position as a landmark title in the cyberpunk genre, offering a compelling glimpse into a potential, albeit cautionary, future. The sheer density of Night City, with its distinct districts and diverse inhabitants, provides a captivating backdrop for the player’s journey, filled with opportunities for both grand adventure and intimate character moments. The extensive character customization and the impact of player choices on the narrative path are key elements that contribute to the game’s immersive quality.
Detroit: Become Human: The Dawn of Artificial Consciousness
Quantic Dream’s Detroit: Become Human, released on May 25, 2018, for PS4 and PC, presents a chillingly plausible vision of the future where androids have become an indispensable part of everyday life, serving humanity across all sectors and effectively rendering many human jobs obsolete. This narrative-driven adventure game allows players to assume the roles of three distinct android protagonists, each navigating their own journey through a society grappling with the implications of artificial consciousness. The game’s core mechanic lies in the player’s freedom of choice; every action, dialogue option, and decision carries weight, influencing the unfolding narrative and leading to a multitude of possible endings. Detroit: Become Human features stunning graphics, innovative gameplay that blends interactive storytelling with QTEs and exploration, and a thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of prejudice, freedom, and what it truly means to be alive. The branching narrative structure ensures exceptional replayability, as players are encouraged to explore different paths and witness the vastly different outcomes their choices can yield. The emotional depth of the android characters, particularly their struggle for sentience and recognition, makes for a deeply resonant and unforgettable experience.
NieR: Automata: Androids Against Machines in a Post-Apocalyptic World
Developed by PlatinumGames and released on February 23, 2017, for PS4, Xbox One, and PC, NieR: Automata is a critically acclaimed action RPG with a unique premise. Players control YoRHa androids, sent by surviving humans to reclaim Earth from an invading force of intelligent machines in a distant, dystopian future. The game is renowned for its exceptionally fluid and stylish combat system, characterized by rapid movements, diverse weapon types, and a vast array of unlockable abilities. NieR: Automata features a sprawling open world to explore, allowing players to level up their characters and discover new skills. The narrative is deeply philosophical, exploring themes of existence, purpose, and the nature of consciousness, with multiple playthroughs revealing different perspectives and story arcs. The seamless transition between high-octane combat and introspective narrative moments, coupled with its unforgettable soundtrack, makes NieR: Automata a truly singular and moving experience. The game’s meta-narrative elements and its ability to subvert player expectations contribute to its profound impact, making it a highly regarded title within both the action RPG and science fiction genres. The game’s unique approach to storytelling, where completing the game multiple times is essential to uncovering the full narrative, encourages a deeper engagement with its complex themes and characters.
Pioneering Franchises and Timeless Classics in Sci-Fi Gaming
Some of the most enduring and impactful science fiction experiences in gaming come from franchises that have captivated audiences for years, consistently delivering high-quality adventures that define the genre.
DOOM (2016): The Reboot that Redefined Fast-Paced Carnage
While the original DOOM from the 1990s laid the groundwork for the modern first-person shooter, the 2016 reboot, developed by id Software and released on May 13, 2016, arguably offers the definitive DOOM experience. Available on PS4, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch, DOOM (2016) prioritizes relentless, high-octane combat above all else. Although a compelling story unfolds, the primary focus is on annihilating colossal waves of demonic enemies across diverse, hellish landscapes. Each level presents unique objectives, and with an arsenal of powerful weaponry, most notably the iconic shotgun, players can tear through both common fodder and formidable bosses with visceral satisfaction. The game’s combat and movement mechanics are exceptionally fluid, allowing players to engage in a ballet of destruction amidst the chaos. The sheer kinetic energy and aggressive gameplay loop of DOOM (2016) make it an exhilarating and endlessly replayable entry in the sci-fi shooter pantheon. The “push-forward combat” design, which rewards aggressive play with health and ammo pickups, ensures that players are constantly on the offensive, leading to a truly adrenaline-fueled experience. The game’s soundtrack, featuring a heavy metal score that dynamically adapts to the on-screen action, is integral to its intense atmosphere.
BioShock Series: Underwater Utopias and Sky-High Dystopias
The BioShock series, with its first game released in 2007, offers some of the most unique and thought-provoking science fiction narratives in gaming. Developed by 2K Games and available across numerous platforms, the series comprises BioShock, BioShock 2, and BioShock Infinite. The first two titles are set in Rapture, a breathtaking underwater city envisioned as a utopia by its founder, Andrew Ryan, only to descend into a dystopian nightmare. BioShock Infinite transports players to the airborne city of Columbia, a theocratic metropolis under the sway of a charismatic, fanatical leader. All three games are exceptional action-adventure experiences, featuring unique character abilities known as “Plasmids” or “Vigors,” gorgeous yet perilous environments, and intricately woven storylines filled with unforgettable twists and turns. The BioShock series is lauded for its masterful world-building, philosophical themes, and its ability to blend challenging gameplay with compelling narrative. The atmospheric detail and rich lore of each city, Rapture and Columbia, are masterclasses in environmental storytelling, drawing players deep into their respective socio-political climates and the tragic events that befell them. The exploration of free will, determinism, and societal collapse are recurring threads that make these games resonate long after completion.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor: Continuing a Legacy in a Galaxy Far, Far Away
The Star Wars universe has been a foundational pillar of science fiction for generations, and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, released on April 28, 2023, for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, continues this legacy within the gaming sphere. This action-adventure game follows the journey of Cal Kestis, a Jedi survivor of Order 66, as he continues his fight against the Galactic Empire. Jedi: Survivor builds upon the foundations of its predecessor, Jedi: Fallen Order, offering an expanded universe, new combat mechanics, and a more personal story for Cal. Players will traverse familiar and new planets, encounter iconic characters, and engage in thrilling lightsaber combat and Force-powered abilities. The game excels in its cinematic presentation, engaging narrative, and satisfying gameplay that blends exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat encounters. For fans of the Star Wars saga, Jedi: Survivor provides an authentic and captivating experience, allowing them to embody a Jedi Knight in a galaxy teeming with adventure and conflict. The introduction of new stances and lightsaber forms allows for greater combat customization, enabling players to adapt their playstyle to different enemy encounters. The narrative’s exploration of Cal’s personal struggles with his Jedi identity and his connection to the Force adds significant emotional depth to the experience.
Underrated Gems and Niche Delights in Sci-Fi Gaming
Beyond the blockbuster titles and established franchises, the science fiction genre is rich with hidden gems and unique experiences that offer something truly special for those willing to explore them.
Horizon Zero Dawn: A Post-Apocalyptic World of Robotic Beasts
Guerrilla Games’ Horizon Zero Dawn, released on February 28, 2017, for PS4 and PC, presents a world that initially appears to be a post-apocalyptic wasteland inhabited by primitive tribes. However, the game’s brilliance lies in its revealed history: humanity’s unchecked advancements in robotics led to the creation of sentient machine creatures that eventually overran the planet. Players control Aloy, an outcast from her tribe, who utilizes the forgotten technology of her ancestors to uncover the truth behind the rise of these machines. Horizon Zero Dawn is a critically acclaimed open-world action RPG celebrated for its fast-paced, strategic combat against massive robotic beasts, its compelling narrative filled with lore and mystery, and its breathtakingly beautiful environments. The game masterfully blends primal tribal aesthetics with advanced futuristic technology, creating a truly unique and captivating setting. Aloy’s journey to unravel a centuries-old conspiracy is both engaging and emotionally resonant, making Horizon Zero Dawn a standout title that redefined expectations for open-world storytelling. The intricate design of the various machine creatures, each with its own attack patterns and weak points, makes every encounter a tactical challenge, and mastering the use of Aloy’s various tools and traps is essential for survival.
Subnautica: Survival in an Alien Ocean Depths
Unknown Worlds Entertainment’s Subnautica, released on December 16, 2014, for PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch, offers a unique open-world survival experience set almost entirely beneath the waves of an alien planet in a distant galaxy. Your character is a lone survivor of a starship crash, stranded with minimal resources. To survive, you must explore the vast, uncharted ocean, scavenge for vital materials, construct a larger, more sophisticated base, and gradually uncover the planet’s profound mysteries. While the underwater exploration can be awe-inspiring, Subnautica masterfully injects moments of genuine terror as colossal sea monsters and unseen threats lurk in the abyssal depths, preying on the player’s deepest aquatic fears. The game’s atmosphere of isolation, combined with its survival mechanics and intriguing lore, makes for an unforgettable and deeply immersive experience that challenges players to overcome their thalassophobia and explore the unknown. The sense of discovery in Subnautica is immense, as players slowly piece together the planet’s history and the fate of previous expeditions, all while battling the constant threat of starvation, dehydration, and hostile alien life. The base-building mechanics are exceptionally well-implemented, allowing players to create elaborate underwater habitats that are both functional and visually impressive.
EVE Online: The Granddaddy of Sci-Fi MMOs
CCP Games’ EVE Online, launched in 2003 for PC, remains a towering achievement in the massively multiplayer online (MMO) genre, defining what a complex and player-driven science fiction universe can be. This enduring space simulation MMO begins by placing you as an aspiring space explorer seeking to make your mark in a constantly evolving galaxy. EVE Online offers unparalleled depth, allowing players to engage in detailed ship-to-ship combat, both against NPC enemies and other players. The game’s player-driven economy is legendary, often involving significant in-game wealth that can translate to real-world value, fostering intricate trading and industrial empires. Entirely experienced from within the cockpit of your customizable spaceship, EVE Online demands a steep learning curve but rewards dedicated players with an unparalleled sense of agency and emergent gameplay. The complex political landscape, massive player-run corporations, and epic fleet battles are testaments to its enduring legacy and the unique community it fosters. The sheer scale of player interaction and the consequences of their actions within the game world create a dynamic and ever-changing narrative that is truly unique. EVE Online is not just a game; it’s a persistent universe shaped by the decisions and ambitions of its players.
In 2025, the landscape of science fiction gaming continues to offer boundless opportunities for exploration, introspection, and thrilling adventure. From the vastness of procedurally generated galaxies to the intimate horrors of a derelict spaceship, these titles represent the pinnacle of the genre, pushing the boundaries of what interactive storytelling and immersive worlds can achieve. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the stars or a newcomer eager to embark on your first interstellar journey, the best science fiction games of 2025 await your command.