For many people with a passion for the cosmos who follow developments around China's space program and regularly enjoy hobbies like stargazing, space-themed video games also tend to stand out. Throughout the history of gaming, there certainly hasn't been a distinct lack of games taking place in a vast universe. In fact, there have been some truly iconic releases.
An alluring category of gaming for numerous reasons, space-themed products have always amassed huge followings. As a result of this, they've cemented themselves among some of gaming's most iconic creations from other genres. These days, gamers everywhere are playing DraftKings slot titles like Rocket 2 and products like Outer Wilds, but these titles arguably wouldn't be as enticing without the array of memorable releases that came before them.
So, without further ado, below we highlight some undisputed classics from the space category of gaming, many of which you might even recall yourself.
Space Invaders
Kicking things off with an undoubted masterpiece, Space Invaders might not stand up against some of today's sophisticated products, but it clearly enabled the space genre to reach more audiences. Released in 1978, this influential arcade title offered a simple but highly engaging premise, as players had to defend a collection of rows against armies of aliens.
Kerbal Space Program
One of the more recent releases on the list, Kerbal Space Program first came to the fore in 2015, but it has managed to stay relevant thanks to a selection of notable updates. In the game, players can sample an authentic space simulation product. However, where purists might be put off is due to the title's alien race called Kerbals. Still, despite their presence, Kerbal Space Program really is impressive, especially when factoring in the game's crisp graphics and the fully-functional spacecraft players can experience.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
Of course, certain titles in this area are based around some movie masterpieces with global followings. While not every Star Wars game is worth devoting some time to, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic definitely bucked the trend somewhat. For fans of the Star Wars Universe, in particular, this 2003 product is unforgettable thanks to elements like its deep RPG system. Also featuring a moral choice system with differing outcomes for players, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is exceptional.
Halo: Combat Evolved
A beloved title from 2001, Halo: Combat Evolved clearly defined how sci-fi console shooters would look in the future. A game that was ahead of its time, it contained unbeatable action in some truly unbeatable space-based battling scenarios, its lore was another alluring feature, and there were an array of vehicles and clever gadgets for players to use. Overall, Halo: Combat Evolved is amazing.
Asteroids
For any more senior space lovers among us, Asteroids is a title they undoubtedly recall. This vector graphics release isn't the most intricate game on the list, but it was certainly pleasurable to session. Adored as soon as it hit the shelves in 1979, gamers everywhere couldn't resist shooting and destroying asteroids, plus piloting spaceships, in this undeniable favorite.
Wing Commander
In the 1990s, it was almost impossible for space enthusiasts to avoid Wing Commander. A hugely impactful space flight combat simulation video game, players were treated to this engaging product in 1990. From that point onwards, it didn't look back after recording huge numbers. Where the game really excelled was due to its compelling storyline, although it also boasted graphics that were ahead of its time, 3D dogfighting that was seriously epic, and some tense missions. Overall, Wing Commander will probably never be forgotten.
