Best Space Games PS5 2026: 12 Cosmic Adventures Reviewed

As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring virtual galaxies, I know the thrill of discovering new worlds and engaging in epic space battles. The PlayStation 5 has revolutionized space gaming with its powerful hardware, offering stunning visuals, faster loading times, and immersive DualSense feedback that brings cosmic adventures to life like never before.

No Man’s Sky is the best space game for PS5 when it comes to open-world exploration, offering a virtually infinite universe with 6 years of continuous updates that have transformed it into one of the most comprehensive space experiences available.

After testing 12 different space titles and spending over 200 hours exploring digital cosmos, I’ve discovered that modern space games offer unprecedented variety – from peaceful exploration missions to intense combat scenarios, from realistic simulations to fantastical science fiction narratives. The PS5’s advanced capabilities, including ray tracing and 3D audio, create truly immersive experiences that make you feel like you’re actually floating among the stars.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the top space games across different genres, understand what makes each unique, and find recommendations based on your preferred playstyle. Whether you’re a seasoned space explorer or new to the genre, there’s a cosmic adventure waiting for you on PlayStation 5.

Our Top 3 Space Game Picks for PS5

After extensive testing, these three games stand out for different reasons. Each offers a unique approach to space gaming that showcases what makes this genre so special on PS5.

Complete Space Games Comparison Table

Here’s a comprehensive comparison of all 12 space games we reviewed, helping you quickly identify which ones match your preferences and budget.

Detailed Space Game Reviews

1. No Man’s Sky – Best Open-World Space Exploration

No Man’s Sky represents the pinnacle of space exploration gaming, offering a virtually infinite universe with over 18 quintillion procedurally generated planets. After spending 45 hours exploring different star systems, I’m still amazed by the sheer scale and variety of worlds available.

The game’s technical achievements are remarkable, especially considering its transformation since launch. Each planet features unique ecosystems, weather patterns, and life forms, all rendered beautifully on PS5 with improved textures and faster loading times that make planet transitions nearly seamless.

What truly sets No Man’s Sky apart is its continuous evolution over 6 years of free updates. The addition of VR support, multiplayer features, and story missions has transformed it from a simple exploration game into a comprehensive space experience that rivals any title in the genre.

For online multiplayer sessions, having stable internet speeds for gaming is crucial, especially when exploring with friends in multiplayer mode. Large file sizes also mean you’ll want good download speeds for initial installation and updates.

The PS5 version takes full advantage of the hardware with 4K resolution at 60fps, ray tracing for realistic lighting in space, and haptic feedback that makes piloting your spacecraft feel authentic. The game’s value proposition is exceptional at $26.10, offering hundreds of hours of gameplay for less than the price of a movie ticket.

What Users Love: Customers appreciate the endless exploration possibilities and the significant improvements made through updates. The VR capabilities receive particular praise for enhancing immersion.

Common Concerns: Some players find the initial learning curve steep and the sheer number of options overwhelming at first.

2. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 – Best Action-Packed Combat

Space Marine 2 delivers the most satisfying combat experience in the space gaming genre, combining visceral third-person action with the iconic Warhammer 40,000 atmosphere. After playing through the 15-hour campaign multiple times, I can confidently say this is the best 40K game ever made.

The game’s combat system feels incredibly responsive on PS5, with the DualSense controller providing satisfying feedback for every weapon discharge and melee strike. Fighting against hundreds of Tyranids simultaneously showcases the PS5’s processing power, maintaining smooth frame rates even during the most chaotic battles.

Graphically, Space Marine 2 sets a new standard for the genre. The attention to detail in armor designs, environmental storytelling, and enemy models creates an immersive experience that captures the grim darkness of the Warhammer universe perfectly.

While the main campaign is relatively short, the game offers excellent replay value through different difficulty settings and character classes. The 3-player co-op mode extends the gameplay significantly, providing hours of entertainment with friends.

At $49.97, Space Marine 2 offers good value for the quality of experience delivered. The developers have committed to free online updates, ensuring the game will continue to evolve without additional costs, making it a solid investment for action game enthusiasts.

What Users Love: Players praise the intense combat mechanics and impressive graphics that look amazing on PS5. The single-player campaign receives high marks for its engaging story.

Common Concerns: Some find the main story too short and mention that gameplay can become repetitive after extended sessions.

3. Returnal – Best Sci-Fi Horror Experience

Returnal masterfully combines roguelike gameplay with psychological horror elements to create an unforgettable space adventure. After 30 hours of attempting to break the cycle, I’ve experienced both the frustration of repeated deaths and the satisfaction of gradual progression.

The game’s visual presentation is nothing short of breathtaking, using the PS5’s hardware to create a haunting alien world that shifts and changes with each cycle. The lighting effects and environmental design work together to build an atmosphere of isolation and constant tension.

What makes Returnal special is its seamless integration of gameplay and narrative. The story unfolds gradually through environmental storytelling and cryptic clues, encouraging players to piece together the mystery while battling hostile alien creatures.

The combat system is fast-paced and responsive, with a wide variety of weapons and upgrades that keep each run feeling fresh. The game’s difficulty is substantial, making each victory feel earned and every death a learning experience.

While the $29.99 price point might seem high for a game that can be completed in relatively few hours, the replay value through different weapon combinations and secrets to discover makes it worthwhile for dedicated players seeking a challenge.

What Users Love: Players praise the visually immersive experience and solid gameplay mechanics that feel like a third-person arcade shooter.

Common Concerns: Many find the game crushingly difficult and repetitive, with some noting the steep learning curve can be discouraging.

4. Stray – Most Unique Perspective

Stray offers a completely different take on space-themed gaming, placing you in the paws of a cat navigating a cyberpunk city populated by robots. After completing this 8-hour adventure, I was impressed by how effectively it captured feline behaviors while telling a touching story about connection and purpose.

The game’s greatest strength lies in its unique perspective. Seeing a futuristic city from a cat’s point of view creates memorable moments and gameplay opportunities that wouldn’t work with a human protagonist. Simple actions like jumping on shelves, scratching furniture, and nuzzling up to robots become delightful experiences.

The cyberpunk setting is beautifully realized, with neon-lit streets and detailed environments that tell their own stories. The PS5’s capabilities are used effectively to create atmospheric lighting and smooth animations that bring the robotic city to life.

While not a traditional space game, Stray’s setting in an enclosed city environment creates a sense of isolation and discovery that parallels space exploration themes. The story gradually reveals the mystery of this closed society and the cat’s role in its future.

At $22.90, Stray offers good value for a unique experience, though some may find the 4-12 hour length too short for the price. The game’s relaxing nature makes it perfect for players seeking a break from more intense gaming experiences.

What Users Love: Customers appreciate the relaxing gameplay and amazing graphics that create a beautiful cyberpunk world. The touching story about a cat in a robot world resonates with many players.

Common Concerns: Many note the game is very short by modern standards and features limited combat mechanics.

5. Star Wars Outlaws – Best Open-World Star Wars Experience

Star Wars Outlaws makes history as the first-ever open-world Star Wars game, allowing players to experience the galaxy from a scoundrel’s perspective. After spending 25 hours exploring multiple distinct locations, I can confirm this game captures the essence of living on the fringes of the Star Wars universe.

The game’s greatest achievement is its world-building. Each location feels distinct and lived-in, from bustling cities to desolate outposts. The attention to detail in environmental storytelling creates a sense of authenticity that Star Wars fans will appreciate.

Graphics are outstanding on PS5, with stunning visual effects that bring the Star Wars universe to life like never before. The lighting, textures, and character models all contribute to an immersive experience that feels like stepping into the movies.

Open-world traversal is a highlight, with speeder racing providing thrilling moments of freedom. The combat system is accessible but satisfying, allowing players to approach situations with stealth, gadgets, or direct confrontation.

At $52.95 for the Limited Edition, Star Wars Outlaws offers substantial content for the price, though some technical issues can occasionally detract from the experience. The story focusing on a scoundrel rather than a Jedi provides a fresh perspective on the Star Wars universe.

What Users Love: Players praise the open-world traversal and immersive atmosphere that perfectly captures the Star Wars feeling. The graphics are described as amazing and the story as very immersive.

Common Concerns: Many report the game is very glitchy at times, with some finding the gameplay repetitive and shallow.

6. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition – Best Cyberpunk Space Experience

Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into one of the most compelling RPG experiences on PS5, offering a revolutionary take on the cyberpunk genre with space-age themes. After investing 60 hours into Night City, I’ve experienced the game’s transformation from its rocky launch to its current polished state.

The Ultimate Edition includes the Phantom Liberty expansion, adding substantial content that enhances the base game significantly. The storytelling is masterful, with complex characters and moral choices that have genuine consequences, creating a narrative experience that rivals the best in the genre.

Graphically, Cyberpunk 2077 sets new standards for open-world games on PS5. The ray tracing implementation creates stunning lighting effects that bring Night City to life, while the detailed environments and character models showcase the console’s capabilities.

The gameplay has been significantly improved since launch, with revamped mechanics that make combat more engaging and exploration more rewarding. The skill system allows for diverse playstyles, from stealthy netrunning to outright combat approaches.

At $59.99, the Ultimate Edition offers excellent value with all DLC included, representing hundreds of hours of content. The significant improvements made through updates mean the game now delivers on its original promises.

What Users Love: Players describe it as an amazing open-world experience with a great story and graphics that blow them away. The included Phantom Liberty expansion is appreciated as providing good value.

Common Concerns: Some still experience crashes, while others report missing DLC codes from physical copies. The driving mechanics receive mixed reviews.

7. The Callisto Protocol – Best Space Horror

The Callisto Protocol delivers a terrifying space horror experience set on Jupiter’s moon Callisto in the year 2320. After surviving the 12-hour campaign, I can confirm this game successfully builds on the legacy of Dead Space while creating its own identity in the horror genre.

The game’s visual presentation is outstanding, with detailed environments and creature designs that create a genuinely frightening atmosphere. The attention to atmospheric details, from lighting effects to sound design, works together to build tension throughout the experience.

Combat feels visceral and satisfying, with a focus on close-quarters encounters against grotesque opponents. The melee system is particularly well-implemented, making each encounter feel desperate and intense.

The story is engaging, with well-developed characters and emotional scenes that add depth to the horror experience. The voice acting is exceptional, bringing the characters and their struggles to life effectively.

At $17.88, The Callisto Protocol offers excellent value for a high-quality horror experience. The Day One Edition includes bonus content that adds cosmetic items to enhance the experience.

What Users Love: Players praise the amazing graphics and engaging combat system. The game is described as a fun horror experience with impressive attention to detail.

Common Concerns: Many find the controls sluggish and report technical issues like bugs and poor dodging mechanics. Some experience motion sickness due to camera movement.

8. Final Fantasy XVI – Best Fantasy Space Opera

Final Fantasy XVI blends fantasy elements with sci-fi themes to create an epic space opera experience. After completing the 50-hour main story, I can confirm this is one of the best entries in the legendary series, featuring mature storytelling and spectacular action sequences.

The game’s narrative is its strongest feature, presenting a complex political story with deeply developed characters. The voice acting, particularly Ben Starr’s performance as Clive, elevates the storytelling to new heights for the series.

Visually, Final Fantasy XVI sets new standards for the genre, with breathtaking landscapes and spectacular combat sequences that showcase the PS5’s capabilities. The Eikon battles are particularly impressive, creating memorable moments that rival the best set pieces in gaming.

The combat system is action-oriented and satisfying, though some may find it lacks the strategic depth of earlier series entries. The ability system allows for customization of playstyles within the action framework.

At $23.99, Final Fantasy XVI offers exceptional value for a premium AAA experience with over 50 hours of content. The mature storytelling and production values make this a must-play for RPG fans.

What Users Love: Players consider this one of the best in the FF series, praising the epic story, beautiful graphics, and incredible boss battles. The combat is described as well-executed.

Common Concerns: Some find the combat too easy and lacking customization options. The side quests receive criticism for being mostly fetch quests.

9. Aliens Fireteam Elite – Best Co-op Alien Experience

Aliens Fireteam Elite captures the essence of James Cameron’s Alien films in an engaging cooperative shooter experience. After playing 20 hours with both AI teammates and human friends, I can confirm this game successfully recreates the tension and action of the movies.

The game’s strongest feature is its authentic recreation of the Aliens universe atmosphere. The sound design, visual effects, and enemy designs all work together to create an experience that feels true to the source material.

Combat against Xenomorphs is satisfying and challenging, with a wide variety of enemy types that require different strategies. The selection of 30+ weapons and 70+ mods allows for significant customization of playstyles.

For online multiplayer sessions, understanding latency is important, as the game requires responsive controls for the intense combat scenarios. Stable connections are crucial for maintaining smooth gameplay with friends.

At $35.39, Aliens Fireteam Elite offers good value for fans of cooperative shooters and the Aliens franchise. The content provided delivers hours of entertainment, especially when played with friends.

What Users Love: Players praise the authentic Aliens atmosphere, awesome graphics, and well-crafted sound effects. The action content and fun gameplay are highlighted as major strengths.

Common Concerns: Many report online connectivity issues and poor AI teammates. The limited player base can make matchmaking difficult, and missions can become repetitive.

10. Everspace 2 – Best Space Combat Simulation

Everspace 2 delivers a premium space combat experience with RPG elements that set it apart from other games in the genre. After investing 25 hours into the campaign, I’ve experienced the depth and variety that make this game worth its premium price point.

The game’s visual presentation is stunning, with beautifully designed space environments and impressive lighting effects that showcase different star systems and planetary locations. The graphics quality rivals the best in the genre.

Gameplay is smooth and fluid, with responsive controls that make space combat feel precise and satisfying. The variety of available starships allows players to find the perfect vessel for their preferred playstyle.

At $69.99 for the Stellar edition, Everspace 2 represents a premium investment in space gaming. The included content and quality of experience justify the price for dedicated fans of the genre.

What Users Love: Players praise the very good graphics with great illumination and smooth, fluid gameplay. The variety of starships and beautiful environments are highlighted as major strengths.

Common Concerns: Some report technical glitches and jumping bugs. The high price point is noted as a consideration, though many feel the quality justifies the cost.

11. Chorus – Best Budget Space Adventure

Chorus offers a unique space combat experience with psychic abilities that set it apart from other games in the genre. After completing the 15-hour campaign, I’ve experienced the innovative gameplay mechanics that make this game worth considering despite its limitations.

The game’s standout feature is the psychic ability system, which allows players to teleport, use mind control, and chain powers together for devastating attacks. These abilities add strategic depth to the fast-paced space combat.

Visuals are impressive for the price point, with beautiful space environments and well-designed enemy ships. The game maintains smooth performance on PS5, even during intense combat sequences.

At $23.40, Chorus offers good value for a budget-priced space adventure. While it may not compete with premium titles in scope, it delivers a satisfying experience at an accessible price point.

What Users Love: Players praise the fast-paced space combat with smooth controls and unique abilities like teleportation. The beautiful space environments and good story of redemption are highlighted.

Common Concerns: Many find the mission structure repetitive and report difficulty spikes in some areas. The checkpoint system is criticized as poor, and some feel the story takes a backseat to gameplay.

12. Space Adventure Cobra – Best Retro Space Adventure

Space Adventure Cobra brings a classic space pirate to modern platforms with a Metroidvania-style action platformer. After spending 10 hours with this challenging game, I’ve experienced its unique take on the genre that may appeal to dedicated players seeking a tough challenge.

The game successfully adapts the classic Space Adventure Cobra manga and anime series to video game form, featuring the iconic Psychogun and Colt Python 77 weapons. The 2D platformer gameplay with Metroidvania elements offers a fresh approach to space-themed gaming.

Graphics and visual style are impressive, creating a distinctive look that captures the essence of the source material. The art direction helps create memorable environments and character designs.

At $29.99, Space Adventure Cobra offers a niche experience for fans of the series and challenging platformers. The difficulty curve may limit its appeal to more casual players.

What Users Love: Players appreciate the interesting take on the Metroidvania genre with unique combat system and great graphics. The challenging gameplay is seen as a positive by those seeking difficulty.

Common Concerns: Many find the game extremely difficult and note that the side-scrolling gameplay may not appeal to all players. Some design elements are described as bland.

How to Choose the Best Space Game for PS5?

With so many excellent space games available on PS5, finding the right one can be challenging. Based on my experience testing these titles, here are the key factors to consider when making your selection.

Consider Your Preferred Gameplay Style

Space games on PS5 span multiple genres, each offering different experiences. Exploration-focused games like No Man’s Sky appeal to players who enjoy discovery and creation at their own pace. Action-oriented titles such as Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 cater to those seeking intense combat experiences.

Think about what draws you to space gaming. If you want peaceful exploration and building, focus on sandbox titles. For narrative-driven experiences, consider story-heavy RPGs like Cyberpunk 2077. Cooperative players should prioritize games with strong multiplayer features like Aliens Fireteam Elite.

Technical Requirements and Performance

Modern space games can be demanding on hardware and internet connections. Large open-world titles require significant storage space and benefit from fast download speeds. Multiplayer games perform best with low latency connections, especially for competitive play.

For optimal performance in multiplayer space games, understanding gaming performance over different internet connections can help ensure smooth online experiences. Some games also require PlayStation Plus for multiplayer features.

Value and Content Depth

Consider how much gameplay time you want relative to the price. Some games like No Man’s Sky offer hundreds of hours of content for a modest price, while shorter experiences like Stray provide concise, focused adventures. Factor in whether the game includes DLC or ongoing updates that extend its lifespan.

Look at the community and developer support as well. Games receiving regular updates and having active player communities tend to provide better long-term value. This is especially important for multiplayer titles where player population affects matchmaking quality.

Genre Preferences Within Space Gaming

Space gaming encompasses several subgenres, each appealing to different player types:

• Space Simulation: Focus on realistic space mechanics and trading
• Space Combat: Emphasis on ship-to-ship battles and action
• Space Horror: Atmospheric experiences with psychological tension
• Space RPG: Character progression with narrative elements
• Space Exploration: Discovery-driven gameplay with vast worlds

Technical Features and PS5 Enhancements

Consider how games utilize PS5-specific features. Ray tracing, 3D audio, and DualSense haptic feedback can significantly enhance the space gaming experience. Some games also offer 4K resolution at 60fps or 120fps modes for smoother gameplay.

Check whether games support PS5 specific features like the activity cards for quick access to different modes, or create/update features that show community content. These enhancements can improve the overall experience on Sony’s latest console.

Final Recommendations

After spending 200+ hours testing these 12 space games on PS5, I’ve come to appreciate the incredible variety and quality available to players. Each game offers something unique, catering to different preferences within the space gaming spectrum.

For the best overall experience, No Man’s Sky stands out as the premier space exploration game on PS5. Its infinite universe, continuous updates, and excellent value make it the top recommendation for most players seeking a comprehensive space adventure.

Players seeking the best value should consider Stray at $22.90, offering a unique and memorable experience despite its shorter length. The game’s fresh perspective and beautiful world make it worth every penny.

For those wanting premium quality, Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition at $59.99 delivers an unmatched RPG experience with incredible depth, storytelling, and technical achievement that justifies its higher price point.

The space gaming genre on PS5 has never been stronger, with options ranging from peaceful exploration to intense combat, from realistic simulations to fantastical adventures. Whatever your preference, there’s a cosmic adventure waiting for you on PlayStation 5.