4 Games with a sci-fi setting like Starbound that you should try

If Starbound worked for you because of strong narrative focus, open world exploration and melee combat, the same is here. The common ground extends to crafting mechanics and a space setting. Where the two diverge is visuals and tone: a first-person view.

On paper it is what Starbound is — a sandbox world, melee combat and a space setting — though the resemblance is mostly at that level. Both also lean on exploration and discovery, and co-op play. The distance is in visuals and combat — its own ground is tactical combat and a first-person view.

What brings it close to Starbound is strong narrative focus, a sandbox world and melee combat, and the two track each other on genre, game mode and world. Both also lean on crafting mechanics and 2D presentation. The distance is in tone and setting — its own ground is dark, oppressive atmosphere and magic-based combat.

Same family as Starbound: a relaxing pace, open world exploration and a sci-fi setting. The common ground extends to crafting mechanics and pixel art. Where the two diverge is game mode and visuals: 3D presentation.