10 Best sci-fi RPGs to play in 2026
Finding the best sci-fi RPG games can be deceptively tricky. A lot of the best RPGs around typically take place in magical fantasy realms instead of the cosmos. However, there are some truly fantastic futuristic role-playing experiences out there if you know where to look, and after making my way through my extensive RPG back catalogue, I've found the top 10 that are worth your time and attention.
Below are the greatest sci-fi RPGs to play in 2026. For this list, I've focused on outings that deliver top-tier worldbuilding and employ classic sci-fi hallmarks in their storytelling. From space travel to corporation-run dystopias, each of my picks below will scratch that science fiction itch that you may be after. I've also made sure to include what "Vibe" each game will give you (which you can read more about in our FAQ section), so you know what kind of RPG you'll be getting at a glance.
The best sci-fi RPGs, starting with...
10. The Outer Worlds 2
Release date: October 29, 2025
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X
Vibe: Expect the Unexpected
As a long-time Fallout: New Vegas fan, The Outer Worlds 2 really does feel like Obsidian back at the peak of their RPG game. In fact, in our The Outer Worlds 2 review, we rightfully pointed out that it's "a stunning sci-fi adventure that feels like the RPG studio can finally deliver on decades of ambition." Building on from the first Outer Worlds space colonization game, here you'll create an Earth Directorate agent who is tasked with keeping corporations in check.
You'll need to build your character from the ground up, and your choices will affect how the story plays out, as well as companion interactions. This is a semi-open-world and single-player outing that really gives you off-kilter moments paired with some great lore. It's absurd at times, but still mature enough to take its grounded story seriously, and all in all, it offers a memorable role-playing adventure. If you're after a satirical take on a bleak capitalist future and want to decide the fate of a few planets, this is the sci-fi RPG for you.
9. Citizen Sleeper
Release date: May 5, 2022
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
Vibe: Quick Play
Citizen Sleeper is one of the best sci-fi RPGs for fans of classic tabletop RPGs, and fans of the genre will feel right at home with its dice-centred gameplay. As with other dice-based games like Disco Elysium, your rolls will dictate what actions you can take and whether you'll make it out alive at the end of the day. That makes the game work so well, because this high-stakes but still tactical gameplay formula feeds perfectly into the title's unique sci-fi premise.
You are a "Sleeper", aka a digitized human consciousness in an artificial body that's slowly dying. You've escaped from an evil corporation and are now stuck in a large space station filled with different factions also looking to free themselves from corporate overlords. The writing here is fantastic and pairs perfectly with the thoughtful approach you'll need to take as a player. I'd also recommend checking out the sequel, and if you want more information on that, we have a handy Citizen Sleeper 2 review for you as well.
Sign up to the GamesRadar+ Newsletter8. Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
Release date: July 15, 2003
Platforms: PC
Vibe: Story-driven
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic isn't just one of the greatest sci-fi RPGs ever made, it's also one of the best Star Wars game of all time. So, of course, it had to make our list. Set thousands of years before the formation of the Galactic Empire, you truly do forge your own path here and choose your own alignment with the Force. You'll have to travel to different planets, each with its own layered stories and a ton of side-quests to do. Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic may seem dated by modern standards, but there's so much in it, and its rewards progression still stands out.
You'll need to work towards becoming a Jedi master, and it's satisfying seeing that journey take place. If you are looking for an RPG that has a similar vein to The Elder Scrolls but is sci-fi focused, Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic is one of the best alternatives. There may also be a remake for it soon, so keep your eye out for that!
7. Starfield
Release date: September 6, 2023
Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X
Vibe: Chill Out
OK, I know putting Starfield on here may seem controversial given how polarizing it is to some RPG fans, but I happen to be in the camp that fully believes that it's one of the best games that captures the vastness of space, including how overwhelming it may be at times. In typical Bethesda fashion, you'll create a character with their own unique background and traits. You'll then be thrown into a story where you are part of the Constellation group of space explorers on the hunt for rare artifacts throughout the galaxy.
Not only are there a ton of quests and the feeling of constantly having something to do, but you can also make your own ship – what more can a sci-fi fan ask for? Our Managing Guides Editor said that "Starfield is the best thing Bethesda has done since The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion" in his Starfield review in terms of scope and the wondrous discovery feeling it can give you.
6. NieR: Automata
Release date: March 7, 2017
Platforms: PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox One
Vibe: Story-driven
NieR: Automata is one of the best JRPGs around and is also the game that managed to get my fantasy-obsessed butt to fall in love with sci-fi stories as well, so it holds a very big place in my heart. Set in a dystopian world, humanity has fled to the Moon after an alien invasion. However, they have left behind an army of androids to fight the space invaders, and you'll be playing as one of them. It's up to you to end the war, and you'll also be thrown into some compelling stories along the way.
NieR: Automata's world-building and hack-n-slash combat gameplay feels straight out of a sci-fi movie. In fact, I still believe that its combat is some of the most fun I've ever played to this day. If you do decide to try this RPG out, I will say make sure you get to experience the "true ending" since it's brilliant, and if you want more information, you can read our Nier: Automata review.
5. Deus Ex: Human Revolution
Release date: August 23, 2011
Platforms: PC, PS3, Wii U, Xbox 360
Vibe: Story-driven
Deus Ex: Human Revolution is unforgettable and is still one of the best FPS/RPG hybrids that you can find today. You play as Adam Jensen, the head of security at Sarif Industries (a corporation that sells human augmentations). However, after an attack that leads you to have your own extensive augmentations, you set out to discover who is responsible for trying to take your life. Just like previous Deus Ex games, this RPG's main selling point is its brilliant writing, but it also pushes for player choice, giving you options on how you approach fights and unravel its intelligent narrative.
If you're after complex RPG systems, this isn't the title for you. But if you're looking for a great sci-fi story, one that can at times feel uncomfortably close to a feasible reality, then you won't find better. I still fully agree with our 5-star rating in our Deus Ex: Human Revolution review, and really recommend this one for RPG newbies, especially.
4. Eve Online
Release date: May 6, 2003
Platforms: PC
Vibe: Better With Friends
Eve Online at this point is an institution, having been around for 20 years, and it's also the best MMORPG that sci-fi fans can jump into by a long shot. Set in the galaxy of New Eden this is a massive title that has great stories, a player economy, and so many real-world and fictional tensions and history that you could probably write a book about them at this point.
You can battle, mine and trade, uncover lost technologies, customize ships, and so much more here. It's essentially a sci-fi dream come true. But before you dive in, be warned, there is a very steep learning curve. The game is designed for groups of players to work together and compete against other groups, so it can be a great co-op choice if you are willing to learn it. However, all of space is PvP and like with any game like this, there are plenty of players who will grief you as well. It's best to prepare yourself for that dynamic before you jump in.
3. Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader
Release date: December 7, 2023
Platforms: PC, PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X
Vibe: Story-driven
No sci-fi list is complete without 40K, and in terms of top-tier RPGs, you'll struggle to find a better outing in the hostile universe than Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader. If you couldn't tell by the name of the game, in this one, you step into the worn shoes of a Rogue Trader, and you'll be gathering companions and venturing around space as you build up a personal journey throughout a brilliantly written campaign.
The tactical combat, paired with the absolutely fantastic quests, makes for a moreish combination that personally kept me hooked for hours when I first ventured into the RPG. I will say that the system in this one is more complex than normal, and may be a bit of a shock to players of Baldur's Gate 3. However, once you get into Rogue Trader's rhythm, nothing is quite as satisfying. This is easily one of the best CRPGs of all time, and a sci-fi staple.
2. Cyberpunk 2077
Release date: December 10, 2020
Platforms: PC, PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X
Vibe: Chill Out
The Witcher is one of the best fantasy RPGs ever made, so it makes sense that the team behind it would also give us a sci-fi banger, too. Developed by CD Projekt Red and based on Mike Pondsmith's Cyberpunk tabletop game, Cyberpunk 2077 has you stepping into the role of a mercenary named V who becomes saddled with a cybernetic "biochip" containing an engram of the terrorist Johnny Silverhand. You'll need to work together in order to save your life and cruise around the futuristic Night City while you do so.
The world-building in Cyberpunk 2077 is astounding, as every inch is packed with neon lights and beaten-up machines that feel lived in and also surprisingly realistic. If you love the aesthetics of Akira, no other game captures the gritty dystopian look better than this. And if you're after an RPG that always has something for you to jump on or explore, you'll also be very happy here. For more information, read our Cyberpunk 2077 review!
1. Mass Effect Legendary Edition
Release date: May 14, 2021
Platforms: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
Vibe: Story-driven
No series has ever made me feel like the lead of a sci-fi action movie more than the Mass Effect trilogy has. It is an indisputable masterpiece. Playing as Commander Shepard, it's up to you to save the galaxy from total annihilation. How you achieve that and if you do depends on the choices you make throughout each game, as your save data carries over after each one. The Mass Effect Legendary Edition bundles all the games together, so it's the best way to experience the trilogy at the moment, and trust me, you'll want to get through them in succession.
Travelling through the galaxy, shooting my way through husks, and feeling the weight of every choice I made by the climax of Mass Effect 3 remains some of my favorite RPG memories. There is also romance; each mission perfectly propels the story, and it also still holds up visually even today. Mass Effect is BioWare at their best, and if you need more convincing about picking it up, you can head on over to our Mass Effect Legendary Edition review next.
Best Sci-fi RPGs FAQs
How do we pick our entries for the best sci-fi RPGs?
All of the entries on this list have been played and vetted by myself and other RPG experts on the team. We've made sure to focus on games that fully capture a sci-fi experience, taking their story, world-building, and the genre's integration into gameplay mechanics into account.
When picking titles, we also focus on games that are the best to play right now. This means that if a trailblazer isn't easily accessible or just doesn't hold up compared to its modern counterparts, it may not have made the list. Both new games and classics are considered, but we aim to make all of our recommendations as timely and helpful as possible to gamers looking to play something new immediately.
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