Stellaris
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Multi-player
Cross-Platform Multiplayer
Steam Achievements
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Workshop
Steam Cloud
Family Sharing

Explore a galaxy full of wonders in this sci-fi grand strategy game from Paradox Development Studios. Interact with diverse alien races, discover strange new worlds with unexpected events and expand the reach of your empire. Each new adventure holds almost limitless possibilities.

Developers: Paradox Development Studio
Publishers: Paradox Interactive
Release Date: May 9, 2016
Price (USD): $39.99
Current Players: 10k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(87%)
modding community
deep strategy
replayability
customization options
immersive experience
frequent updates
complex learning
storytelling
difficulty
game evolution
expensive DLC
performance issues
4.0 update
multiplayer desync
unbalanced AI
The reviews for Stellaris showcase a complex mix of praise for its deep strategy, customization, and modding potential, but are tempered by criticisms regarding its expensive DLC model and performance issues. Players are both impressed and frustrated by the frequent updates, which keep the game evolving with mixed results. Despite the negative aspects, the general sentiment remains positive, especially for those willing to navigate its complexity and cost.

Positive Points

  • Many players appreciate the game's replayability and vast customization options. Players can create diverse narratives and experiment with different strategies and roles in the galaxy.
  • The game is praised for its deep strategic gameplay that involves managing empires, diplomacy, warfare, and exploration.
  • The visual style, music, and atmosphere of the game are generally well-regarded, contributing to an immersive space experience.
  • Modding is a big positive point, with a vibrant community providing a wide array of mods that enhance and expand the game significantly.
  • Negative Points

  • A major criticism is the game’s extensive DLC model, which many find expensive and essential to the full game experience, making the base game feel incomplete.
  • The 4.0 update received significant criticism for introducing new bugs, performance issues, particularly with multiplayer desync, and changing core mechanics in a way many players found unfavorable.
  • Late-game performance issues are frequently mentioned, as the game tends to slow down and become unplayable in the later stages.
  • The AI is criticized for being either passive or ineffective, lacking challenge without unfair advantages, and sometimes contributing to unbalanced gameplay.
  • Mixed Points

  • The frequent updates and changes to mechanics can be seen as both a positive and a negative. While they keep the game fresh and evolving, they also disrupt player familiarity and stability.
  • Difficulty and complexity are seen as positives by those who enjoy deep strategic challenges but can be overwhelming for new players.
  • Common Themes

  • Many reviews mention the addictive nature of the game, with players often losing track of time.
  • Players frequently discuss the customization and storytelling possibilities, creating unique empires and scenarios.
  • The issue of expensive and numerous DLCs is a recurrent theme, with many players discussing the cost related to getting the full experience.
  • Updated 8/12/2025, 12:02:34 AM UTC