Stellaris
By Paradox Development Studio
Develop a spacefaring society through exploration, diplomacy and long-term strategic choices.
TAKE A CLOSER LOOK
Inside the game
THE QUICK INTRODUCTION
What’s it all about?
Stellaris begins with a species and a place in the galaxy, then turns exploration into a growing network of political and economic decisions. Surveying a system can reveal an opportunity, a neighbour or a problem your current technology is poorly equipped to handle. Expansion creates more to manage rather than simply a larger map.
The variety comes from both the society you design and the encounters that disrupt its plans. A diplomatic opening can matter as much as another fleet, while a weak economy can limit either approach. It suits players comfortable learning a substantial strategy game over time. Many additional systems are sold through expansions, so check which features belong to the base purchase.
Release and platform details
Developer: Paradox Development Studio. Publisher: Paradox Interactive. Steam edition release date: May 9, 2016. Desktop systems listed on Steam: Windows, macOS, Linux.
Official sources
Store information checked on 15 October 2026. Availability, device requirements and optional purchases can vary by region and platform.
Artwork and image credits
Image credit: Paradox Development Studio / Paradox Interactive. The official cover and gallery images come from the developer/publisher’s Steam listing. Gallery images represent the PC store edition and may include promotional panels. Mobile editions may look different. Images belong to their respective owners.
Your kind of game if…
You like grand strategy, emergent science-fiction stories and managing a society over a long campaign.
GET OFF TO A GOOD START
How to play
- Choose an empire concept with a few clear priorities.
- Survey nearby space before committing to expansion.
- Watch resource upkeep when growing the fleet or economy.
- Read a diplomatic agreement for its ongoing costs and obligations.