Stellaris

«Stellaris» is a type of strategy game that, like Paradox Interactive’s previous release, «Cities: Skylines», appeals more to the player’s desire to build than to destroy. However, set in a sci-fi universe with laser weapons and aliens, it’s inevitable that, sooner or later, you’ll find yourself waging war against some extraterrestrial force.

But despite the setting’s implicit assumption of conflict, it’s actually possible to play for a surprisingly long time without ever drawing your futuristic saber equivalent.

Something I find appealing, given how many games already cater to our more violent impulses. With «Stellaris», I therefore decided to make a serious attempt to take over the universe in a peaceful manner through bureaucracy and social democracy.

Smooth introduction

You actually have quite a bit of time for this, as the game starts off pretty relaxed. You explore the galaxy, encounter mysterious space phenomena, conduct research, and discover new technologies, all while gradually mapping out the stars.