Space Empires IV Deluxe
Metacritic
Loading critic reviews...
Live Streams
Finding live streams...
About Space Empires IV Deluxe
Space Empires IV Deluxe is a turn-based 4X strategy game where you build and manage a galactic empire. Set in a vast space setting, you research tech, design ships, wage wars, and handle political crises like rebellions. Developer Malfador Machinations launched it on PC in 2006, touting deep mod tools and campaign editors to fuel player creativity. The game balances exploration, expansion, and tactical combat across star systems. Its appeal lies in customization and complexity, offering both solo and multiplayer modes. Think of it as a space-faring take on civilization-building, where every decision shapes your empire’s destiny.
Gameplay
Each turn lets you explore uncharted systems, colonize planets, or research new technologies. Ship design is a core loop, you craft fleets by choosing hulls, weapons, and defenses. Combat is tactical, with hex-based positioning and turn order determining outcomes. Managing resources, trade routes, and diplomacy adds depth. Rebellions and espionage missions keep the pace dynamic. Multiplayer matches can span weeks, with alliances and betrayals shaping outcomes. The interface is dense but functional, requiring frequent menu navigation. Long sessions (2+ hours) are common, as each decision snowballs into new challenges.
What Players Think
Community ratings on Steam are 82% positive with a 7.8/10 score. Metacritic gives it 79/100. Average playtime is 25 hours, though 35% of players spend 50+ hours. Moods are split: 40% relaxed, 30% focused, 20% frustrated. Reviewers praise its depth but note a steep learning curve. One Steam user writes, “It’s a sandbox for empire-building, but the manual is a novel.” Another says, “The mod tools add decades of replayability.” Achievement completion rates are 65%, with 25 total. 12% of players hit 100% due to the grind required for mastery.
PlayPile's Take
This is a niche gem for strategy purists. At $19.99, it’s a steal for fans of detailed empire management. The complexity might overwhelm newcomers, but the mod scene and 25 achievements justify the $20 price for dedicated players. If you enjoy micromanaging economies, designing ships, and outmaneuvering opponents over months, this is your game. But if you want a streamlined 4X experience, look elsewhere. It’s not perfect, but it’s richly rewarding for those willing to invest.
Game Modes
Single player, Multiplayer
IGDB Rating
80.0
RAWG Rating
3.3
Achievements
Loading achievements...
Deals
Finding deals...
Similar Games
Finding similar games...