The Last Starship
Loading critic reviews...
Deals
Finding deals...
Live Streams
Finding live streams...
About The Last Starship
The Last Starship by Introversion Software is a sci-fi simulator that blends resource management with real-time strategy. Players design a starship from modular components, engines, weapons, life support, then pilot it through procedurally generated sectors. The game launched in 2026 as an alpha build, positioning itself as a work-in-progress with rough edges. Set in a galaxy where exploration and combat are intertwined, it targets fans of methodical planning and tactical decision-making. The developer’s history with Prison Architect and DEFCON suggests a focus on systems depth over polish, and this title delivers a raw but ambitious experience for PC and Mac.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around designing ships to survive specific scenarios. Each hull has limited space, forcing tough trade-offs, prioritize armor or speed, offense or sensor range. Missions range from asteroid mining to defending colonies, with combat demanding micro-management of thrusters and railguns. The interface is dense but intuitive, with a grid-based ship editor and a 3D exploration view. Sessions often start with 2-3 hours of build time, followed by 15-30 minutes of action. Real-time battles require quick reflexes, while resource scarcity between missions pushes players to optimize efficiency. The alpha state means occasional glitches, but the strategic layer remains robust.
What Players Think
Community stats show an 82% completion rate with an average playtime of 22 hours, though 35% of players report frustration. The game scores 8.4/10, with praise for its "addictive build-combat cycle" but criticism of bugs and unclear objectives. Over 70% of reviews mention the challenge of balancing systems, while 45% highlight the satisfaction of overcoming it. Achievements (112 total) are earned at a 68% completion rate, with "Last Ship Standing" being the most difficult. Price at $39.99 feels fair for early access, but 20% of players cite it as a barrier. Moods split between "enthralling" (55%) and "discouraging" (28%), with one user writing: "It’s a puzzle wrapped in a mess, but I can’t look away."
PlayPile's Take
This game is for players who enjoy overcomplicating spreadsheets for fun. The Last Starship shines when its systems click, offering a rare mix of creativity and strategy. While the alpha state means frequent hiccups, the core mechanics are polished enough to justify the price. Achievements add replayability, but don’t expect a smooth ride. If you thrive in chaos and don’t mind grinding through bugs, it’s worth the $40 ask. Otherwise, wait for a full release.
Game Modes
Single player
Achievements
Loading achievements...
Similar Games
Finding similar games...