The Ur-Quan Masters

The Ur-Quan Masters is a free open-source adaptation of Star Control 2, combining space exploration, strategy, arcade-style ship combat and a large science-fiction story. Players command a spacecraft, travel between planets, gather resources, encounter alien civilizations and become involved in a sprawling conflict involving numerous races and factions. Ship-to-ship battles use a more direct arcade system, while the larger adventure emphasizes exploration, diplomacy and resource management. The game is particularly memorable for its eccentric alien characters, humorous dialogue and enormous sense of freedom. The Ur-Quan Masters offers an unusually rich science-fiction adventure for a free game, proving that a galaxy can be filled with personality even without a modern blockbuster budget. Just be careful when approaching an unfamiliar alien civilization; diplomacy is generally preferable to discovering what their weapons do.