13 Best Sci Fi Tabletop RPGs
Tabletop RPGs have been around for years, but nowadays, Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs are getting more popular, mainly due to hits of seasons such as Game of Thrones and Lord of the Rings. If you are also a fan of Sci-Fi Tabletop roleplaying games and looking for some new and best games to explore, we can help. This guide will share the Best Sci-Fi RPGs Tabletop. So, let’s get into it.
List of the Best Sci Fi Tabletop Role Playing Games
1. Traveller
Let’s start with Traveller, arguably one of the best and oldest Sci-Fi Tabletop role-playing games. It was launched back in 1977, but it’s still going strong because it comes with all the elements you can expect from modern Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs. In the game, you will find space battles, trading, and tons of other features that make it fun to play. Also, the best thing about Traveller is that it’s tried and tested. This means that thousands of players have played it before. And there are great chances that you will love it as well. Also, it’s a very comprehensive game that will keep you engaged for a long time.
2. Stars Without Number
Stars Without Number is another very popular Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG edition that you can enjoy. The thing which we like the most about this game is that it’s designed to be easier to play. This means that you can enjoy it with your buddies without preparing a lot beforehand. It’s also a very comprehensive RPG that will keep you engaged for a long time. Also, it allows you to add your own creations to make it more fun to play. So, if you want a Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG that is easier to play, Stars Without Number is a solid option.
3. Coriolis
Coriolis is one of the most beautiful and well-designed Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs you can play. The main highlight of Coriolis is the artwork which is truly breathtaking and amazing. If you are someone who appreciates art, you will definitely love Coriolis. In the game, you will be using the dice pool system, which is fun to play and it’s also easier to learn as compared to other systems. Overall, if you want a Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG with beautiful artwork, you can’t go wrong with Coriolis.
4. Savage Worlds
Savage Worlds is one of the few Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs that doesn’t require players to spend weeks learning new systems. Instead, it comes with a simple system that is easier to learn, and you can get into the game after a minor learning curve. Another great thing about Savage Worlds is that it starts slow. So that you get acquainted, but once you progress, it will get faster, which will allow other players to get their turn quickly, and the game will be more fun. Also, it comes with a lot of depth, so if you are willing to dig into the game, Savage Worlds offers a lot.
5. Shadowrun
Shadowrun is another Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG that was released 3 decades back. But still, it’s going pretty strong because of its impressive elements. It’s also interesting to note here that it was launched in a video game, and it went popular because of the game. The good thing about Shadowrun is that it offers all the bells and whistles which you can expect from a good Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG. It comes with deep mechanics and a system that will keep you engaged for a long time. Overall, Shadowrun is an exciting Tabletop RPG, and if you like refined and well-balanced Tabletop RPGs, you will love it.
6. Star Trek Adventures
Star Trek is a popular Sci-Fi series that was originally launched in 1966, and it became popular because of its stories. If you are a fan of Star Trek, you can play Star Trek Adventures, which is a Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG based on the popular series. The best thing about Star Trek Adventures is that it allows you to create your own stories, which is undoubtedly a big plus for Star Trek Fans. Overall, if you are looking for a comprehensive Sci-Fi Tabletop Series related to Star Trek, you can’t go wrong with Star Trek Adventures.
7. Starfinder
If you look into the world of Tabletop RPGs, Pathfinder is one of the most popular Tabletop RPGs. And the company that is responsible for it developed Starfinder, which is basically similar to the Pathfinder. But comes with Sci-Fi elements to make it more appealing to Sci-Fi enthusiasts. The great thing about Starfinder is that it takes all the pros of Pathfinder and comes with some unique elements of its own, which make it fun to play. So even if you have played Pathfinder, we still recommend that you play Starfinder because it’s more fun and unique.
8. Numenera
If you are into Fantasy and Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs and you are looking for a combination of both genres, you can give a try to Numenera. The main highlight of Numenera is that it combines the best elements of both genres, which makes it more fun to play. In addition, the game comes with a very sophisticated gameplay system that is easier to learn and play.
9. Ashen Stars
Ashen Stars is another exciting Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG that comes with all the interesting elements of Sci-Fi. In this game, you and your friends will be playing the role of freelance Investigators who will be solving crimes and mysteries in a space sector named “Bleed.” The game comes with over 14 spaceships and 7 species which you can use. Overall, if you are looking for a Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG that revolves around crime and mystery, you can’t go wrong with Ashen Stars.
10. Star Wars: Edge of the Empire
Star Wars: Edge of the Empire is one of the best Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG for Star Wars fans. As the name suggests, this game is based on popular Sci-Fi series named Star Wars. In the game, you get a lot of Star War elements which surely make it a treat for Star War Fans. The game mainly focuses on the story, but there are also parts with combat. The only problem with this game is that it requires custom dice, which means you will need some time to get used to it. But, overall, if you are a fan of Star Wars and can manage the custom dice learning curve, Star Wars: Edge of the Empire is a solid option for you.
11. Those Dark Places
If you are someone who is a fan of Horror and Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs and looking for a combination of both genres, you can consider “Those Dark Places.” The best thing about Those Dark Places is that it’s very easier to play. It also comes with very light rules, which make it fun to play. In the game, you and your friends will be taking the role of crew members with different roles and personalities. Overall, if you are looking for a Horror Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG with light rules, Those Dark Places is a solid option for you.
12. Scum and Villainy
These days, many Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs are usually inspired by popular Sci-Fi Series such as Star Wars, and Scum and Villainy is no exception. Star Wars clearly inspires this Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG, but at the same time, it comes with some unique elements of its own, which make the game very interesting. In the game, players will take on various roles, but they will need to carefully plan their roles, especially if they want to stay alive late in the game. As players progress and complete jobs, they will earn experience and money, which they will be using to upgrade their characters. Overall, if you want a Star Wars Inspired Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG with some unique elements of its own, you can’t go wrong with Scum and Villainy.
13. D6 Space
D6 Space is another very popular Sci-Fi Tabletop RPG that you can enjoy. The best thing about D6 Space is that it comes with a very comprehensive introductory section. This helps you get up and understand the game in no time. On top of that, it also doesn’t require any special dice, and you can play it with any ordinary six-sided dice. The only downside of the game is that it comes with a slightly complicated magic system which can be disappointing for those who don’t like complex RPGs, but if you like complex games, you will love it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is cyberpunk?
Cyberpunk is a subgenre of science fiction that typically involves a dystopian society where advanced technology and cybernetics coexist with a decaying societal structure.
What does GM stand for?
GM stands for Game Master. In tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), the GM controls the game world, NPCs (non-player characters), and guides the players through the story.
What is Cyberpunk Red?
Cyberpunk Red is a tabletop role-playing game set in the cyberpunk genre. It is the latest edition of the Cyberpunk RPG series, created by Mike Pondsmith.
What is Tales from the Loop?
Tales from the Loop is a tabletop role-playing game based on the art of Simon Stålenhag. It combines the themes of nostalgia, science fiction, and mysterious events occurring in a retro-futuristic 1980s universe.
What is space opera?
Space opera is a subgenre of science fiction that emphasizes adventure and epic scale, often involving space travel, interstellar conflict, and larger-than-life characters.
What is a rulebook or core rulebook?
A rulebook, often referred to as a core rulebook, is the primary guide that contains the rules, mechanics, and instructions for playing a specific tabletop role-playing game or system.
When does Cyberpunk Red take place?
Cyberpunk Red is set in the year 2023, following the events of the previous edition, Cyberpunk 2020. It explores the aftermath of the Fourth Corporate War in the Night City setting. Cyberpunk Red takes place in a dystopian future, where technology has advanced to the point of implants and cybernetics.
In this laser-filled world, players embark on thrilling adventures in the Imperium, a sector of space filled with intrigue and danger. Similar to D&D, they’ll be able to create their own bounty hunter characters and immerse themselves in the best science fiction experience. Each game session promises exciting escapades across the stars.
What is Fantasy Flight’s Game System?
Fantasy Flight’s Game System is a proprietary ruleset used in various tabletop role-playing games produced by Fantasy Flight Games. It is known for its narrative-driven mechanics and immersive gameplay experiences. Fantasy Flight’s Game System is one of the biggest names in tabletop gaming. It offers a robust system that focuses on the scarier aspects of cyberpunk and fantasy settings. With different editions to choose from, it allows players to explore themes of environmentalism and offers a pause mechanic for both players and game masters.
What is futuristic space combat like?
Futuristic space combat typically involves battles between planets, starships, or spacecraft in the vastness of space. It can feature advanced weaponry and tactical strategies. In the far future of space combat, players immerse themselves in a variety of sci-fi TTRPGs such as Starfinder Society, Force and Destiny, and Forged in the Dark. These science fiction roleplaying games transport gamers to a space setting where they engage in intense battles and navigate through immersive storylines.
With advanced technology and futuristic weaponry, players must strategize and use the force of their characters to triumph over their opponents. However, the game features also delve into the consequences of corporate greed and the impact it has on the futuristic universe. Whether it’s in the base game or through expansion packs, futuristic space combat offers players an adrenaline-filled experience like no other.
What is the best tabletop RPG system?
The best tabletop RPG system for science fiction enthusiasts is undoubtedly the Star Wars role-playing game. With its immersive character creation and the ability to explore the vast Star Wars universe, players can pilot their own starship, embark on thrilling adventures in the Imperial era, and experience the exciting blend of role-playing and board games.
This game also allows players to take on the role of an elf or any other species. It also offers a diverse gameplay experience. Whether infiltrating a space station or battling against classic Star Wars tropes, this system caters to what players want in a tabletop RPG.
What tabletop RPG is like John Wick?
If you’re looking for a tabletop RPG system that is a ton of fun and allows players to delve into the worlds of science fiction and science fantasy, then D&D is the one for you. With its rich lore and immersive gameplay, this iconic fantasy RPG has been a staple for gamers since its first edition.
Whether you prefer the classic feel of the first edition or the updated mechanics of the second edition, D&D offers a good RPG experience. Plus, if you’re a fan of other fantasy RPGs, the system’s adaptability makes it easy to create a science fiction or science fantasy RPG adaptation that’s tailored to your tastes.
Is there a tabletop RPG like Supernatural?
Yes, there is a tabletop RPG similar to Supernatural called Monster of the Week. It captures the essence of the show, where players take on the roles of hunters, investigating and battling supernatural creatures. With plenty of options for character creation and storytelling, Monster of the Week offers a unique experience like no other.
There are sci-fi TTRPGs such as the Star Wars RPG for fans of the supernatural genre. However, Monster of the Week is often regarded as the best tabletop game to play. Its base game features elements of corporate greed, mystery, and action-packed adventures. That makes it a must-try for those seeking a science-fiction roleplaying game.
Conclusion
That’s all, folks. In this guide, we shared the 13 Best Sci-Fi Tabletop RPGs which you can enjoy with your friends. They all come with attractive elements and deep mechanics, making them fun to play. Also, some of them are inspired by popular Sci-Fi Series such as Star Wars and Star Trek. So, if you are a fan of these series, you will love these games.
