At its core, the game is all about number crunching, and analyzing data. Want to build a specific type of ship? Want to construct X? Then you’ll need to gather resources, figure out where you want to get them from, and then deal with it. Unfortunately, many of the questions that will be raised while you play (usually “wait, how do I do that?” after the game gives you a task) aren’t answered in the game itself; you’ll have to turn to the community. Thankfully, the community of “Galaxy Online” is eager to help new players understand concepts that might not be so simple, and, for the most part, they’re a huge help.

While the strategic elements of the game such as construction, exploration, and resource gathering are very complex, fighting is anything but. Combat takes place in a turn-based element, and is largely dependent upon which type of ship you build, and the commander you choose.

That’s where the disparity between paying and non-paying players kicks in. In many recent games, paying offers a convenience or aesthetic appeals, but in “Galaxy Online” if you pay money, you get obviously better commanders (who give bonuses to your ships), and better ships themselves. Can you enjoy the game for free? Sure. You just won’t ever come close to touching anyone who pays and is at least marginally competent.

If you’re a stickler for number games, sci-fi space sims, or a longtime browser gamer looking for the next step toward non-browser gaming, “Galaxy Online” is a good choice. If you were hoping for something with more action, epic space opera scenarios, or gigantic battles like “EVE” on a free-to-play model, however, this isn’t the game for you. Should you give the game a go, just keep in mind that it’s going to be complex, and to get anywhere you’re going to have to invest a lot of time waiting. For most people, the game won’t really take off until you’ve been playing it for a few weeks. (I guess, in that sense, it’s like “EVE” after all … )

Review Brendon Lindsey
October 9, 2009