Elite Dangerous

Elite Dangerous

Released Apr 2015

Take control of your own starship and blaze your trail in an ever-changing galaxy. Master the arts of combat, mining and trade or venture out into the unknown across a 1:1 scale universe.

76% positive · 108K reviews
Not yet
Released, ongoing live service game
High confidence
Live Service
Not yet
Released, ongoing live service game
High confidence
Live Service

Where to buy

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Evaluation

Elite Dangerous is a long-running massively multiplayer space game that Frontier Developments has kept in continuous, active development since its 2015 launch. The developer maintains a consistent cadence of major updates introducing new ships, gameplay systems, and features throughout the game's life. Recent major additions include the Lynx Highliner passenger ship (April 28, 2026), the Operations update on July 1, 2026 — which added squad-based missions across six scenarios, a new matchmaking system, a new in-game currency (Merc Coin), and the Nomad ship-launched exploration vessel — and, as of today September 2, 2026, the Rhino SRV update, which introduces a massive new surface mining vehicle and an entirely new Surface Mining gameplay system with new commodities, mining rigs, and a new Operation scenario called "Under Siege." The developer explicitly stated at the July 1, 2026 Operations launch that "we have more [scenarios] planned for future updates," and the Rhino update itself notes three known issues the team aims to hotfix "as soon as possible," indicating active ongoing work. The game uses ARX premium currency for cosmetics and ship bundles, operates on live servers, and is described by the developer as a "massively multiplayer space epic" with a "player-shaped evolving narrative." Frontier Developments continues to ship new content regularly with no indication of any slowdown.
Evidence
Rhino SRV update launched, introducing a new heavy surface mining vehicle, brand-new Surface Mining gameplay system with new commodities and mechanics, and a new Operation scenario called 'Under Siege.' Developer notes known issues to be hotfixed, indicating ongoing active support.
news post · Sep 2, 2026 source content shipped
high
Developer revealed the Rhino SRV with a preview article, confirming it would launch in ARX Early Access later in August alongside the first new Operation scenario, and teased upcoming details on Surface Mining gameplay.
news post · Aug 6, 2026 source content planned
high

Content

2 of 2 released · no outstanding content

Media

Details

Publisher
Frontier Developments
Achievements
—
Platform
Windows
Controller
partial support
Steam Deck
Playable
Players
Single-player · Multiplayer · Co-op

About this game

Discover the next chapter of the legendary Elite saga. Elite Dangerous is the definitive massively multiplayer space epic, bringing gaming’s original 1984 open world adventure to the modern generation with a seamless, connected galaxy, a player‑shaped evolving narrative, and the entire Milky Way recreated at full galactic scale. 

Against this vast backdrop, take to the stars in your own starship and do whatever it takes to survive in an ever-changing futuristic galactic sandbox. Acquire wealth and power, develop your skills and knowledge, and earn the right to stand tall among the ranks of the iconic Elite. 

In an age of galactic superpowers and interstellar war, your story influences the connected experience and handcrafted evolving narrative. From discovering new worlds, to exhilarating space combat and a fully-realised economy for trade, the galaxy is waiting. 

The 400-billion star systems of the Milky Way form the vast and dynamic stage for Elite Dangerous' open-ended gameplay. Constructed using real astronomical data, the stars, planets, moons, asteroid belts, and black holes of our galaxy are rendered at true galactic scale. Chart a course through star systems never before visited by other Commanders and explore the surface of strange and unfamiliar worlds with a Surface Recon Vehicle. 

Over 35 distinct spacecraft are ready for you to command, from lightweight exploration vessels to gigantic behemoths ready for battle. Build a diverse collection of ships and outfit them to match your playstyle. Customise every component, weapon and optional module to enhance and alter your ships’ capabilities.

  

Hunt, explore, fight, mine, smuggle and trade across the galaxy. Forge your path solo or with up to three friends in a Wing. Join a Squadron full of like-minded Commanders and share the highs and lows of your interstellar adventures together. 

With the System Colonisation mechanic, the power to claim and expand your very own star systems is in your hands. Whether creating a thriving new economy, a bustling trade hub, or a new port of operations, the galaxy awaits your vision. 

The Elite Dangerous galaxy revolves around players’ actions. In an age of galactic superpowers and interstellar war, every player’s personal story influences the space simulation and handcrafted, evolving narrative. 

Co-operate with fellow Commanders in pivotal Community Goal events that can permanently alter the state of the galaxy, earning exclusive rewards and recognition for your contribution in the process.  

Align with a galactic superpower and alter the interstellar landscape with Powerplay. Support your power or undermine a rival through a variety of means, from hacking starport advertisements to attacking gigantic Stronghold Carriers. Every contribution matters. 

Experience unpredictable encounters with other players in a vast, massively multiplayer space. Experience the connected galaxy alone in Solo mode or with players across the world in Open Play, where every pilot you face could become a trusted ally or your deadliest enemy.  

The universe of Elite Dangerous continues to grow and expand with new features and content. Regular major updates provide new opportunities and gameplay for you to discover and change the way you play. 

Last evaluated Sep 2, 2026
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