Stars in Shadow

Stars in Shadow

Released Jan 2017

Stars in Shadow is a turn-based 4X strategy game and a vivid tribute to the genre classics. Compete with alien factions to explore and colonize nearby starsystems, build fleets to defend against rivals, negotiate or conquer them. Win by unifying the galaxy, through diplomacy or force.

78% positive · 837 reviews
Not yet
Released, but still in active development
Medium confidence
Active Development
Not yet
Released, but still in active development
Medium confidence
Active Development

Where to buy

Prices in USD, as listed by each store.
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Evaluation

Stars in Shadow launched on January 19, 2017 and received its one and only paid DLC, Legacies, on October 19, 2017. Since then, the developer (a small two-person team at Ashdar Games) has continued releasing free updates to the base game over many years, covering AI improvements, balance changes, diplomacy reworks, and new features. Crucially, the developer has been actively communicating and patching the game as recently as May 2026. The May 13, 2026 update added meaningful new features: Steam Workshop mod support, Steam Cloud saves, and new starmap overlay UI options — these are not minor maintenance fixes. A follow-up bug fix patch shipped on May 25, 2026. The May 13 post also hints at more to come, noting that the build includes "under-the-hood changes to prepare for future updates." No further paid DLC has been announced, and there is no unreleased DLC listed on the store. However, the developer has not declared the game complete or stated that development is winding down. The pattern of sustained, if infrequent, updates — spanning from 2017 through 2026 — shows this is a game that continues to receive meaningful developer attention well after its initial release.
Evidence
Developer shipped a feature update (ver. 1.4.5 - r53270) adding Steam Workshop mod support, Steam Cloud saves, and new starmap overlay UI options. Post notes the build includes under-the-hood changes to prepare for future updates.
news post · May 13, 2026 source development ongoing
high
Legacies DLC launched, adding the Tinkers playable faction, the Arda Seed minor faction, hyperspace anomalies, and new technologies. Described as the 'first expansion' and 'first DLC to explore the causes behind the collapse of the Golden Age.'
news post · Oct 19, 2017 source content shipped
high

Content

1 of 1 released · no outstanding content
Released
Oct 2017

Media

Details

Developer
Publisher
Iceberg Interactive
Achievements
62
Platform
Windows
Controller
—
Steam Deck
Not rated
Players
Single-player

About this game

Stars in Shadow is a turn-based 4X science fiction strategy game. Explore the stars, settle distant worlds, and build an interstellar empire. Recover ancient technologies and negotiate with alien leaders. Created by a pair of passionate strategy gamers, Stars in Shadow features streamlined empire management, sophisticated turn-based tactical combat, and detailed world building.

FEATURES

  • Epic Scope:
    Starting at the dawn of interstellar travel, progress through four eras of technological advancement. Discover the science of planetary terraforming, upgrade your infantry battalions to battle mechs, and grow your fleet from a squadron of destroyers to an armada of planet-destroying Dread Stars.

  • Varied Factions:
    7 Playable factions comprising six alien races. Each faction has different research strengths and technology options. Forming alliances, conquering neighboring species, or discovering ancient artifacts may open up additional avenues of research. Choose your race wisely as it impacts which worlds will suit you, what trades or alliances may be offered, and whether or not your neighbors are inclined to trust you.

  • Stylized Setting:
    A distinctive comic-book art style and an original, detailed universe backstory draw you into an immersive game world. Interact with a unique cast of alien characters, make friends and influence people, or crush your enemies and see them driven before you.

  • Focused High-Level Strategy:
    Build a vast and varied empire, taking advantage of the unique traits offered by different alien populations and the worlds they inhabit. Experiments on a slave population might diminish your popularity in the Galactic Council. A streamlined resource and planetary improvement model keeps the game moving even when your empire grows large.

  • Deep Turn-Based Tactical Combat:
    Face off against your opponents in complex 2D turn-based tactical battles. Counter your enemy’s missile barrage using point defense or interceptors, then close to energy weapon range! Stars in Shadow’s tactical engine includes several features rarely seen in turn based games. Multi-ship commands keep even large fleet battles fast-paced, and smart unit behaviors allow tight control with minimal micromanagement. Auto-resolve battles that are a foregone conclusion, while retaining the ability to replay any engagement to see exactly what happened.

Last evaluated Jun 27, 2026
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