Master of Orion: Conquer the Stars

The main pros of the game

• Nostalgia Factor: Longtime fans of the original series appreciate the return of classic races and mechanics, providing a sense of familiarity and nostalgia.
• Improved Graphics: The game features modern visuals and polished 3D models, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience.
• Streamlined Gameplay: Simplified mechanics make it accessible for newcomers to the 4X genre, allowing for easier onboarding without sacrificing too much depth.
• Diverse Races and Customization: Each race has unique traits, and players can customize their own races, adding variety to gameplay.
• Engaging Early Game: Players enjoy the exploration and early game dynamics, where decisions feel impactful and engaging.
• Good for Casual Players: The game is considered a good entry point for those new to 4X strategy games, as it is less complex than competitors like Stellaris.

The main cons of the game

• Game-Breaking Bugs: Persistent issues such as the "Processing Turn Bug" make the game unplayable for many, with no official fixes from the developers.
• Simplified Mechanics: Many players feel that the depth of systems like diplomacy, research, and combat has been oversimplified, leading to a less engaging experience for veterans of the genre.
• AI Issues: The AI is criticized for making questionable strategic decisions, leading to unbalanced gameplay.
• Late Game Pacing: The game can drag in the late game, becoming tedious as players consolidate power and wait for opponents to act.
• Lack of Tactical Multiplayer: The absence of tactical multiplayer battles limits the competitive aspect of the game.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Deep Customization Options: Players miss the ability to individually customize ships and fleets, which limits strategic planning in combat.
• Rich Narrative Elements: Many players desire a more story-driven experience, as the game focuses more on sandbox gameplay than on lore.
• 3D Tactical Combat: Although combat visuals are 3D, players feel the lack of a 3D tactical layer limits strategic options during battles.
• Better Auto Management Systems: Players express frustration with the lack of effective auto-management for planets, leading to tedious micromanagement tasks.
• Improved Save System: A more robust autosave feature is desired, as players often encounter unexpected setbacks without a reliable way to revert to a previous state.

Summary

• Master of Orion (2016) is a mixed bag, offering nostalgic elements and modern graphics that appeal to both new and returning players. However, it suffers from significant bugs and oversimplified mechanics that detract from the depth expected in a 4X game, particularly for veteran players. The game is best enjoyed with mods that address some of its shortcomings, but the lack of official support and persistent issues leave many players feeling frustrated.

Summary generated on: November 23, 2025