1
XE
XCOM: Enemy Within
2KStrategyPaid
A superb turn-based tactics game defending Earth from an alien invasion. Squad management, permadeath and base-building make every choice matter.
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Last updated 21 June 2026
Best Sci-Fi Games on iPhone
The best science-fiction games for iPhone in 2026 — alien invasions, deep-space survival and far-future worlds, from XCOM to Star Wars: KOTOR.
By Mustafa Bilgic, Editor · Sourced from the Apple App Store
Science fiction spans tactics, RPGs, survival and adventure, and the iPhone hosts standout examples of each. The best sci-fi games on iOS pair strong worlds with smart design, and many are premium console-quality ports. This guide ranks them across genres, noting the price model for each — a mix of pay-once classics, Apple Arcade titles and free-to-play hits.
Sci-fi cuts across many genres, so this list pairs well with our best strategy games and best RPG games guides. Several premium picks play fully offline.
Our 12 Best Sci-Fi Games on iPhone
Ranked by our editors. Every title below is a current App Store release.
1
XE
2
SW
3
SW
4
OT
5
DS
6
GO
7
ST
8
EX
9
CE
10
CR
11
SW
12
EE
Sci-Fi Game Styles on iPhone
Sci-fi on iPhone spans tactics like XCOM, deep RPGs and survival games such as Star Wars: KOTOR and Out There, and action and shooter titles. The genre is rich with both premium ports and free live-service worlds.
How to Choose a Sci-Fi Game
- Premium ports like XCOM, KOTOR and Crashlands are pay-once and play offline.
- Out There is the standout for lonely, atmospheric space survival on a budget.
- Star Wars fans are spoiled — KOTOR for story, Galaxy of Heroes for free collecting.
- For an open-ended galaxy sandbox, Star Traders: Frontiers and EVE Echoes go deepest.
- Check controller support: many of these console ports feel even better with a gamepad.
If you want one to start with, XCOM: Enemy Within is the best pay-once tactics game on the platform, while Star Wars: KOTOR is the must-play sci-fi RPG.
Launch Into Sci-Fi Today
Every game above is a current App Store release. For more tactical depth see our best strategy games guide, and for epic adventures visit best RPG games.
Play Free Browser Games Right Now — No Download
Want to play instantly on your iPhone with zero install? These run in Safari in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best sci-fi game on iPhone?
XCOM: Enemy Within is the best tactics game, while Star Wars: KOTOR is the standout sci-fi RPG. For atmospheric survival, Out There is a budget classic. All three are premium purchases.
Are there free sci-fi games on iPhone?
Yes. Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, EVE Echoes and Galaxy on Fire 3 are free to play with optional purchases, offering collecting, MMO and action experiences respectively.
Can I play sci-fi games offline?
Many can. Premium picks like XCOM, KOTOR, Out There and Crashlands play fully offline. MMOs and live-service games such as EVE Echoes require an internet connection.
Do sci-fi games support controllers?
Several do, especially the console ports like XCOM and Star Wars: KOTOR. Check each game’s ‘Supports Controllers’ note on the App Store before buying.