Galactic Empire (1990)

A turn-based space strategy game about building an empire and competing for influence across the galaxy. At the start of a game, the player chooses a planet type and a character class—Architect, Scientist or General—each affecting abilities and resource development. Victory conditions can be set in advance, including technological advancement, strong standing with other factions, planetary conquest or reaching a target score.

Each turn, the player manages the population, upgrades buildings, conducts research and builds ships, fitting them with parts that alter their combat characteristics. Exploring galaxies and solar systems reveals planets and other objects, while relations with factions affect trade, colonization and the likelihood of attack. The game also features turn-based battles, planetary defense management and a card game in space canteens.