X3: Reunion

 PC
User Score
6.8

Mixed or average reviews- based on 310 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 196 out of 310
  2. Mixed: 25 out of 310
  3. Negative: 89 out of 310
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  1. AndrewS.
    Mar 12, 2007
    10
    X3 is thus far the culmination of Egosoft's space series, following on from X-BTF, X-Tension and X2. As a simulation it's pretty realistic if you imagine space friction. (I have Private Pilots Licences for Single & Twin light aircraft, helicopters and TwinJet helicopters, and find it's not far removed from flying the real things). It takes some getting used to, don't X3 is thus far the culmination of Egosoft's space series, following on from X-BTF, X-Tension and X2. As a simulation it's pretty realistic if you imagine space friction. (I have Private Pilots Licences for Single & Twin light aircraft, helicopters and TwinJet helicopters, and find it's not far removed from flying the real things). It takes some getting used to, don't expect to learn it in a few hours - it takes most people a few weeks to learn, but if you stick with it, it affords an amazing experience of trading and fighting all in real time. It will certainly challenge most people if you want to trade properly as well as fight. People with low intelligence and or concentration will soon find that they cannot get past the first few hours, become frustrated and give up due to the complexity of the game initially, however, once you have spent some time learning the millions of controls, it becomes second nature and is the only game/simulation I have found which keeps people riveted for years. I know people who have been playing it for more than 2 years and are still thriving on it! When you do.… Expand
  2. PhilipD.
    Jun 30, 2007
    9
    I'm not surprised that many people here don't like the game- I'm equally unsurprised that plenty love it. X3 is the only game I know which allows you to accumulate a fortune properly. It's hard work, very slow paced and at times VERY VERY BORING, but once you have enough money to buy that new Station or Destroyer, it's worth it. It can be more satisfying than any I'm not surprised that many people here don't like the game- I'm equally unsurprised that plenty love it. X3 is the only game I know which allows you to accumulate a fortune properly. It's hard work, very slow paced and at times VERY VERY BORING, but once you have enough money to buy that new Station or Destroyer, it's worth it. It can be more satisfying than any other game out there, but to get to it you have to dedicate hours of your life- weeks, even. The controls are appalling. I managed to get 10,000,000 credits on X2, through weeks of play. I had an armada of ships, but not nearly enough money for one of those 40,000,000 credit beasts. THIS IS A GOOD THING. I'm fed up of games which become easy once you get the best the game has to offer. This game will reward you time and time again for your hard work. What was today's achievement was yesterday's aspirations. When I moved from X2 to X3, I was bewildered by everything again. It really feels like an entire world and it will take a good 6 or 7 hours to get accustomed to it. The graphics is amazing and the voice acting is terrible. The infamous Starforce protection system has been removed in the latest patch. It runs with out a disc, so there's no reason for you not to give it a go. You'll need a beast of a machine to play it on highest everything, but this isn't the sort of game where frame rates matter- most of the time you'll be staring at spreadsheets and figures. Please, give this game a chance. If you have the patience, you'll be rewarded. It makes a great deal of very little, but you won't care. You'll spend hours watching massive tankers drive past, then suddenly you'll have enough money to buy one of your own. You'll think about your next moves when you're not playing it, and whilst you are playing it, more and more possibilities open up to you- where do you explore next? Is there a lucrative profit to be made in a sector? This game is unlike any you've ever played before. If somebody could merge this with Elder Scrolls Oblivion we'd have the best game ever. There would be armies fighting in real time about the map, massive businesses opening up, and a 500,000,000 gold sword for sale. This game is an aquired taste. You won't enjoy it straight away. You're dropped in the deep end and you'll have to find a rock to save yourself. Once you learn the ways of the universe, you'll begin to appreciate it, and exploiting this game is the most satisfying thing of all. It's a shame that some people can't appreciate these elements, though I agree that it's a VERY time consuming game and that some people would rather have a quick online game on Face2 or De_dust2 . Although this is only single player, it feels very alive. Nothing is static in this universe and there are plenty of things to see and do. Enjoy.… Expand
  3. MattN.
    Nov 30, 2005
    9
    Well I've only logged about 3 hours or so on this game but I have so far had no problems which was quite a relief after all the horror stories I've read about this games bugs (I have downloaded the patch 1.2.01). The graphics are fantastic - worlds, ships and effects and it's not the system hog I was expecting and I'm running at res. 1600x1050 (P4 3.4Ghz, 2 gigs RAM, Well I've only logged about 3 hours or so on this game but I have so far had no problems which was quite a relief after all the horror stories I've read about this games bugs (I have downloaded the patch 1.2.01). The graphics are fantastic - worlds, ships and effects and it's not the system hog I was expecting and I'm running at res. 1600x1050 (P4 3.4Ghz, 2 gigs RAM, Geforce 6800). The frame rate does drop for a split second when an enemy ship ship explodes (oh and strangely the cut scenes are a bit jerky) but other than that the frame rate is fine and frankly dropping the resolution would probably cure that. Dog fights are great fun using either the mouse or the joystick (I'm using a joystick). Only downside is at the moment I still don't really know what the hell I doing in terms of trading etc (and a lot of buttons to memorize). It's a real nice change of pace from everything else I've been playing, I do think this game is going to become extremely addictive.… Expand
  4. TonyA.
    May 8, 2006
    8
    The initial game was buggy, but after updating to 1.2 it got pretty good but 1.4.03 has all the bugs worked on my system. I can now play and very much enjoy this game. This game is not for everyone, and it is slow to start, but after some persistant playing it is turning out to be a great game. If you liked XBTF or X2 then you will love this game. But if you hated these other games you The initial game was buggy, but after updating to 1.2 it got pretty good but 1.4.03 has all the bugs worked on my system. I can now play and very much enjoy this game. This game is not for everyone, and it is slow to start, but after some persistant playing it is turning out to be a great game. If you liked XBTF or X2 then you will love this game. But if you hated these other games you will not like X3. If you buy X3 go to egosoft's web site and download the patches and look over the scripts, these will make the game much more enjoyable.… Expand
  5. AntonyC.
    Jul 22, 2006
    9
    if you have 1.0 of this game your missing out of the most in death space sim ever better than freelacher and its past as X2 same kind of gameplay that X2 had but this time it all fits togever and works like nuffing you have ever seen befor this is a truw game that is worthy of being in the same leage as elite.
  6. MikeB.
    Jul 29, 2006
    9
    X3:Reunion is a fantastic game. And to all those who experience problems with X3 (performence, etc.) i just can say: buy a better computer or don't buy such a game!! The game impresses with graphics and realism, AI and many possibilities to create an own empire. It's EGOSOFT's fault, that the game is not complete, but EGOSOFT is patching and updating it, to fix all X3:Reunion is a fantastic game. And to all those who experience problems with X3 (performence, etc.) i just can say: buy a better computer or don't buy such a game!! The game impresses with graphics and realism, AI and many possibilities to create an own empire. It's EGOSOFT's fault, that the game is not complete, but EGOSOFT is patching and updating it, to fix all Problemes. And for that the game gets a 9 from me. Because the small ammount of Problems at the Moment (v 1.4.03) will be fixed and only the small ammount of battles InGame avoids a 10.… Expand
  7. RayR.
    Aug 9, 2006
    9
    First off, I LOVE sim games....no matter what the sim is......flight, life, fight, or driving....dun matter...love
  8. ErikL.
    Sep 2, 2006
    9
    Very detailed and pretty, as well as challenging. "Cinematics" and voicework are the only parts that are annoying.
  9. laplace
    Sep 9, 2006
    10
    Insane learning curve, but ridiculously addictive once you get the hang of it. As others have noted, the game shipped originally as a Beta, choked with bugs, CTD's and missing content. Now however, thanks to Egosoft spewing out patches and addons, it has finally become the game it was meant to be. Update 2.0 will make it game of the year for me. Sorry Bethesda.
  10. AlanR.
    Jan 4, 2007
    9
    A very good game, once you learn the game menus (which could have been better. The game has a Huge area to explore and amazing graphics, however it could use more interactivity on bases and in space The explosions are only ok compared to the rest of the graphics.
  11. JustMe
    Feb 13, 2008
    10
    Well the fact that people give 5 or below are the ones that have no interest in a game that need wits, or have no patience to learn the game for at least 6 hours(yes it took me 6 hours to catch the basics). This is is not all it is, with mods and scripts, you can do ANYTHING. Best of all, 3 years into the years now, this game is very stable, and has a lot, yes a lot of scripts and mods Well the fact that people give 5 or below are the ones that have no interest in a game that need wits, or have no patience to learn the game for at least 6 hours(yes it took me 6 hours to catch the basics). This is is not all it is, with mods and scripts, you can do ANYTHING. Best of all, 3 years into the years now, this game is very stable, and has a lot, yes a lot of scripts and mods available for FREE. The normal mode is already extra-ordinary, with mods/script, there is nothing else like it.… Expand
  12. RalphP.
    Jun 3, 2008
    10
    The best space sim ever. Yup there are games that do this and more but this one gets it right. The best forum as well.
  13. reclaimer.
    Jul 27, 2008
    9
    It ain't perfect and it isn't a total piece of excrement. If only the XTM developers/egosost(whoever was responsible) would hurry up and fix the upper turrets on the odin i.e they end up having 4 cannons visable on each individual turret when there sould be 2, lets not mention they don't move. People tend to notice little things and 4 buggy turrets right in front of your It ain't perfect and it isn't a total piece of excrement. If only the XTM developers/egosost(whoever was responsible) would hurry up and fix the upper turrets on the odin i.e they end up having 4 cannons visable on each individual turret when there sould be 2, lets not mention they don't move. People tend to notice little things and 4 buggy turrets right in front of your HUD smacks of extremely poor effort. Still, if you don't cheat it will take a hell of a lot to get everything from it. So it gets a nine for staying power and an awesome mod community.… Expand
  14. HenryT.
    Nov 22, 2005
    10
    If you ever wanted a modern version of Elite, this is it. I experienced none of the packaging problems listed.
  15. AphaelG.
    Nov 1, 2006
    10
    Steep learning curve, unbelievable complex and immense in size. It'll keep you happy for many, many hours.
  16. GregoryA.
    Oct 29, 2006
    10
    All of the X games have been close to perfect, I perfer slow econemy vrs fast paced trade. the graphics are seccond to none even on my computer, the combat system is amazing, specifically beacause its first person altho you can controll many ships, the game engine itself is a work of art. X3: reunion is no exception,! The only people who cant stand to play this either have no interest in All of the X games have been close to perfect, I perfer slow econemy vrs fast paced trade. the graphics are seccond to none even on my computer, the combat system is amazing, specifically beacause its first person altho you can controll many ships, the game engine itself is a work of art. X3: reunion is no exception,! The only people who cant stand to play this either have no interest in space games, or cant micro manage anything... the controlls are hard to master but if you played the others you should be used to how the general setups are for the x games... rated 10 for its close to perfection gameplay... Quote: Stratagy first… Expand
  17. MichaelR.
    Jan 9, 2006
    9
    Great! Graphicall, it is one of the best-looking games on the market. It runs wonderfully on my pc with graphics maxed out. Combat is spectacular - nice effects and easy to fly with the mouse. So many game options, too - you can follow the campaign, or ignore it and play as an explorer, pirate or merchant.
  18. JohnG.
    Mar 1, 2006
    9
    At last they've almost perfected it. All we need to do now is be able to land on the planets and I think I'd give it 11 out of 10. Great Game for us old boys who actually like some stimulation in a game.
  19. SteveL.
    Jul 28, 2006
    10
    I love this game.
  20. ChristopherP.
    Aug 2, 2006
    10
    I only played this game for say 2-3 hours, I was blown away, graphics/sounds/effects/ everying done superb, but the lip-sync sucks to be honest, I dont really care about the manule, I always just play the game and learn it from just doing it, Well I have to rate this game 10/10, It is very good, WEE pretty pictures, and the planets looks very realistic, and yes, BLOODY HELL the AI can I only played this game for say 2-3 hours, I was blown away, graphics/sounds/effects/ everying done superb, but the lip-sync sucks to be honest, I dont really care about the manule, I always just play the game and learn it from just doing it, Well I have to rate this game 10/10, It is very good, WEE pretty pictures, and the planets looks very realistic, and yes, BLOODY HELL the AI can bloody diss you an everything. Good job EgoSoft, another good X series.… Expand
  21. JC.
    Aug 6, 2006
    10
    Quick and Dirty players beware, this game is not a one night stand. Learning curve is astronomical, but once you understand the method to all the maddness, the controls ARE intuitive, gameplay IS immense, and you will realize how stupid those game reviews really are. It's like EVE Online, a rather unknown MMO, not for the dull witted or the un-educated player. This game requires Quick and Dirty players beware, this game is not a one night stand. Learning curve is astronomical, but once you understand the method to all the maddness, the controls ARE intuitive, gameplay IS immense, and you will realize how stupid those game reviews really are. It's like EVE Online, a rather unknown MMO, not for the dull witted or the un-educated player. This game requires basic economic understanding to "build" a profitable business in-game. Ship combat is somewhat frustrating at first, but when you build a fleet, it gets interesting (macro/micromanagment). The game is sporadically buggy, game saves sometimes do not save/load, and other random crashes to desktop, in addition, the hardware requirements are relatively high for best results. If you do buy this game, i suggest googling newbie's guides to X3, as there is a large community base for this game, it will ease the burden.… Expand
  22. Michael
    Sep 10, 2006
    8
    This game offers a great deal of open-ended play with excellent graphics. It's user-interface is very complicated, and takes some getting used to, but once you have spent some time learning your way around it, it turns out to be powerful and customizable. I have not had any problems with creashes or instability. Make sure to get all of the updates and patches. Overall, it is a bit This game offers a great deal of open-ended play with excellent graphics. It's user-interface is very complicated, and takes some getting used to, but once you have spent some time learning your way around it, it turns out to be powerful and customizable. I have not had any problems with creashes or instability. Make sure to get all of the updates and patches. Overall, it is a bit rough around the edges, but once you get into it, it is a great game.… Expand
  23. CharlesR.
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    Excellent involving game with great graphics and immersive world, want to forget you really exist, be in the X3 world!
  24. Ketraar
    Jan 8, 2007
    9
    Still the best Space-Trade-Fight-Think-Sim there is. And now with the 2.0.02 Path and the new ships/missions almoust perfect. No other game gives you that much fun, for so long time. I played all 4 games of this sequel and this one is the best of all, because of the graphics. There are some minor things that can be improved in the next one, such as making complex bulding easier, and maybe Still the best Space-Trade-Fight-Think-Sim there is. And now with the 2.0.02 Path and the new ships/missions almoust perfect. No other game gives you that much fun, for so long time. I played all 4 games of this sequel and this one is the best of all, because of the graphics. There are some minor things that can be improved in the next one, such as making complex bulding easier, and maybe an longer Story, but until then I will enjoy playing it. Not every day, but often.… Expand
  25. GranjowN.
    Jan 9, 2007
    10
    X3 is the best game I know at the moment. Something that is cool: You can not simply start it and just know everything (as it is in other games). You always discover new things and you have got aims to reach, sometimes quite high ones. You don't find that in any other current game. Well, some guys which rated the game with a bad rating will have had problems with the aspect X3 is the best game I know at the moment. Something that is cool: You can not simply start it and just know everything (as it is in other games). You always discover new things and you have got aims to reach, sometimes quite high ones. You don't find that in any other current game. Well, some guys which rated the game with a bad rating will have had problems with the aspect «THINK». That is something which belongs to the game, but there are people which have troubles with that. Something I've never seen in any game: Both the community and Egosoft, the publisher. They work together like nowhere else.… Expand
  26. RW
    Mar 22, 2007
    10
    Engrossing and complex. Cerebral expereince broken by moments or terrific space combat.
  27. J.B.
    Jul 23, 2007
    9
    Ive spent lots of hours on this game and I don't regret it. It's a "very large" universe with lots of things to do, like creating a huge empire consisting of hundreds of ships, from small to capital ships and factories, from large ones to entire complexes. It doesn't stop there, why not making a script to meet your empires needs? Don't forget to check out the mods then Ive spent lots of hours on this game and I don't regret it. It's a "very large" universe with lots of things to do, like creating a huge empire consisting of hundreds of ships, from small to capital ships and factories, from large ones to entire complexes. It doesn't stop there, why not making a script to meet your empires needs? Don't forget to check out the mods then fans made! My only question is: When may we see X4 hit the stores?… Expand
  28. Ashnak
    Jul 27, 2007
    10
    Yes the game was buggy on 1st release - if people bothered to read the forums (at egosoft.com) they would have found that this was due to untenable deadlines being set by the publisher as was the requirement for starfarce. The guys at egosoft have done a tremendous amount of support on this and release 2.0 is excellent. To play this game the biggest boost in performance is through a Yes the game was buggy on 1st release - if people bothered to read the forums (at egosoft.com) they would have found that this was due to untenable deadlines being set by the publisher as was the requirement for starfarce. The guys at egosoft have done a tremendous amount of support on this and release 2.0 is excellent. To play this game the biggest boost in performance is through a 256-bit 256MB gfx card - anything below is just a waste. A final note to the impetuous - if you are fickle enough to present criticism to a product because yo don't have the patience to do real research don't bother casting comment - this game is not meant for you as you lack imagination and creativity.… Expand
  29. Jonte
    Sep 7, 2007
    10
    This game got evry thing you can play like pirate/trader/ or mission and the world is big so you have much time on you.The hard thing is only to know all meny and stuffs then its will be really cool.
  30. Phil
    Mar 7, 2008
    9
    Great. Interesting story line, realistic view of space, and plenty of space to grow and expand. The only reason I do not give it a 10 is for the learning curve, if I had not known a friend who has gotten very far in the game, I would most likely not know as much as I do now, and it could have taken me days to understand.
  31. Grizzzzzzzzzzz
    Jul 29, 2008
    8
    It could have been a fantastic game, but it just wasn't finished. The graphics are incredible, the universe to explore is vast, but around every asteroid theres a new poorly done cutscene or poorly designed piece of code ready to bring you back to reality. The community for the game have taken it to completely new lengths (with the xtended mod) and to experience what you should have It could have been a fantastic game, but it just wasn't finished. The graphics are incredible, the universe to explore is vast, but around every asteroid theres a new poorly done cutscene or poorly designed piece of code ready to bring you back to reality. The community for the game have taken it to completely new lengths (with the xtended mod) and to experience what you should have got from egosoft in the first place, you have to rely on them. Lets hope egosoft pull it together for their next release.… Expand
  32. CalladornLeader
    May 6, 2009
    8
    Great game regardless of the negatives everyone else seems to be harping on. Yes the interface is clunky, but if everyone spends time with it it is a very addicting game. Great graphics, don't care about voice acting/cut scenes (that's ignorant in a good game), controls/interface (do need work, and sorry if they didn't dumb it down for everyone). Play this game and give the Great game regardless of the negatives everyone else seems to be harping on. Yes the interface is clunky, but if everyone spends time with it it is a very addicting game. Great graphics, don't care about voice acting/cut scenes (that's ignorant in a good game), controls/interface (do need work, and sorry if they didn't dumb it down for everyone). Play this game and give the time it deserves and you'll see a game with limitless possibilities. Grow a pair, man up and enjoy the game.… Expand
  33. DrafellM.
    Nov 18, 2005
    9
    Great game. Has some issues but it's gratifying to see them being rapidly addressed by the developer.
  34. BrandonM.
    Nov 18, 2005
    9
    After you get past the niagra falls learning curve with no tutorial, the game is AWESOME! It feels like eve online but in single player, where you actually have control over the time when going some where. I have gotten a lot of people hooked on this game and they took to the controls faster then I did only because they used the mouse dc: There are a lot of short comings with no tutorial After you get past the niagra falls learning curve with no tutorial, the game is AWESOME! It feels like eve online but in single player, where you actually have control over the time when going some where. I have gotten a lot of people hooked on this game and they took to the controls faster then I did only because they used the mouse dc: There are a lot of short comings with no tutorial but once you are over that, this is a engorsing and addictive game.… Expand
  35. DerrickL.
    Dec 20, 2005
    9
    What a game. Initially when you jump into the game, the interface seems a little cumbersome, but the graphics are amazing. It does take a while to get into the swing of things, but after a couple of hours of playing you start to realise that this game is huge, with hidden depths, it really is Elite for the 21st century. Combat is great and realistic as well, and the trading part of the What a game. Initially when you jump into the game, the interface seems a little cumbersome, but the graphics are amazing. It does take a while to get into the swing of things, but after a couple of hours of playing you start to realise that this game is huge, with hidden depths, it really is Elite for the 21st century. Combat is great and realistic as well, and the trading part of the game is great if a little frustrating at first. This game is worth sticking too, whilst it does have a very steep learning curve, it is well worth playing, and as it says in the manual, say goodbye to your social life!… Expand
  36. MartinJ.
    Dec 23, 2005
    9
    The first computer game I truly became addicted to was Elite (on the Amiga). I later enjoyed Privateer 2 on the PC. This is my first game in the
  37. WillM.
    Oct 29, 2005
    9
    Expansive, beautiful and complex. It's a game for those of us who really do think that we live in a world with space travel. Make sure you give this game time to fully develop, the steep learning curve makes it hard to delve into this game. With the content and patches on the way from the developers in the form of free updates, bugs will be fixed and new things added. Definetly a Expansive, beautiful and complex. It's a game for those of us who really do think that we live in a world with space travel. Make sure you give this game time to fully develop, the steep learning curve makes it hard to delve into this game. With the content and patches on the way from the developers in the form of free updates, bugs will be fixed and new things added. Definetly a game to take a look at.… Expand
  38. AllanW.
    Oct 15, 2006
    9
    This isn't the game fir tiy if you're looking for space combat but is the closest thing to an up-to date Elite that has been released. Economically this is a trading simulation with elements of space combat thrown in much in the same way as Braben and Bell's original Elite was. That's not to say that its lacking in quality as its a very accomplished and pleasing game to play.
  39. DeJhonM.
    Nov 9, 2006
    10
    I have to admit, this game is not deserving of a 10, but it is also not deserving of the score that the impatient and ill informed use. StarForce has NEVER crashed a game on me, I have never seen another person's game crash because of StarForce and StarForce offered $5000 to anyone who could prove otherwise. StarForce is the best protection on the market, and using it signifys I have to admit, this game is not deserving of a 10, but it is also not deserving of the score that the impatient and ill informed use. StarForce has NEVER crashed a game on me, I have never seen another person's game crash because of StarForce and StarForce offered $5000 to anyone who could prove otherwise. StarForce is the best protection on the market, and using it signifys quality. It is true that the game lacks the 'good' tutorials from X2. I personally believe that the reason for this was people hated doing the repetitive slow, borring, 'how to move' tutorials. This makes the game only 'slightly' harder to play, but it is pretty standard. I am customizing my keys because some of the changes form X2 to X3 are just redundant or stupid (I found out how to do that in only 5 min on my own.) Although X2 and X3 ARE ill explained, there is a wonderful fourm community for both of them. Use it. I have a 1.8GHz Sempron and ATI 9600 Chipset with 512MB Ram. The game runs perfectly. I have since determined that people are trying to run the game with 'all it has'. My old windows 98 computer can run HL2, so that doesn't make any difference, what does mater is that HL2's graphics is primarly its 512 textures, there are so many 'different' graphical enhancments besides textures. Of course using programs to skip the load screen is probally why you didn't notice the 'graphics' button. Also, Autopilot is primarly for long distance control or travel. You, are expected to fly the space ship (something I noticed in X2, you can get somewhere quicker by using human intuition then the autopilot.) And it is NOT the year 5000, it is a different time measurement. And yes, Egosoft really DOES need to reiterate the story a lot better, but the don't, so deal with it.) FInally, you are not a programmer so you have no clue how these engines work, Eve doesn't sync every ship, at most it is syncing 50. If they claim otherwise they are only transmitting little data. Either way, they 'syncing' is so minor it doesn't even matter. Oh, and only idiots have 1600x1200 resolution on a size 1024x768 monitor. But the game does issue many 'sucky' problems. Primarily, I noticed massive amounts of old 'stuff' being used in this version of the game. Let alone the vids have a tendency to 'break' (or show an flash of something 'else'). The aiming system feels even harder to control, (those who never played X2 probally don't know where to aim) and while reprograming my controls, I broke most of the keys. I haven't "progressed" much into the game, primarly because I am fixing a few things, but I do notice how similar the game feels to X2. My primary reason for purchase was to break away from many of the X2 failures. X3 does not fix these, instead, it mearly adds massive visuals and appeal. If you want the visuals and customized key arrangments, go with X3. I, on the other hand, am prepared to stick with X2. There just isn't enough reason to play X3 except for the continuation of the story and the better graphics.… Expand
  40. Someone
    Aug 11, 2006
    10
    Starforce was probably the only big downpoint with this game, and Steam has eliminated that. People need to stop killing it's poor rating.
  41. OliverJ.
    Sep 16, 2006
    9
    What a great game! I gave a 9 beacuse of a plot bug that means I can no longer play the plot on this particular save game, but the plot is only a tiny part of an otherwise fantastic game!
  42. MarcoS.
    Jan 18, 2007
    10
    I played the demo, wish they had given you a few more options, even though it takes alot of time to get things done, it is a great game to play when you have time to spend and love Science Fiction games.
  43. JohnD.
    Feb 14, 2007
    10
    This game is one of the best I've seen in a while. Yes, it does have quite a few bugs, but these are easily resolved by downloading the newest patch. It's on par with Freelancer and Homeworld 2.
  44. LazerathN.
    Mar 11, 2007
    10
    This is a fantastic game which covers all the different play styles a person could want. The Dev team have supported this game with patches to purge any bugs and have even included a patch which adds more content to the already full game. If you are looking for a Space Shooter, Trade Simm, Empire building scifi flight simulator then this game is for you! It does have a steep learning This is a fantastic game which covers all the different play styles a person could want. The Dev team have supported this game with patches to purge any bugs and have even included a patch which adds more content to the already full game. If you are looking for a Space Shooter, Trade Simm, Empire building scifi flight simulator then this game is for you! It does have a steep learning curve at first but its worth it. The amount of things you can do in this game is mind blowing. Not to mention the fact the modding community is huge and there are a ton of mods out for this game! Thanks Egosoft, Mod teams/Scriptors. You all rock!… Expand
  45. StuM
    Mar 11, 2007
    10
    If you like to go into a game, and do your own thing for as long as you like, whenever you like - this is the one for you ! there's missions... massive invasion forces to destroy, or if you prefer, become a business tycoon! I've never found a game that can rival the excellence of the X-universe!
  46. MikeR.
    Mar 10, 2007
    10
    This is, by far, the best game I have ever played. I hate games that cost you $50 and only gives you 6hrs of play. X3 has a learning curve that almost looks like a U-Turn, but it is well worth it. This game is not for the timid, and it WILL consume hours and hours of play. What do you expect? Technically, the game has no end unless you attempt to control each sector, which would require This is, by far, the best game I have ever played. I hate games that cost you $50 and only gives you 6hrs of play. X3 has a learning curve that almost looks like a U-Turn, but it is well worth it. This game is not for the timid, and it WILL consume hours and hours of play. What do you expect? Technically, the game has no end unless you attempt to control each sector, which would require you to build an immense amount of resources. I can't understand how people can say it is boring. This game requires a HUGE amount of constant maintenance in order to build your empire. Looking for a good dogfight? Then start hunting down the bad guys. Still not a challenge? Then try to take over the sector occupied by 100+ pirates. Still bored? Try to take over the Xenon sectors which, in total, probably equals to over 200 ships. Still not interesting enough? Then give it a go in the Kha'ak sectors who make the Xenon look like pretty pink bunnies. This game is jaw dropping.… Expand
  47. KazeM.
    Mar 11, 2007
    9
    When I first got this game, around it's release date.. I would've rated it a 1 or 2. It simply was too hard to learn with the information provided. I really did love the idea of the game, and really wanted to like it, but I put it on the backburner as I didn't have the time to overcome all the frustrations. Now, a couple months ago I decided to boot it up again, and When I first got this game, around it's release date.. I would've rated it a 1 or 2. It simply was too hard to learn with the information provided. I really did love the idea of the game, and really wanted to like it, but I put it on the backburner as I didn't have the time to overcome all the frustrations. Now, a couple months ago I decided to boot it up again, and actually make a concerted effort at it. I can't believe how amazing this game truly is. I would definitely recommend heading to the egosoft forums and reading through the various 'newbie' guides. This will make X3 life so much more enjoyable, as the documentation and 'tutorial' is rather lacking. The game is a pandora's box inside a pandora's box of things you can do, none of which is even hinted at upon first glance. Don't be turned off by the rather steep learning curve, if the idea of this game sounds like fun to you, it's definitely worth it!… Expand
  48. Galmar
    Mar 10, 2007
    9
    When X3 was first released I was one of many people to simply not play it for a while due to the fact that yes... upon release right out of the box it was buggy as hell. Shortly after the developers patched it numerous times releasing more and more features, simply put X3 now is a truely great game. If it had been in its current condition upon RELEASE i have no doubt that it'd be When X3 was first released I was one of many people to simply not play it for a while due to the fact that yes... upon release right out of the box it was buggy as hell. Shortly after the developers patched it numerous times releasing more and more features, simply put X3 now is a truely great game. If it had been in its current condition upon RELEASE i have no doubt that it'd be hailed as the new elite over and over. Pro's - Awsome Eye Candy Dynamic universe, the game engine constantly adapts to the economy. No two games are ever the same. Open ended gameplay, no limits on what you can do, the plot only opens up a few things. Con's - Ships feel like they have too much firepower. Very steep learning curve (X2's tutorials were good) You need the patches in order to play it reliably.… Expand
  49. HansP.J.
    May 18, 2007
    10
    The sophisticated artificial life and scripting potential makes this a very interesting game, where planning and creativity actually pays off. Thumbs up.
  50. MichaelG.
    Aug 18, 2007
    10
    Best single player Space-based game in a long time. Players of EVE-Online and Homeworld should enjoy this beautiful and complex game along with the amazing support and mods from Egosoft and the community.
  51. DavidG.
    Mar 19, 2008
    10
    for the limited who have no inteligents to figure out the controls, i shake my head at you and your pathetic pea sized crappy brains with no patients. this is an impressive, imersive game that takes you on a journey that you will never forget. and some tips for those who are new to the game may i suggest registering at egosoft to use there chat. or rougey for posting. it doesnt make sense for the limited who have no inteligents to figure out the controls, i shake my head at you and your pathetic pea sized crappy brains with no patients. this is an impressive, imersive game that takes you on a journey that you will never forget. and some tips for those who are new to the game may i suggest registering at egosoft to use there chat. or rougey for posting. it doesnt make sense to spend 35$-50$ on a game and get past the learning curve to make it worth the money . i for one would spend $400.… Expand
  52. ChrisW
    Jul 29, 2008
    10
    Great game with great reconfigurable controls GLENN T! But truly a good game. Those who complain that its too complex must be dumb because i learnt to play this when i was 15.
  53. KenS.
    Jan 10, 2009
    10
    Friggin' Awesome. The vanilla game is ok, but after some customazation(dont have spell check or dictionary handy) it's a rock solid game for gamers who love extremely in depth gaming. but if you just like the pick up and play games (halo or most other FPS) I don't recommend it.
  54. SimonP.
    Dec 12, 2005
    9
    This is a great game with amazing depth and ambitious scope which for the most part is pulled off. Runs like a dream on my PC and has never crashed. Don't be put off by the same person who is constantly posting 0 under different names because of some axe to grind. The new Elite.
  55. PeterR.
    Jul 21, 2006
    9
    Many users may be turned off by this game at first glace, as I did. However, if you are determined to see this game through the first few hours you'll begin to realize just what it can offer. It could use a lot of work, but it fills a niche that no other game has managed to fill so well. The main quest is fun, but the real meat of the game is in freelancing around the galaxy and Many users may be turned off by this game at first glace, as I did. However, if you are determined to see this game through the first few hours you'll begin to realize just what it can offer. It could use a lot of work, but it fills a niche that no other game has managed to fill so well. The main quest is fun, but the real meat of the game is in freelancing around the galaxy and building a fleet of stations and ships.… Expand
  56. KaiK.
    Jul 21, 2006
    10
    this game was absolutely mind blowing, the graphix kicked ass and the entire concept was incredible, for the year that this game was made i certainly am amazed at the lush scenery, this game looks as good as doom 3 to say the least. and i would recomend this to anyone who enjoys a good space flight sim.
  57. RobertW.
    Jul 22, 2006
    10
    possibly the most addicting and deepest game ever, if you take the time to get past the learning curve it is awesome! patches have fixed all the old issues, its a great game, buy it!
  58. Oliver
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    What a great game! I can't believe that this game gets such a low score, it is so much better than that. I think that the reason for the low score is that the game is so deep and most people just don't have enough time to get properly into it. However, once you start going there is just no stopping this game.
  59. BrentB.
    Jan 14, 2007
    10
    Awesome Game... After it was patched of course! If you liked X2 or Freelancer then your going to love X3 with all the latest patches & goodies loaded! Worth the money and the wait!
  60. ChrisC.
    Jan 26, 2007
    10
    Very ingenious game. Whoever has posted a low score on this game here is an impatient person, who can't sit down for a few hours, adn learn how to navigate the easy menus. Yes, they're cumbersome, yes, they're a-plenty, but they are very easy for at least an intelligent person like me to navigate. Patched to the latest version, bugs are nearly nonexistent, and quite Very ingenious game. Whoever has posted a low score on this game here is an impatient person, who can't sit down for a few hours, adn learn how to navigate the easy menus. Yes, they're cumbersome, yes, they're a-plenty, but they are very easy for at least an intelligent person like me to navigate. Patched to the latest version, bugs are nearly nonexistent, and quite contrary to the previous posters who need somebody holding their hand every step of the way, the freedom is quite refreshing. No doubt about it, this game is the KING of freeform. Also, for those who say it takes hours just to get somehwere, how about checking out how to turn on time acceleration (SETA)? The economy is very lively and realistic, revolving around an extremely well-simulated law of supply and demand. (Not simulated...AI traders actually trade products based on the law!) You can waste hours in this beautiful game (only part of which will draw you in being the entrancing New Age soundtrack), and if you're a learner and are successful, combat will come quick and often, the money will come floating in, and every ship in the universe, from light fighter, to corvette, to destroyer, will be yours to command. A unique game, indeed.… Expand
  61. SteveR.
    Feb 12, 2008
    9
    Best Space Action Simulator Game I've Played Since Star Control 2 and Freespace 2.
  62. MichaelH.
    Feb 18, 2008
    10
    Once you get your head around the menu screens this is the open ended "Elite" of this century we've all been waiting for. Opportunities/gameplay is truley endless.
  63. Savage
    Jan 17, 2009
    9
    This game doesn't deserve a 10... 10 is for games that are perfect, that are without faults and are rated by unbiased gamers who feel that it has nothing negative about it... Unfortuntly, X3 Reunion does have faults, it does have a few negative points, but, the positives outweight the faults, and that in my opinion, earns this game a healthy 9... It is a complex game, and you need This game doesn't deserve a 10... 10 is for games that are perfect, that are without faults and are rated by unbiased gamers who feel that it has nothing negative about it... Unfortuntly, X3 Reunion does have faults, it does have a few negative points, but, the positives outweight the faults, and that in my opinion, earns this game a healthy 9... It is a complex game, and you need patience, intelligence and the ability to adapt to the games very in-dept interface which at sometimes, can be frustrating. What makes X3 great, is the fact that your placed inside a universe that revolves around you. Not only is this universe stunning in fantastic detail, but your left to your own devices to make your own destiny. Whether it be a commercial empire or militant empire bent on destruction, or maybe, a-bit of both? Some would say that this is an illusion, that the universe doesn't revolve around you, its just all cleverly scripted... thats a blatant lie. I've had many moments in X3 that made me go "wow", one such moment involved an asteroid being blown to bits due to a fight, that had nothing to do with me, and said asteroid crashing into my station and well... causing alot of financial damage, ehem... But that wasn't scripted. This wasn't part of the plot, it was random, it just happened, and a little mis-fire ended up causing me some credits and I felt good about it! Thats why X3 is one of those games that you have to look beyond the clumsy interface thats before you. X3 has alot of gameplay in it, and for those who are patient, plenty of replay value. To get the most out of X3 though, a MOD is required. And quite possibly the best mod that you can get right now, for X3 Reunion, is Xtended. A mod that not only adds tons of stuff to your game, but adds valuable features too it that makes you think how you could ever play it without such a feature. If you love space games, if you want a good space simulator thats not too easy, and not too hard, then get X3 Reunion, and go for the mods once you do the story! If you want an easy game to get into, without much hassle, then X3 might not be for you, perhaps a more simple game... Space Invaders? ;)… Expand
  64. Ghaa
    Nov 12, 2005
    10
    This game rocks the very foundation of what we all should expect from future space sims.. Though the performance glitches can be an annoying feature... Those are patched up quite quickly... I believe this game will last for several years to come... And if Egosofts keep working on the bugs and all that.. And if they even would consider to take a look at the voice acting and syncing of the This game rocks the very foundation of what we all should expect from future space sims.. Though the performance glitches can be an annoying feature... Those are patched up quite quickly... I believe this game will last for several years to come... And if Egosofts keep working on the bugs and all that.. And if they even would consider to take a look at the voice acting and syncing of the characters... *smile* Then we would al remember this game for a long time.… Expand
  65. Vitez
    Jan 30, 2010
    10
    The best and most addicting game ever. I've been playing it since the release, and didn't get bored of it. Those who gave it low scores simply don't realise that this isn't a game where you push "Start" and suddenly you're the "supreme ruler of the universe who is best in everything". This is not an FPS where opponents die after one shot but you survive The best and most addicting game ever. I've been playing it since the release, and didn't get bored of it. Those who gave it low scores simply don't realise that this isn't a game where you push "Start" and suddenly you're the "supreme ruler of the universe who is best in everything". This is not an FPS where opponents die after one shot but you survive everything. X3 takes time to get into, thanks to the huge universe, the variety, the freedom etc etc. Storytelling is a "bit" clumsy, but you don't have to follow it. I have high expectations for games and X3 jumped over it and flew straight to the stars. This is not Elite or Privateer, nor EVE; this is X. Comparing it to other titles is useless, and comparing it to EVE is stupidity at its highest..Egosoft was always friendly eversince I registered there 5 years ago, and always helped me (unlike other developers who say "I'll get on in ASAP" and never respond. So, if you don't want a GOOD, but the BEST space game, then I recommend Reunion.… Expand
  66. marc5477
    Dec 31, 2014
    8
    An incredible game burried under a horrific launch where the game was unplayable out of box. Yes, the game really did not play at all... for anyone, out of box. The game needed almost a full month before it was stable enough to be called playable and by then the reviewers had already skewered this game in the reviews and rightly so. Even I am deducting 1 point from this, otherwise stellarAn incredible game burried under a horrific launch where the game was unplayable out of box. Yes, the game really did not play at all... for anyone, out of box. The game needed almost a full month before it was stable enough to be called playable and by then the reviewers had already skewered this game in the reviews and rightly so. Even I am deducting 1 point from this, otherwise stellar game, due to the poor condition it was in at release. It was unacceptable.

    On to the game in its current condition.

    The Good:

    - Huge Open World
    - Excellent Economic Simulation for a Video Game
    - There are tons of ships... so many I cant keep count
    - Ships have different designs and usages
    - You can fly all the ships!
    - Tons of awesome mods! Many are professional quality.

    - You can play how you want to play. Kill an alien race that annoys you. Build an economic empire with factories, freighters and trade routes. Invade enemy sectors. Be a pirate. Capture ships. There is tons to do.

    The Bad:

    - Blatant copy of X2 with very few to no meaningful upgrades except to graphics
    - Quests are too few and very repetitive
    - The main plot remains buggy to this day
    - Plot remains poor with little to no attention given to it
    - AI is not good in combat and needs serious modding help
    - Learning curve is steep and tutorials are non-existent.    … Expand
  67. JanH.
    Nov 5, 2005
    9
    Gameplay is excellent but the recurring problems evident in it's predecessors, X BTF and X2 are present in X3 as well, Graphics gets choppy on the fastest systems and it takes some system tweaking to get the game running well, once it runs it is a brilliant game that will steal many hours from your life and probably even break a marriage or two.
  68. HohnD.
    Jul 26, 2006
    10
    It;s a very, very deep game, sad that it has so low score... Do you remember the Elite game from the 1980's? That's it! But 1000 times better!
  69. BryanH.
    Feb 22, 2007
    10
    If your into long game play and like great space graphics. Then this one is it.
  70. AnonymousMC
    Mar 12, 2008
    9
    This game has a pretty steep learning curve, but if you stick with it, once you get some time into it and get used to its quirks, it can be extremely addictive. The mod community has added a lot of subtle (and not so subtle) much-needed extras to the "vanilla" game.
  71. AnonymousMC
    Aug 16, 2006
    10
    Very good. Much better than what people are saying about it here. i have had it for weeks and it hasent crashed once. its by far the most stable game i have ever played.
  72. AdamC.
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    This is a slow burning work of genius. people love it and hate it in equal measures. x3 is not about dynamic story amazing combat or cheap thrills its about patience perserverence. and most of all leaving your computer on over night to accumulate credits from your businesses. a game about trading and quick thinking and strategy its slow to get into but when you do it can be the most This is a slow burning work of genius. people love it and hate it in equal measures. x3 is not about dynamic story amazing combat or cheap thrills its about patience perserverence. and most of all leaving your computer on over night to accumulate credits from your businesses. a game about trading and quick thinking and strategy its slow to get into but when you do it can be the most rewarding gaming experience to be had. buy it only if you have a LOT of free time.… Expand
  73. Genezi
    Jun 10, 2017
    8
    Great game. i have spent a lot of time on this title. It has a great story with memorable characters. Good gameplay and best cut scenes with good dialogs.

Awards & Rankings

97
#97 Best PC Game of 2005
13
#13 Most Discussed PC Game of 2005
27
#27 Most Shared PC Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
71

Mixed or average reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 32
  3. Negative: 4 out of 32
  1. AceGamez
    100
    By far the most engrossing game released so far this millennium.
  2. GameZone
    90
    The eye candy will lure you in, the gameplay will keep you intrigued and the free-roaming feel will keep you occupied for hours. X3 – Reunion takes the X franchise to new heights.
    Read full review
  3. Boomtown
    80
    X3 is a great game, but if Egosoft grasped the challenge and offered immersion of the type seen in "Freelancer" and similar ship handling, combined with its own beautiful and complex universe, then we might finally have a game that deserves to called the new "Elite."
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