# Starbase Orion

> Strategy

Canonical page: [https://chrome-stats.com/d/id438375580](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id438375580)

## Overview

- **ID:** `id438375580`
- **Platform:** Apple
- **Type:** Apple app
- **Status:** Available
- **Publisher:** Chimera Software, LLC
- **Category:** Strategy
- **Rating:** 4.70 / 5 (329 ratings)
- **Version:** 1.3.3
- **Last updated:** 2025-12-15
- **First published:** 2011-10-12
- **Size:** 239 MB
- **Data as of:** 2026-09-24
- **Store listing:** [Apple App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/starbase-orion/id438375580)
- **Website:** [http://www.chimerasw.com/starbaseorion/](http://www.chimerasw.com/starbaseorion/)
- **Privacy policy:** [http://www.chimerasw.com/starbaseorion/privacy\_policy.html](http://www.chimerasw.com/starbaseorion/privacy_policy.html)

## Description

Starbase Orion is an old-school 4X space strategy game designed for mobile. Build your empire from the space age—colonize worlds, explore the galaxy, and defeat rivals through diplomacy, espionage, and decisive fleet battles.

With five unique races, a tailored tutorial with voice acting, a battle-tested AI, GameCenter multiplayer, and iCloud saves, Starbase Orion offers deep strategy, cross-device play, and a commitment to free updates and a transparent pricing model.

## Rankings

- #85,805 — Overall

## Review summary

Starbase Orion is praised as a deep, mobile-friendly 4X with a nostalgic MoO/Stellaris vibe, strong replay value, and no ads. Players appreciate the classic sci-fi charm, customization, and cross-device multiplayer. However, many users report stability and performance issues—crashes during battles and end-game, plus UI rendering problems after updates (build queues, spies, screen fit). The AI can be underwhelming, and some players miss direct control of space combat due to automation. Despite these flaws, fans view it as one of the best 4X experiences on iOS when it runs smoothly.

### Pros

- Deep, strategic 4X gameplay with rich systems and a classic sci‑fi vibe.
- Nostalgic Master of Orion/Stellaris-inspired design that translates well to mobile.
- No ads and no pay-to-win monetization; good value.
- Excellent replay value and deep customization options.
- Multiplayer via server-based turns and cross-device play.

### Cons

- Frequent stability issues and crashes, especially during large battles and late-game.
- UI and display problems introduced by updates, including misaligned build queues, off-screen screens, and spy UI issues.
- AI is weak and unchallenging, making wins feel easy.
- Combat automation reduces hands-on control, making battles feel less interactive.

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Source: [Chrome-Stats](https://chrome-stats.com/d/id438375580)