Starbound is a 2D sandbox where you travel to different planets, mine resources, build homes, and fight monsters. Your ship is wrecked at the start, and you have only the bare minimum of gear. To repair it and fly further, you need to land on planets, dig for ore, and search for valuable items.

Every planet is different. You'll find deserts, jungles, ice worlds, and lava planets. Each has its own resources and local creatures. The game doesn't force you to follow a story. You can farm, trade, build bases, or just go wherever you want. Friends can join you at any time.