Naev
A 2D galaxy of freedom, factions, and consequences.
How to install Naev for free
Naev is a free space game released under Open Source (GPL-3.0). It runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, needs about 400 MB of disk space, and requires no account, payment or trial. The fastest route is the PlayBound Launcher, which handles the download and setup in one click.
One-click install
PlayBound fetches the official release — no third-party mirrors.
Installation steps
- 1
Install the PlayBound Launcher, then find Naev and press Install. The launcher downloads the official release, unpacks it and creates a shortcut. This is the fastest route and it never uses third-party mirrors.
- 2
Alternatively, download Naev directly from the official site at https://naev.org. Always download from the official source — third-party mirrors of free games are a common malware vector.
- 3
Official releases are published on GitHub at github.com/naev/naev/releases. Pick the newest stable release matching your operating system.
- 4
Windows
Run the downloaded installer and follow the prompts. If Windows SmartScreen warns about an unrecognised publisher, that is normal for open-source projects without a paid code-signing certificate — choose More info, then Run anyway.
- 5
macOS
Open the downloaded .dmg and drag the app into Applications. On first launch macOS may refuse to open it as unidentified — right-click the app and choose Open to approve it once.
- 6
Linux
Check your distribution's package manager first, which is usually the easiest route. Otherwise download the AppImage from the official site, mark it executable and run it.
chmod +x *.AppImage && ./*.AppImage - 7
Launch the game and look at the settings menu before your first session — resolution and control defaults are worth checking. Naev needs roughly 400 MB of free disk space.
System requirements
Minimum
1.5 GHz CPU · 2 GB RAM · OpenGL 3.1 GPU · 600 MB storage
Recommended
2.5 GHz CPU · 4 GB RAM · Any modern GPU · 1 GB storage
Install questions
Is Naev free?
Yes, entirely. Naev is open-source under GPL-3.0 with no purchases, DLC or advertising.
Is Naev better than Endless Sky?
Neither is better outright. Naev has deeper ship outfitting and more consequential faction politics; Endless Sky has stronger writing and a gentler introduction. Start with Endless Sky if you are new to the genre and move to Naev when you want more systems depth.
Is Naev hard to learn?
Harder than Endless Sky. The outfitting system, faction reputation and combat model all reward study, and the game gives comparatively little direction about what to do next. That openness suits some players and frustrates others.
Does Naev have multiplayer?
No. Naev is single-player only.
How big is Naev?
Around 400 MB, and it runs comfortably on modest hardware.