Space Pirates
A free multiplayer 3D space combat game built with Babylon.js — play instantly in your browser.
▶ Play Now — Free in Browser
About the Game
Space Pirates is an open-source browser-based 3D space shooter originally created as a demo for the Babylon.js 5.0 release. It features stunning WebGL graphics, real-time multiplayer combat, and global leaderboards — all running natively in your web browser without any download or installation.
Choose to play solo against AI-controlled enemy ships, or team up with friends in real-time co-op mode using peer-to-peer networking. Track your progress on global leaderboards and compete for the highest scores.
Key Features
🚀 3D Space Combat
Stunning WebGL-powered 3D graphics with post-processing effects, particle systems, and immersive space environments rendered by Babylon.js.
👥 Real-time Multiplayer
Team up with friends in co-op mode via peer-to-peer connections. No lag, no waiting — direct browser-to-browser gameplay.
🏆 Global Leaderboards
Compete for the highest score, most kills, and longest win streaks on persistent global leaderboards powered by Talo analytics.
🎮 Full Controller Support
Play with keyboard and mouse or any standard gamepad. Responsive controls designed for precision space combat.
🌐 VIVERSE Integration
Social login, custom avatars, and cross-platform play through VIVERSE platform integration.
⚡ Instant Play
No download, no installation. Open the URL and start playing immediately in any modern web browser.
Game Modes
| Mode | Players | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Single Player | 1 | Solo missions against AI-controlled enemy ships with progressive difficulty |
| Co-op Multiplayer | 2-8 | Team up with friends in real-time peer-to-peer co-op combat |
| Competitive | 1+ | Compete for high scores on global leaderboards |
Controls
| Input | Action |
|---|---|
| WASD / Arrow Keys | Ship movement and steering |
| Mouse | Aim and fire weapons |
| Spacebar | Boost / Special ability |
| Gamepad | Full analog stick and trigger support |
Technical Stack
- Game Engine: Babylon.js 5.x (WebGL)
- Language: TypeScript
- Build Tool: Webpack 5
- Backend: Node.js + Express
- Multiplayer: Colyseus (WebSocket) + PeerJS (P2P)
- Authentication: VIVERSE OIDC
- Analytics: Talo game analytics and leaderboards
Links
- Play Now: www.spacepirates.app
- Original Demo: spacepirates.babylonjs.com
- API Docs: OpenAPI Specification
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Space Pirates?
Space Pirates is a free, browser-based multiplayer 3D space shooter built with Babylon.js and WebGL. You can play solo against AI enemies or team up with friends in real-time co-op — no download required.
Is Space Pirates free to play?
Yes, Space Pirates is completely free to play. Just open your web browser and go to www.spacepirates.app to start playing instantly.
How do I play multiplayer?
Space Pirates supports real-time co-op multiplayer via peer-to-peer connections. You can team up with up to 8 players directly in your browser without any additional software.
What are the controls?
Use WASD or Arrow Keys to move your ship, the mouse to aim and fire, and Spacebar for boost. Full gamepad/controller support is also available.
What technology is it built with?
Space Pirates is built with Babylon.js 5.x for 3D WebGL rendering, TypeScript, Colyseus for real-time multiplayer game state sync, and PeerJS for peer-to-peer co-op connections.
Does Space Pirates have leaderboards?
Yes, Space Pirates features global leaderboards that track your kills, wins, and overall score. Compete with other players worldwide for the top spots.