The Game Hopper is our way of introducing our readers to games that deserve to be noticed. This week, GH takes a look at Starport: Galactic Empires, something we call an "indie gem". Check it out and then leave us your thoughts in the comments.

Starport is an independent F2P MMO from designer Aaron Hunter and developer PlayTechTonics. It’s played almost entirely in an overhead view similar to classic space-shooters like Asteroids, but the visuals are marginally improved over that arcade classic (though still retain a 16-bit feel and aesthetic). There are several different types of servers players can choose from, and your goal on any of these is to make a name for yourself, conquer and colonize planets, harvest resources, generate money, keep your crew happy and staffed, become a fierce pirate or a mercenary, and compete against other players for control of so much more. It’s really a very deep game, disguised as a very simple one when it comes to visuals.

Read more of Bill Murphy's Starport: Galactic Empires - Game Hopper Visits An Indie Gem.