Free DarkOrbit private serverEnter NovaShard
The classic 2009 DarkOrbit, back online and free. Pick a company, fly the original star systems, hunt aliens and build your pilot, right in your browser with no Flash download.
Already have a pilot? Log in
A DarkOrbit private server built around the original
The classic 2009 game
The original maps, ships, lasers and interface. No later redesigns, just DarkOrbit the way it was.
Play in your browser
No Flash download and no launcher. Open the game and fly, on desktop or with touch controls on mobile.
Three companies
Join MMO, EIC or VRU, fight over the lower maps and push into enemy territory with your company.
Galaxy Gates
Collect the parts, open the Alpha gate and clear its waves. Leave or get disconnected and the gate waits for you.
Title hunts
Aliens carry pilot titles. Destroy the carrier to claim one and wear it until someone takes it from you.
Quests and the Hall of Fame
Missions, daily and weekly quests and mastery titles, with rankings for the best pilots on the server.
Start playing in three steps
- Create an account on this site. It is free and takes a minute.
- Choose your company and name your pilot.
- Launch the game from your pilot page. It opens at play.novashard.net in your browser.
Comparing servers? Read what to look for in a DarkOrbit private server, see real gameplay screenshots, or read our latest updates.
Questions
Is NovaShard a DarkOrbit private server?
Yes. NovaShard is a free DarkOrbit private server that runs the classic 2009 version of the game, with its own accounts, economy and community.
Is it free to play?
Yes. Creating a pilot and playing costs nothing. There is no pay-to-win shop.
Do I need Flash to play?
No. The original client runs in your browser through a modern Flash emulator, so there is nothing to download or install. It works in current Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari.
Can I play on my phone?
Yes. The game has touch controls with a joystick and buttons for lasers, configurations and extras, so you can fly on a phone or tablet.
Which version of DarkOrbit is it?
The 2009 era: the original maps, the three companies (MMO, EIC and VRU), the classic ships and the old Galaxy Gates, with the layout players remember.
Is NovaShard official?
No. NovaShard is a non-commercial fan project and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Bigpoint, the publisher of DarkOrbit.
DarkOrbit is a trademark of Bigpoint GmbH. NovaShard is an unofficial, non-commercial fan project and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Bigpoint.