Space Master is a science fiction

Science fiction

Science fiction is a genre of fiction dealing with imaginary but more or less plausible content such as future settings, futuristic science and technology, space travel, aliens, and paranormal abilities...

 role-playing game

Role-playing game

A role-playing game is a game in which players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting. Players take responsibility for acting out these roles within a narrative, either through literal acting, or through a process of structured decision-making or character development...

 produced by Iron Crown Enterprises

Iron Crown Enterprises

Iron Crown Enterprises was a publisher of role playing, board, miniature battle, and collectible card games.ICE was incorporated in 1980 shortly after the principal founders graduated from the University of Virginia...

, written by Kevin Barrett, developed by Kevin Barrett and Terry K. Amthor. It is an adaptation of, and mostly compatible with, the Rolemaster

Rolemaster

Rolemaster is a role-playing game published by Iron Crown Enterprises. Rolemaster has come in four separate editions. The 3rd edition, first published in 1995, is also known as the "Rolemaster Standard System" . There are two editions currently in production...

 Fantasy Roleplaying system, and as such any perceived failings/strengths of the latter also apply to Space Master.

Iron Crown Enterprises has published several expansions, including Space Master Companion I, Space Master Companion II and Aliens & Artifacts, as well as numerous adventure modules and setting sourcebooks.

A cyberpunk adaptation of the system, called Cyberspace

Cyberspace (role-playing game)

Cyberspace is a cyberpunk role-playing game published by Iron Crown Enterprises and using a somewhat modified version of their Spacemaster ruleset...

was also published, along with a smaller number of supplements.