Yeah! I think the Firefly example dialed it in for me. I know Star Wars also get called that, but both get sorted under “space western” in my mind, so I was never really clear on the exact use of space opera. Would things like Enders Game or even Dune technically count?? Like those are political dramas at a point. Enders game is maybe a bit simplified, but Dune has heavy character development with the backdrop of Arrakis and the technology required for survival.

Ah yes, Firefly, that does clarify the genre well. I’d say the series “technically” counts, but the writing style is definitely not for everyone.

I feel like firefly and expanse put to much into realism to be properly space opera.