Xenonauts: Is This the XCOM Successor You've Been Waiting For?

The tactical turn-based genre has seen a resurgence in recent years, with titles like XCOM: Enemy Unknown and XCOM 2 capturing the hearts of gamers worldwide. But what happens when you crave that classic experience, but with a retro twist and a dash of Cold War paranoia? Enter Xenonauts, an indie gem that aims to recapture the magic of early UFO: Enemy Unknown while adding its own unique flavor. Developed by Goldhawk Interactive, a small team driven by passion and nostalgia, Xenonauts invites you to face an alien invasion not with laser rifles and power armor, but with grit, determination, and technology that feels eerily familiar.

The game’s narrative throws you into the year 1999, a time when the Cold War still casts its long shadow. Reports of UFO sightings are on the rise, and a shadowy global organization known as the Xenonauts is tasked with investigating these occurrences. As a newly-recruited commander, you are responsible for overseeing your own base, researching alien technology, training elite soldiers, and deploying them on increasingly perilous missions across the globe.

Xenonauts’ greatest strength lies in its uncompromising commitment to tactical depth and challenge. Unlike XCOM, which often allows for more forgiving tactics, Xenonauts demands meticulous planning and execution. Your squad’s success hinges on factors like line-of-sight, cover utilization, and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both human and alien weaponry. A single misplaced shot can spell disaster, turning a seemingly routine mission into a desperate struggle for survival.

The game features a compelling progression system that rewards careful consideration. You earn research points by examining captured alien technology and conducting autopsies on extraterrestrial corpses (don’t worry, it’s less gruesome than it sounds). This research unlocks new weapon types, armor upgrades, and even advanced aircraft to aid you in your fight against the invaders.

Managing your base is another crucial aspect of Xenonauts. You must carefully allocate resources to fund research, construction projects, and the training of your soldiers. Every decision carries weight, as limited funds and manpower require you to prioritize effectively. Will you focus on upgrading your base defenses, developing new weapons technology, or sending experienced squads on high-risk missions?

Alien Encounters: Diverse Threats and Tactical Challenges

One of Xenonauts’ most impressive features is its diverse roster of alien enemies. From the nimble Sebilian shock troopers to the heavily armored Spheroid tanks, each encounter presents unique tactical challenges. Understanding their attack patterns, weaknesses, and strengths is crucial for survival. A well-placed grenade can decimate a group of clustered Sebilians, while targeted shots to a Spheroid’s exposed joints can bring down these towering behemoths.

The game also features a variety of mission types that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. From defending vital installations to infiltrating alien bases, each objective requires different approaches and strategic considerations.

A Retro Aesthetic with Modern Refinements

Visually, Xenonauts embraces its retro roots with sprite-based graphics that evoke classic titles like the original UFO: Enemy Unknown. This art style might not appeal to everyone accustomed to modern 3D visuals, but it contributes significantly to the game’s nostalgic charm. The soundtrack, a mix of synthesized melodies and tense ambient tracks, further enhances the atmosphere of tension and suspense.

While staying true to its classic inspirations, Xenonauts incorporates several quality-of-life improvements that modernize the experience. Intuitive interface elements make navigating menus and managing your squad a breeze.

Is Xenonauts for You?

Xenonauts is undoubtedly a challenging game that demands patience, strategic thinking, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. Its unforgiving nature can be frustrating at times, but the sense of accomplishment when overcoming difficult missions is unmatched. If you are a seasoned XCOM veteran looking for a deeper tactical experience with a retro twist, or simply someone who craves a challenging and rewarding turn-based strategy game, then Xenonauts is worth your attention. Just be prepared to lose sleep over carefully planned ambushes and agonizing over every shot fired!