
For those who crave the intense turn-based tactical combat of XCOM, but yearn for a more retro-futuristic aesthetic, look no further than Xenonauts. Developed by Goldhawk Interactive and released in 2014, this game offers a thrilling experience filled with alien invasions, strategic base management, and relentless battles against otherworldly threats.
Xenonauts plunges players into the year 1999, a time when humanity stands on the brink of technological advancement and global unity. However, this fragile peace is shattered by the arrival of an extraterrestrial force. The “Xenonauts,” a multinational organization dedicated to defending Earth from alien threats, must rise to the challenge and face down the invading hordes.
Strategic Base Management: Building the Arsenal Against Extraterrestrials
The game begins with a limited arsenal and a single base of operations. Players must carefully allocate resources, research new technologies, and train their squads for the battles ahead. Building workshops and laboratories allows for the development of advanced weaponry and equipment to counter the alien threat.
Successfully intercepting UFOs and conducting autopsies on captured aliens unlock crucial technological advancements. The player’s decisions in resource allocation directly impact the effectiveness of their forces on the battlefield, leading to a constant sense of tension and strategic planning.
Xenonauts offers a detailed system for base management:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Barracks | Train and equip soldiers with various classes and skills. |
Laboratories | Research alien technologies and develop new weaponry. |
Workshops | Manufacture equipment, vehicles, and ammunition. |
Hangars | House and maintain aircraft used for intercepting UFOs. |
Tactical Turn-Based Combat: Outsmart the Alien Horde
Xenonauts delivers a thrilling turn-based combat experience that demands careful planning and tactical execution. Each soldier has unique stats and abilities, allowing players to customize their squads for specific missions.
The game’s isometric perspective provides a clear view of the battlefield, allowing players to strategically position their troops, utilize cover effectively, and anticipate enemy movements.
Combat encounters are challenging and often unforgiving. Alien enemies possess a variety of attack types, special abilities, and movement patterns that require players to adapt their strategies on the fly.
The “reaction fire” system adds a layer of unpredictability to combat, as concealed aliens can potentially open fire on moving soldiers. This mechanic forces players to consider every action carefully and weigh the risks of exposing their troops.
Alien Diversity: From Lurkers to Psionics
Xenonauts features a wide range of alien enemy types, each with distinct strengths, weaknesses, and attack patterns. Players must learn to identify and counter these threats effectively. Some common alien enemies include:
- Lurkers: Concealed ambushers that can inflict heavy damage from unexpected angles.
- Reapers: Heavily armored units equipped with powerful plasma weaponry.
- Chryssalids: Horrific insectoid creatures capable of inflicting debilitating psychological effects on human soldiers.
- Psionics: Powerful alien psykers who can manipulate the battlefield using telekinesis and mind control.
Beyond Combat: Research, Diplomacy, and Endgame Scenarios
While combat is a central element of Xenonauts, the game also offers compelling gameplay mechanics beyond the battlefield.
Players must manage their reputation with different world governments by successfully defending against alien invasions. This diplomatic aspect influences resource acquisition and technological development.
The extensive research system allows players to unlock new technologies and weapons based on captured alien artifacts. Successfully researching advanced weaponry can turn the tide of battle in favor of the Xenonauts.
Xenonauts offers multiple endgame scenarios, each presenting a unique challenge and requiring different strategies to overcome. The game’s replayability is further enhanced by its procedurally generated maps and unpredictable alien encounters.
A Retro-Future Masterpiece: Embracing the Legacy of XCOM
Xenonauts stands as a worthy successor to the XCOM franchise, capturing the spirit of classic turn-based tactical combat while offering its own unique flavor. The game’s retro-futuristic aesthetic, combined with its challenging gameplay and intricate alien encounters, make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Prepare to lead the Xenonauts against an alien invasion unlike any other.