XCOM 2

As a core tactical strategy RPG released in 2016, XCOM 2 casts you as the leader of a scattered, underground resistance fighting against alien occupiers who now rule Earth. The gameplay loop balances global strategy—managing resources, research, and base building—with intense, turn-based tactical combat missions where squad positioning and permadeath are critical. Its distinct feature is the shift to an insurgency narrative, forcing players to operate covertly against a technologically superior enemy. The game features substantial post-launch content, including a major expansion.

This is a core entry in the tactical strategy genre, released in 2016, available across PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. It plunges players into a grim future where humanity has lost a war against technologically superior alien invaders. Twenty years after an unconditional surrender, the aliens rule Earth, constructing gleaming cities while concealing a dark agenda beneath the surface and suppressing any form of dissent. Players take command of the remnants of XCOM, a scattered, underground resistance force operating from the fringes of the occupied world. The central objective is to rebuild this clandestine organization, uncover the truth behind the occupation, and ignite a global rebellion to reclaim the planet.

Core Gameplay Experience: Strategy Meets Tactics

The gameplay loop is divided between strategic management on a global scale and intense, turn-based tactical combat missions. On the strategic layer, players manage resources, research alien technology, develop new facilities, and make critical decisions about where to deploy limited forces to counter alien operations across the globe. Every choice carries weight, as the resistance is always on the run and resources are scarce.

The Turn-Based Tactical Combat System

Missions transition into squad-based, turn-based combat where precise positioning and soldier abilities are paramount. Players control a small squad of highly specialized soldiers, each with unique classes and skill trees. The system emphasizes cover mechanics, line-of-sight, and managing action points. A key feature involves the use of permadeath; when a soldier falls in battle, they are lost permanently, adding significant tension to every engagement. Furthermore, missions often feature randomized elements and dynamic objectives, ensuring high replayability.

What makes this game unique in its genre?

The atmosphere is defined by constant pressure and high stakes. Unlike previous conflicts where XCOM fought to defend Earth, this sequel forces players to fight as an insurgency. This shift means missions often involve infiltration, sabotage, and extraction rather than straightforward defense. The strategic layer requires players to balance immediate tactical needs with long-term technological advancement necessary to challenge the alien regime’s superior firepower.

Managing the Resistance

Players must carefully manage the morale and political standing of the remaining human factions while simultaneously developing advanced weaponry and countermeasures. The strategic map presents numerous threats and opportunities that must be prioritized, as ignoring a region can lead to increased alien control and negative global consequences.

Available Content

Beyond the main campaign, this title has received substantial additional content, including one major expansion and three downloadable content (DLC) packs, which introduce new mechanics, soldier classes, and mission types to deepen the strategic and tactical layers of the resistance effort.