Uncovering the Best X-COM Alternatives for Tactical Sci-Fi Combat
For decades, the name X-COM has been synonymous with thrilling turn-based tactical combat against extraterrestrial threats. From its humble beginnings with X-COM: UFO Defense (1994) to the modern iterations like XCOM 2 (2016), the series has captivated players with its strategic depth, resource management, and the high stakes of defending Earth from alien invasion. However, if you've exhausted the X-COM universe or are simply looking for fresh takes on this beloved genre, you're in luck. There are numerous exceptional X-COM alternative games that offer similar strategic gameplay, engaging narratives, and challenging encounters.
Top X-COM Alternatives
If you're seeking a new tactical experience that scratches that X-COM itch, these titles offer compelling gameplay, deep strategic elements, and often unique twists on the formula. Dive into these fantastic alternatives and prepare for your next turn-based adventure!
Xenonauts
Xenonauts is a fantastic X-COM alternative that serves as a spiritual successor to the original 1994 classic. Set in an alternate 1979 where an alien invasion is underway, it meticulously recreates the tense turn-based combat and strategic global defense elements. Available on Commercial platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Steam, and GOG.com, it offers deep sci-fi tactical gameplay with a strong emphasis on turn-based mechanics, making it an ideal choice for fans of the old-school X-COM experience.
Final Fantasy Tactics
For those who appreciate turn-based strategy with a rich fantasy setting, Final Fantasy Tactics stands out as an excellent X-COM alternative. This iconic tactical RPG, available on Commercial platforms like Playstation, Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad, offers deep character progression and intricate turn-based combat on an isometric grid. While its theme differs from X-COM's sci-fi, its strategic depth and engaging simulation aspects will appeal to players who love planning every move.
Shadowrun Returns
Shadowrun Returns provides a unique blend of cyberpunk and fantasy, making it a compelling X-COM alternative for players seeking a rich narrative alongside tactical combat. This isometric RPG with turn-based elements boasts a deep setting and is available on Commercial platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone, and Steam. Its focus on squad-based tactics and player choice echoes the strategic decision-making found in X-COM.
Fire Emblem Heroes
For mobile gamers looking for a quick and engaging X-COM alternative, Fire Emblem Heroes offers Nintendo's classic strategy RPG experience reimagined for smart devices. This Freemium title, available on Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad, features accessible turn-based tactical combat and a large roster of characters. Its free-to-play model makes it a great entry point into the genre for casual players.
Jagged Alliance
The Jagged Alliance series is a long-standing titan in the turn-based tactical genre, making it an excellent X-COM alternative, especially for those who enjoy managing a squad of mercenaries. Available on Commercial platforms like Windows, Steam, and GOG.com, it features detailed squad-based combat and strategic map control, allowing players to reclaim territory sector by sector, turn by turn. Its offline play capability adds to its appeal for dedicated strategists.
Pathway
Pathway offers a unique pulp-adventure setting while delivering approachable, fast-paced turn-based squad skirmishes, making it an intriguing X-COM alternative. This Commercial game, available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Steam, and GOG.com, combines gaming and pixel graphics with tactical combat, reminiscent of the earlier X-COM titles' visual style but with its own distinct charm.
Into the Breach
For a highly refined and challenging tactical experience, Into the Breach is a must-consider X-COM alternative. This Commercial title, found on Windows, Steam, GOG.com, Nintendo Switch Online, and Humble Bundle, pits players against giant monsters in strategic, turn-based combat where every move counts. Its focus on perfect information and puzzle-like encounters will appeal to players who enjoy precise tactical planning and squad-based mechanics.
Invisible, Inc.
Invisible, Inc. takes the turn-based tactics genre in a stealthy direction, offering a fresh take that can serve as an excellent X-COM alternative for those who enjoy less direct combat. This Commercial game, available on Mac, Windows, Linux, iPad, Steam, GOG.com, and Playstation, combines roguelike elements with isometric, squad-based, turn-based gameplay. Its emphasis on stealth, hacking, and precise team coordination provides a unique strategic challenge.
Underrail
If you're seeking an old-school, challenging turn-based RPG with an emphasis on exploration and combat, Underrail is a strong X-COM alternative. This Commercial game for Windows on Steam offers a deep single-player experience with an isometric view and survival elements. While it leans more into RPG mechanics, its turn-based combat system provides a similar satisfaction to X-COM's tactical encounters.
Silent Storm
Silent Storm provides a detailed 3D tactical turn-based RPG experience set against the backdrop of WWII, making it a compelling X-COM alternative for history buffs and strategy enthusiasts alike. Available on Commercial platforms like Windows and Steam, it delivers intense turn-based combat with destructible environments, allowing for strategic planning and execution similar to X-COM's battlefield engagements.
Whether you prioritize deep sci-fi narratives, intricate squad management, or unique tactical challenges, there's a fantastic X-COM alternative out there waiting for you. Explore these options and find the perfect fit for your next turn-based strategy obsession!