Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: ALTAR Games
UFO: Aftershock: A Deep Dive into the Post-Apocalyptic Tactical Strategy Game
Introduction
UFO: Aftershock is a turn-based tactical strategy game developed by Altar Interactive and published by Cenega in 2005. It is the sequel to UFO: Aftermath, and the second game in the UFO series. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where Earth has been ravaged by an alien invasion. The remnants of humanity have retreated to the flying haven of the Laputa, but a revolt against the increasingly rigid and corrupt human leadership has destroyed the colony. Now, the remaining survivors must flee once again and attempt to reclaim Earth from the unknown forces that chased them into the skies.
Gameplay
UFO: Aftershock combines tactical squad combat with global strategy. The player controls a squad of soldiers and must complete missions to advance the story and achieve their objectives. Missions can involve anything from scouting and reconnaissance to rescuing survivors and engaging in combat with alien forces.
The tactical combat in UFO: Aftershock is turn-based and takes place on a grid-based map. The player must carefully position their soldiers and use their weapons and abilities to defeat the enemy. Soldiers have a variety of weapons and abilities at their disposal, including rifles, shotguns, grenades, and psionic powers.
The global strategy layer of UFO: Aftershock allows the player to manage their resources, research new technologies, and build and upgrade bases. The player must also manage their relationships with other factions in the game world, such as the Resistance and the Scavengers.
Setting
UFO: Aftershock is set in a post-apocalyptic world where Earth has been ravaged by an alien invasion. The game’s world is dark and gritty, with ruined cities and desolate landscapes. The player will encounter a variety of alien enemies, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses.
Story
The story of UFO: Aftershock follows a group of survivors as they flee from the Laputa and attempt to reclaim Earth from the alien invaders. The player will travel across the globe, completing missions and interacting with a variety of characters. The game’s story is non-linear, and the player’s choices will affect the outcome of the game.
Reception
UFO: Aftershock received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its deep and engaging gameplay, its challenging difficulty, and its immersive setting. However, the game was also criticized for its complex and sometimes confusing interface.
Legacy
UFO: Aftershock is considered to be one of the best tactical strategy games ever made. The game’s unique blend of tactical combat and global strategy has been praised by critics and players alike. UFO: Aftershock has also been credited with inspiring other games in the genre, such as XCOM: Enemy Unknown and Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden.
Conclusion
UFO: Aftershock is a deep and engaging tactical strategy game that offers a challenging and rewarding experience. The game’s unique blend of tactical combat and global strategy, its immersive setting, and its non-linear story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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