Summary
- Release Year: 2014
- Genres: Indie, Simulator, Strategy, Tactical, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Goldhawk Interactive
- Publishers: Goldhawk Interactive
Xenonauts (2014): A Retro Revival of Classic X-COM
Xenonauts is a turn-based strategy game that harkens back to the golden age of PC gaming, paying homage to classic titles like X-COM: UFO Defense and Terror from the Deep. Developed by Goldhawk Interactive and released in 2014, Xenonauts is a faithful recreation of the X-COM formula, offering a deep and challenging gameplay experience that will appeal to fans of the genre.
Gameplay
Xenonauts puts you in command of a multi-national military organization tasked with defending Earth from an alien invasion. You’ll control a squad of soldiers on the ground, engaging in turn-based combat with alien forces. You’ll also manage a strategic layer, where you’ll research new technologies, build and upgrade bases, and intercept UFOs.
The ground combat in Xenonauts is tense and unforgiving. Your soldiers are fragile, and even a single mistake can lead to their death. You’ll need to carefully consider your every move, using cover to protect your troops and flanking the enemy to gain an advantage.
The strategic layer is equally deep and engaging. You’ll need to manage your resources carefully, deciding how to allocate your funds between research, base construction, and new equipment for your soldiers. You’ll also need to make strategic decisions about where to deploy your forces and how to respond to alien threats.
Graphics and Sound
Xenonauts’ graphics are deliberately retro, with a pixelated art style that evokes the classic X-COM games. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with eerie ambient music and realistic sound effects that create a truly immersive experience.
Story
Xenonauts takes place in an alternate history version of the 1950s, where the Cold War is heating up and the threat of alien invasion looms large. You’ll play as the commander of Xenonauts, a multi-national organization tasked with defending Earth from the extraterrestrial menace.
The story of Xenonauts is told through a series of briefing screens and in-game dialogue. The writing is well-done, and the characters are believable and engaging. The story is also full of twists and turns, and you’ll never quite know what to expect.
Conclusion
Xenonauts is a must-play for fans of classic X-COM games. It’s a faithful recreation of the X-COM formula, with deep and engaging gameplay, a retro art style, and a well-written story. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding strategy game, then Xenonauts is definitely worth checking out.
Here are some additional details about the game:
- Xenonauts is a turn-based strategy game with a focus on squad-based combat.
- You will control a squad of soldiers on the ground, engaging in turn-based combat with alien forces.
- You will also manage a strategic layer, where you will research new technologies, build and upgrade bases, and intercept UFOs.
- The game features a deep and engaging story, with a cast of believable and engaging characters.
- Xenonauts is a challenging and rewarding game that will appeal to fans of the strategy genre.
If you’re interested in learning more about Xenonauts, here are some additional resources:
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
