X-COM: UFO Defense

Turn-based alien defense with squad battles and global strategy

MicroProse Software, Inc · Published by 2K · Released Sep 4, 2008

Reviews: Overwhelmingly Positive; 95% of 4,004
Recent reviews: Very Positive; 81% of 11 in 30 days
Playing now: 17; peak 24h 32
Steam Deck: Unsupported
Last update: Unknown; no patch notes found

What is X-COM: UFO Defense?

This is an isometric, turn-based strategy game in which a government-backed organization defends Earth from aliens. You shoot down UFOs, lead soldiers through crash sites to recover alien equipment, and use it for research and manufacturing while monitoring government funding.

For you if...

+you like difficult, turn-based squad combat against aliens
+you enjoy making strategic decisions between ground battles
+you prefer slow, methodical play to quick matches

Not for you if...

−you want forgiving combat with few soldier losses
−you dislike managing research and equipment between battles
−you need a modern interface with clear guidance

What players say

95% of 4,004 reviews are positive · 81% of 11 in the last 30 days

Players praise the tense squad battles and the strategy surrounding them. They complain about the dated, confusing interface and harsh difficulty; several recommend OpenXcom for interface and bug fixes. Some also report crashes or corrupted saves.