XCOM: Enemy Unknown (2012)

Developer: Firaxis Games, Feral Interactive (Linux)
Publisher: 2K, Feral Interactive (Linux)
Platforms: Windows, Linux
Genres: Strategy
Rating: 4.7 of 5, 58,389 player ratings
Typical playtime: about 39 hours
Where to get it: Steam

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How it feels

You command a squad in tense, high-stakes tactical battles where every soldier's permadeath and limited resources force careful, often nerve-wracking decisions.

tacticaltensepunishingatmosphericaddictiveunforgivingstrategiccharacter-driven

What players say

Players love the tactical combat and class progression, especially in the mid game. The early game is punishing for newcomers, and many say the Long War mod is essential. Players are split on whether it or XCOM 2 is better.

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