Xenonauts 2

Xenonauts 2 is a spiritual successor to the original X-Com series, aiming to modernize classic turn-based tactical gameplay with a fresh 3D engine and new mechanics. Players appreciate the faithful core mechanics, strategic depth, and the developers' commitment to community collaboration and ongoing improvements. However, the game has been in development for several years, leading to frustration over delays, unfinished features, and repetitive mission design. The narrative and lore receive mixed reactions, with some finding it uninspiring and underdeveloped compared to the original's Cold War setting.

Gameplay balance issues, such as alien difficulty spikes and cover system inconsistencies, detract from the experience. Additionally, some players report bugs and crashes, especially in base management and item transfer. Despite these drawbacks, many fans of X-Com style games find Xenonauts 2 engaging and worth playing, particularly for its tactical combat and strategic layers, while hoping for further polish and content expansion in the future.

Highlights

Players praise Xenonauts 2 for its faithful turn-based tactical gameplay reminiscent of classic X-Com titles, with solid core mechanics and strategic depth. The game's 3D graphics, while not universally loved, are considered an improvement over the original. The developers are commended for listening to community feedback and steadily improving the game. The espionage and strategic elements add a unique flavor, and the game successfully scratches the tactical and strategic itch for fans of the genre. The music and atmosphere also receive positive mentions.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game's lengthy development and Early Access state, leading to unfinished or placeholder features like air combat and mission variety. The story and lore are seen as thin or uninspired, lacking the identity and depth of the original. Time-limited missions frustrate players who prefer slower, tactical play. Combat balance issues, especially enemy accuracy and cover mechanics, create unfair difficulty spikes. Bugs, crashes, and UI shortcomings further hinder the experience. Some players feel the game tries too hard to emulate XCOM 2 and lacks originality in art direction and mission design.