Games part of the X-COM series
The X-COM game series is a celebrated franchise that combines strategy, tactics, and science fiction, captivating players since its inception in the mid-1990s. Created by Mythos Games and MicroProse, the series debuted with "X-COM: UFO Defense" (1994), known as "UFO: Enemy Unknown" in Europe. Players step into the shoes of X-COM, a secret organization tasked with defending Earth from an impending alien invasion. The gameplay is a mix of strategic management and turn-based tactical combat. In Geoscape Mode, players handle resource allocation, base construction, research, and UFO interception, while Battlescape Mode involves leading squads in ground battles to capture alien technology and investigate crash sites.
The franchise experienced a significant revival with Firaxis Games' "XCOM: Enemy Unknown" (2012). This reboot retained the core elements of strategic base management and turn-based tactical combat while modernizing graphics and interface. The game's challenging gameplay, deep strategy, and faithful recreation of the original's spirit earned it critical acclaim. Its sequel, "XCOM 2" (2016).
Its gameplay and deep strategic elements have influenced many other games in the genre, inspiring titles like "Jagged Alliance," "Fire Emblem," and "Phoenix Point," the latter developed by Julian Gollop, the original creator of X-COM.