XCOM stands as a distinctive title in the gaming realm, utilizing a top-down CRPG viewpoint that prioritizes high-stakes encounters over elaborate world-building or intricate mechanics. This unique focus has birthed a series that holds its own distinct identity within the gaming spectrum. Although the intense highs of the XCOM experience can be challenging to replicate, several other games come remarkably close to evoking similar thrills.
In curating this list, we focus on titles that emphasize tactical combat. This includes games where strategic party positioning can yield significant advantages against adversaries, alongside those that offer permadeath options for characters, adding a layer of intensity to the decision-making process.
10 Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Marvel Presents XCOM
At first glance, it may be unexpected to find XCOM-like gameplay in a Marvel title. However, with the involvement of Firaxis, the developers behind XCOM, Marvel’s Midnight Suns promises a familiar yet refreshing tactical experience. While combat relies on a card-based system rather than traditional mechanics, the battlefield dynamics—including character positioning and turn-based strategy—remain consistent with what fans love about XCOM.
This title introduces a social dimension to the gameplay, granting players ample opportunity to connect with iconic Marvel characters. Additionally, with shorter encounter durations compared to XCOM, it’s an excellent choice for newcomers hoping to ease into tactical gaming.
9 Wasteland 3
Strategy At The End of The World
Entering the world of Wasteland 3, players are met with a delightful blend of deep RPG elements, impressive storytelling, and fast-paced combat reminiscent of XCOM. For those who yearn for an engaging world paired with the tactical depth of XCOM, this game is an optimal match.
Customization is key in Wasteland 3, allowing you to tailor your team to your liking, choose factions to ally with or oppose, and immerse yourself in its richly crafted post-apocalyptic setting. The combat demands strategic cover usage and effective resource management, where adding the permadeath mechanic heightens the stakes, turning every battle into a nail-biting affair.
8 Warhammer 40k: Rogue Trader
Guns Blazing in the Dead of Space
Warhammer 40k: Rogue Trader revitalizes the CRPG genre with its depth and engaging storytelling reminiscent of the late 90s classics. Players can expect intense XCOM-style combat, focused on strategic cover usage and a degree of chance that dictates the accuracy of every shot.
Combat dynamics are influenced by various factors—from character classes to weapon types—making every encounter a test of skill. The game’s wealth of lore and side quests complements its layered RPG mechanics, creating a fully immersive experience.
7 Troubleshooter: Abandoned Children
An Anime Flavored XCOM
For those in search of an XCOM-like experience with unique flair, Troubleshooter: Abandoned Children delivers. The game adopts a mission-focused structure, yet it’s the stylistic presentation that captivates players. As a Troubleshooter—essentially a grassroots crime-fighter—you can harness diverse abilities while navigating an engaging narrative through anime-inspired cutscenes.
The combat balances XCOM-style mechanics with deep character development, enabling players to create their ideal anime hero. With its episodic storytelling approach, the game captivates anime enthusiasts while satisfying tactical combat aficionados.
6 Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden
Animal People in a Broken World
Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden shines by embracing its XCOM inspirations. Featuring tactical combat that incorporates cover mechanics alongside strategic stealth, it presents a refreshing take on the genre set in a dystopian world devoid of humanity. Players step into the shoes of mutants striving for survival in a harsh environment.
The game encourages exploration and character development, with thrilling combat scenarios demanding careful planning to secure victory.
5 Vanguard Bandits
Strategy Mechs
Taking a nostalgic trip back to the 1998 classic Vanguard Bandits, we find a game that masterfully blends turn-based combat with strategy. Players command a range of soldiers and mechs during a civil war, making each decision critical to success.
The game’s tactical approach encourages careful positioning and anticipation of enemy movements. After attacks are selected, engaging animations bring the battles to life, showcasing the outcomes of your strategic choices.
This hidden gem offers an exhilarating tactical experience akin to what an XCOM mech game might represent, making it a must-try for strategy enthusiasts.
4 King Arthur: Knight’s Tale
A Dark Take on King Arthur
King Arthur: Knight’s Tale reimagines Arthurian legends through a dark lens, placing you into the role of Sir Mordred, who must confront King Arthur following their mutual demise. The narrative’s intriguing twist provides a rich backdrop for gameplay.
Combat occurs on a grid system where tactical positioning, cover utilization, and foresight in planning multiple turns are essential for success. It’s designed for players seeking a mature, intense experience akin to XCOM, especially with permadeath options for those wishing to elevate the challenge.
3 Capes
Superhero Tactics
Capes injects superhero flair into tactical gameplay, inviting players to reclaim a city overrun by villains. Each battle requires strategic finesse, as players must assess the best approaches within intricate scenarios.
Featuring an expansive array of powers—such as teleportation and ice manipulation—combat becomes a visually engaging puzzle. Alongside a compelling narrative infused with both lighthearted elements and heavier themes, it successfully balances enjoyment and strategic depth.
2 Darkest Dungeon
Pain in Game Form
While Darkest Dungeon may not initially evoke thoughts of XCOM, its core mechanics—base-building, character recruitment, and strategic, high-risk combat—align closely with the XCOM formula. Players manage injuries and losses while making critical tactical decisions.
The game’s turn-based combat shifts the tactical field to 2D, yet positioning retains its significance as each decision can lead to the demise of cherished characters. Darkest Dungeon embodies intense, consequential gameplay that will resonate with XCOM veterans.
1 Valkyria Chronicles
World War 2 With Anime on Top
Within the realm of tactical gaming, Valkyria Chronicles beautifully mirrors the essence of XCOM, albeit through an anime-inspired lens. Players carefully develop their units, each equipped with unique abilities and engaged in strategic battles where one misstep may result in permanent character loss.
The gameplay involves a range of tactical elements—cover usage, various unit types, and shot accuracy—evoking familiarity with XCOM combat mechanics. The extended sequences of combat remain engaging due to stellar voice acting, thoughtful level design, and a captivating narrative.
With four games in the series, each title offers something unique while maintaining the series’ hallmark tactical combat, ensuring that fans of the genre will find true value in their playtime.
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