Xenonauts Preview

With 2K Marin remaking the classic tactical X-Com game as an FPS, fans of the gameplay of the older games will be interested to hear about an indie project that seeks to provide a “proper sequel to the beloved classic”, Xenonauts. IGN previews.

Xenonauts is a deeply affectionate re-imagining of the genre-defining strategy game, currently slated for a September release. It wears its influences proudly. As before, you will assume command of a secretive organisation tasked with defending the planet from the predations of an otherworldly foe, fighting them in the skies, on the ground and more obliquely in the hearts and minds of the donor states funding your outfit.

And as before, action is broadly split between the geoscape a map of the earth where the long game plays out and fraught, turn-based battles in which your footsoldiers face off against the slimy intruders wherever they set down.

The format works: the original X-Com hovers around the upper echelons of a great many Bestest Game Ever lists, and for good reason. That doesn’t mean there’s no room for improvement though, and Chris says he’s been trawling fan forums to ensure that no such opportunities are missed.