Best Top-5 Alternative Games to XCOM 2 Worth Checking Out

XCOM 2 is a prized gem in the turn-based tactics genre. The game was highly acclaimed for its intense battles, deep strategy, and engaging storyline. As a sequel to the successful reboot of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, XCOM 2 further enhanced the gameplay mechanics and built on its predecessor's enduring narrative. Despite the enjoyable challenge that comes with playing XCOM 2, players are often left hungry for more experiences cut from a similar cloth. In this article, we list the top five XCOM 2 alternative games that will satisfy your tactical combat cravings and take you on a unique journey worth embarking on.

1. Phoenix Point (2019)

Gameplay

Developed by Snapshot Games, Phoenix Point is a spiritual successor to the XCOM series, helmed by XCOM's creator, Julian Gollop. Phoenix Point adopts a similar turn-based combat system coupled with in-depth squad management and strategic world map gameplay. The game introduces a "simultaneous response" system, meaning that the enemy units will move in reaction to your actions while your turn is ongoing, providing a more realistic and fluid combat experience.

Story

In Phoenix Point, humanity faces extinction as a deadly alien virus called the Pandoravirus has decimated the majority of the world. This virus not only transforms humans into monstrous creatures but also creates terrifying alien hybrids. Players assume the role of the commander of the Phoenix Project, a secret organization tasked with defending humanity and eradicating the alien threat. Through a branching narrative, players will make critical decisions and ally with different factions to determine humanity's fate.

Setting

Set in a post-apocalyptic world crippled by the spread of the Pandoravirus, Phoenix Point explores a ravaged Earth where humanity struggles to survive. The vast world map features procedurally generated missions as players try to build alliances and strengthen their bases while eliminating the mutating threat that plagues the planet.

2. Gears Tactics (2020)

Gameplay

As a spin-off to the popular Gears of War franchise, Gears Tactics retains the series' cover-based shooting mechanics while placing a heavier emphasis on strategy. Each turn-based combat scenario is a true test of tactical prowess, as players control a squad of customizable soldiers. Each character has unique skills and abilities, allowing for dynamic gameplay and strategic flanking maneuvers. Although Gears Tactics maintains the XCOM formula, it accelerates the pace by removing movement limits and adding action points for more flexible gameplay options.

Story

Set 12 years before the events of the first Gears of War, Gears Tactics follows the story of Gabriel Diaz, the father of Kait Diaz from Gears of War 4 and 5. He is tasked with tracking down and eliminating a Locust scientist named Ukkon. Along the way, players will uncover the truth behind the Locust invasion and face difficult choices that impact the overall narrative, leading to a gripping and personal story experience.

Setting

Gears Tactics takes players across the war-torn world of Sera, where the Locust Horde has emerged to bring about humanity's destruction. With stunning visuals, the game delivers true-to-form, gritty Gears of War settings while providing a more strategic perspective on the classic third-person shooter franchise.

3. Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden (2018)

Gameplay

Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden delivers a thrilling mix of turn-based tactical combat, stealth, and exploration. Players control a team of mutants, each with unique abilities and traits, as they navigate through challenging missions and hostile territories. The game introduces a real-time system outside of combat, allowing players to freely explore and stealthily position their squad to gain an advantage over enemies before entering turn-based combat engagements. Supporting meaningful character customization and compelling gameplay, Mutant Year Zero offers an alternative tactical journey worth sinking your teeth into.

Story

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden follows a group of mutants as they explore a devastated Earth. These anthropomorphic heroes are part of a team called the Stalkers, who search for valuable resources, salvage technology, and uncover the mysteries surrounding their existence. Players will forge relationships among the ragtag group, uncover the truth about humanity's downfall, and fight to survive in an unforgiving world.

Setting

With a unique mixture of real-world and fantasy elements, Mutant Year Zero creates a rich and diverse environment for players to explore. From dilapidated cities to lush forests, this post-apocalyptic world feels both haunting and captivating. The game's exceptional world design and atmosphere make it a memorable setting to traverse and discover.

4. Invisible, Inc. (2015)

Gameplay

Invisible, Inc. brings espionage to the turn-based tactics genre, focusing on stealth and cunning rather than open combat. Players take control of a team of specialized agents, each with unique abilities and gadgets, to infiltrate high-security locations and recover valuable information. The gameplay emphasizes a strategic, clandestine approach, as players avoid guards, surveillance cameras, and corporate defenses. Careful planning and execution are crucial in this high-stakes game of tactical espionage.

Story

In a world dominated by powerful corporations, Invisible, Inc. tells the tale of an elite intelligence agency relentlessly targeted by malicious corporate entities. Players must unravel the motives behind the corporate attacks on Invisible, Inc. while discovering the secrets that lie within these powerful corporations. The story is engaging and unfolds through interactions with different characters, missions, and decisions made by the player throughout the game.

Setting

Invisible, Inc. takes place in a cyber-noir world, where technology, corporate espionage, and danger fuse to create an enthralling backdrop. The game's art style perfectly reflects its dystopian setting, enveloping players in a world where grand corporations hold immense power and people fight for survival in the shadows. Invisible, Inc. creates an environment filled with intrigue and danger, providing a unique and engaging atmosphere for players to immerse themselves in.

5. BattleTech (2018)

Gameplay

Developed by Harebrained Schemes, BattleTech offers a unique turn-based tactical experience set in the popular BattleTech universe. Players command a lance of massive, heavily-armored mechs in engaging, strategic combat scenarios. With highly customizable mechs, extensive pilot progression systems, and a wide array of weapons and military hardware, BattleTech challenges players to lead their mercenary company to victory in intense, mech-based warfare.

Story

In the year 3025, humanity colonized thousands of star systems, giving rise to noble houses and massive corporations, which are locked in a perpetual cycle of warfare. Players assume the role of a mercenary commander, leading a band of mech pilots through a galaxy ripe with danger and opportunity. As you complete contracts, you'll be drawn into a power struggle surrounding the deposed noble lady Kamea Arano. Unravel the conspiracy and fight for a cause that could change the galaxy's balance of power.

Setting

Set within the expansive and richly-detailed BattleTech universe, the game brings players to a galaxy in turmoil, where powerful factions vie for dominance through a mix of political intrigue and large-scale, mech-based combat. BattleTech transports players to diverse environments, from barren deserts to lush forests and frozen tundra, providing a vivid and diverse backdrop for tactical engagement and mech warfare.

Bottom Line

Whether you've finished XCOM 2 for the first or tenth time, these top five alternative games offer a wealth of tactical experiences, compelling stories, and gripping settings that will keep you immersed and hungry for more. While each game has its unique charm, they all share the exhilarating challenge and strategic depth found in XCOM 2. So dive into these incredible titles, and prepare for an array of unforgettable tactical journeys.