Xenonauts 2 Review: A Legally Distinct X-COM 3 Experience
GameCentral published on April 8, 2026, at 1:00 AM. While a new XCOM sequel remains elusive, Xenonauts 2 emerges as a fan-made homage that effectively serves as a de facto remake of the original UFO: Enemy Unknown. This turn-based tactics game captures the essence of classic X-COM, offering a challenging and nostalgic experience for enthusiasts of the genre.
The Absence of XCOM and the Rise of Indie Alternatives
We believe there may never be another XCOM game. Although it's unwise to say never, given recent revivals of obscure franchises, XCOM's time as a mainstream series appears to have passed. The turn-based tactics series has long been a favorite, with 2016's XCOM 2 earning a rare 10/10 score, yet it never achieved massive sales. Hopes for a new installment faded after Marvel's Midnight Suns, also developed by Firaxis, flopped despite its quality and Marvel license. This failure led to the studio head's departure and staff layoffs, with their subsequent venture focusing on a Sims-like game rather than XCOM.
As an alternative, Star Wars: Zero Company from EA shows promise, but indie developers consistently fill the void left by economically unviable franchises. Xenonauts 2 stands out by being as similar to XCOM as possible without legal issues, specifically mirroring the 1994 original, UFO: Enemy Unknown.
Gameplay Structure and Strategic Depth
Xenonauts 2 shares its core concept with X-COM, featuring a secret alien invasion opposed by a covert multinational force. Set in an alternate 2009 where the Cold War persists and technology lags, the game divides into tactical battles on randomized maps and strategic base management. Players must research captured aliens, manufacture equipment, and maintain soldier health over dozens of hours, with no guaranteed victory unless saves are manipulated.
The strategic layer adds tension, as aliens attack globally, forcing players to balance interception with political considerations, where countries withdraw funding if neglected. Resource scarcity and alien superiority create a challenging dynamic, compounded by base attacks and human imposters called cleaners.
Turn-Based Battles and Difficulty
The heart of Xenonauts 2 lies in its turn-based battles, which are wonderfully tense. Squads start with eight soldiers, expanding to 12, and navigate maps shrouded in fog of war, requiring careful movement and cover usage. Aliens, inspired by X-COM abilities, pose significant threats, with some capable of eliminating half a squad in one attack.
While accessible via a robust tutorial and tooltips, the game is punishingly difficult, designed for existing fans. Random elements influence weapon accuracy and damage, adding frustration but also satisfaction akin to Dark Souls. However, Xenonauts 2 focuses on replicating the past rather than innovating, with few new mechanics like shallow aerial combat.
Graphics and Overall Assessment
Graphical improvements and camera rotation enhance the experience, but Xenonauts 2 closely resembles its predecessor. It excels as a homage, with intense battles and compelling strategy, yet lacks originality, relying on increased difficulty rather than fresh ideas.
Xenonauts 2 Review Summary
In Short: A loving homage to original X-COM, prioritizing difficulty over innovation.
Pros: Perfect understanding of X-COM's appeal, intense turn-based battles, compelling strategy, good tutorial, improved graphics.
Cons: Few new elements, poor aerial combat, infuriating randomness, overly derivative aliens.
Score: 8/10
Formats: PC
Price: £34.99
Publisher: Hooded Horse
Developer: Goldhawk Interactive
Release Date: 2nd April 2026
Age Rating: N/A
