The tactical depth, intense battles, and strategic management of “XCOM” have set the benchmark for turn-based games. For gamers who have experienced the adrenaline of close-call missions and the satisfaction of a well-executed plan, finding a game that matches “XCOM” in intensity can be a quest in itself. Fear not, fellow strategist! We’ve curated a list of 20 turn-based game alternatives that will satiate your craving for tactical gameplay.
XCOM: Chimera Squad
Released in 2020, XCOM: Chimera Squad is a spin-off of the main XCOM series that introduces a new gameplay twist. Set five years after the events of XCOM 2, Chimera Squad focuses on smaller, more tightly-knit tactical operations. The game offers a fresh experience with a unique cast of characters, each with their own abilities and personalities. With its streamlined mechanics and engaging storyline, XCOM: Chimera Squad deserves a spot on every XCOM fan’s must-play list.
Building upon the rich lore of the XCOM universe, XCOM: Chimera Squad takes players on a thrilling journey through a post-alien invasion world. The game delves into the aftermath of the war, exploring the challenges faced by humanity as they strive to rebuild and maintain peace. As players navigate through the intricate web of alliances and conflicts, they will encounter a diverse range of factions, each with their own motivations and agendas.
XCOM: Chimera Squad offers a fresh and captivating experience for both fans of the XCOM series and newcomers alike. With its engaging storyline, unique cast of characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, this spin-off is a worthy addition to the XCOM universe. Whether you’re a tactical mastermind or a newcomer to the genre, XCOM: Chimera Squad is sure to provide hours of thrilling and strategic gameplay.
Phoenix Point
Developed by Julian Gollop, the creator of the original X-COM series, Phoenix Point continues the legacy of XCOM while introducing its own innovations. In this game, you’ll face off against a variety of mutated creatures in turn-based battles.
As you embark on your journey in Phoenix Point, you’ll find yourself immersed in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. The Earth has been overrun by a mysterious alien virus, causing humans and animals alike to undergo horrifying mutations. It is up to you, as the commander of the Phoenix Project, to lead a group of elite soldiers in a desperate fight for survival.
The dynamic enemy mutation system in Phoenix Point is truly revolutionary. Unlike traditional games where enemies have set abilities and traits, the creatures you encounter in this game are constantly evolving.
Each battle presents a unique challenge as the enemies adapt to your tactics and develop new abilities to counter your strategies. This innovative system keeps you on your toes, forcing you to think on your feet and adjust your approach accordingly.
Phoenix Point stands as a worthy successor to the XCOM franchise. Whether you’re a fan of the original X-COM series or new to the turn-based strategy genre, this game offers an immersive and thrilling experience that will keep you hooked for hours on end.
Gears Tactics
If you’re a fan of the Gears of War series and enjoy turn-based combat, Gears Tactics brings the best of both worlds together. Set in the Gears of War universe, this game offers a gritty and intense tactical experience. With a focus on ruthless efficiency, you’ll command a squad of soldiers as they take on the Locust Horde in a relentless battle. Gears Tactics offers a refreshing take on the turn-based genre, combining the fast-paced action of the Gears series with strategic decision-making.
In Gears Tactics, players are thrust into a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction. The Locust Horde, a menacing and relentless force, has overrun the planet, and it’s up to you to lead a group of highly skilled soldiers in a desperate fight for survival. As you progress through the game, you’ll encounter a wide variety of enemy types, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. It’s up to you to analyze the battlefield, devise a plan of attack, and execute it with precision.
One of the standout features of Gears Tactics is its deep customization system. Players have the ability to fully customize their squad, choosing from a wide range of weapons, armor, and abilities. This allows for a highly personalized gameplay experience, as you can tailor your squad to fit your preferred playstyle. Whether you prefer a more stealthy approach or a full-on assault, Gears Tactics gives you the tools to make it happen.
Gears Tactics is a must-play for fans of the Gears of War series and turn-based strategy games. With its intense combat, deep customization options, and stunning visuals, it offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience. So gear up, assemble your squad, and prepare to take on the Locust Horde in this thrilling and tactical adventure.
Invisible, Inc.
From the creators of Mark of the Ninja, Invisible, Inc. is a turn-based stealth game that will put your strategic planning to the test. As the leader of an elite espionage agency, you’ll infiltrate secure facilities and gather intelligence. The game’s emphasis on stealth and careful decision-making adds a thrilling dynamic to the turn-based genre. With its stylish art style and engaging gameplay, Invisible, Inc. is a must-play for fans of tactical espionage.
Step into the world of Invisible, Inc. and become a master spy, navigating through a web of intrigue and danger. As you embark on your missions, you’ll find yourself in a variety of locations, from high-security corporate buildings to underground secret bases. Each environment is meticulously designed, offering unique challenges and opportunities for you to exploit.
Your team of skilled operatives is equipped with the latest in cutting-edge technology. From cloaking devices that render you invisible to hacking tools that allow you to manipulate security systems, you’ll have a wide array of gadgets at your disposal. But be careful, as every move you make could alert the enemy and jeopardize your mission.
Immerse yourself in the world of espionage with Invisible, Inc. and experience the thrill of outsmarting your enemies in a game that rewards cunning and precision. With its gripping storyline, challenging gameplay, and stylish visuals, this turn-based stealth game will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden
Combining turn-based strategy with real-time exploration, Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden offers a unique blend of gameplay mechanics.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, you’ll control a group of mutants as they scavenge for resources and fight against hostile creatures. The game’s tactical combat system allows for creative approaches to encounters, making each battle a satisfying puzzle to solve.
Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden stands out as a fresh take on the turn-based genre.
Hard West
For those who enjoy turn-based strategy games with a touch of the Wild West, Hard West delivers a gripping experience.
Set in an alternate history version of the Wild West, this game combines tactical combat with supernatural elements. As you lead a band of outlaws, you’ll navigate the treacherous landscape and face off against both human and supernatural foes.
With its compelling story and challenging gameplay, Hard West immerses players in a world where every decision matters.
Battletech
If you’re a fan of giant robots and strategic warfare, Battletech is the game for you. Set in the vast BattleTech universe, this turn-based strategy game puts you in command of a Lance of BattleMechs.
As a mercenary commander, you’ll customize and upgrade your mechs, manage your reputation, and make critical decisions on and off the battlefield.
Battletech offers deep strategic gameplay with a rich and immersive world to explore.
Wasteland 2 and Wasteland 3
The Wasteland series, created by Brian Fargo and his team, is often hailed as one of the pioneers of the post-apocalyptic RPG genre.
While not strictly turn-based strategy games, Wasteland 2 and its sequel, Wasteland 3, offer a blend of tactical combat and role-playing elements. Set in a world devastated by nuclear war, these games challenge players to navigate a harsh landscape, make tough moral decisions, and engage in strategic battles.
The Wasteland series provides a thought-provoking and immersive experience that is sure to captivate fans of the genre.
Shadowrun Series
If you crave a mix of cyberpunk aesthetics and tactical turn-based combat, look no further than the Shadowrun series. Set in a dystopian future where magic and technology coexist, these games combine deep storytelling with strategic gameplay.
As a shadowrunner, you’ll take on various missions, recruit a diverse team of characters, and engage in thrilling turn-based battles.
The Shadowrun series offers a unique blend of fantasy and cyberpunk that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Valkyria Chronicles series
Combining turn-based strategy with real-time action, the Valkyria Chronicles series offers a fresh and innovative take on the genre.
Set in a fictional World War II-inspired world, these games follow the stories of brave individuals fighting against an imperial threat.
With its unique “BLiTZ” combat system, which allows for strategic movement and real-time targeting, the Valkyria Chronicles series provides a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience.
If you’re looking for a captivating blend of strategy and action, these games are not to be missed.
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle
Let’s kick things off with a surprising crossover that blends the chaotic world of the Rabbids with the colorful charm of Mario. In Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, you’ll engage in strategic battles filled with humor and tactical depth. With a roster of unique characters and various abilities, you’ll need to carefully plan your moves to outsmart your opponents. The game features a captivating campaign, diverse missions, and even co-op challenges to tackle with a friend.
But it’s not just the gameplay that shines in Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle. The vibrant and imaginative world created by the collaboration of Nintendo and Ubisoft is a joy to explore. From the Mushroom Kingdom to the unpredictable Rabbid-filled lands, every corner is brimming with charm and surprises.
As you delve into the captivating campaign of Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, you’ll encounter a wide array of environments that will leave you in awe. The Mushroom Kingdom, with its lush green fields and iconic landmarks, sets the stage for your adventure.
You’ll traverse through winding paths, leap over bottomless pits, and even explore hidden caves. Each area is meticulously designed to capture the essence of the Mario universe, ensuring that fans of the franchise will feel right at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or a casual gamer looking for a fun and lighthearted experience, this game offers something for everyone.
Jagged Alliance 2
If you’re yearning for a classic turn-based tactical experience, Jagged Alliance 2 is an absolute must-play. Released in 1999, this game has stood the test of time and remains one of the best turn-based strategy games out there. In Jagged Alliance 2, you’ll assemble a team of mercenaries to liberate a fictional country from an oppressive ruler.
What sets Jagged Alliance 2 apart is its emphasis on strategy and planning. You’ll need to carefully manage your resources, make tough decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances. With a vast arsenal of weapons, customizable characters, and a nonlinear campaign, Jagged Alliance 2 offers endless replayability and a truly immersive experience.
Immerse yourself in the richly detailed world of Jagged Alliance 2, where every decision you make can have far-reaching consequences. As you assemble your team of mercenaries, you’ll have to consider their unique skills and personalities. Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses, and building a well-balanced team is essential for success.
The nonlinear campaign of Jagged Alliance 2 means that every playthrough is unique. The choices you make and the actions you take will shape the outcome of the game. Will you take a stealthy approach, silently eliminating enemies one by one? Or will you go in guns blazing, relying on brute force to achieve your objectives? The choice is yours.
Jagged Alliance 2 is a game that will keep you hooked for hours on end. Whether you’re a fan of turn-based strategy games or new to the genre, this classic title is sure to captivate and challenge you.
Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus
Enter the grim darkness of the 41st millennium in Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus. Immerse yourself in the rich lore and brutal universe of Warhammer as you take control of the Adeptus Mechanicus, the technological backbone of the Imperium. As an Archmagos, the highest-ranking Tech-Priest, you are entrusted with the sacred duty of exploring ancient ruins, unearthing buried secrets, and protecting humanity from terrifying Xenos threats.
Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus stands out from other games in its genre due to its unique and engaging gameplay mechanics. In addition to the tactical turn-based combat, you’ll have to carefully manage your resources, making strategic decisions on which technologies to research and upgrade. Each choice you make will have both immediate and long-term consequences, shaping the outcome of your missions and the fate of the Imperium.
Step into the shoes of an Archmagos and lead your forces through treacherous battlefields, where every decision can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Engage in intense firefights against hordes of Xenos creatures, utilizing a wide array of devastating weapons and powerful abilities at your disposal. Witness the awe-inspiring might of the Adeptus Mechanicus as they unleash their technological marvels upon their enemies.
Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus is a game that will test your strategic prowess, challenge your tactical acumen, and leave you craving for more of the grim darkness of the 41st millennium.
Fire Emblem series
For fans of XCOM who also enjoy deep storytelling and character-driven narratives, the Fire Emblem series is a perfect match. Known for its permadeath feature, Fire Emblem games deliver emotionally charged gameplay where every decision can have dire consequences.
With each installment, the Fire Emblem series introduces new characters, engaging storylines, and refined gameplay mechanics. Whether you choose to play the recent Fire Emblem: Three Houses or dive into the classics like Fire Emblem: Awakening, you’ll find yourself invested in the lives of your warriors and their struggles.
Combining tactical battles with intricate relationships between characters, the Fire Emblem series offers a unique blend of strategy and emotional storytelling that sets it apart from other turn-based games.
Advance Wars series
If you’re longing for a turn-based strategy game with a more light-hearted and colorful approach, the Advance Wars series is a perfect choice. Developed by Intelligent Systems, the same team behind Fire Emblem, Advance Wars brings a delightful mix of accessible gameplay and tactical depth.
In these games, you’ll command an army and engage in battles across various terrains. Each unit has its strengths and weaknesses, and terrain plays a crucial role in determining your strategy. With its charming characters, engaging campaigns, and addictive multiplayer, the Advance Wars series offers hours of fun and strategic gameplay.
SteamWorld Heist
Set in the SteamWorld universe, SteamWorld Heist offers a unique twist on turn-based strategy games. Instead of controlling armies or squads, you’ll take control of a small team of steam-powered robots and engage in daring space heists.
In this 2D side-scrolling game, you’ll manually aim your weapons and use the environment to your advantage. Each mission is a puzzle waiting to be solved, as you carefully plan your moves and execute precise shots. With its charming art style, clever level design, and addictive gameplay, SteamWorld Heist is a hidden gem in the turn-based genre.
Into the Breach
If you enjoy the tactical decision-making aspect of XCOM and prefer bite-sized missions, Into the Breach is a game you shouldn’t miss. Developed by Subset Games, the creators of FTL: Faster Than Light, Into the Breach is a turn-based strategy game that challenges you to protect humanity against giant, world-destroying creatures.
What sets Into the Breach apart is its focus on indirect combat. Rather than attacking enemies head-on, you’ll need to manipulate the battlefield, reposition units, and anticipate the enemy’s moves. With its tight and addictive gameplay, procedural generation, and endless strategic possibilities, Into the Breach keeps you engaged for hours on end.
Chroma Squad
Are you a fan of both XCOM and Power Rangers? Look no further than Chroma Squad, a tactical RPG that pays homage to the beloved superhero TV shows of the past. In Chroma Squad, you’ll manage a team of stunt actors who decide to start their own Power Rangers-inspired show.
As the director of this eccentric troupe, you’ll need to guide them through challenging turn-based battles, upgrade their equipment, and boost their fan base. With its colorful pixel art, quirky humor, and engaging combat mechanics, Chroma Squad is a delightful and nostalgic experience that will satisfy your tactical cravings.
Massive Chalice
Created by Double Fine Productions, Massive Chalice brings a unique twist to the turn-based strategy genre. In this game, you’re tasked with guiding a noble house through centuries of warfare against a demonic threat.
What sets Massive Chalice apart is its focus on bloodlines and generational gameplay. You’ll need to strategically pair your heroes, manage their relationships, and ensure the continuity of your bloodline. With its challenging battles, meaningful decisions, and the ever-present risk of permadeath, Massive Chalice offers a fresh and engaging take on turn-based strategy.
Conclusion
The world of turn-based strategy is vast and varied, with each game offering a unique twist on the genre.
While “XCOM” has become a touchstone for many, the 20 games highlighted here promise to challenge your strategic mind, offering tales of conquest, survival, and tactical brilliance.
Whether you’re a seasoned commander or a rookie looking to dip your toes into the genre, there’s a game on this list waiting for you to take command.
