Manor Lords’ Incredible XCOM-Style Strategy Game Reaches New Heights

There are generally two schools of thought when it comes to XCOM enthusiasts: those who are drawn to the modern renditions by Firaxis and those who cherish the nostalgic charm of the original ’90s X-COM series by MicroProse. If you find yourself in the latter group – and let’s leave the indecisive ones aside for a moment – then Xenonauts 2 should definitely catch your attention, particularly given its substantial new update.

In Xenonauts 2, you’re in command of a multinational organization tasked with fending off alien invasions. This strategy game has a fascinating layer of secrecy as you conduct ground operations, engage in combat to keep the enemy at bay, and establish bases worldwide as a protective global network. Set in an alternate 2009 where the Cold War is far from over, the political backdrop adds an intriguing angle to consider while playing.

Since its debut on Steam Early Access in July 2023, developer Goldhawk Interactive has consistently refined the game. With both big and small updates enhancing its features, the experience has become more polished and enjoyable. This latest update is a fantastic entry point for newcomers and offers a compelling reason for veterans to jump back into the action.

The rollout of Milestone 5.8.0 introduces the menacing Mind Control. New alien troops equipped with enough Psi-Strength can seize control of one of your soldiers for an entire turn. Success in resisting these actions drastically hinges on the distance, coupled with the target’s Bravery and Morale, making close encounters particularly perilous.

Your allies now come with varying levels of protection: normal, high, or low. The latter two affect recruitment and elimination costs. Strategic Operations see incremental daily boosts to their value if left unused, but they revert to their original state once deployed.

There are myriad gameplay adjustments, neatly categorized into strategy, air combat, and tactical changes. Some plot-driven scenes have been adjusted to provide more clarity, and Phase 1 extends into a third month involving Destroyer UFOs.

One notable tweak is that explosive damage is now moderated based on your proximity, ranging from 100% to 50%. Additionally, Xenonaut aircraft no longer consume fuel during air battles, a small yet significant relief for players who found this frustrating on the rare occasions it occurred.

For those looking to return to Xenonauts 2, it’s important to note that the latest changes require starting a new campaign, as saves from version 5.7.0 won’t carry over. However, you can still play the previous build through the Experimental Legacy branch if you choose.

Xenonauts 2 is available on Steam Early Access, ready for you to explore. If you’re keen on more adventures, check out our listings of the best space and robot games for more ways to defend humanity. Stay up to date with daily news, reviews, and guides on PC games by following us on Google News, or join our Discord community to be in the loop.