Status:
- Complete in Box
- Play Tested
### **XCOM: Enemy Unknown (PS3) Review**
Released in 2012 by **Firaxis Games** and published by **2K Games**, *XCOM: Enemy Unknown* is a modern reimagining of the classic 1994 strategy game *X-COM: UFO Defense*. Featuring **deep turn-based tactical gameplay, base management, and high-stakes decision-making**, it delivers one of the best strategy experiences on consoles.
### **Gameplay & Mechanics**
The core of *XCOM: Enemy Unknown* is its **turn-based squad combat** mixed with **resource management**. Players control an elite military organization tasked with **fighting an alien invasion**, balancing between managing a base, researching technology, and commanding troops in tactical missions.
#### **Key Gameplay Features:**
**Tactical Squad Combat** Missions are played on a grid-based battlefield, where players control a squad of **up to six soldiers** with different abilities and weapons.
**Permanent Death** If a soldier dies, theyre **gone forever**, making every decision crucial.
**Base Management** Players must **research alien technology, build new facilities, and manage resources** to improve their squads chances.
**Cover System & Fog of War** Positioning is key, as using cover and **line of sight** affects combat effectiveness.
The **difficulty is punishing**, especially on higher settings, but it makes every victory feel rewarding. However, the **random hit percentages** can sometimes be frustrating, as missing a high-percentage shot can drastically affect a mission.
### **Graphics & Presentation**
For a **turn-based strategy game**, *XCOM: Enemy Unknown* looks solid on the PS3. While **textures and animations arent top-tier**, the art style and atmospheric lighting create an **intense sci-fi setting**. **Alien designs** are particularly well-crafted, making the enemies feel both menacing and diverse.
The cinematic **"kill cam"** that zooms in during critical shots adds excitement, though sometimes animations can be slightly buggy.
### **Sound & Voice Acting**
The soundtrack is **moody and suspenseful**, adding tension to missions. The **sound effects**, from laser rifles to alien roars, are satisfying and immersive. Voice acting is solid, though limited in variety, with advisors providing mission updates and guidance.
### **Story & Atmosphere**
While the story is fairly simple**aliens invade, and XCOM must stop them**its **the emergent storytelling that makes the game shine**. Watching a highly experienced soldier get **killed in action** or seeing a rookie rise to become a squad leader creates **emotional investment** in your team.
### **Replay Value & Longevity**
With **multiple difficulty levels, randomized mission layouts, and soldier customization**, *XCOM: Enemy Unknown* has **immense replay value**. The **Ironman Mode**, which disables manual saves, creates an even more intense experience.
The **multiplayer mode** allows players to build squads (including aliens) and battle online, but its not the main attraction.
### **Verdict**
*XCOM: Enemy Unknown* is one of the **best turn-based strategy games on consoles**, successfully blending tactical combat with strategic base management. While **occasional bugs, long load times, and frustrating hit percentages** can be drawbacks, the **intense decision-making and rewarding gameplay loop** make it a must-play for strategy fans.
**Score: 9/10** A brilliant mix of strategy, tension, and tactical depth that keeps you coming back for more.
