XCOM 2 Turns Ten: A Tactical Classic Revisited * Science and Technology Times

XCOM 2 marks its 10th anniversary, prompting a look back at why the turn‑based strategy game remains both beloved and infuriating.
Its unpredictable combat, memorable squad stories and demanding tactical decisions continue to define its legacy.
A decade later, the game still thrives thanks to an active modding community and enduring player enthusiasm.

A Decade of Tactical Chaos

XCOM 2’s reputation rests on moments that feel both unfair and unforgettable. Players often recall situations where a soldier stands point‑blank in front of an alien with a 90% chance to hit, only to miss spectacularly. These events are frustrating, yet they form the emotional backbone of the game’s design. The unpredictability forces players to adapt, creating stories that linger long after a mission ends.

The game builds on a linear but flexible class system that encourages experimentation. Each soldier can be customized visually and mechanically, allowing players to shape their squad into a personal cast of characters. A Sharpshooter might become a long‑range sniper or a pistol‑focused duelist depending on upgrades. These choices make every campaign feel distinct and every soldier feel irreplaceable.

Over time, players grow attached to their units in ways that transcend simple stats. A Grenadier who has survived dozens of missions becomes a character with a history, not just a tool. When that soldier fails a crucial shot or falls in battle, the moment feels like a narrative twist rather than a mechanical setback. XCOM 2 excels at turning tactical outcomes into emotional beats.

The game’s design ensures that even small mistakes can snowball into dramatic consequences. Poor positioning or a misjudged risk can lead to cascading failures. These setbacks are part of the experience, pushing players to think creatively under pressure. The result is a game that rewards resilience as much as strategic planning.

Memorable Encounters and Relentless Pressure

XCOM 2’s boss‑style enemies add another layer of tension to its missions. These powerful foes can appear unexpectedly after certain story milestones, often at the worst possible moment. Their arrival disrupts carefully laid plans and forces players to improvise. Surviving these encounters becomes a defining part of the campaign.

Even without bosses, the game finds ways to keep players on edge. A Sectopod emerging from the fog of war can instantly transform a routine mission into a crisis. Resource shortages and time‑sensitive objectives add further pressure. Players must balance long‑term upgrades with immediate survival needs, creating a constant push‑and‑pull between planning and reacting.

These challenges give the game a sense of texture and momentum. Each mission introduces new obstacles that test both tactical skill and emotional endurance. The unpredictability ensures that no two campaigns unfold the same way. XCOM 2 thrives on this dynamic tension, making every decision feel meaningful.

The game’s difficulty encourages players to embrace failure rather than avoid it. Save‑scumming—reloading to undo mistakes—removes much of the intended experience. The real heart of XCOM 2 lies in adapting to setbacks and carrying the consequences forward. This philosophy is what gives the game its lasting impact.

Ten Years Later: A Game Still Worth Playing

A decade after release, XCOM 2 remains a strong recommendation for new players. Frequent discounts make it easy to pick up, and the game has accumulated ten years of community‑created content. Mods add new maps, armor sets and quality‑of‑life improvements that refine the experience. Some even introduce entirely new mechanics or humorous cosmetic options.

The modding scene has become a major part of the game’s longevity. Popular additions like Stop Wasting My Time and Evac All streamline mission flow. Others allow for more expressive customization, including unconventional themes and even romance systems. These tools let players tailor the game to their preferences while preserving its core identity.

XCOM 2’s design continues to resonate because it blends strategy with storytelling. The emotional highs and lows of each campaign create memories that stick with players. Its mix of tension, unpredictability and personal investment remains rare in modern games. The result is a title that feels as compelling today as it did at launch.

Many players still keep XCOM 2 installed years later, returning for fresh campaigns or new mods. The game’s ability to inspire both frustration and admiration is part of its charm. That duality is why it remains a standout entry in the strategy genre. Ten years on, XCOM 2 continues to earn its place as a modern classic.