UFO: Aftermath

The player commands a squad of soldiers on ground missions, moving units across a grid, managing action points, cover and line of sight while fighting alien forces in ruined cities and underground complexes. Outside combat, the player manages a base, researches captured alien technology, builds facilities, and recruits and equips troops for the next mission.

What sets it apart from earlier games in the same tradition is its starting premise: humanity has already lost the open war and survives in scattered enclaves, so the campaign is about clawing back territory and knowledge rather than repelling a fresh invasion. Permanent injury and death of squad members push the player toward cautious, attritional tactics.

• Turn-based squad combat Missions are fought on tactical maps using action points, cover, and positioning.
• Base management The player builds and upgrades an underground base with labs and workshops.
• Technology research Captured alien equipment can be studied to unlock new weapons and gear.
• Persistent soldiers Squad members carry wounds and experience between missions.