When it comes to turn-based strategy games, I can say without hesitation that the original X-COM: UFO Defense (Titled UFO: Enemy Unknown in its native England) is and always has been my all time favorite, followed by Final Fantasy Tactics. X-COM was released on PCs in 1994, but not having a computer capable of running more than the most basic games, I didn't get a chance to play it until years later. I first played the game in its Playstation incarnation at a friend's house; the time spent hunting aliens, hiding around barns, and wasting several hours watching its deathly long loading screens is time I'll never forget. It was a scary, difficult game with a great soundtack, and when I eventually did play the PC version six or seven years after its original release, I loved it even more.
When Firaxis announced that they were working on a remake, I felt cautiously optimistic. The end result is a great game with a few major bugs that won't replace the original, but exists nicely alongside it.
Note: For players who want a couple really basic tips, I've included a beginner's primer at the end of this review. Most of the triumphs and failures you'll experience in this game are best experienced on their own, but it never hurts to have a little foreknowledge.
