X@COM

X@COM
Alpha Project
Developer	Kyzrati
Theme	Sci-Fi
Influences	X-COM
Released	2011 ARRP (pre-alpha tech demo)
Updated	December 19, 2011
Licensing	Freeware, Closed Source
P. Language	Cpp
Platforms	Windows
Interface	ASCII, Keyboard, Mouse
Game Length
Official site of X@COM

A complete remake of the original X-COM, console-style.

Background

The initial goal of X@COM is to put together a more-or-less faithful recreation of the original, though rendered using simple ASCII graphics. This first stage will of course also implement any interface improvements necessary to streamline play (the original had its notable few faults which most remakes attempt to correct). The second stage will expand on game content where possible, not in a way that affects balance or gameplay, but more to expand X-COM's breadth (for example, a greater number of combat environments). An eventual third stage will add numerous optional settings and possibilities which give the game greater depth.

Progress

See the development blog for frequent status updates/screenshots/videos, or check the FAQ or changelog.

Engine

80% : UI Framework
25% : Sound

Battlescape

80% : Mechanics
20% : Data
10% : Visuals
 5% : UI
 0% : SFX
 0% : Map Gen
 0% : AI

Geoscape

 0% (not implemented until battlescape complete)

Notable Features

Currently Implemented:

• 3D environment w/fully destructible terrain
• Sideview map for aiming in third dimension
• Gravity effects on terrain (optional)
• Particle engine for visual effects
• All data loaded from text files
• Highly flexible/modular data for easy and creative modding

Coming Soon:

• Sound FX
• Advanced interface

Demo

The first playable tech demo was released for ARRP 2011. Several new releases have been made available since then. Visit the devblog to get the latest version. (The demo is currently unavailable--a new one will be ready sometime in May, 2012)

From the readme: "By default, the game will automatically start up in ARRP mode, which builds a random 60x60 map and gives you 8 X-COM units of varying experience armed with an array of conventional weapons. There are only 4 aliens on the map at first, most likely found near their scout UFO, but more will gradually arrive (tending to concentrate around the UFO). The aliens and their equipment are completely random. Kill all the aliens to win--it is not impossible, but you will be outnumbered and outgunned pretty quickly. You might be happy to know the number of aliens is capped at 1,000. Good luck.

Other scenarios have been added in later releases, and can be run by executing the associated batch file:

• Area 51: Fight alongside soldiers defending an Area 51 base against an alien assault, and be prepared for some surprises. The environment is non-random, but enemies are mostly randomized.
• Exodus: Assist the National Guard during the evacuation of a city overrun by aliens. This mission shouldn't be too difficult to "successfully" complete, although there's potential for a much higher score if played well. Replayability is high as the city layout and opposition forces are randomly generated.
• Sandbox: If the scenarios are too much for you, running this will generate a unit with every available non-secret weapon and give you unlimited TU and ammo, for your destructive pleasure."

Copyright

The X-COM name and content are the property of their respective copyright holders--this is a free fan project.