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X-COM: Terror From the Deep

DOS, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation • 2008

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Quick resume

The war continues... X-COM: UFO Defense brought you to a galactic battlefield. X-COM: Terror from the Deep brings the alien terror into a totally new dimension.Seeking to take advantage of a weakened Earth, X-COM's deep space foes unexpectedly change strategy and launch a powerful second front against planet Earth.

Global score

91/100

Genres

Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Tactical

Pros

  • Deep and challenging tactical gameplay
  • Immersive lovecraftian sci-fi atmosphere
  • Complex base and resource management
  • High replayability with varied strategies
  • Nostalgic classic with dedicated fan mods

Cons

  • Dated graphics and sound
  • Steep learning curve and punishing difficulty
  • Tedious long missions and large maps
  • Buggy research tree without mods
  • Lack of multiplayer or social features

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have full control over base management, research, manufacturing, squad composition, and tactical decisions in missions."

  • Competence
    5

    "The game is highly challenging with complex tactical combat, research management, and resource allocation requiring skill and strategic thinking."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on single-player experience with no multiplayer or direct player-vs-player competition."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Players invest many hours, often repeatedly playing and save-scumming to overcome difficulty and complete the game."

  • Cooperation
    -4

    "Gameplay is primarily solo, focusing on individual management and tactical control without multiplayer cooperation."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players customize squad loadouts, base layouts, and research/manufacturing priorities, allowing creative strategic approaches."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions are with AI enemies; no social dominance or player authority dynamics."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Immersive sci-fi horror atmosphere and challenging gameplay provide strong escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily driven by intrinsic interest and nostalgia rather than obligation."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Players experiment with different tactics, research orders, and squad compositions to overcome difficulty."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Large, multi-level maps encourage exploration to locate hidden enemies and objectives."

  • Expression
    2

    "Limited character customization mainly through equipment and squad composition rather than visual personalization."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Strong Lovecraftian and sci-fi horror themes create an imaginative, fictional experience."

  • Fellowship
    -4

    "Primarily a single-player experience with minimal social or community interaction."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills in tactical combat and strategic management, and soldiers gain experience and ranks."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires constant player attention and active decision-making during missions and base management."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No social or emotional relationship-building mechanics."

  • Leadership
    4

    "Player leads and manages the entire X-COM organization and squad operations."

  • Progression
    5

    "Strong emphasis on research, manufacturing, soldier development, and mission completion to progress."

  • Relaxation
    -4

    "High tension and difficulty create sustained stress rather than relaxation."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Atmospheric audio and visual design provide immersive sensory experience, though graphics are dated."

  • Status
    -4

    "No social recognition or status systems; focus is on individual achievement."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative with Lovecraftian themes and mission context adds immersion beyond isolated tactical battles."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Core gameplay revolves around deep strategic planning and tactical problem solving."

  • Thrill
    4

    "High suspense and tension from difficult missions and unpredictable enemy behavior."

  • Value
    4

    "Players report many hours of engaging gameplay and replayability for a low cost."

  • Violence
    4

    "Combat involves shooting, explosions, and destruction of alien enemies."

  • Survival
    5

    "Strong focus on avoiding failure, managing resources, and keeping soldiers alive."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026