For fans of high-stakes strategy and heart-stopping squad management, XCOM 2 is now more accessible than ever. Ten years after its release, the game—already a refined successor to the original—is being offered for free this weekend on Steam, with its expansion, War of the Chosen, slashed to 90% off. At a time when tactical RPGs are rare, this is a rare chance to experience one of the most polished and emotionally gripping entries in the genre.
The game’s core appeal lies in its tension. Unlike its predecessor, which focused on defending Earth from alien incursions, XCOM 2 casts players as guerilla fighters waging a shadow war against an occupying force. Missions now demand stealth, with players able to ambush enemies before they react, while the geoscape—a vast map where your base travels between missions—adds a layer of logistical depth. The introduction of mind-controlled Sectoids, a brutal twist that still catches players off guard, only heightens the stakes.
But the real evolution comes in how the game rewards strategy. Every soldier’s abilities, from snipers to medics, must be carefully balanced to survive encounters where numbers are always against you. The expansion deepens this further, introducing three new specialist classes—Templars (elite assassins), Skirmishers (grappling-hook wielders), and Reapers (ultra-stealth operatives)—each offering fresh tactical options. It also expands the resistance factions players can ally with, adding weight to diplomatic choices.
At its heart, XCOM 2 remains a game about sacrifice. Losing soldiers isn’t just a mechanical setback; it’s a narrative blow. The game’s emotional weight is matched by its depth, making it a standout in an era where tactical games are few and far between. With the base game now priced at just $3 and the expansion at $4, there’s never been a better time to lead the fight for Earth’s freedom.
For those wondering why there hasn’t been an XCOM 3 yet, the wait continues. The team behind the series, Firaxis, has been quiet since Marvel’s Midnight Suns in 2019, and key figures like director Jake Solomon have since moved on. Meanwhile, XCOM: Chimera Squad, a first-person tactical spin-off, offers a different but equally engaging take on the formula—though purists may still hold out for a true sequel.
Availability: XCOM 2 is free on Steam this weekend. The expansion, War of the Chosen, is 90% off for the next week.
