X-Mercs

X-Mercs is a strategy game for iOS, combining inspirations from the cult XCOM series with elements of popular free-to-play strategy games such as Clash of Clans. It was developed by Game Insight, an experienced Lithuanian studio known mainly for series like The Tribez, Paradise Island, and My Country.

Plot

The game’s plot is set in a science-fiction reality and takes place in 2082 on Earth which has been devastated by long-lasting wars for resources. Four decades earlier, humanity discovered a previously unknown mineral called Advinite. After some time, it turned out that it has disastrous effect on the planet’s surface, causing mutations of animals and plants. As a result, hordes of hungry monsters appear on Earth, forcing mankind to live in cities protected by force fields. If that wasn’t bad enough, the situation was exploited by a hostile alien race that decided to invade our planet.

In the game, we assume the role of a private military corporation’s owner tasked with facing the threat. Assuming control over a team of mercenaries equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and special skills, we take part in subsequent missions in which we fight alien invaders, mutants, and anyone who stands in our way. The story campaign consists of a number of primary and secondary missions that take place in varied locations such as deserts, ruins of ravaged cities, and even spaceship interiors.

Mechanics

The gameplay is divided into two main aspects. The first one is managing and developing a base in which we have to ensure inflow of resources, creating new technologies, designing prototypes of new hardware as well as recruiting and training of new mercenaries. The other aspect is focused on turn-based combat. The action is presented from an isometric perspective. While playing, the mercenaries we control gain experience and learn new skills. Their battle potential also increases as we develop better weapons and equipment.

Game modes

Apart from an extensive single player campaign, the game features multiplayer PvP base raids which are typical for the genre.

Technical aspects

Visually, X-Mercs for iOS features high-quality three-dimensional graphics that stylistically resemble the aforementioned XCOM: Enemy Unknown. The game uses the free-to-play business model and includes micropayments that let impatient players progress faster.

Last updated on November 15, 2016