Xenonauts 2 vs 1 - Differences Explained

Source: Xenonauts 2, Developer: Goldhawk Interactive

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When a game gets a sequel, we usually expect more content and overall enhancements to graphics, gameplay mechanics, etc. Comparing game released in 2014 and one entering Early Access in 2023 should be an easy task, but this is not the case this time. Xenonauts 2 strongly resembles Xenonauts 1 despite almost 10 years difference. By simply looking at screenshots of both titles, it will be hard to say which one depicts which game. If you are not sure whether you would like to give the sequel a shot, we’re here to help and cover the most important differences between those two.

Main differences between Xenonauts 1 and 2

If you are looking for a short answer, the developers have summed it up by claiming that Xenonauts 2 is much more polished game that covers similar events but with more content.

For people who would like to know more, looking “under the hood”, uncovers many changes implemented by creators:

1. A story driven tutorial is included that makes it easier for new players to jump into a fray.
2. The title adds cinematics and dialogues between main characters. Thanks to those changes, its narrative layer of the game is richer.
3. Xenonauts 2 uses new, modern game engine – Unity. This allows for camera manipulation like rotation or zoom.
4. New types of tactical missions are added, which objectives don’t include only eliminating all opponents.
5. Visual redesign has been implemented for many elements in the title like research arts, weapon arts, UFOs, and others.
6. Strategy UI was reworked and updated.
7. Late game features new event, where aliens will start to destroy cities with orbital superweapon. It will result in rising global Panic level which acts as a game-limiting timer.

If that is still not enough for you, there is a lot more differences covered by the devs in a post that can be found on their forum. It is also worth keeping in mind that Xenonauts 2 is entering Early Access program which means that it will undergo major changes in that time adding new features and content along the way.