UFO Online: Invasion (2016)

UFO Online: Invasion is a tactical turn-based MMORPG set in a post-apocalyptic world. The game takes place in February 2024, when Earth was struck by a devastating alien invasion. A massive alien spaceship attacked the planet, and pods containing a xenovirus landed worldwide, spreading rapidly. Soon after, alien dropships descended, initiating their primary mission: to harvest genetic material produced by Earth's natural evolutionary processes. Their ultimate goal was to wipe out all life on the planet and replace it with primitive organisms, as they had done on countless other worlds. However, they severely underestimated humanity's resilience. The human race fought back fiercely, and the aliens were unable to complete their plans. The war became not just about survival but the very right of humanity to exist.

Despite their initial failure, the alien mothership abruptly departed Earth's orbit, leaving behind remnants of alien life forms and some of their infrastructure scattered across the planet. This marked only the end of the beginning, as the war is far from over. Earth has changed beyond recognition, and the battle for control continues with a new era dawning in the wake of the invasion.

Game Features

Simultaneous Turn-Based Tactical Combat

UFO Online: Invasion offers a dynamic combat system where players make decisions during a "Planning phase" that lasts for 60 seconds. Afterward, actions are executed during the "Simulation phase." This eliminates the waiting time typical in other turn-based games, allowing for faster-paced battles with multiple participants. The game encourages tactical depth and real-time strategy, offering massive PvP encounters with dozens of players at once.

Expansive Open World

The game features a large, open world filled with hidden treasures, quests, missions, and numerous dangers. Players will explore vast environments, uncover secrets, and face unpredictable challenges. The world of UFO Online: Invasion is immersive, offering endless opportunities for discovery and engagement.

Player-Driven Economy

The economy in UFO Online: Invasion is entirely player-driven. Players gather resources, craft weapons and equipment, and can either use or sell them for profit. The game's trade mechanics encourage a "buy low, sell high" mentality, while also providing the option to engage in fierce trade wars with other players. Economic competition is key to gaining dominance in this post-apocalyptic world.

Resource Gathering and Crafting

In this survival-driven universe, resource management is critical. Players are tasked with collecting materials from the environment and crafting advanced equipment to improve their chances of survival. From weapons to protective gear, crafting plays a major role in progression. Players can also enhance their creations and refine their strategies to stay one step ahead of both alien threats and rival players.

Flexible Skill System

The game offers a comprehensive skill system, where players can choose from over 100 different skills spread across 11 distinct masteries. This flexible approach allows for the creation of unique characters tailored to each player's preferred playstyle. Whether focusing on combat, crafting, or resource management, there are numerous ways to develop a character to suit individual strategies.

Social Interaction and Clans

Building relationships is crucial in UFO Online: Invasion. Players can create and improve their clans, or join existing ones to strengthen their position. Social interaction plays a vital role in the game, as clan members band together to wage wars against enemy factions. Cooperation and strategic alliances are necessary to control critical areas of the game world, including bases.

Base Control and Warfare

Controlling bases is a central aspect of the game. Players will fight for the dominance of key locations across the map. Once conquered, these bases can be fortified, improved, and used to craft advanced equipment. Defending these bases from rival factions is crucial, as they provide critical resources and advantages in the ongoing struggle.

Play Your Own Style

UFO Online: Invasion encourages players to approach the game in their own unique way. Whether focusing on combat, crafting, economy, or social dynamics, the game offers a wide range of strategies and playstyles. Players have the freedom to adapt to the constantly evolving world, choosing their path and making their mark in the post-apocalyptic struggle.

Not Recommended

UFO Online: Invasion offers an interesting concept with its tactical combat and post-apocalyptic setting, but the execution feels lacking. While the turn-based system and large open world might appeal to some, the game struggles with balancing its features. The tactical combat can feel slow and repetitive, especially with the 60-second planning phase, which can become a chore in large-scale PvP battles. The player-driven economy and crafting systems have potential, but they aren’t enough to elevate the overall experience.

Though the game includes a rich skill system and clan interactions, it’s overshadowed by its outdated graphics and technical issues. Additionally, the grind for resources and constant PvP conflicts might be off-putting for those who prefer a more streamlined experience. Unless you're a die-hard fan of turn-based MMOs or enjoy battling in large, chaotic PvP environments, UFO Online: Invasion might not be the best choice.