Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 17
  2. Negative: 0 out of 17
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  1. Oct 3, 2016
    95
    While it mightn’t look as crisp and clear as the PC version, console controls are easy to use — after all, we’ve already experienced the franchise on Xbox and PlayStation before. The only thing that really lets consoles down is ridiculously large loading times, which you’ll really feel if you’re relying on deft saves to get out of a tight spot. After playing on Xbox One, I continue to question why Firaxis and 2K didn’t just release XCOM 2 to all platforms at the same time.
  2. Nov 3, 2016
    90
    XCOM 2 is a tour de force of the tactical turn-based shooter genre. The game can be relentless and its AI unyielding, but this just makes you want to go back in for more!
  3. Official Xbox Magazine UK
    Nov 1, 2016
    90
    A masterpiece - one of best games on Xbox. [Dec 2016, p.74]
  4. Oct 17, 2016
    90
    I’m not sure why they waited so long to bring XCOM 2 to console, or at least announce it at the PC launch, because even with its hiccups it’s an amazing gaming experience for any strategy game fan.
  5. Oct 8, 2016
    90
    A must have game for any strategy lover: XCOM 2 builds on his predecessor strengths with a new compelling setting, solid gameplay and an high challenge level capable of delivering great rewards. If you love turn-based strategy, you can't miss it.
  6. Oct 4, 2016
    90
    Console ports don’t exactly have a brilliant reputation. So, how does the Xbox One version of XCOM 2 stack up against its PC counterpart? The short answer is: pretty damn well.
  7. Sep 28, 2016
    90
    Though I’d still play on PC if given the option – because the HUD looks sharper on a monitor and it feels slightly more natural to play with a mouse – XCOM 2 is a stellar port, bringing the full-fat experience across otherwise intact.
  8. Sep 27, 2016
    90
    Some technical issues have migrated from this year’s PC release: characters sometimes freeze in place while the turn progresses; soldiers can take almost 10 seconds to execute commands; and cutscenes have a tendency to drop frame rates throughout campaigns. But the layered tactics, impactful meta-game, and deep character-building are all intact on PS4 and Xbox One. XCOM 2 remains a superb strategy title.
  9. Oct 18, 2016
    89
    XCOM 2 manages to improve a formula that had almost nothing wrong with it to begin with, adding a sense of urgency to the already unpredictable nature of its turn-based combat. It’s a rewarding experience, if not sometimes cruelly unfair.
  10. Oct 5, 2016
    87
    A great port that only could have been better including the steam Workshop integration. We know that's impossible, but it's an issue that makes this version worse than the original.
  11. Oct 6, 2016
    85
    Visually, XCOM 2 looks good, better than the last game, but it still doesn’t look amazing.
  12. Oct 6, 2016
    85
    The console version of XCOM 2 is not as good as the PC one, especially if you analyze graphics, framerate, loading times and the absence of mods. Still, this is one hell of a strategical ride that should not be missed by anyone who is starving for a game like this on consoles.
  13. Oct 4, 2016
    85
    One of last generation’s best sci-fi games returns to consoles and continues apace, changing very little but adding a lot to the mix.
  14. 80
    XCOM 2 is a great strategy game for the same reasons that Enemy Unknown/Enemy Within were, for the unique minute-to-minute gameplay, but as a sequel, this needed more innovation and less iteration.
  15. Oct 1, 2016
    80
    Some technical issues don’t hide the true greatness of XCOM 2. A deep, complex and fun strategic with a compelling gameplay and story. But Xbox One and PS4 can do more.
  16. Sep 30, 2016
    80
    XCOM 2 is easily one of the best strategy games currently available on console. It's got a stellar story, with plenty of gameplay elements to keep you intrigued and wanting more. While the game does have a heavy learning curve, and can be quite frustrating at times, it doesn't overly punish you for your mistakes.
  17. Oct 12, 2016
    70
    It’s still an addictive play on the Xbox One with overall good gameplay that is well presented and for it’s price, it’s excellent value.
User Score
7.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 119 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 82 out of 119
  2. Negative: 21 out of 119
  1. Sep 27, 2016
    9
    This is the sequel we wanted, a turn-based strategy game with tons of customization, new mission maps, upgraded graphics and voice actingThis is the sequel we wanted, a turn-based strategy game with tons of customization, new mission maps, upgraded graphics and voice acting while staying true to the Xcom universe and formula. Multiplayer is a long requested feature and the developers took the time to add environment graphics on enemy destruction and specialized skill sets for classes and a new ambush setting for beginning of the encounters. This game has replayability, looks great, and is a PC port that actually took the time to make it worth it on consoles. I would recommend this to all. Full Review »
  2. Sep 27, 2016
    9
    When will Firaxis treat their PC players with some respect and give us controller support since the UI can obviously handle it now? TheirWhen will Firaxis treat their PC players with some respect and give us controller support since the UI can obviously handle it now? Their argument was "it's a game made only for PC"...well, that's out the window now guys, hook us up please: I bought a Steam controller specifically for the game and it's just not that great: let me use my Xinput controllers please, I beg you. I put 9/10 as from what I played, that's how it felt with KB+M, but I can only play games for short periods of time on KB+M, so a controller update would be super welcome! Full Review »
  3. Sep 27, 2016
    9
    Eventho it's not perfect yet, i trust firaxis will fix the glitch and bug i encountered on day one, the controls work almost perfectly and theEventho it's not perfect yet, i trust firaxis will fix the glitch and bug i encountered on day one, the controls work almost perfectly and the fps altough not 60fps is still good for a recent game on xbox one, its so refreshg to play sitting on my couch instead of in front of my desktop. About the game itself it's as god as the first if not better. Timed mission didnt ruin the experience for me on the contrary. One of the best game of 2016. Full Review »