Phoenix Point is a tactical strategy game developed by Julian Gollop, the mastermind behind the original X-COM: UFO Defense. This game builds on the foundations of classic strategy while introducing new mechanics that make combat more precise, immersive, and punishing. Humanity is on the brink of extinction due to the terrifying Pandoran virus, and it’s up to you to fight back against the odds. Before diving into this battle for survival, here are some key lessons I wish I knew before starting Phoenix Point.

Precision-Based Aiming: A Game-Changer

One of the biggest differences between Phoenix Point and its predecessors is the revamped aiming system. Instead of a random hit percentage, accuracy is determined by a reticle-based targeting system. The inner circle represents a 50% chance to hit, while the outer circle ensures a 100% probability of hitting somewhere within that area. Gone are the days when soldiers would frustratingly miss point-blank shots; now, distance and precision matter more than ever. Additionally, the ability to target specific limbs gives you a strategic edge—cripple an enemy’s head to disable abilities, or break their legs to limit mobility.

Mastering Combat Against Mind-Control Enemies

The Pandorans bring a terrifying challenge in the form of mind-control units. One of the biggest threats early on is the Siren, an enemy capable of mind-controlling multiple soldiers at once. The best way to counter them? Aim for the head. Destroying their cranial structure will disable their ability to control your troops. Similarly, smaller enemies like Mindfraggers latch onto soldiers and take control of them instantly. These facehugger-like creatures should be a priority target—either shoot them off with a pistol or have a nearby soldier bash them away to minimize casualties.

Exploiting Enemy Animations for the Perfect Shot

Here’s a lesser-known trick—enemies in Phoenix Point have idle animations, meaning their body parts move slightly while they’re standing. If you wait for the right moment before taking a first-person aimed shot, you can significantly improve your chances of hitting critical weak points. Activating an attack and waiting for an enemy to expose a vulnerable area before pulling the trigger can mean the difference between victory and disaster.

Save Scumming Is a Lifesaver

While some purists may scoff at the idea, save scumming is a legitimate strategy in Phoenix Point. Missions can turn south in an instant, and losing half your squad to an unexpected ambush is a devastating blow. To mitigate disaster, use multiple save slots. I recommend keeping one save for the global map (the Geoscape) and alternating between two saves during missions. This way, if things go horribly wrong, you can always rewind and approach a situation with a different strategy.

Breaking Free from XCOM Habits

If you’re coming from modern XCOM games, one habit to break immediately is how turns work. In XCOM, using a soldier’s weapon often ends their turn. Not so in Phoenix Point. The action point system is much more flexible, similar to time units from the original XCOM. You can move, shoot, and move again—all within the same turn. This opens up dynamic tactical opportunities, such as stepping out of cover, taking a shot, and retreating safely before the enemy can retaliate.

Understanding Cover and Line of Sight

Cover mechanics in Phoenix Point are not as intuitive as in other strategy games. Just because a soldier isn’t visually “bracing” against a wall doesn’t mean they aren’t protected. If they’re behind an obstacle and out of line of sight, they are safe. However, be mindful of the game’s fully destructible environments. A wall may offer protection one moment but can be blown apart the next. In contrast, standing slightly away from a cover piece can actually grant a wider overwatch cone, improving reactionary fire.

Attributes and Willpower Management

Your soldiers have three key attributes to manage:

• Strength: Affects health and carrying capacity.
• Speed: Determines movement range.
• Willpower: The most crucial stat, governing special abilities and resistance to panic.

If a soldier’s willpower drops to zero, they enter a panic state, losing control for a turn. To recover willpower mid-battle, you can eliminate enemies, use the ‘recover’ ability (at the cost of all actions for a turn), or capture strategic positions on the battlefield. Managing willpower is often the key to long-term success in drawn-out fights.

Explosives: A Must-Have in Your Arsenal

Explosives aren’t just about dealing damage; they are essential for stripping armor from tough enemies. As you progress, enemies will develop higher armor values, making standard weapons less effective. A well-placed grenade or rocket can expose weak spots for your team to exploit. Even when cover isn’t an issue, bringing some explosives along is never a bad idea.

The Ever-Changing Battlefield: Destructible Environments

One of the most unique aspects of Phoenix Point is its destructible terrain. While cover may seem like a solid defense, it can be shattered by enemy fire, leaving soldiers vulnerable. On the flip side, you can take advantage of this by shooting blindly through walls if you know an enemy is hiding behind them. Large enemies can even stomp through buildings, dramatically altering the battlefield.

Multiclassing for Ultimate Soldier Customization

At level 4, soldiers gain the ability to multiclass, allowing for deep customization. You can create versatile fighters, such as a Berserker-Heavy hybrid that combines high durability with devastating melee attacks. Another strong build is an Assault-Sniper combo, allowing for flexible long-range and mid-range combat. You don’t even have to wait for level-ups—Phoenix Project generates global skill points that can be distributed among soldiers as needed.

Geoscape Management and Exploration

Combat is only half the game—managing your operations on the Geoscape is just as important. Scouting is crucial, as each satellite relay allows you to perform area scans to discover new locations. Keep a dedicated transport ship scanning continuously, ensuring that you always have a path forward. This is particularly important for reaching distant objectives; without enough discovered waypoints, you might find yourself stranded without a route.

Base Management: Prioritizing Facilities

Expanding your bases is essential, but two facilities should always take priority: med bays and living quarters. Your squad needs time to recover between missions, and a lack of stamina or health can cripple your operations. Once you reclaim additional Phoenix Project bases, prioritize constructing these facilities first.

Factions: Choosing Your Allies Wisely

There are three major factions in Phoenix Point, each offering unique technologies and classes:

• Disciples of Anu: Berserkers and mutation-based enhancements.
• New Jericho: Heavy military tech and technicians.
• Synedrion: High-tech stealth and infiltrator units.

Building relationships with these factions unlocks powerful research options, equipment, and recruitment opportunities. But beware—favoring one faction too much can make enemies of the others, so choose your alliances carefully.

Final Thoughts

Phoenix Point is a deep and rewarding strategy game that offers immense tactical flexibility. By mastering aiming mechanics, willpower management, multiclassing, and effective base operations, you can maximize your squad’s effectiveness against the Pandoran threat. With these tips in mind, you’re now better equipped to take on this brutal challenge. Good luck, Commander—the fate of Earth is in your hands.