Inspired by classics like UFO: Enemy Unknown / XCOM - Archrebel Tactics gets MicroProse backing

Archrebel Tactics looks awesome if you're into challenging sci-fi strategy games, and now it has MicroProse backing it as publisher. Covered first here on GamingOnLinux back in June of 2024, it still has an early demo up on the itch page which has a Linux version. It's not clear if it will continue the Native Linux version for the full Steam release, but will likely run with Proton if not.

It's a retro-inspired, turn-based sci-fi strategy game set on the dangerous colony world of Kaprical. Drawing direct inspiration from legendary classics like Rebelstar (1986) and UFO: Enemy Unknown, Archrebel Tactics brings back grid-based, action-point-limited warfare with modern design twists and layered campaign choices. In the game you rally a resistance force to combat a secretive totalitarian faction that has seized control of the colonies. Through tactical battles, strategic decision-making, and encounters with alien wildlife, players will shape the fate of the planet — or perish trying.

Check out the new trailer:

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The developer mentioned how progress has been steadily ongoing since 2021 when they quit their job to work full time on it, but "after three years of intense work, my funds were nearly depleted, and a few ill-timed real-life events forced me to scale back to part-time development". Thankfully, MicroProse are financially backing it as publisher now so work continues towards release.

Game Highlights:

• Classic Turn-Based Combat – Grid-based battles with an action-point system inspired by Laser Squad and early X-COM, featuring expanded functionality such as multi-selection.
• Travel Mode Mechanics – The classic action-point system is enhanced with a travel mode that lets units cover large portions of terrain in a single turn, greatly improving the pace on larger maps.
• Player-Driven Campaign – Choose your mission order, face persistent consequences, and experience branching outcomes. Align with one of three factions to gain their unique benefits.
• Unit Customization & Progression – Expand your squad into a platoon, recruit new units, and construct, build, or even capture droids to fight at your side. Unlock and upgrade gear, and plan the class type and progression for each human unit.
• Partially Procedural Missions – No two battles are the same. Includes a standalone mission generator and a mission editor for endless replay value.
• Emphasis on Environment Destructibility – While enemy compounds have indestructible walls, the terrain itself is largely destructible. Use this to your advantage.
• Alien Threats – Deal with both hostile factions and the feral wildlife of Kaprical, including massive native behemoths and something else that has descended upon the colony.
• Retro Aesthetic, Modern Systems – Pixel-art visuals enhanced by bone-based animation, particles, and shaders.