X-COM Style Tabletop Roleplaying: Tips and Tricks for a Thrilling Adventure



The X-COM series of video games has been a popular franchise for over two decades, known for its thrilling combination of strategy, resource management, and intense tactical combat. If you're a fan of the X-COM games and want to bring that same excitement to your tabletop roleplaying game, this article is for you. In this post, we'll explore some tips and tricks for running a tabletop roleplaying game in the style of the X-COM video games.


Establish a Base of Operations

The X-COM games are known for their base-building mechanics, where players must manage resources, research new technologies, and train their soldiers. In your tabletop game, you can recreate this by establishing a base of operations for your players. This could be a hidden bunker, a high-tech laboratory, or even a spaceship. The base should serve as a hub for the players, where they can rest, plan their next mission, and upgrade their equipment.


Manage Resources

In the X-COM games, resources are limited, and players must carefully manage them in order to succeed. You can recreate this by introducing resource management mechanics into your game. This could include managing supplies, ammunition, and medical equipment. Players should be encouraged to conserve their resources and use them wisely, as they may need them for future missions.


Introduce Tactical Combat

The X-COM games are known for their intense tactical combat, where players must carefully position their soldiers and make strategic decisions in order to succeed. You can recreate this by introducing tactical combat mechanics into your tabletop game. This could include using a grid-based system for movement and combat, introducing cover mechanics, and encouraging players to use teamwork and strategy in order to overcome their enemies.


Research New Technologies

One of the key features of the X-COM games is the ability to research new technologies, which can give players an edge in combat. You can recreate this by introducing a research mechanic into your game. Players should be able to research new weapons, armor, and other equipment, which can give them an advantage in combat. However, research should also take time and resources, so players must balance their research with their other responsibilities.


Create a Threatening Enemy

Finally, the X-COM games are known for their threatening and unpredictable enemies, such as the alien invaders in X-COM: Enemy Unknown. You can recreate this by creating a dangerous and unpredictable enemy for your players to face. This could be a group of aliens, a cult of supernatural beings, or any other type of threatening force. The enemy should be challenging and require players to use all of their skills and resources in order to defeat them.


In conclusion, running a tabletop roleplaying game in the style of the X-COM video games can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for both players and game masters. By following these tips and tricks, you can create an exciting and immersive game that captures the essence of the X-COM franchise. 

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