UFO Extraterrestrials is a turn-based strategy game that is often seen as a homage to the classic series, particularly the UFO: Enemy Unknown (also known as X-COM: UFO Defense). Set in a retro-futuristic world, players are tasked with defending Earth from an alien invasion. The gameplay combines tactical combat, base management, and resource management. Players engage in combat scenarios that require careful positioning of their units, tactical use of cover, and planning around the alien opponents' unique abilities and strengths. As the game unfolds, players recruit soldiers, research alien technology, and develop weapons to confront increasingly powerful extraterrestrial threats.
The game features a rich array of environments and scenarios, including urban landscapes, forests, and alien landscapes, which create varied tactical situations. Players must navigate through these diverse terrains while managing their squad's health, morale, and skills. The strategic depth is enhanced by a layered system of research and development, where players can unlock new technologies and abilities to aid them in their struggle. Despite being inspired by its predecessors, UFO Extraterrestrials offers a fresh take on the genre with features like customizable units and a storyline filled with intrigue, ensuring that both fans of classic strategy games and new players find compelling reasons to engage with its gameplay.