There's something about this game that make it stand out that bit more than others - its not just about base management, troop management and tactical combat. its the little things like the destructible terrain, and the effects thereof - you can go into an office complex to hunt the alien wierdos down, but if you go in with rocket launchers and incendiary rounds, the building owner is not going to look favourably on you (cf Team America!). You can burn the aliens out, or burn the building they're in down to the ground (this kills them too). But you can also harm your own troops with a accidentally thrown explosive grenade that takes out the stairs they're on. There's also nice touches like the civilians that run screaming when your paramilitary troops turn up to the shopping mall. And yes, the aliens (and you) can shoot them. This interaction make a difference. and the difficulty level increases well. just as you think you've got the upper hand, the new aliens or bigger guns turn up. I always found it got better just as I was winning. The tension is there too, your troops are vulnerable, the music starts to beat faster, the noises from the aliens appear and you know you're about to face fire from a force that can easily be bigger and better than you. Occasionally running away is the best tactic. and the aliens will attack you too - your base full of scientists suddenly gets invaded, you have issues getting them to safety. Add limited vehicle combat on the map, and its a winner. I would love to see it remade with better graphics and modern tools, and with all the features the original designers intended to add in (much more diplomacy at least apparently) but its a very good game in itself. Worth trying out if you've never played it.
