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Difference between revisions of "X-COM: UFO Defense"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
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−
{{cleanup}}
+
{{Disambig|the original game|the reboot|[[XCOM: Enemy Unknown]]}}
 
{{Infobox game
 
{{Infobox game
 
|cover        = X-Com UFO Defense Box.jpg
 
|cover        = X-Com UFO Defense Box.jpg
Line 8: Line 8:
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|MicroProse}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|MicroProse}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Spectrum HoloByte|Japan}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Spectrum HoloByte|Japan}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Sold Out Software|Retail re-release}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|2K Games|Current}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|2K Games|Current}}
 +
|engines      =
 
|release dates=  
 
|release dates=  
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|DOS|March 1994}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|DOS|March 1994}}
−
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|September 4, 2008}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|1998}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|September 4, 2008|wrapper=DOSBox}}
 +
|reception    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|ufo-enemy-unknown--1|85}}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Turn-based }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | Bird's-eye view, Isometric }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Point and select }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | Strategy }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | Sci-fi }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series|X-COM}}
 
|steam appid  = 7760
 
|steam appid  = 7760
−
|gogcom page  =
+
|gogcom id    = 1445250340
 +
|hltb        = 11367
 +
|lutris      = x-com-ufo-defense
 +
|strategywiki = UFO: Enemy Unknown
 +
|mobygames    = 521
 
|wikipedia    = UFO: Enemy Unknown
 
|wikipedia    = UFO: Enemy Unknown
 
|winehq      = 4011
 
|winehq      = 4011
 +
|license      = commercial
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{Series|X-COM}}
 
  
−
'''Key points'''
+
{{Introduction
−
{{++}} Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] for many new features, which is also highly moddable.
+
|introduction      =
−
{{ii}} Also released as '''UFO: Enemy Unknown'''.
+
 
 +
|release history  =
 +
 
 +
|current state    =
 +
}}
  
 
'''General information'''
 
'''General information'''
−
{{mm}} [http://steamcommunity.com/app/7760/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
+
{{ii}} Also released as '''''UFO: Enemy Unknown''''' and '''''X-COM: Enemy Unknown'''''.
−
{{mm}} [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Main_Page UFOpaedia]
+
{{GOG.com links|1445250340|xcom_series|for game series}}
−
{{mm}} [http://openxcom.org/ OpenXcom]
+
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/7760/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
−
{{mm}} [http://www.openxcom.com/ OpenXcom Modding Database]
+
{{mm}} [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Main_Page UFOpaedia] - Wiki for the game.
 +
{{mm}} [http://www.strategycore.co.uk StrategyCore] - The largest and oldest community for the game.
 +
{{mm}} [http://www.xcomufo.com xcomufo.com] - Fan site with good FAQ and downloads.
 +
{{mm}} [http://openxcom.org OpenXcom]
  
 
==Availability==
 
==Availability==
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability|
−
{{Availability/row| Humble | xcom_completepack | DRM-free | The X-COM: Complete Pack includes: X-COM: Apocalypse, X-COM: Enforcer, X-COM: Interceptor, X-COM: Terror From the Deep, X-COM: UFO Defense.
+
{{Availability/row| Retail | | physical | Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] or [[DOSBox]]. Use [http://www.strategycore.co.uk/files/ufo-1.4/ UFO 1.4] to remove code prompts. | | DOS}}
−
| Steam | Windows}}
+
{{Availability/row| Retail | | unknown | Collector's Edition | | Windows }}
−
{{Availability/row| Steam | 7760 | Steam | Runs the game via DOSBox; Comes with installation | | Windows}}
+
{{Availability/row| Gamesplanet | 3253-1 | Steam |  |  | Windows }}
−
{{Availability/row| Retail | | unknown | Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] or [[DOSBox]]. | | Windows}}
+
{{Availability/row| GOG.com | xcom_ufo_defense | DRM-free | DOS 1.4 pre-packed with [[DOSBox]] | | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| GMG | x-com-ufo-defense | Steam |  |  | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Humble | xcom-complete-pack | DRM-free | Included in X-COM: Complete Pack, with [[X-COM: Terror from the Deep]], [[X-COM: Apocalypse]], [[X-COM: Interceptor]] and [[X-COM: Enforcer]]. | Steam | Windows}}
 +
{{Availability/row| Steam | 7760 | Steam | Includes both DOS 1.4 and CE merged together; DOS runs though [[DOSBox]] | | Windows}}
 +
{{Availability/row| Gamersgate | x-com-ufo-defense | Steam | | | Windows | unavailable }}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{ii}} A free demo version is available from [https://archive.org/details/XCOMUFODefense_1020 Archive.org].
 +
 +
===Version differences===
 +
{{ii}} The US version (UFO Defense) comes pre-patched to version 1.2.
 +
{{ii}} The '''Collectors Edition''' ("Gold") is Windows native and, thus, won't run in DOS. It also is fully patched to 1.4 and has the difficulty and hanger split in half bugs fixed but introduces the blaster bomb bug and base facility dismantle-construction crash.<ref name="Bugs">[http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Known_Bugs X-COM Wiki - Known Bugs]</ref>
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 +
{{cleanup|Section|Abbreviate.}}
 +
{{ii}} The following tweaks are only available by using OpenXcom.
  
−
{{ii}} The following tweaks are only available by using OpenXcom.
 
 
===[http://openxcom.org OpenXcom]===
 
===[http://openxcom.org OpenXcom]===
−
{{++}} An open-source, multi platform remake with various improvements.<ref>[http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Differences_to_X-COM_(OpenXcom) X-COM Wiki - Differences to X-COM (OpenXcom)]</ref><ref>[http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Known_Bugs X-COM Wiki - Known Bugs]</ref>
+
{{++}} An open-source, multi platform remake with various improvements.<ref>[http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Differences_to_X-COM_(OpenXcom) X-COM Wiki - Differences to X-COM (OpenXcom)]</ref><ref name="Bugs" />
 
{{++}} Unlimited save games support, along with native widescreen support and proper audio formats.
 
{{++}} Unlimited save games support, along with native widescreen support and proper audio formats.
 
{{++}} DOSBox no longer required, simply copy the new OpenXcom files where the main executable is located or use the provided installer.
 
{{++}} DOSBox no longer required, simply copy the new OpenXcom files where the main executable is located or use the provided installer.
  
−
===Skip intro videos===
+
====Skip intro videos====
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Skip Intro|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Skip Intro}}
+
# Go to the '''Options''' menu and then go to '''Advanced'''.
−
# Navigate to the '''Options''' menu and then go to '''Advanced'''.
 
 
# Uncheck '''Play intro'''.
 
# Uncheck '''Play intro'''.
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
===Track Steam playtime===
+
====Track Steam playtime====
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Instructions|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Instructions}}
+
# Go to <code>{{p|game}}\X-Com UFO Defense\XCOM\</code>
−
# Navigate to <code>{{p|game}}\X-Com UFO Defense\XCOM</code>
 
 
# Rename <code>dosbox.exe</code> to something else, then rename <code>OpenXcom.exe</code> to <code>dosbox.exe</code>
 
# Rename <code>dosbox.exe</code> to something else, then rename <code>OpenXcom.exe</code> to <code>dosbox.exe</code>
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
===[http://www.openxcom.com/mod/amiga-psx-fonts Amiga/PSX Fonts]===
+
===Original MS-DOS and CE===
−
{{++}} Great for enhanching the readability.
+
====Patches====
−
 
+
{{ii}} [http://www.strategycore.co.uk/files/ufo-1.4/ UFO 1.4] updates the game to the latest version and removes the copy protection. Digital versions come pre-updated making this unnecessary on them.
−
===MS-DOS===
+
{{ii}} [http://www.strategycore.co.uk/forums/topic/8908-ufo-ai-patch/ AI Patch] unofficial patch that fixes several bugs in the enemy AI making them more effective. Warning to new players: makes the game more difficult. If you're on CE and using UFO Extender then this fix is unnecessary as it already includes one of its own.
−
====Run in DOSBox====
+
{{ii}} [http://www.strategycore.co.uk/files/polar-mcd-footstep-fix-ce-version/ Polar Terrain Footstep Fix] reintroduces the snow footstep sound on the polar terrain that was broken in patch 1.4; works on CE and somewhat untested on DOS.
−
To improve DOSBox performance make the following changes to the DOSBox configuration file:
 
−
* Change <code>output=surface</code> to <code>output=opengl</code>
 
−
* Change <code>memsize=16</code> to <code>memsize=64</code>
 
−
* Change <code>cycles=auto</code> to <code>cycles=auto limit 10000</code>
 
  
−
====Run with UFO Extender plus XcomUtil====
+
{{Fixbox|description=Run with UFO Extender plus XcomUtil|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150606223239/http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1358365&page=2|title=X-COM Util+UFO Extender?|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 +
{{ii}} UFO Extender is CE version only. XcomUtil however works on both versions. If you only have the DOS version you can replace some of UFO Extender's functionality with [https://www.ufopaedia.org/index.php/User:Spike#Base_Fixer BaseFixer]: info on getting Python working in DOSBox is available [http://www.strategycore.co.uk/forums/topic/11331-java-python-in-dosbox/ here] and a modified linker for XcomUtil 9.7+ integration can be found [https://pastebin.com/HpgtTLwY here].
 
The [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=UFOextender UFO Extender] program runs on the Windows version, providing a mouse-resizable window, a smoother-running, more responsive screen than DOSBox, and a host of fixes for various bugs or exploits in the game.. It also supports the use of higher-quality .mp3 music from the PlayStation release, and keyboard shortcuts. [http://www.bladefirelight.com/ XcomUtil] provides bug fixes, including for the disjointed-base bug, and additional ease-of-use features like the automatic re-equipping of soldiers before a mission and appending rank and stat info to soldier names.
 
The [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=UFOextender UFO Extender] program runs on the Windows version, providing a mouse-resizable window, a smoother-running, more responsive screen than DOSBox, and a host of fixes for various bugs or exploits in the game.. It also supports the use of higher-quality .mp3 music from the PlayStation release, and keyboard shortcuts. [http://www.bladefirelight.com/ XcomUtil] provides bug fixes, including for the disjointed-base bug, and additional ease-of-use features like the automatic re-equipping of soldiers before a mission and appending rank and stat info to soldier names.
  
Line 79: Line 112:
  
 
# Install X-COM. If installing from CD, make sure it is a full installation.
 
# Install X-COM. If installing from CD, make sure it is a full installation.
−
# Download the UFO Extender loader "UFOLoader.zip", available at [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=File:UFOLoader.zip this Ufopaedia page], and extract it directly to the folder "XCOM", which is inside the base install folder (e.g. "Xcom UFO Defense") in distributions with DOSBox.
+
# Download the UFO Extender loader "UFOLoader.zip", available at [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=File:UFOLoader.zip this Ufopaedia page], and extract it directly to the folder "XCOM", which is inside the base installation folder (e.g. "Xcom UFO Defense") in distributions with DOSBox.
−
# In the "XCOM" folder open the file "UFOExtender.ini" with Notepad, find the line "D3D=0" and change it to "D3D=1" and change the value of "D3D Windowed" from 0 to 1. Save and close the modified .ini file.
+
# In the "XCOM" folder open {{file|UFOExtender.ini}}, find "D3D=0" and change it to "D3D=1" and change the value of "D3D Windowed" from 0 to 1. Save and close the modified .ini file.
−
#*On Windows 7 and Vista, you'll only be able to run this mod combo in a window. It will launch work once in fullscreen, and not again subsequently. (The window can be maximized though.)
+
#*On Windows 7 and Vista, you'll only be able to run this mod combo in a window. It will launch work once in fullscreen, and not again subsequently (The window can be maximized though).{{cn|date=July 2016}}
 
#*If you do not wish to install XcomUtil as well, stop here, and you may run the game by launching "UFOLoader.exe" in the "XCOM" folder.
 
#*If you do not wish to install XcomUtil as well, stop here, and you may run the game by launching "UFOLoader.exe" in the "XCOM" folder.
−
# Download the XcomUtil install file, currently "XcomUtil 9.7 Beta-442.exe", available at the downloads page at [http://www.bladefirelight.com/ Bladefirelight.com]. Run this file, again directly selecting the "XCOM" folder as the install location. If unavailable, use [http://www.somesingawful.com/supsuper/stuff/XcomUtil%209.7%20Beta-442.zip this .zip file] for build 442, extract it into the XCOM folder, and then run XcuSetup.bat.
+
# Download the XcomUtil install file, currently "XcomUtil 9.7 Beta-442.exe", available at the downloads page at [http://www.bladefirelight.com/ Bladefirelight.com]. Run this file, again directly selecting the "XCOM" folder as the install location. If unavailable, use [https://sites.google.com/site/bladefirelight/download this .zip file] for build 442, extract it into the XCOM folder, and then run XcuSetup.bat.
 
# XcomUtil setup should now be running in a cmd.exe window. If the cmd.exe screen appears blank, right-click on its title bar and select Properties. Under the Colors tab set "Screen Text" to a contrasting color from "Screen Background".
 
# XcomUtil setup should now be running in a cmd.exe window. If the cmd.exe screen appears blank, right-click on its title bar and select Properties. Under the Colors tab set "Screen Text" to a contrasting color from "Screen Background".
 
# When asked if you wish to configure XcomUtil now, enter "yes" and allow the program to run.
 
# When asked if you wish to configure XcomUtil now, enter "yes" and allow the program to run.
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#*Do not run the file "xcomutil.exe" to launch the game. It will not work outside DOS or DOSBox. Xcomutil.exe simply provides a launch menu, with options for running the Xcomutil setup and the X-COM sound programs.
 
#*Do not run the file "xcomutil.exe" to launch the game. It will not work outside DOS or DOSBox. Xcomutil.exe simply provides a launch menu, with options for running the Xcomutil setup and the X-COM sound programs.
 
# Set additional UFO Extender options as you see fit by altering UFOextender.ini with Notepad. Information can be found [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=UFOextender here]. In the provided download, all options are off by default, including enhancements that do not affect gameplay. You may enable Geoscape and Battlescape keyboard shortcuts and the stat display on the equip screen by setting the appropriate "Apply" values from 0 to 1, and set the keyboard shortcuts.
 
# Set additional UFO Extender options as you see fit by altering UFOextender.ini with Notepad. Information can be found [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=UFOextender here]. In the provided download, all options are off by default, including enhancements that do not affect gameplay. You may enable Geoscape and Battlescape keyboard shortcuts and the stat display on the equip screen by setting the appropriate "Apply" values from 0 to 1, and set the keyboard shortcuts.
−
# To use the enhanced music from the PlayStation version of the game, download the appropriate .mp3 files found [http://www.xcomufo.com/x1music.html here] (right-click and select to save the links). Place them together in a new folder inside your XCOM folder. Name the new folder "mp3". Open "UFOExtender.ini" with Notepad and under the "Music" heading set "Apply" from 0 to 1. Set the track names to match those in the new mp3 folder. The .ini file should appear similar to the excerpt below. The PlayStation files include additional Geoscape music; you may choose to set up different tracks:  
+
# To use the enhanced music from the PlayStation version of the game, download the appropriate .mp3 files found [http://www.xcomufo.com/x1music.html here] (right-click and select to save the links). Place them together in a new folder inside your XCOM folder. Name the new folder "mp3". Open "UFOExtender.ini" with Notepad and under the "Music" heading set "Apply" from 0 to 1. Set the track names to match those in the new mp3 folder. The .ini file should appear similar to the excerpt below. The PlayStation files include additional Geoscape music; you may choose to set up different tracks:
 +
}}
 
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable"  
 
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable"  
 
! UFOExtender.ini suggested music settings
 
! UFOExtender.ini suggested music settings
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</pre>
 
</pre>
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
====[http://dos32a.narechk.net/index_en.html DOS/32A]====
 +
DOS/32A is a more advanced extender and open source replacement to DOS4GW. It can improve both performance and stability of X-COM.
 +
{{ii}} It is recommended to turn off the extender's warning messages with its included ''ss.exe'' as they can be rather annoying and show up often when transitioning from geoscape to tactical mode.
 +
 +
====Run in DOSBox====
 +
To improve DOSBox performance make the following changes to the DOSBox configuration file:
 +
* Change <code>output=surface</code> to <code>output=opengl</code>
 +
* Change <code>memsize=16</code> to <code>memsize=64</code>
 +
* Change <code>cycles=auto</code> to <code>cycles=auto limit 10000</code>
 +
* Change <code>prebuffer=20</code> to <code>prebuffer=10</code>
 +
 +
====Enabling GUS music====
 +
UFOPedia has an excellent article on this [http://www.ufopaedia.org/index.php/GUS_Music_in_Dosbox here].
  
 
==Game data==
 
==Game data==
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
−
====Original release====
 
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
−
{{Game data/row|DOS|}}
+
{{Game data/config|DOS|{{p|game}}\sound\sound.cfg}}
−
{{Game data/row|Windows|}}
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|}}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{ii}} XcomUtil stores it's config info inside a file called ''xcomutil.cfg''
 +
{{ii}} UFO Extender stores it's config info inside a file called ''UFOExtender.ini''
 +
{{ii}} OpenXcom stores data in <code>{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\OpenXcom\</code> on Windows and <code>{{P|xdgdatahome}}/openxcom/data</code> on Linux.
  
−
====[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]====
+
===Save game data location===
−
{{ii}} Multiple paths are available.
 
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
−
{{Game data/row|Windows|{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\OpenXcom\}}
+
{{Game data/saves|DOS|{{p|userprofile}}\game_*\}}
−
{{Game data/row|Linux|{{P|xdgdatahome}}/openxcom/data}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|}}
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{XDG|true}}
+
{{ii}} <code>missdat\</code> folder stores temporary data related to current active save game.
  
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
−
|origin               =  
+
|discord                  =
−
|origin notes         =  
+
|discord notes            =
−
|steam cloud           = false
+
|epic games launcher      =
−
|steam cloud notes    =  
+
|epic games launcher notes =
−
|uplay                =  
+
|gog galaxy                = true
−
|uplay notes           =  
+
|gog galaxy notes          =
 +
|origin                   =  
 +
|origin notes             =  
 +
|steam cloud               = false
 +
|steam cloud notes        =
 +
|ubisoft connect          =
 +
|ubisoft connect notes    =  
 +
|xbox cloud                =  
 +
|xbox cloud notes         =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Video settings==
+
==Video==
 
{{Image|OpenXcom Video Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game video settings.}}
 
{{Image|OpenXcom Video Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game video settings.}}
−
{{Video settings
+
{{Video
 
|wsgf link                  =  
 
|wsgf link                  =  
 
|widescreen wsgf award      =  
 
|widescreen wsgf award      =  
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|4k ultra hd wsgf award    =  
 
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    =  
 
|widescreen resolution      = hackable
 
|widescreen resolution      = hackable
−
|widescreen resolution notes= Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]. Click on the resolution box to input a custom resolution.
+
|widescreen resolution notes= Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]. Click on the resolution box to input the resolution.
−
|multimonitor              = unknown
+
|multimonitor              = false
 
|multimonitor notes        =  
 
|multimonitor notes        =  
−
|ultrawidescreen            = unknown
+
|ultrawidescreen            = false
 
|ultrawidescreen notes      =  
 
|ultrawidescreen notes      =  
−
|4k ultra hd                = unknown
+
|4k ultra hd                = false
 
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
 
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
 
|fov                        = n/a
 
|fov                        = n/a
 
|fov notes                  =  
 
|fov notes                  =  
−
|windowed                  = hackable
+
|windowed                  = true
−
|windowed notes            = {{key|Alt|Enter}} with [[DOSBox]]. Native with [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
+
|windowed notes            = Toggle with {{key|Alt|Enter}} when using [[DOSBox]]. Hackable on CE with [[#Run with UFO Extender plus XcomUtil|UFO Extender]]. Native with [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
|borderless windowed        = hackable
 
|borderless windowed        = hackable
 
|borderless windowed notes  = Natively included in [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
|borderless windowed notes  = Natively included in [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
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|antialiasing              = n/a
 
|antialiasing              = n/a
 
|antialiasing notes        =  
 
|antialiasing notes        =  
 +
|upscaling                  = unknown
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 
|vsync                      = hackable
 
|vsync                      = hackable
 
|vsync notes                = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]. A frame rate cap can be set in the '''Advanced''' menu.
 
|vsync notes                = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]. A frame rate cap can be set in the '''Advanced''' menu.
Line 180: Line 240:
 
|120 fps                    = hackable
 
|120 fps                    = hackable
 
|120 fps notes              = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
|120 fps notes              = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 +
|hdr                        = unknown
 +
|hdr notes                  =
 
|color blind                = unknown
 
|color blind                = unknown
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Input settings==
+
==Input==
 
{{++}} Every key is by default already mapped when using [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
{{++}} Every key is by default already mapped when using [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
{{Image|OpenXcom Input Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game input settings.}}
 
{{Image|OpenXcom Input Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game input settings.}}
−
{{Input settings
+
{{Input
 
|key remap                = hackable
 
|key remap                = hackable
 
|key remap notes          = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
|key remap notes          = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
Line 198: Line 260:
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes = In the '''Advanced''' menu, under '''Geoscape'''.
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes = In the '''Advanced''' menu, under '''Geoscape'''.
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 
|controller support        = false
 
|controller support        = false
 
|controller support notes  =  
 
|controller support notes  =  
Line 208: Line 272:
 
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
−
|touchscreen               = unknown
+
|xinput controllers        = unknown
−
|touchscreen notes        =  
+
|xinput controllers notes  =
−
|button prompts           = unknown
+
|xbox prompts              = unknown
−
|button prompts notes     =  
+
|xbox prompts notes        =
 +
|impulse triggers          = unknown
 +
|impulse triggers notes    =
 +
|dualshock 4               = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 notes        =
 +
|dualshock prompts        = unknown
 +
|dualshock prompts notes  =
 +
|light bar support        = unknown
 +
|light bar support notes  =
 +
|dualshock 4 modes        = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 modes notes  =
 +
|tracked motion controllers= unknown
 +
|tracked motion controllers notes =
 +
|tracked motion prompts    = unknown
 +
|tracked motion prompts notes =
 +
|other controllers         = unknown
 +
|other controllers notes  =  
 +
|other button prompts     = unknown
 +
|other button prompts notes=  
 
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 
|controller hotplug notes  =  
 
|controller hotplug notes  =  
 
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 
|haptic feedback notes    =  
 
|haptic feedback notes    =  
−
|light bar support        = unknown
+
|simultaneous input        = unknown
−
|light bar support notes   =  
+
|simultaneous input notes  =
 +
|steam input api          = unknown
 +
|steam input api notes    =
 +
|steam hook input          = unknown
 +
|steam hook input notes    =
 +
|steam input presets      = unknown
 +
|steam input presets notes =
 +
|steam controller prompts  = unknown
 +
|steam controller prompts notes =
 +
|steam cursor detection    = unknown
 +
|steam cursor detection notes =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Audio settings==
+
==Audio==
 
{{Image|OpenXcom Audio Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game audio settings.}}
 
{{Image|OpenXcom Audio Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game audio settings.}}
−
{{Audio settings
+
{{Audio
−
|separate volume          = true
+
|separate volume          = hackable
−
|separate volume notes    =  
+
|separate volume notes    = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
|surround sound          = hackable
 
|surround sound          = hackable
 
|surround sound notes    = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
|surround sound notes    = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
Line 235: Line 327:
 
|eax support              =  
 
|eax support              =  
 
|eax support notes        =  
 
|eax support notes        =  
 +
|general midi audio      = true
 +
|general midi audio notes =
 +
|red book cd audio        = false
 +
|red book cd audio notes  = PS1 port only. Tracks can be hacked in on CE with [[#Run with UFO Extender plus XcomUtil|UFO Extender]].
 +
|royalty free audio      = always on
 +
|royalty free audio notes =
 
}}
 
}}
−
 
+
{{ii}} Use keyboard plus and minus ({{key|+}} and {{key|-}}) to adjust music volume in DOS version.
−
{{ii}} The original release only shipped with the English language.  
 
 
{{L10n|content=
 
{{L10n|content=
 +
{{ii}} The original release only shipped with the English language.
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = English
 
  |language  = English
Line 244: Line 342:
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |subtitles = true
 
  |subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = A patch to add US style spelling (verses UK) is available [http://www.strategycore.co.uk/files/american-english-text-patch/ here].
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
−
  |language  = Italian
+
  |language  = French
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
Line 252: Line 351:
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
−
  |language  = French
+
  |language  = German
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
Line 258: Line 357:
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
−
  |language  = German
+
  |language  = Italian
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |subtitles = true
 
  |subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Use the [http://www.xcomufo.com/x1italy.exe Italian Language patch]. Replaces French.
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Russian
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|notes    = 1) Use the [http://openxcom.org/downloads-milestones/ OpenXcom].<br>2) Fan translation by «UFODefense.narod.ru» for original, [http://ufodefense.narod.ru/files/index.html download]
 +
|fan      = true
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 268: Line 376:
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |subtitles = true
 
  |subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Use the [http://traducciones.clandlan.net/index.php?page=academia%2Fsearch&search=XCom%3A+Ufo+Defense Spanish Translation patch].
 
}}
 
}}
 +
}}
 +
 +
==Network==
 +
{{Network/Multiplayer
 +
|local play          = hackable
 +
|local play players  = 2
 +
|local play modes    = Versus
 +
|local play notes    = Hotseat. Requires XcomUtil; a tutorial explaining the process can be found [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oi8L53NW2Qs here]. A batch to simplify the process can also be found [http://freelancer.ag.ru/cgi-bin/freelancer/download/load.cgi?/gamearchive/download/multip.zip here] (direct link).
 +
|lan play            = hackable
 +
|lan play players    = 2
 +
|lan play modes      = Versus
 +
|lan play notes      = Use the above method, but also requires passing save files around between computers (physical media or email, ect). Alternatively use the [http://ufo2000.sourceforge.net UFO 2000 Mod] ([[Windows]] only).
 +
|online play          = hackable
 +
|online play players  = 2
 +
|online play modes    = Versus
 +
|online play notes    = See note above.
 +
|asynchronous        =
 +
|asynchronous notes  =
 +
}}{{Network/Connections
 +
|matchmaking        =
 +
|matchmaking notes  =
 +
|p2p                =
 +
|p2p notes          =
 +
|dedicated          =
 +
|dedicated notes    =
 +
|self-hosting      =
 +
|self-hosting notes =
 +
|direct ip          =
 +
|direct ip notes    =
 +
}}{{Network/Ports
 +
|tcp  =
 +
|udp  =
 +
|upnp =
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 274: Line 416:
 
{{++}} Almost every single major [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Known_Bugs bug] has been fixed in [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
{{++}} Almost every single major [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Known_Bugs bug] has been fixed in [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 
===Difficulty bug===
 
===Difficulty bug===
−
The original DOS version of the game has a bug which would run the game at the Beginner difficulty regardless of what the player actually selected. This bug went undetected until before the release of the sequel, at which time it was patched. The complaints regarding the game being too easy even at the highest difficulty setting led to the sequel's difficulty being scaled up so much that it's easiest difficulty was harder than the intended hardest difficulty for this game. The patch is included in the Steam version.
+
The original DOS version of the game has a bug that would cause the game to play at the Beginner difficulty regardless of what the chosen difficulty. This bug went undetected until the Collector's Edition was released. The complaints regarding the game being too easy even at the highest difficulty setting led to the sequel's difficulty being scaled up so much that its easiest difficulty was harder than the intended hardest difficulty for this game. If using the DOS version, XcomUtil also patches this bug.
 +
 
 +
===Game hang when attempting to use the MT-32 in version 1.4 (DOS)===
 +
Apparently certain 1.4 versions of the game shipped without an updated MT-32 driver causing the game to choke when attempting to load it. Use [https://www.vogons.org/viewtopic.php?t=21542l&start=32 this patch] and place it in the ''sound\'' folder. Overwrite if necessary.
 +
 
 +
==Other information==
 +
===API===
 +
{{API
 +
|direct3d versions      = hackable
 +
|direct3d notes        = Hackable on CE with [[#Run with UFO Extender plus XcomUtil|UFO Extender]].
 +
|directdraw versions    = true
 +
|directdraw notes      = CE/Gold version only.
 +
|opengl versions        = hackable
 +
|opengl notes          = [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] only.
 +
|glide versions        =
 +
|glide notes            =
 +
|software mode          =
 +
|software mode notes    =
 +
|mantle support        =
 +
|mantle support notes  =
 +
|metal support          =
 +
|metal support notes    =
 +
|vulkan versions        =
 +
|vulkan notes          =
 +
|dos modes              = VGA
 +
|dos modes notes        = SVGA compatible.
 +
|shader model versions  =
 +
|shader model notes    =
 +
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 +
|windows 64-bit exe    = unknown
 +
|windows arm app        = unknown
 +
|windows exe notes      =
 +
|mac os x powerpc app  = hackable
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app = unknown
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app = hackable
 +
|macos arm app          = false
 +
|macos app notes        = Requires OpenXcom. Downloadable builds were discontinued after July 2018.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://openxcom.org/forum/index.php/topic,5288.0.html|title=OSX App 10.9+ Nightly Dev 20180720|date=30 January 2022}}</ref> An experimental PowerPC build was published in October 2020.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://openxcom.org/forum/index.php/topic,8638.0.html|title=OpenXcom 1.0 for PowerPC on Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard|date=30 January 2022}}</ref>
 +
|linux powerpc app      = hackable
 +
|linux 32-bit executable= hackable
 +
|linux 64-bit executable= hackable
 +
|linux arm app          = hackable
 +
|linux executable notes = Requires OpenXcom.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://pkgs.org/search/?q=openxcom|title=Search Results for openxcom|date=30 January 2022}}</ref>
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Middleware===
 +
{{Middleware
 +
|physics          =
 +
|physics notes    =
 +
|audio            = DIGPAK/MIDPAK
 +
|audio notes      = CE instead uses dsound.
 +
|interface        =
 +
|interface notes  =
 +
|input            =
 +
|input notes      =
 +
|cutscenes        =
 +
|cutscenes notes  =
 +
|multiplayer      =
 +
|multiplayer notes=
 +
}}
  
 
==System requirements==
 
==System requirements==
Line 293: Line 493:
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
{{references}}
+
{{References}}

Latest revision as of 20:50, 20 October 2023

This page is for the original game. For the reboot, see XCOM: Enemy Unknown.

X-COM: UFO Defense
X-COM: UFO Defense cover
Developers
Mythos Games
MicroProse
Publishers
MicroProse
Japan Spectrum HoloByte
Retail re-release Sold Out Software
Current 2K Games
Release dates
DOS March 1994
Windows 1998
Windows (DOSBox) September 4, 2008
Reception
IGDB 85
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase
Modes Singleplayer
Pacing Turn-based
Perspectives Bird's-eye view, Isometric
Controls Point and select
Genres Strategy
Themes Sci-fi
Series X-COM
Icon overlay.png
X-COM: UFO Defense on HowLongToBeat
X-COM: UFO Defense on IGDB
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
X-COM: UFO Defense guide on StrategyWiki
X-COM: UFO Defense on MobyGames
X-COM: UFO Defense on Wikipedia
Icon overlay.png
X-COM
X-COM: UFO Defense 1994
X-COM: Terror from the Deep 1995
X-COM: Apocalypse 1997
X-COM: Interceptor 1998
X-COM: Email games 1999
X-COM: Enforcer 2001
XCOM: Enemy Unknown 2012
The Bureau: XCOM Declassified 2013
XCOM 2 2016
XCOM: Chimera Squad 2020

X-COM: UFO Defense is a singleplayer bird's-eye view and isometric strategy game in the X-COM series.

General information

Also released as UFO: Enemy Unknown and X-COM: Enemy Unknown.
GOG.com Community Discussions for game series
GOG.com Support Page
Steam Community Discussions
UFOpaedia - Wiki for the game.
StrategyCore - The largest and oldest community for the game.
xcomufo.com - Fan site with good FAQ and downloads.
OpenXcom

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Prompts for answers from manual, code wheel, etc.
 Use OpenXcom or DOSBox. Use UFO 1.4 to remove code prompts.
DOS
Retail
DRM details are not known
 Collector's Edition
Windows
Gamesplanet logo.svg
Icon overlay.png
Windows
GOG.com
DRM-free
 DOS 1.4 pre-packed with DOSBox
Windows
Green Man Gaming
Icon overlay.png
Windows
Humble Store
DRM-free
 Included in X-COM: Complete Pack, with X-COM: Terror from the Deep, X-COM: Apocalypse, X-COM: Interceptor and X-COM: Enforcer.
Icon overlay.png
Windows
Steam
Icon overlay.png
 Includes both DOS 1.4 and CE merged together; DOS runs though DOSBox
Windows
GamersGate (unavailable)
Icon overlay.png
Windows
A free demo version is available from Archive.org.

Version differences

The US version (UFO Defense) comes pre-patched to version 1.2.
The Collectors Edition ("Gold") is Windows native and, thus, won't run in DOS. It also is fully patched to 1.4 and has the difficulty and hanger split in half bugs fixed but introduces the blaster bomb bug and base facility dismantle-construction crash.[1]

Essential improvements

This section may require cleanup to meet basic quality standards. The specific problem is: Abbreviate.. You can help by modifying the article. The discussion page may contain useful suggestions.
The following tweaks are only available by using OpenXcom.

OpenXcom

An open-source, multi platform remake with various improvements.[2][1]
Unlimited save games support, along with native widescreen support and proper audio formats.
DOSBox no longer required, simply copy the new OpenXcom files where the main executable is located or use the provided installer.

Skip intro videos

Skip Intro[citation needed]
  1. Go to the Options menu and then go to Advanced.
  2. Uncheck Play intro.

Track Steam playtime

Instructions[citation needed]
  1. Go to <path-to-game>\X-Com UFO Defense\XCOM\
  2. Rename dosbox.exe to something else, then rename OpenXcom.exe to dosbox.exe

Original MS-DOS and CE

Patches

UFO 1.4 updates the game to the latest version and removes the copy protection. Digital versions come pre-updated making this unnecessary on them.
AI Patch unofficial patch that fixes several bugs in the enemy AI making them more effective. Warning to new players: makes the game more difficult. If you're on CE and using UFO Extender then this fix is unnecessary as it already includes one of its own.
Polar Terrain Footstep Fix reintroduces the snow footstep sound on the polar terrain that was broken in patch 1.4; works on CE and somewhat untested on DOS.
Run with UFO Extender plus XcomUtil[3]
UFO Extender is CE version only. XcomUtil however works on both versions. If you only have the DOS version you can replace some of UFO Extender's functionality with BaseFixer: info on getting Python working in DOSBox is available here and a modified linker for XcomUtil 9.7+ integration can be found here.

The UFO Extender program runs on the Windows version, providing a mouse-resizable window, a smoother-running, more responsive screen than DOSBox, and a host of fixes for various bugs or exploits in the game.. It also supports the use of higher-quality .mp3 music from the PlayStation release, and keyboard shortcuts. XcomUtil provides bug fixes, including for the disjointed-base bug, and additional ease-of-use features like the automatic re-equipping of soldiers before a mission and appending rank and stat info to soldier names.

Both also offer many gameplay modifications such as enhanced weaponry, different starting-base layouts, and randomized terrain and UFO layouts. These are all optional and turned off by default.

The programs are confirmed to run on Windows 7 as well as older operating systems, and with the Steam release.

XcomUtil supports the UFOExtender launcher, but assumes the use of DOS or DOSBox at several points in the installation process, so specific steps are required to run them simultaneously:

  1. Install X-COM. If installing from CD, make sure it is a full installation.
  2. Download the UFO Extender loader "UFOLoader.zip", available at this Ufopaedia page, and extract it directly to the folder "XCOM", which is inside the base installation folder (e.g. "Xcom UFO Defense") in distributions with DOSBox.
  3. In the "XCOM" folder open UFOExtender.ini, find "D3D=0" and change it to "D3D=1" and change the value of "D3D Windowed" from 0 to 1. Save and close the modified .ini file.
    • On Windows 7 and Vista, you'll only be able to run this mod combo in a window. It will launch work once in fullscreen, and not again subsequently (The window can be maximized though).[citation needed]
    • If you do not wish to install XcomUtil as well, stop here, and you may run the game by launching "UFOLoader.exe" in the "XCOM" folder.
  4. Download the XcomUtil install file, currently "XcomUtil 9.7 Beta-442.exe", available at the downloads page at Bladefirelight.com. Run this file, again directly selecting the "XCOM" folder as the install location. If unavailable, use this .zip file for build 442, extract it into the XCOM folder, and then run XcuSetup.bat.
  5. XcomUtil setup should now be running in a cmd.exe window. If the cmd.exe screen appears blank, right-click on its title bar and select Properties. Under the Colors tab set "Screen Text" to a contrasting color from "Screen Background".
  6. When asked if you wish to configure XcomUtil now, enter "yes" and allow the program to run.
    • XcomUtil setup may also ask Steam users if they wish to use XcomUtil when X-COM is launched from Steam. However, launching from within Steam will still launch DOSBox instead of the UFO Extender launcher, so select "no". You cannot launch with UFO Extender from Steam's menu.
  7. On the screen that says "Windows 7/Vista has Issues displaying DOS/Win. On startup you get a blank screen..." enter "no" to decline installing the patch suggested.
  8. Enter "yes" when asked if you wish to enable the use of UFO Extender when you launch the game.
  9. Continue answering the rest of the prompts with the options you prefer. If you do not wish to change gameplay, you can still enable the re-equipping of soldiers before each battle with their last set of items, and the automatic addition of useful information to soldier name strings after battles. Info on all the options can be found in the "XcomUtil.txt" file in the "XComUtil" folder.
  10. If you want to change these options, run setup again by launching "XcuSetup.bat" in the "XCOM" folder. You can also do this after starting a game.
  11. You may now launch the game by running "RunXCom.bat" (not "XCOM.bat") in the "XCOM" folder.
    • If you are running Steam do not launch X-COM directly from its menu.
    • Do not run the file "xcomutil.exe" to launch the game. It will not work outside DOS or DOSBox. Xcomutil.exe simply provides a launch menu, with options for running the Xcomutil setup and the X-COM sound programs.
  12. Set additional UFO Extender options as you see fit by altering UFOextender.ini with Notepad. Information can be found here. In the provided download, all options are off by default, including enhancements that do not affect gameplay. You may enable Geoscape and Battlescape keyboard shortcuts and the stat display on the equip screen by setting the appropriate "Apply" values from 0 to 1, and set the keyboard shortcuts.
  13. To use the enhanced music from the PlayStation version of the game, download the appropriate .mp3 files found here (right-click and select to save the links). Place them together in a new folder inside your XCOM folder. Name the new folder "mp3". Open "UFOExtender.ini" with Notepad and under the "Music" heading set "Apply" from 0 to 1. Set the track names to match those in the new mp3 folder. The .ini file should appear similar to the excerpt below. The PlayStation files include additional Geoscape music; you may choose to set up different tracks:
UFOExtender.ini suggested music settings 
[Music]
Apply=1
Source=MP3
;Source=PSX CD

CD Drive=F

MP3 Folder=mp3
Battlescape=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 10 - Battlescape1.mp3
Start Menu=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 09 - Final Briefing.mp3
Bad Ending=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 09 - Final Briefing.mp3
Good Ending=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 12 - Mission Accomplished.mp3
Geoscape=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 01 - Geoscape1.mp3
Dogfight=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 08 - Dogfight.mp3
Mission Debriefing=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 07 - Debriefing.mp3
UFO Assault=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 05 - Briefing1.mp3
Base Defense=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 06 - Briefing2.mp3
Base Attack=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 05 - Briefing1.mp3
Mars=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 07 - Debriefing.mp3
Terror Mission=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 06 - Briefing2.mp3

DOS/32A

DOS/32A is a more advanced extender and open source replacement to DOS4GW. It can improve both performance and stability of X-COM.

It is recommended to turn off the extender's warning messages with its included ss.exe as they can be rather annoying and show up often when transitioning from geoscape to tactical mode.

Run in DOSBox

To improve DOSBox performance make the following changes to the DOSBox configuration file:

  • Change output=surface to output=opengl
  • Change memsize=16 to memsize=64
  • Change cycles=auto to cycles=auto limit 10000
  • Change prebuffer=20 to prebuffer=10

Enabling GUS music

UFOPedia has an excellent article on this here.

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
DOS <path-to-game>\sound\sound.cfg
Windows
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/7760/pfx/[Note 1]
XcomUtil stores it's config info inside a file called xcomutil.cfg
UFO Extender stores it's config info inside a file called UFOExtender.ini
OpenXcom stores data in %USERPROFILE%\Documents\OpenXcom\ on Windows and $XDG_DATA_HOME/openxcom/data on Linux.

Save game data location

System Location
DOS %USERPROFILE%\game_*\
Windows
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/7760/pfx/[Note 1]
missdat\ folder stores temporary data related to current active save game.

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
GOG Galaxy
Steam Cloud

Video

OpenXcom in-game video settings.
OpenXcom in-game video settings.

Graphics feature State Notes
Widescreen resolution
Use OpenXcom. Click on the resolution box to input the resolution.
Multi-monitor
Ultra-widescreen
4K Ultra HD
Field of view (FOV)
Windowed
Toggle with Alt+↵ Enter when using DOSBox. Hackable on CE with UFO Extender. Native with OpenXcom.
Borderless fullscreen windowed
Natively included in OpenXcom.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
Anti-aliasing (AA)
Vertical sync (Vsync)
Use OpenXcom. A frame rate cap can be set in the Advanced menu.
60 FPS
120+ FPS
Use OpenXcom.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.

Input

Every key is by default already mapped when using OpenXcom.
OpenXcom in-game input settings.
OpenXcom in-game input settings.

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
Use OpenXcom.
Mouse acceleration
Use OpenXcom. Values can be set through the Scroll Speed option.
Mouse sensitivity
Mouse input in menus
OpenXcom also implements mouse wheel support.
Mouse Y-axis inversion
In the Advanced menu, under Geoscape.
Controller
Controller support
For DOSBox use the DOSBox Mapper (see the glossary page for other workarounds).
Controller types

Audio

OpenXcom in-game audio settings.
OpenXcom in-game audio settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Use OpenXcom.
Surround sound
Use OpenXcom.
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
For DOSBox change the priority background value in the DOSBox configuration file.
Royalty free audio
Red Book CD audio
PS1 port only. Tracks can be hacked in on CE with UFO Extender.
General MIDI audio
Use keyboard plus and minus (+ and -) to adjust music volume in DOS version.

Localizations

The original release only shipped with the English language.
Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
A patch to add US style spelling (verses UK) is available here.
French
German
Italian
Use the Italian Language patch. Replaces French.
Russian
1) Use the OpenXcom.
2) Fan translation by «UFODefense.narod.ru» for original, download
Spanish
Use the Spanish Translation patch.

Network

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
Local play
2 Versus
Hotseat. Requires XcomUtil; a tutorial explaining the process can be found here. A batch to simplify the process can also be found here (direct link).
LAN play
2 Versus
Use the above method, but also requires passing save files around between computers (physical media or email, ect). Alternatively use the UFO 2000 Mod (Windows only).
Online play
2 Versus
See note above.

Issues fixed

Almost every single major bug has been fixed in OpenXcom.

Difficulty bug

The original DOS version of the game has a bug that would cause the game to play at the Beginner difficulty regardless of what the chosen difficulty. This bug went undetected until the Collector's Edition was released. The complaints regarding the game being too easy even at the highest difficulty setting led to the sequel's difficulty being scaled up so much that its easiest difficulty was harder than the intended hardest difficulty for this game. If using the DOS version, XcomUtil also patches this bug.

Game hang when attempting to use the MT-32 in version 1.4 (DOS)

Apparently certain 1.4 versions of the game shipped without an updated MT-32 driver causing the game to choke when attempting to load it. Use this patch and place it in the sound\ folder. Overwrite if necessary.

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D
Hackable on CE with UFO Extender.
DirectDraw
CE/Gold version only.
OpenGL
OpenXcom only.
DOS video modes VGA SVGA compatible.
ExecutablePPC 32-bit 64-bitARM Notes
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Requires OpenXcom. Downloadable builds were discontinued after July 2018.[4] An experimental PowerPC build was published in October 2020.[5]
Linux
Requires OpenXcom.[6]

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Audio DIGPAK/MIDPAK CE instead uses dsound.

System requirements

DOS
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) 5.0 6.2
Processor (CPU) Intel 386 20+ MHz Intel 486
System memory (RAM) 2 MB 8 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 10 MB 15 MB
Video card (GPU) VGA SVGA


Notes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Notes regarding Steam Play (Linux) data:

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 X-COM Wiki - Known Bugs
  2. ↑ X-COM Wiki - Differences to X-COM (OpenXcom)
  3. ↑ X-COM Util+UFO Extender? - last accessed on May 2023
  4. ↑ OSX App 10.9+ Nightly Dev 20180720 - last accessed on 30 January 2022
  5. ↑ OpenXcom 1.0 for PowerPC on Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard - last accessed on 30 January 2022
  6. ↑ Search Results for openxcom - last accessed on 30 January 2022