5 Games to Play If You Love Aliens: Dark Descent

Aliens: Dark Descent has been taking the world by storm, showing that the Alien franchise isn’t out of steam. So far, Aliens: Dark Descent has received some fairly good reviews so far, impressing players with its gameplay and horror style. On top of this, the game has impressed players with its tactical strategy and tense atmosphere. Many believe that the game stays true to the horror of the Alien franchise and is worthy of joining their ranks. However, after completing the game, some players seek more to satiate their need for a real-time tactical game. Additionally, some are looking for some more of the tense sci-fi horror that only Alien can provide. Here are five games you to play if you love Aliens: Dark Descent.

5. Aliens: Fireteam Elite

Image Source: Cold Iron Studio

First up is a newer entry to the Alien series, Aliens: Fireteam Elite. Although the gameplay of Fireteam Elite is more of a squad-based, 3rd-person shooter, players who love the tense action of Aliens: Dark Descent will love this game. Navigating tight, dark hallways with the tense feeling of a Xenomorph’s presence around every corner can be absolutely terrifying. Additionally, being in a squad of soldiers makes many players feel like Aliens: Dark Descent is the real-time strategy version of Fireteam Elite. Although having the ability to mow down Xenomorphs may take away some of the horrors and lead to subpar reviews, Fireteam Elite is a perfect game if you enjoyed the Aliens: Dark Descent style.

4. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Image Source: Ubisoft

While this may seem like an odd choice, Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a great game for fans of Aliens: Dark Descent. Despite having a goofier tone, the Mario + Rabbids series captures some of the best fast-paced tactical combat in recent memory. Much like Aliens: Dark Descent, players will take control of a squad of unique characters. Though the game may be betrayed by its cute art style, Mario + Rabbids features some addicting, movement-based strategy gameplay. With plenty of Mario and Rabbids characters to choose from and plenty of customization, Mario + Rabbids combat always stays fresh and keeps players on their toes. The only difference is that Mario + Rabbids is turn-based, while Aliens: Dark Descent is real-time. In the end, Mario + Rabbids may be the perfect cute palate cleanser game to play if you love Aliens: Dark Descent.

3. Dead Space

Image Source: Motive Studio

For fans of space and isolation-themed horror, Dead Space should be the next game on your list. The newest game in the Dead Space is a shining example of the claustrophobic nature of space exploration. With the game taking heavy inspiration from Alien itself, it’s no wonder this game is great to play if you loved Aliens: Dark Descent. Additionally, the protagonist, Issac, has a lot of firepower throughout the game. Much like Aliens: Dark Descent, it won’t be long before players fight back against the alien threat. However, despite the weaponry, Dead Space still creates an unforgettable atmosphere and horror experience.

2. Alien: Isolation

Image Source: Creative Assembly

Fans of the horror side of Aliens: Dark Descent and the Alien series should take a look at Alien: Isolation. Alien: Isolation is an absolute classic horror game with stunning and terrifying AI controlling the Xenomorph. With this game taking on an approach similar to the original Alien movie, action is less of a priority. Instead, the omnipresent Xenomorph will react to your every movement and action. Fans of Aliens: Dark Descent’s intelligent AI will love this mechanic, as it helps create an ever-evolving horror experience. Each playthrough of Alien: Isolation is different and will never let the player have a moment to breathe. This is the perfect game for those who love Aliens: Dark Descent’s tense gameplay and atmosphere.

1. XCOM: Enemy Unknown

Image Source: Firaxis Games

Finally, from a gameplay and style standpoint, the 2012 XCOM series is probably the closest game to Aliens: Dark Descent available. Both games feature players strategizing with teams of unique soldiers to fight off an alien threat. Although XCOM does lack horror elements, it makes up for it with tense gameplay systems. Players will need to manage a world in crisis from alien invasions. Plus, just like in Aliens: Dark Descent, any soldier brought to battle can be permanently killed off, making every battle tense. As a result, every combat instance feels like a fight for survival. All of these factors combined make XCOM the perfect game to play if you love Aliens: Dark Descent.