Laser Squad

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Laser Squad – Before X-COM, Julian Gollop Was Waging War on the C64

️ Laser Squad (1988) – Commodore 64 Turn-Based Tactical Strategy Classic Released in 1988 by Target Games and designed by Julian Gollop, Laser Squad is a landmark turn-based tactical strategy game that helped define the genre on home computers. Often described as the spiritual forerunner to X-COM, it introduced ideas and systems that would influence tactical design for decades. You command a small squad of elite soldiers across a range of mission scenarios, including hostage rescues, search-and-destroy operations, and item recovery. Viewed from an isometric perspective, each mission demands careful positioning, awareness of enemy movement, and smart use of cover. Every unit operates using a limited pool of action points per turn, forcing you to plan movement, attacks, and reactions with precision. A wide selection of weapons and equipment—each with distinct strengths and limitations—allows for varied tactical approaches, while line-of-sight rules and fog of war keep tension high.

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