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About Phoenix Point
Phoenix Point is a strategy title from the creator of X‑COM, set after an alien pandemic has devastated Earth. Players lead the secret Phoenix Project, researching tech, building bases, and commanding troops against a mutating alien threat.
The game features a diplomacy system with rival factions such as New Jericho, Synedrion, and the Disciples of Anu, and offers a free‑aim combat mode where players can manually target enemy weak spots. Community‑driven updates and Steam Workshop support add further customisation.
01 / THE GUIDE
Mutating Alien Menace
The Pandorans constantly evolve, adapting to the player’s tactics as the campaign progresses. Their ability to change means that strategies that work early may become less effective later, requiring continual reassessment.
Even as the player’s forces grow stronger, the alien threat remains relentless, ensuring that combat stays challenging throughout the game.
- Observe enemy adaptations before committing large forces; a cautious approach can reveal new weaknesses.
- Diversify your unit types to counter multiple alien mutations simultaneously.
02 / THE GUIDE
Diplomacy System
Phoenix Point’s diplomacy lets players interact with three major factions—New Jericho, Synedrion, and the Disciples of Anu—each with distinct values and goals. Relations can be improved for unique rewards or strained for conflict.
Players may also employ subterfuge to acquire resources from factions, adding a layer of strategic choice beyond pure combat.
- Track each faction’s stated goals; aligning actions with those goals often yields better diplomatic outcomes.
- Consider the long‑term impact of subterfuge, as it may affect future negotiations.

03 / THE GUIDE
Research and Development
Base building includes a research component where players unlock new technologies to counter alien mutations and improve unit equipment. Progression is tied to the discovery of Pandoravirus secrets.
Multiple endings are tied to how thoroughly players explore the narrative through research and repeated playthroughs.
- Prioritise research that directly counters observed alien mutations for immediate battlefield benefit.
- Balance tech upgrades with base expansion to avoid resource bottlenecks.
04 / THE GUIDE
Free‑Aim Combat
During battles, players can take direct control of a soldier’s shots, aiming at enemy weak spots, weapons, or valuable items. This system adds tactical depth beyond standard unit orders.
The free‑aim mechanic coexists with traditional unit commands, allowing a mix of macro and micro management on the battlefield.
- Target enemy weapons first to reduce incoming fire before focusing on weak spots.
- Practice the free‑aim system in early encounters to develop precision for tougher battles.
05 / THE GUIDE
Steam Workshop Mods
The game supports Steam Workshop, allowing players to subscribe to community‑created mods, tweak existing ones, and craft custom campaigns. An example ‘Custom Campaign’ mod demonstrates how new scenarios can be built.
Updates over two years have incorporated community feedback, expanding content and fixing issues based on player input.
- Start with the provided ‘Custom Campaign’ mod to understand how community content can reshape gameplay.
- Combine multiple mods cautiously; test stability after each addition.





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