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

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X-Com: UFO Defence is a strategy and turn based tactics game from the early 90s.  The player runs the organization called X-Com, tasked with defending the Earth from a UFO invasion.  The player accomplishes this by placing, building and maintaing bases as well as controlling soldiers in the field combatting the aliens. The game is known for its difficulty.
+
{{Disambig|the original game|the reboot|[[XCOM: Enemy Unknown]]}}
 +
{{Infobox game
 +
|cover        = X-Com UFO Defense Box.jpg
 +
|developers  =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Mythos Games}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/developer|MicroProse}}
 +
|publishers  =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|MicroProse}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Spectrum HoloByte|Japan}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Sold Out Software|Retail re-release}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|2K Games|Current}}
 +
|engines      =
 +
|release dates=
 +
{{Infobox game/row/date|DOS|March 1994}}
 +
{{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
 +
|gogcom id    = 1445250340
 +
|hltb        = 11367
 +
|lutris      = x-com-ufo-defense
 +
|strategywiki = UFO: Enemy Unknown
 +
|mobygames    = 521
 +
|wikipedia    = UFO: Enemy Unknown
 +
|winehq      = 4011
 +
|license      = commercial
 +
}}
  
−
==Installing==
+
{{Introduction
−
===Windows===
+
|introduction      =  
−
The recommended methods are purchase a packaged DOSBox version of the game. It is currently available from Steam, this version is only Windows compatible at the moment, but can be early ported to other operating systems. It is also possible to install games from disk (or the original files) using DOSBox, although i would recommend a graphical fronted for the tool.
 
−
====Steam Version====
 
−
The game is currently available for sale through Steam.  It comes preinstalled with a DosBOX copy.  The version as sold will enter full screen mode and has some graphical performance issues due to the settings being scaled wrong.
 
  
−
===Mac===
+
|release history  =  
−
====Using Windows Steam Version====
 
−
It is recommended you read the recommended settings at the bottom of this article after installing if you experience any difficulties.
 
  
−
# Download the appropriate version of this [[http://boxer.washboardabs.net tool]].
+
|current state    =
−
# You will find the game files at this location: <pre> \Program\ Files\ \(x86\)/Steam/steamapps/common/XCom UFO Defense </pre> If you do not have a windows computer to install this on, you can of course use Bootcamp, VMware Fusion or Parallels to install Steam and download the game, otherwise you can attempt to install via WINE, where you would need to install steam and install the game, then copy the game files, but that is beyond the scope of this guide. It is not advisable to run these games in WINe, as DOSBox is not heavily tested for this and it may introduce unexpected errors and break with upgrades.
+
}}
−
#* If you are on the computer where you want to create the Mac port of the game, just leave a window witht he folder open, otherwise copy the files to the computer where you'd o want to do so.
 
−
# Open Boxer and click on "Import a new game"
 
−
# Inside the XCom: UFO Defence folder the is another refolded called "XCOM", drag this folder into the "Drop You're Games Here" window.
 
−
# Select SETUP.EXE as your installer.
 
−
# Accept all defaults using enter until you are prompted to Relaunch the installer or Finish importing. Press Finish importing.
 
−
# The game will important show you you're new Game.
 
−
# This Step is optional and may not be required, irt is recommended, and may fix any crashes.
 
−
## Right clock on the icon and click Show in Finder.
 
−
## In Finder click Show Package Contents.
 
−
## Copy "DOSBox Preferences.conf" into the Application bundle.
 
−
##* You scan copy the files from the "XCom: UFO Defence" folder and rename the file.
 
−
##* Or you can create a new file with that name, using these settings:
 
  
−
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable"
+
'''General information'''
−
! Default Steam File: DOSBox Preferences.conf
+
{{ii}} Also released as '''''UFO: Enemy Unknown''''' and '''''X-COM: Enemy Unknown'''''.
−
|-
+
{{GOG.com links|1445250340|xcom_series|for game series}}
−
| <pre> [sdl]
+
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/7760/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
−
# fullscreen -- Start dosbox directly in fullscreen.
+
{{mm}} [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Main_Page UFOpaedia] - Wiki for the game.
−
# fulldouble -- Use double buffering in fullscreen.
+
{{mm}} [http://www.strategycore.co.uk StrategyCore] - The largest and oldest community for the game.
−
# fullresolution -- What resolution to use for fullscreen: original or fixed size (e.g. 1024x768).
+
{{mm}} [http://www.xcomufo.com xcomufo.com] - Fan site with good FAQ and downloads.
−
# windowresolution -- Scale the window to this size IF the output device supports hardware scaling.
+
{{mm}} [http://openxcom.org OpenXcom]
−
# output -- What to use for output: surface,overlay,opengl,openglnb,ddraw.
 
−
# autolock -- Mouse will automatically lock, if you click on the screen.
 
−
# sensitiviy -- Mouse sensitivity.
 
−
# waitonerror -- Wait before closing the console if dosbox has an error.
 
−
# priority -- Priority levels for dosbox: lowest,lower,normal,higher,highest,pause (when not focussed).
 
−
#            Second entry behind the comma is for when dosbox is not focused/minimized.
 
−
# mapperfile -- File used to load/save the key/event mappings from.
 
−
# usescancodes -- Avoid usage of symkeys, might not work on all operating systems.
 
  
−
fullscreen=true
+
==Availability==
−
fulldouble=false
+
{{Availability|
−
fullresolution=original
+
{{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}}
−
windowresolution=original
+
{{Availability/row| Retail | | unknown | Collector's Edition | | Windows }}
−
output=surface
+
{{Availability/row| Gamesplanet | 3253-1 | Steam |  |  | Windows }}
−
autolock=true
+
{{Availability/row| GOG.com | xcom_ufo_defense | DRM-free | DOS 1.4 pre-packed with [[DOSBox]] | | Windows }}
−
sensitivity=100
+
{{Availability/row| GMG | x-com-ufo-defense | Steam |  |  | Windows }}
−
waitonerror=true
+
{{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}}
−
priority=higher,normal
+
{{Availability/row| Steam | 7760 | Steam | Includes both DOS 1.4 and CE merged together; DOS runs though [[DOSBox]] | | Windows}}
−
mapperfile=mapper.txt
+
{{Availability/row| Gamersgate | x-com-ufo-defense | Steam |  |  | Windows | unavailable }}
−
usescancodes=true
+
}}
 +
{{ii}} A free demo version is available from [https://archive.org/details/XCOMUFODefense_1020 Archive.org].
  
−
[dosbox]
+
===Version differences===
−
# language -- Select another language file.
+
{{ii}} The US version (UFO Defense) comes pre-patched to version 1.2.
−
# memsize -- Amount of memory dosbox has in megabytes.
+
{{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>
−
# machine -- The type of machine tries to emulate:hercules,cga,tandy,pcjr,vga.
 
−
# captures -- Directory where things like wave,midi,screenshot get captured.
 
  
−
language=
+
==Essential improvements==
−
machine=vga
+
{{cleanup|Section|Abbreviate.}}
−
captures=capture
+
{{ii}} The following tweaks are only available by using OpenXcom.
−
memsize=32
 
  
−
[render]
+
===[http://openxcom.org OpenXcom]===
−
# frameskip -- How many frames dosbox skips before drawing one.
+
{{++}} 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" />
−
# aspect -- Do aspect correction, if your output method doesn't support scaling this can slow things down!.
+
{{++}} Unlimited save games support, along with native widescreen support and proper audio formats.
−
# scaler -- Scaler used to enlarge/enhance low resolution modes.
+
{{++}} DOSBox no longer required, simply copy the new OpenXcom files where the main executable is located or use the provided installer.
−
#          Supported are none,normal2x,normal3x,advmame2x,advmame3x,hq2x,hq3x,
 
−
#                        2xsai,super2xsai,supereagle,advinterp2x,advinterp3x,
 
−
#                        tv2x,tv3x,rgb2x,rgb3x,scan2x,scan3x.
 
  
−
frameskip=0
+
====Skip intro videos====
−
aspect=false
+
{{Fixbox|description=Skip Intro|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
−
scaler=advinterp2x
+
# Go to the '''Options''' menu and then go to '''Advanced'''.
 +
# Uncheck '''Play intro'''.
 +
}}
  
−
[cpu]
+
====Track Steam playtime====
−
# core -- CPU Core used in emulation: normal,simple,dynamic,auto.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Instructions|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
−
#         auto switches from normal to dynamic if appropriate.
+
# Go to <code>{{p|game}}\X-Com UFO Defense\XCOM\</code>
−
# cycles -- Amount of instructions dosbox tries to emulate each millisecond.
+
# Rename <code>dosbox.exe</code> to something else, then rename <code>OpenXcom.exe</code> to <code>dosbox.exe</code>
−
#          Setting this value too high results in sound dropouts and lags.
+
}}
−
#          You can also let DOSBox guess the correct value by setting it to max.
 
−
#          The default setting (auto) switches to max if appropriate.
 
−
# cycleup  -- Amount of cycles to increase/decrease with keycombo.
 
−
# cycledown    Setting it lower than 100 will be a percentage.
 
  
−
core=auto
+
===Original MS-DOS and CE===
−
cycles=auto limit 8000
+
====Patches====
−
cycleup=500
+
{{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.
−
cycledown=20
+
{{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.
 +
{{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.
  
−
[mixer]
+
{{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=
−
# nosound -- Enable silent mode, sound is still emulated though.
+
{{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].
−
# rate -- Mixer sample rate, setting any devices higher than this will
+
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.
−
#        probably lower their sound quality.
 
−
# blocksize -- Mixer block size, larger blocks might help sound stuttering
 
−
#              but sound will also be more lagged.
 
−
# prebuffer -- How many milliseconds of data to keep on top of the blocksize.
 
  
−
nosound=false
+
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.
−
rate=22050
 
−
blocksize=4096
 
−
prebuffer=14
 
  
−
[midi]
+
The programs are confirmed to run on Windows 7 as well as older operating systems, and with the Steam release.  
−
# mpu401      -- Type of MPU-401 to emulate: none, uart or intelligent.
 
−
# device      -- Device that will receive the MIDI data from MPU-401.
 
−
#                This can be default,alsa,oss,win32,coreaudio,none.
 
−
# config      -- Special configuration options for the device. In Windows put
 
−
#                the id of the device you want to use. See README for details.
 
  
−
mpu401=intelligent
+
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:
−
device=default
 
−
config=
 
  
−
[sblaster]
+
# Install X-COM. If installing from CD, make sure it is a full installation.
−
# sbtype -- Type of sblaster to emulate:none,sb1,sb2,sbpro1,sbpro2,sb16.
+
# 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.
−
# sbbase,irq,dma,hdma -- The IO/IRQ/DMA/High DMA address of the soundblaster.
+
# 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.
−
# mixer -- Allow the soundblaster mixer to modify the dosbox mixer.
+
#*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}}
−
# oplmode -- Type of OPL emulation: auto,cms,opl2,dualopl2,opl3.
+
#*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.
−
#           On auto the mode is determined by sblaster type.
+
# 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.
−
#           All OPL modes are 'Adlib', except for CMS.
+
# 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".
−
# oplrate -- Sample rate of OPL music emulation.
+
# 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.
 +
# 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.
 +
# Enter "yes" when asked if you wish to enable the use of UFO Extender when you launch the game.
 +
# 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.
 +
# 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.
 +
# 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.
 +
# 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:
 +
}}
 +
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable"
 +
! UFOExtender.ini suggested music settings
 +
|-
 +
| <pre>[Music]
 +
Apply=1
 +
Source=MP3
 +
;Source=PSX CD
  
−
sbtype=sb16
+
CD Drive=F
−
sbbase=220
 
−
irq=7
 
−
dma=1
 
−
hdma=5
 
−
mixer=true
 
−
oplmode=auto
 
−
oplrate=22050
 
  
−
[gus]
+
MP3 Folder=mp3
−
# gus -- Enable the Gravis Ultrasound emulation.
+
Battlescape=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 10 - Battlescape1.mp3
−
# gusbase,irq1,irq2,dma1,dma2 -- The IO/IRQ/DMA addresses of the
+
Start Menu=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 09 - Final Briefing.mp3
−
#            Gravis Ultrasound. (Same IRQ's and DMA's are OK.)
+
Bad Ending=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 09 - Final Briefing.mp3
−
# gusrate -- Sample rate of Ultrasound emulation.
+
Good Ending=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 12 - Mission Accomplished.mp3
−
# ultradir -- Path to Ultrasound directory. In this directory
+
Geoscape=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 01 - Geoscape1.mp3
−
#            there should be a MIDI directory that contains
+
Dogfight=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 08 - Dogfight.mp3
−
#            the patch files for GUS playback. Patch sets used
+
Mission Debriefing=X-COM UFO Defense PSX - 07 - Debriefing.mp3
−
#            with Timidity should work fine.
+
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
 +
</pre>
 +
|}
  
−
gus=true
+
====[http://dos32a.narechk.net/index_en.html DOS/32A]====
−
gusrate=22050
+
DOS/32A is a more advanced extender and open source replacement to DOS4GW. It can improve both performance and stability of X-COM.
−
gusbase=240
+
{{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.
−
irq1=5
 
−
irq2=5
 
−
dma1=3
 
−
dma2=3
 
−
ultradir=C:\ULTRASND
 
  
−
[speaker]
+
====Run in DOSBox====
−
# pcspeaker -- Enable PC-Speaker emulation.
+
To improve DOSBox performance make the following changes to the DOSBox configuration file:
−
# pcrate -- Sample rate of the PC-Speaker sound generation.
+
* Change <code>output=surface</code> to <code>output=opengl</code>
−
# tandy -- Enable Tandy Sound System emulation (off,on,auto).
+
* Change <code>memsize=16</code> to <code>memsize=64</code>
−
#          For auto Tandysound emulation is present only if machine is set to tandy.
+
* Change <code>cycles=auto</code> to <code>cycles=auto limit 10000</code>
−
# tandyrate -- Sample rate of the Tandy 3-Voice generation.
+
* Change <code>prebuffer=20</code> to <code>prebuffer=10</code>
−
# disney -- Enable Disney Sound Source emulation.
 
  
−
pcspeaker=true
+
====Enabling GUS music====
−
pcrate=22050
+
UFOPedia has an excellent article on this [http://www.ufopaedia.org/index.php/GUS_Music_in_Dosbox here].
−
tandy=auto
 
−
tandyrate=22050
 
−
disney=true
 
  
−
[joystick]
+
==Game data==
−
# joysticktype -- Type of joystick to emulate: auto (default), none,
+
===Configuration file(s) location===
−
#                2axis (supports two joysticks), 4axis,
+
{{Game data|
−
#                fcs (Thrustmaster), ch (CH Flightstick).
+
{{Game data/config|DOS|{{p|game}}\sound\sound.cfg}}
−
#                none disables joystick emulation.
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|}}
−
#                auto chooses emulation depending on real joystick(s).
+
}}
−
# timed -- enable timed intervals for axis. (false is old style behaviour).
+
{{ii}} XcomUtil stores it's config info inside a file called ''xcomutil.cfg''
−
# autofire -- continuously fires as long as you keep the button pressed.
+
{{ii}} UFO Extender stores it's config info inside a file called ''UFOExtender.ini''
−
# swap34 -- swap the 3rd and the 4th axis. can be useful for certain joysticks.
+
{{ii}} OpenXcom stores data in <code>{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\OpenXcom\</code> on Windows and <code>{{P|xdgdatahome}}/openxcom/data</code> on Linux.
−
# buttonwrap -- enable button wrapping at the number of emulated buttons.
 
  
−
joysticktype=auto
+
===Save game data location===
−
timed=true
+
{{Game data|
−
autofire=false
+
{{Game data/saves|DOS|{{p|userprofile}}\game_*\}}
−
swap34=false
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|}}
−
buttonwrap=true
+
}}
 +
{{ii}} <code>missdat\</code> folder stores temporary data related to current active save game.
  
−
[serial]
+
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
−
# serial1-4 -- set type of device connected to com port.
+
{{Save game cloud syncing
−
#              Can be disabled, dummy, modem, nullmodem, directserial.
+
|discord                  =
−
#             Additional parameters must be in the same line in the form of
+
|discord notes            =
−
#              parameter:value. Parameter for all types is irq.
+
|epic games launcher      =
−
#              for directserial: realport (required), rxdelay (optional).
+
|epic games launcher notes =
−
#              for modem: listenport (optional).
+
|gog galaxy                = true
−
#              for nullmodem: server, rxdelay, txdelay, telnet, usedtr,
+
|gog galaxy notes          =
−
#                            transparent, port, inhsocket (all optional).
+
|origin                    =
−
#              Example: serial1=modem listenport:5000
+
|origin notes             =
 +
|steam cloud              = false
 +
|steam cloud notes        =
 +
|ubisoft connect          =
 +
|ubisoft connect notes    =
 +
|xbox cloud                =
 +
|xbox cloud notes          =  
 +
}}
  
−
serial1=dummy
+
==Video==
−
serial2=dummy
+
{{Image|OpenXcom Video Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game video settings.}}
−
serial3=disabled
+
{{Video
−
serial4=disabled
+
|wsgf link                  =
 +
|widescreen wsgf award      =
 +
|multimonitor wsgf award    =
 +
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award =
 +
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    =
 +
|widescreen resolution      = hackable
 +
|widescreen resolution notes= Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]. Click on the resolution box to input the resolution.
 +
|multimonitor              = false
 +
|multimonitor notes        =
 +
|ultrawidescreen            = false
 +
|ultrawidescreen notes      =
 +
|4k ultra hd                = false
 +
|4k ultra hd notes          =
 +
|fov                        = n/a
 +
|fov notes                  =
 +
|windowed                  = true
 +
|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 notes  = Natively included in [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 +
|anisotropic                = n/a
 +
|anisotropic notes          =
 +
|antialiasing              = n/a
 +
|antialiasing notes        =
 +
|upscaling                  = unknown
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 +
|vsync                      = hackable
 +
|vsync notes                = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]. A frame rate cap can be set in the '''Advanced''' menu.
 +
|60 fps                    = true
 +
|60 fps notes              =
 +
|120 fps                    = hackable
 +
|120 fps notes              = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 +
|hdr                        = unknown
 +
|hdr notes                  =
 +
|color blind                = unknown
 +
|color blind notes          =
 +
}}
  
−
[dos]
+
==Input==
−
# xms -- Enable XMS support.
+
{{++}} Every key is by default already mapped when using [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
−
# ems -- Enable EMS support.
+
{{Image|OpenXcom Input Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game input settings.}}
−
# umb -- Enable UMB support.
+
{{Input
−
# keyboardlayout -- Language code of the keyboard layout (or none).
+
|key remap                = hackable
 +
|key remap notes          = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 +
|acceleration option      = hackable
 +
|acceleration option notes = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]]. Values can be set through the '''Scroll Speed''' option.
 +
|mouse sensitivity        = unknown
 +
|mouse sensitivity notes  =
 +
|mouse menu                = true
 +
|mouse menu notes          = [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] also implements mouse wheel support.
 +
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 +
|invert mouse y-axis notes = In the '''Advanced''' menu, under '''Geoscape'''.
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 +
|controller support        = false
 +
|controller support notes  =
 +
|full controller          = unknown
 +
|full controller notes    =
 +
|controller remap          = unknown
 +
|controller remap notes    =
 +
|controller sensitivity    = unknown
 +
|controller sensitivity notes=
 +
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 +
|invert controller y-axis notes=
 +
|xinput controllers        = unknown
 +
|xinput controllers notes  =
 +
|xbox prompts              = unknown
 +
|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 notes  =
 +
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 +
|haptic feedback notes    =
 +
|simultaneous input        = unknown
 +
|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 =
 +
}}
  
−
xms=true
+
==Audio==
−
ems=true
+
{{Image|OpenXcom Audio Settings.jpg|[[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]] in-game audio settings.}}
−
umb=true
+
{{Audio
−
keyboardlayout=none
+
|separate volume          = hackable
 +
|separate volume notes    = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 +
|surround sound          = hackable
 +
|surround sound notes    = Use [[#OpenXcom|OpenXcom]].
 +
|subtitles                = n/a
 +
|subtitles notes          =
 +
|closed captions          = n/a
 +
|closed captions notes    =
 +
|mute on focus lost      = false
 +
|mute on focus lost notes =
 +
|eax support              =
 +
|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.
 +
{{L10n|content=
 +
{{ii}} The original release only shipped with the English language.
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = English
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|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
 +
|language  = French
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = German
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Italian
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|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
 +
|language  = Spanish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Use the [http://traducciones.clandlan.net/index.php?page=academia%2Fsearch&search=XCom%3A+Ufo+Defense Spanish Translation patch].
 +
}}
 +
}}
  
−
[ipx]
+
==Network==
−
# ipx -- Enable ipx over UDP/IP emulation.
+
{{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 =
 +
}}
  
−
ipx=false
+
==Issues fixed==
 +
{{++}} Almost every single major [http://ufopaedia.org/index.php?title=Known_Bugs bug] has been fixed in [[#OpenXcom|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.
  
−
@echo off
+
===Game hang when attempting to use the MT-32 in version 1.4 (DOS)===
−
mount c XCOM -freesize 1024
+
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.
−
c:
 
−
cd XCOM
 
−
call ufocd.bat
 
−
exit </pre>
 
−
|}
 
  
−
If you are then prompted to select the file to run, when you attempt to start the application, select "xcom.bat".  
+
==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>
 +
}}
  
−
==Bugs==
+
===Middleware===
−
===Difficulty Bug===
+
{{Middleware
−
The original 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 all Steam versions of the game.
+
|physics          =
 +
|physics notes    =  
 +
|audio            = DIGPAK/MIDPAK
 +
|audio notes      = CE instead uses dsound.
 +
|interface        =  
 +
|interface notes  =
 +
|input            =  
 +
|input notes      =  
 +
|cutscenes        =  
 +
|cutscenes notes =
 +
|multiplayer      =
 +
|multiplayer notes=
 +
}}
  
−
==Recomended Settings==
+
==System requirements==
−
===DOSBox Settings===
+
{{System requirements
−
In order to improve performance in DOSBox, it is recommended you set the following in the dosbox.conf file:
+
|OSfamily = DOS
  
−
   output=opengl
+
|minOS    = 5.0
−
   memsize=64
+
|minCPU   = Intel 386 20+ MHz
−
   cycles=auto limit 10000
+
|minRAM   = 2 MB
 +
|minHD    = 10 MB
 +
|minGPU   = VGA
  
−
The settings will not be found grouped together, but will each be in a different category throughout the document.  Search for the name in order to find the setting to change.
+
|recOS    = 6.2
 +
|recCPU  = Intel 486
 +
|recRAM  = 8 MB
 +
|recHD    = 15 MB
 +
|recGPU  = SVGA
 +
}}
  
−
[[Category: Game]]
+
{{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