Games like X-COM: UFO Defense on Mac
3 of the 5 modern alternatives to X-COM: UFO Defense (1994) run on Mac. One of them is free, and the cheapest paid option is Phoenix Point at € 23,99.
Mac support for classics is patchier than PC, and Apple's move away from 32-bit software broke a lot of older re-releases. What works well: games sold through Steam or GOG with native Apple Silicon builds, cross-platform open-source engine ports, and browser-based versions. Many remaining gaps can be closed with an emulator or a compatibility layer.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
XCOM 2
€ 49,99The acclaimed modern reboot with deep tactics and strategy layers.
XCOM 2 runs on PC, Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Phoenix Point
€ 23,99Julian Gollop's own return to the genre he created, with free aiming and mutating aliens.
Phoenix Point runs on PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox. Not available on Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, Switch. It is Steam Deck Verified.
OpenXcom
FreeA free, open-source engine reimplementing the original (game files required).
OpenXcom is also an alternative to 1 other classic
OpenXcom runs on PC, Mac, Linux. Not available on iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, Steam Deck.
Not on Mac
These alternatives to X-COM: UFO Defense are listed on the main page, but do not run on Mac:
All 5 games like X-COM: UFO Defense