Attack of the Earthlings

Most space invasion type games involve the same old story: aliens arrive at Earth, ask us to take them to their leader, and then proceed to eradicate us. But what if it went the other way around? This is exactly the premise of Attack of the Earthlings, a turn-based strategy game where greedy humans are the unwelcome visitors. Even though this sounds like a reverse X-COM, Attack of the Earthlings has a few things it brings to the table.

Here’s everything you need to know about Attack of the Earthlings.

Control the Swarm

In this human invasion strategy game, you take control of the Swarmers. This insect-like alien race must defend its home from the greedy space drilling company called Galactoil. All the Swarmers have at their disposal are their instincts, sharp teeth and claws, and their knack for hiding.

Let the humans think you’re the prey by taking advantage of stealth mechanics and ambush strategies. You can hide units around corners to take out hapless grunts with your munching skills. Or you can send smaller units to zip across the map through vent systems and burst out from behind enemy lines.

Fight the Worthless Humans

Voiced by the incomparable voice actor known as ProZD, the big bad the Swarmers face is the overpaid and underqualified Regional Manager Dennis Dickinham. He plasters a smile across his face but don’t let that fool you. He’ll do everything it takes to drill your planet dry and take its resources. On his own, he isn’t much but he’s defended by scores of armored soldiers and robots with a variety of weapons at their disposal. Fortunately, the Swarmers of Attack of the Earthlings have a yummy trick up their sleeve.

Gobble ‘em Up

You insectoid swarm is capable of munching on delicious human flesh which does more than just satisfy their bellies. By eating up foes, your units mutate and gain new abilities. These new powers are great enough to turn the tide of any battle.

On top of their inherent abilities, your insectoids can transform into highly specialized units. For instance, you can eat a tasty human to start spawning small Swarmer units to add to your squad. Some units can also gain powerful AoE attacks. Feasting on human flesh has never been more delightful.

Pros

• Dark and humorous story that takes a different approach compared to other turn-based strategy games
• Engaging stealth mechanic-based combat
• Consuming humans to mutate units adds whole new layers to strategies

Cons

• Graphics feel slightly dated
• 6-7 hour campaign is short and there’s no replay value