Note: I have hundreds of hours in this game since 1998

One of the greatest squad based tactics game ever made. A sheer classic to a wonderful series, this game provides everything needed for Strategy junkies to keep you playing for hours.

It mixes Micro & Management well in a world where Diplomacy is also key to surviving the Alien threat. Need more funding? Ally yourself with the political parties. Need more Medkits? Ally yourself with the local medical organisation. Need more scientists? Ally yourself with the local biomedical organisations.

The combat feels alot more personal in this game, you fight the UFO's over a city Geoscape rather than a planet wide attack, the UFO attacks have potential to affect every organisation in the game and can indirectly affect their influence towards you. If one of your stray rockets unintentionally hits an organisations building, they will become hostile and may plan on raiding your HQ if you don't smooth things over.

The game also introduces Real Time combat into the tactical based missions. So if anyone isn't a particular fan of turn based games the game allows you the option to experience in Real Time.

The game allows you to set your own pace, unlike the more recent Enemy Unknown/Within, you don't feel as rushed playing Apocalypse, allowing you to enjoy the journey of the game to it's fullest.

This game certainly stands the test of time as being a great tactical squad based game.