Top XCOM 2 Mods 2025 – Enhance Gameplay & Strategy
For strategy enthusiasts, XCOM 2 remains a timeless giant. Even years after its release, it offers a gripping mix of tactical combat and RPG-style squad management. But what really keeps the game fresh in 2025? Mods. A vibrant modding community continues to push the boundaries of what's possible, from complete overhauls to small quality-of-life tweaks.
If you're returning to fight the alien menace or exploring the game for the first time, this guide will show you how to amplify your campaign with the best XCOM 2 mods available right now.
Table of contents
How to Install XCOM 2 Mods
Before we get into recommendations, let’s break down the installation basics. Whether you're on Steam or using another launcher, the process is simple.
Steam Workshop Method:
Launch Steam and go to XCOM 2 in your Library.
Click the Workshop tab.
Search or browse for the mod you want.
Click Subscribe to download it.
Launch the game and enable it from the mod manager.
Manual Installation:
Download the mod files from trusted sources like Nexus Mods.
Navigate to the mods folder (usually located at
Documents\My Games\XCOM2\XComGame\Mods).Extract the files into a new folder named after the mod.
Enable the mod via the game launcher.
Where Are XCOM 2 Mods Stored?
For Steam installations:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\workshop\content\268500For manual installs:
Documents\My Games\XCOM2\XComGame\ModsThis distinction helps when troubleshooting or deleting mods.
Top XCOM 2 Mods in 2025
Below is a curated selection of the most influential and polished mods in 2025, broken down by category.
| Mod Name | Category | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Long War of the Chosen | Overhaul | Expands campaign depth with more missions, classes, and options. |
| True Concealment | Mechanics | Timer pauses until first contact, rewarding stealth. |
| Evac All | Utility | Adds an "Evac All" button to speed up mission exits. |
| Uniform Manager | UI | Saves and applies armor customization presets. |
| RPG Overhaul | Gameplay | Adds skill trees, perks, and expanded soldier development. |
| More Maps Pack | Content | Includes new mission maps and environments. |
| WOTC UI Improvements | Interface | Streamlines menus and battle info for clarity. |
| Capnbubs Accessories Pack | Cosmetics | Adds new helmets, goggles, and customization. |
Best Strategy Enhancers
Mods aren’t just cosmetic. These picks change how you plan and survive.
Long War of the Chosen : The definitive campaign overhaul. More soldiers, more missions, and a relentless pace.
A Better ADVENT : Revamps enemy AI and behavior for a more brutal opposition.
Tactical Legacy Pack+ : Adds new story missions and gear with enhanced variety.
Leadership Perks Mod : Introduces commander buffs and tactical squad-wide abilities that reward veteran leadership.
More Resistance Orders : Adds additional strategic layer options on the global map.
Want more pain? Combine all five for a fully revamped tactical sandbox.
Visual & Audio Enhancements
Why just survive when you can look good doing it?
Dynamic Lighting : Improved shaders and light behavior.
Soundtrack Replacer : Swaps music with classic XCOM themes or cinematic scores.
Voice Packs : Add custom voices from pop culture or create your own squad flavor.
Better Tactical Animations : Enhances the realism of reloads, grenade throws, and flanking moves.
Character Pool Plus : Gives you more control over how your soldier templates are randomized in the campaign.
Extended Soldier Customization Mods
Create the squad of your dreams with these mods:
Hair and Face Pack : Adds dozens of new hairstyles, facial structures, and options.
Sleeveless and Tattoos Pack : Let your squad show some skin or ink.
Expanded Armory : Adds sci-fi weapon models and visual effects without altering game balance.
This is your war—style it your way.
Performance Optimization Tools
Running a mod-heavy setup? Keep your game smooth:
Mod Config Menu : Allows in-game tweaking of mod parameters.
Performance Tweaks Collection : Community-made bundle that cuts bloat and improves framerates.
No More Action Cams : Reduces slowdowns from camera panning animations.
Building the Perfect Loadout
Avoid clutter. Too many mods can conflict or slow performance. Here’s a sample starter loadout:
Base Overhaul : Long War of the Chosen
Utility Mods : Evac All, Uniform Manager
Visual Mods : Capnbubs Accessories, Dynamic Lighting
Enemy Tweaks : A Better ADVENT
UI Fixes : WOTC UI Improvements
Stick to around 10–20 active mods unless you’re using a loader that handles load order and conflicts.
Pro Tips for Modding Success
Back Up Saves : Mods can break saves. Keep backups.
Use a Mod Manager : Alternative Mod Launcher (AML) helps organize and detect conflicts.
Read Comments : Workshop discussions can flag compatibility issues.
Check Load Order : Some mods must load before others.
Use Categories : Group mods by type—UI, cosmetics, enemies—to keep track.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to install XCOM 2 mods?
Use Steam Workshop or manually place them in the Mods folder.
XCOM 2 how to download mods?
Subscribe through Steam Workshop or download from Nexus Mods.
Where are XCOM 2 mods stored?
Steam mods are under steamapps/workshop/content/268500. Manual ones are in your Documents folder.
How to delete mods XCOM 2?
Delete the folder from the mod directory. For Steam, unsubscribe from the mod in Workshop.
Where are the XCOM 2 mods located?
Refer to the folder paths listed above based on your install method.
Can I use controller support with mods?
Most mods work fine with controller setups, though UI-heavy mods may be best with keyboard and mouse.
How to manage mod conflicts?
Use the Alternative Mod Launcher and sort mods by category to reduce risk. Check developer notes for known incompatibilities.
Final Thoughts
Modding XCOM 2 in 2025 is as thrilling as ever. With the right tools and selection, you can create a tactical sandbox unlike anything Firaxis originally imagined. Whether you want deeper strategy, tougher foes, or soldiers that look like The Mandalorian, the modding scene has you covered.
Time to build your dream squad and retake Earth—one mod at a time.