10 Unique Video Game Difficulty Modes That Will Break You

XCOM as a series is known for its tactical acumen as well as its penchant for difficulty, due to its numerous micro-management systems and dice roll influenced mechanics. Classic difficulty is a solid test of ability, but it’s Impossible that separates the great players from the God tier.

Impossible mode takes a look at all forms of mercy on the player and laughs maniacally. Where the other modes ease the player in to its steep difficulty curve, Impossible goes at you on the front foot by:

- Starting global panic at 16 (compared with 8 on Classic and 0 on Easy and Normal)

- Increased cost of purchasing soldiers and Officer Training School must be built by the player

- “Unshackling” the AI, allowing them to use grenades and abilities more frequently

- Specific alien units receive bonuses to aim, melee, will, movement, and damage

- The player does not receive a starting satellite or tutorial

- Satellite coverage provides fewer scientists and engineers

Basically anything the game can do to put the odds against you, it does it. And it doesn’t care how you feel. Oh, and there’s an Ironman modifier you can turn on. Good luck!