XCOM 2 is a turn-based tactics game where you manage a resistance squad and a global strategy layer across a long campaign. Players often spend dozens of hours in single-player missions, frequently using expansions like War of the Chosen and popular mods such as Long War 2. The core appeal is tactical depth, not fast-paced action, which changes what PC performance matters most. Because gameplay is turn-based, raw frame-per-second numbers are less critical than consistent frame delivery; a stutter during an enemy’s turn or a long load between missions can disrupt strategic planning. The game's hardware demands are modest compared to modern action titles, but they are nuanced. The CPU handles AI decision-making, procedural map generation, and simulation—work that can cause noticeable pauses on weaker processors. The GPU is responsible for visual fidelity, and while settings like shadows and anti-aliasing create load, you don't need top-tier hardware. Mods significantly increase RAM usage and storage demands, and a slow hard drive is a common source of long load times. For a beginner building a PC for XCOM 2, a common mistake is overlooking the importance of a fast SSD and a solid CPU, instead overspending on a powerful GPU that doesn't translate to a meaningfully better tactical experience. A balanced, modern mid-range system is the most sensible choice.