Hey guys, newcomer to XCOM here and I'm looking for some advice with the early game of XCOM.
I've got an idea of what to do (build Alien Containment, get more scientists, get avalanche missiles, research Laser weapons, etc.) but, when I started a new game on Experienced (Level 2) difficulty, the game's become a lot harder for a reason I wasn't expecting.
The aliens seem intent on attacking anywhere but where I've built my base. On my first two tries (with a base in Europe), the aliens attacked South America relentlessly, and for the third game my base in North America was ignored in favor of attacking East Asia.
By the end of January, the aliens have launched a terror mission in their theater of choice and XCOM is barely out of diapers; I've got a handful of laser weapons at best.
I'd like to think I've got an idea of what to do: deploy Interceptors to patrol areas of high alien activity. But all of my patrols have returned empty handed. I've seen a lot fewer UFOs in my territory than when I was playing on Beginner, as well (my base was in the US then).
My main questions are: Do the aliens get "smarter" about avoiding XCOM bases with higher difficulty? What's the best way to deal with the aliens attacking areas where you have no radar coverage? Is it possible to fend off a terror attack with no armor and a handful of laser pistols, should I just show up to the terror site and leave, or is the playthrough a lost cause if the aliens are terrorizing in January? I've either got awful luck or I'm doing something wrong; likely both.
