XCOM: Enemy Unknown vs. Enemy Within: A Detailed Comparison
The core difference between XCOM: Enemy Unknown and XCOM: Enemy Within is that Enemy Within is a full-fledged expansion pack, not a standalone sequel. It significantly enhances the base game of Enemy Unknown, adding a wealth of new content, gameplay mechanics, and a deeper level of strategic complexity. Think of it as the definitive version of the original game, offering a richer and more challenging experience. Enemy Within includes Enemy Unknown, so if you own the expansion, you don’t need the original base game. Enemy Within expands the original game by introducing new maps, missions, enemies, technologies, and gameplay systems, particularly focusing on the themes of transhumanism via aggressive gene therapy. This makes it more than just a DLC; it’s a transformative experience for XCOM fans.
New Gameplay Elements in Enemy Within
Transhumanism and Genetic Modification
One of the most significant additions in Enemy Within is the concept of transhumanism. This is primarily introduced through the Gene Mods, which allow you to augment your soldiers with special abilities like increased mobility, improved aim, or the power to heal. These modifications are strategic game-changers, adding a new layer of customization and tactical possibilities. Furthermore, the expansion introduces MEC Troopers, heavily armored cybernetic soldiers that bring brute force to the front line, but also require resources, research, and a dedicated facility to operate.
Enhanced Enemy Threats
Enemy Within brings with it new and more challenging threats. EXALT, a human organization working with the aliens, serves as an opposing force with its own distinct objectives. EXALT agents require players to make use of covert operative missions, adding a new strategic layer, while the aliens also get some additions to their arsenal, ensuring that the fights are more diverse and difficult.
New Maps and Missions
Enemy Within expands the base game’s content with new maps and mission types, creating a more varied and dynamic tactical landscape. You will face off against new foes in new locations, forcing you to adapt and refine your strategies with new terrain features and objectives. The addition of new mission types also means you are required to master new strategies and methods.
Tactical and Strategic Gameplay Improvements
Enemy Within introduces new tactical gameplay options, like the ability to use MELD, a new resource for gene and MEC enhancements, as well as improved strategic options that have a major impact on your campaign. Players now have more control over how their XCOM base grows, and how their soldiers are enhanced. This leads to a more immersive and deeply customizable experience for each player.
Multiplayer Content
While it retains the single-player focus of the base game, Enemy Within also enriches the multiplayer offering. This means you can test your combat skills against other players using customized squad and class combinations, and enjoy a more robust competitive gaming experience.
Is Enemy Within a Sequel?
XCOM: Enemy Within is not a sequel but rather a standalone expansion. It builds upon the original game, introducing numerous new features and content, but it does not change the original story. Enemy Within essentially provides the most comprehensive experience of the first game available. The core gameplay of Enemy Unknown is preserved and enhanced with the addition of these new exciting elements.
Which XCOM to Play?
While XCOM 2 is considered by many to be the superior game overall for its variety and improvements, XCOM: Enemy Within remains an excellent and complete package, as it includes both the original XCOM: Enemy Unknown game and all the DLC, combined with the Enemy Within expansion. It is essential to play either XCOM: Enemy Unknown or XCOM: Enemy Within before playing XCOM 2 to best understand the narrative. If you’re new to the series, you should begin with either the original XCOM: Enemy Unknown or go straight to the enhanced experience of Enemy Within. Both are highly recommended games with unique strengths.
FAQs: Additional XCOM Insights
1. Does Enemy Within Include the Original Game?
Yes, XCOM: Enemy Within includes the original XCOM: Enemy Unknown game along with all of its DLCs. It’s a complete package, so if you own Enemy Within, you don’t need to purchase Enemy Unknown separately.
2. Should I Play XCOM Games in Order?
Yes, it’s recommended to play the games in order of release. Start with XCOM: Enemy Unknown (or directly with Enemy Within), followed by XCOM 2 and then XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, for the best understanding of the story and game mechanics.
3. Do I Need to Play Enemy Within Before XCOM 2?
It is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended to play Enemy Unknown (or directly Enemy Within) before XCOM 2. XCOM 2 is more complex and brutal. Starting with the first game helps you understand the core mechanics and lore.
4. Can XCOM Games Go On Forever?
Yes, you can play indefinitely in both XCOM: Enemy Unknown/Within and XCOM 2. The enemy encounters will become tougher, but the game will keep generating missions until you either choose to finish the main storyline, or have a campaign fail condition occur.
5. Is XCOM: Enemy Within a Good Game?
Absolutely. Enemy Within is considered an enhanced version of an already critically acclaimed game. It has everything to please old fans while also being accessible to newcomers. It’s a well-crafted and challenging experience.
6. Where Should I Start Playing XCOM Games?
It’s best to start with either XCOM: Enemy Unknown or directly with XCOM: Enemy Within. This will familiarize you with the base game mechanics and the story, making XCOM 2 more enjoyable and easier to understand when you get there.
7. Is XCOM 3 Being Made?
While a firm release date is not set, Firaxis has confirmed that XCOM 3 is still in development. Currently, they are focused on other projects, but the XCOM franchise has been promised to continue.
8. Should I Play Enemy Unknown or Enemy Within?
You should play Enemy Within. It incorporates the original game and includes all expansion content and improvements, unless you have a specific reason to avoid the additions the expansion brings. There is no real reason to play the base game if you have the expansion.
9. Are XCOM 1 and 2 Connected?
Yes, XCOM 2 is a direct sequel to the events of XCOM: Enemy Unknown and Enemy Within. The game is set 20 years after the first game, and the narrative makes sense when you play the games in release order.
10. Can You Play Enemy Within Without Enemy Unknown?
No, it’s not necessary to have Enemy Unknown separately. Enemy Within includes everything from the base game, so you just need to install it to enjoy all of the content.
11. Who is the Final Boss in XCOM: Enemy Within?
The final boss in XCOM: Enemy Within (as in Enemy Unknown) is the Uber Ethereal. This encounter takes place on the bridge during the Temple Ship Assault.
12. Does XCOM Long War Work With Enemy Within?
Yes, Long War is a mod designed for use with XCOM: Enemy Within. It significantly expands the game with hundreds of new features and more difficulty.
13. Is XCOM or XCOM 2 Easier?
XCOM 2 is generally considered easier on Veteran and Commander difficulties. It is however more difficult on Legendary difficulty. XCOM: Enemy Unknown/Within generally allows for a more defensive and methodical playstyle that is not always viable in the sequel, making it initially easier for beginners to master.
14. Can Countries Come Back to XCOM?
Yes, countries that leave the XCOM project can be recaptured. Attacking alien bases in those regions will bring them back to the XCOM effort, and can be a vital step to securing funding.
15. What Does Long War Add to XCOM?
Long War significantly expands on the number of classes, items, and customization options in the game. It also increases the difficulty and playtime. It is designed for those seeking a more extreme and in depth XCOM experience.