Is XCOM 1 Harder Than 2? A Deep Dive into Tactical Challenges
The question of whether XCOM: Enemy Unknown (XCOM 1) or XCOM 2 is harder is a common debate among fans of the beloved tactical strategy series. The answer, however, isn’t a simple yes or no. While XCOM 2 is often perceived as more challenging due to its constant escalation and harsher mechanics, the difficulty of each game is nuanced and depends heavily on individual player experience and playstyles. In short, it’s not just about one game being inherently harder; it’s about how they challenge the player. XCOM 1, with its potential to be unforgiving and its reliance on player-controlled difficulty scaling, offers a unique type of struggle. XCOM 2, on the other hand, presents a more relentless and dynamic challenge with its built-in difficulty progression. Ultimately, neither game is “easy,” and each poses significant hurdles for aspiring commanders.
The Case for XCOM 1 Being Harder
Player-Driven Difficulty
One of the key arguments for XCOM 1 being harder is that its difficulty is somewhat player-controlled. Progressing too rapidly through key story missions can significantly increase the challenge by introducing stronger enemies before you’re fully prepared. If you’re not methodical in developing your soldiers and research, you can quickly find yourself facing overwhelming odds. This punishes impulsivity and forces players to be very strategic from the very beginning. Conversely, a slower, more deliberate approach can make the game relatively easier.
Unforgiving Early Game
XCOM 1’s early game is infamous for its brutal difficulty. One bad move can result in a soldier being permanently lost, which in turn cascades to further losses. The lack of resources early on exacerbates this issue. The initial encounters can be particularly punishing, with a higher reliance on luck due to weaker soldiers and less developed tactics, and this can lead to frustratingly quick wipes. Additionally, the game is more unforgiving with missed shots, and even a seemingly easy encounter can quickly turn into a disaster, especially if you are reckless with your approach.
Time Constraints and Resource Management
While not as heavily focused on timed missions as XCOM 2, XCOM 1 presents its own challenges. The panic mechanic that influences countries can be difficult to manage, impacting funding. Making the incorrect research or facility choices in the base can also slow your progress considerably. Players have to carefully choose how to distribute their limited funds, as any misstep can be devastating in the long run.
The Case for XCOM 2 Being Harder
Constant Escalation
Unlike XCOM 1, XCOM 2 features a dynamic difficulty curve that continuously increases regardless of the player’s actions. The game constantly throws new and more dangerous threats at you, forcing you to adapt and evolve your strategies continually. The pace doesn’t allow for much stagnation.
Tighter Mission Timers
XCOM 2 introduces mission timers, which often force players to take risks. Gone is the safety of overwatching and moving at a snail’s pace. This creates a more frantic experience compared to XCOM 1, demanding tactical thinking under pressure, often leading to rushed decisions.
More Complex Enemy AI
The AI in XCOM 2 is often described as more intelligent and aggressive than its predecessor. Enemies use more sophisticated tactics, making engagements feel more challenging and unpredictable. Enemies flank, prioritize targets and utilize their abilities in a more effective manner, which means that any lapse in player strategy can be punished severely.
Variety of Enemies and Challenges
XCOM 2 features a wider array of enemies and mission types, making each encounter feel fresh and unpredictable. This diversity requires players to learn new strategies and adapt to different enemy compositions quickly. The sheer amount of possible scenarios in this game, combined with the dynamic game mechanics means that you often have to improvise, keeping the challenge fresh and engaging.
Which Game is Ultimately Harder?
Ultimately, whether XCOM 1 or XCOM 2 is harder depends on what aspects of the game you find more challenging.
- If you struggle with games where you feel punished for rushing and prefer a more methodical style of gameplay where you have plenty of time to analyze and plan, XCOM 1 could be the more difficult game.
- If you dislike time pressures and a constant feeling of being overwhelmed, then XCOM 2 might feel like more of a difficult experience.
Both games offer a very rewarding tactical challenge. XCOM 1’s difficulty comes from its unforgiving early game and a need for strategic foresight, whereas XCOM 2 is difficult through its relentless escalation and demanding timer-based missions. Ultimately both games test your leadership skills to their absolute limit, and it’s down to the player’s personal preference which they find more difficult.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is XCOM 2 easier on lower difficulties?
Yes, XCOM 2 is easier on Veteran and Commander difficulties than the previous games’ standard settings. However, on Legendary, it is considered harder than XCOM 1’s Impossible difficulty.
2. Can you make XCOM 2 easier?
Yes, XCOM 2 offers options to make the game easier, such as doubling the Avatar Project timer or mission timers. However, these options are not available on all difficulties. Additionally, you can tailor the game using mods on PC, allowing players to create their perfect experience.
3. How hard is XCOM 2 for beginners?
XCOM 2 can be quite challenging for beginners. The game introduces a lot of options and mechanics at once, which can be overwhelming. New players are advised to start at the lower difficulty setting to learn the basics before taking on the more demanding difficulties.
4. Is XCOM 2 addictive?
Yes, XCOM 2 is known for its addictive gameplay combining tactical combat and resource management. The “one more mission” feeling is common among players of the game.
5. How many years are between XCOM 1 and 2?
XCOM 2 is set 20 years after the events of XCOM: Enemy Unknown. This creates a unique lore perspective and explains the changes within the world.
6. Which is the strongest soldier class in XCOM 2?
The Reaper class is often considered the strongest and best class in XCOM 2 due to its stealth and scouting abilities. Other highly effective classes include the Grenadier and Ranger.
7. Is XCOM 2 kid-friendly?
XCOM 2 is not typically considered kid-friendly. It contains graphic violence and some mature content such as smoking and use of alcohol, which can be disturbing to younger audiences.
8. Does XCOM 2 ever end?
Yes, XCOM 2 has a final mission that will end the game. However, you can continue playing indefinitely by ignoring the final mission and taking on side missions.
9. Should I play XCOM 2 before War of the Chosen?
Yes, it is recommended to play the base version of XCOM 2 before diving into War of the Chosen. The expansion introduces challenging new enemies that may feel frustrating to new players unfamiliar with the core game mechanics.
10. Can you play XCOM 2 infinitely?
Yes, you can play XCOM 2 indefinitely. The game will keep spawning missions and challenges until you decide to complete the main storyline. This means the challenge will never be truly “over”.
11. Does XCOM get easier?
Yes, XCOM games often get easier as you progress. Once you start to transform your soldiers using MELD in XCOM 1 and gain more advanced equipment and abilities, the game becomes less punishing.
12. Is XCOM 3 being made?
Yes, Firaxis has confirmed that XCOM 3 is still in the works. However, their focus was recently on Marvel’s Midnight Suns, so the project has taken a backseat.
13. Is XCOM worth playing after XCOM 2?
Yes, the original XCOM: Enemy Within is still very much worth playing. It offers a unique experience that differs from XCOM 2, with mechanics that make it a highly strategic and unique experience.
14. Does XCOM 2 have a time limit?
XCOM 2 has an indirect time limit. The alien’s Avatar Project will eventually cause you to lose the game if not prevented. This is managed through blacksites, and by completing strategic side missions.
15. Is XCOM 2 luck-based?
Luck plays a role in XCOM 2, but player skill is ultimately the biggest determining factor of success. While missed shots and critical hits can impact your success, strategic decision-making and effective planning are more important for consistent victories.