Is XCOM: Enemy Unknown a Reboot? A Deep Dive into the Resurrected Classic
Yes, XCOM: Enemy Unknown is definitively a reboot of the 1994 strategy game X-COM: UFO Defense (also known as UFO: Enemy Unknown). Developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K in 2012, it wasn’t just a simple remake, but rather a reimagining of the original concept, bringing the beloved tactical gameplay to a modern audience while retaining the core spirit of the classic. The game effectively discarded the narrative and technical progression of the intervening games in the series and began again. It was the starting point for a new timeline and a new era for the franchise. Unlike a simple remaster, which might focus on graphical upgrades and technical improvements of the original game, XCOM: Enemy Unknown took the core mechanics of the original and rebuilt them with modern design philosophies.
The game maintains the core gameplay loop: managing a global defense organization against an alien invasion. Players are tasked with researching alien technology, building and expanding their base, and recruiting and training soldiers. The game features turn-based tactical combat where careful planning and strategy are crucial for success. However, instead of pixelated graphics, XCOM: Enemy Unknown introduced a slick, 3D visual experience, a more streamlined interface, and a compelling cinematic presentation.
The developers specifically intended to recapture the magic of the original X-COM while making the experience accessible to new players. This careful balance between nostalgia and innovation was a key factor in the game’s widespread critical and commercial success. The team at Firaxis Games focused on capturing the tense atmosphere and high stakes that made the original so memorable, translating those feelings into a modern gaming experience. This conscious decision cemented XCOM: Enemy Unknown’s status as a true reboot, rather than a mere update.
Delving Deeper: The Key Elements of the Reboot
Core Gameplay Reinvented
While respecting the original, XCOM: Enemy Unknown introduced improvements and alterations to its gameplay mechanics. The user interface, for example, was rebuilt from the ground up to provide more clarity and ease of use. The tactical combat was refined, with a more intuitive cover system and streamlined action economy. The geoscape management, where you manage resources, research, and global defense, was also given a modern overhaul. These updates didn’t simply change the surface level features; they made the core gameplay more accessible without compromising the challenging strategic core of the original game.
Narrative Reset
XCOM: Enemy Unknown doesn’t pick up where the original left off. It retells the story of humanity’s first contact with extraterrestrial life. This approach allows new players to jump right into the action without needing prior knowledge of the 1994 game’s storyline. This fresh start is vital for a reboot and allows developers to approach the story with new ideas and possibilities.
Modern Presentation
The visual and audio design of XCOM: Enemy Unknown was leaps and bounds beyond the 1994 original. High quality 3D models, detailed environments, and cinematic camera angles helped create a more immersive experience. The orchestral soundtrack further heightened the tense and dramatic atmosphere, drawing players deeper into the world of XCOM. This leap in production values made the game feel modern, appealing to a wider audience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is XCOM: Enemy Unknown a sequel?
No, XCOM: Enemy Unknown is not a sequel. It is a reboot of the 1994 game X-COM: UFO Defense. This means it retells the original story with modern design principles and gameplay mechanics, rather than continuing the original narrative. It is a brand new starting point for the story and mechanics of the franchise.
2. Do I need to play Enemy Unknown before Enemy Within?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to play XCOM: Enemy Unknown before attempting Enemy Within. Enemy Within is an expansion pack for Enemy Unknown and requires the base game to function. Furthermore, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the basic mechanics before tackling the additional content introduced in Enemy Within.
3. What is the difference between XCOM: Enemy Within and Unknown?
XCOM: Enemy Within is an expansion pack for XCOM: Enemy Unknown. It adds new gameplay elements, such as new soldier classes, missions, enemy types, maps, and the introduction of gene therapy. It enhances and expands upon the original game without significantly altering the core mechanics.
4. Is XCOM: Enemy Unknown the first game in the series?
No, it is not the first game in the X-COM franchise. The first game was X-COM: UFO Defense (1994). XCOM: Enemy Unknown is a reboot of the series, restarting the narrative timeline, and should be seen as the first game of this new rebooted timeline.
5. What order should I play the XCOM games in?
It’s generally recommended to start with XCOM: Enemy Unknown and then play the Enemy Within expansion. After that, play XCOM 2 and its expansion, War of the Chosen. This ensures a gradual introduction to the franchise’s mechanics and narrative.
6. Do I have to play XCOM games in order?
For the Enemy Unknown / Enemy Within pair, you need the base game to run the expansion. For XCOM 2 and War of the Chosen, the same applies. While story connections exist between the two pairs, you can technically play them out of order, though the full story and mechanical impact is diminished by doing so.
7. Who is the strongest soldier in XCOM 2?
In XCOM 2, the Reaper is often considered the strongest soldier class due to its high damage potential and stealth capabilities. However, various classes shine in certain situations and every team should be well balanced for maximum efficiency.
8. Is XCOM: Enemy Unknown better than XCOM 2?
While both are excellent games, XCOM 2 is generally considered the better game due to its more varied enemies, playstyles, and enhanced mechanics. It also has a more diverse range of classes and a more complex strategic layer. However, both are worth playing in the right order, especially with their respective expansions included.
9. Is XCOM: Enemy Within a full game?
No, XCOM: Enemy Within is a standalone expansion to the award-winning XCOM: Enemy Unknown. It requires the base game to play and is not sold as an independent title.
10. Does XCOM: Enemy Within have multiple endings?
No, XCOM: Enemy Within does not have multiple endings. The core story and conclusion remain consistent with XCOM: Enemy Unknown, with the expansion focusing on additional content rather than branching narratives.
11. Does XCOM: Enemy Unknown have a good story?
XCOM: Enemy Unknown features a functional sci-fi alien invasion story, but its focus is primarily on tactical gameplay. While there is a story, it serves to contextualize the core loop of combat and strategic management rather than being the central focus of the game. The story provides a solid basis for the gameplay and sets the tone, but doesn’t get in the way of player agency.
12. Is XCOM 3 being made?
While XCOM 3 has not been officially released, the developers at Firaxis have confirmed the franchise isn’t finished and that it’s still happening. It appears that other projects are taking priority, such as Marvel’s Midnight Suns. So, further XCOM titles are a matter of time, not possibility.
13. Who is the final boss in XCOM: Enemy Unknown?
The final boss in XCOM: Enemy Unknown is the Uber Ethereal, an exceptionally powerful Ethereal enemy encountered during the Temple Ship Assault mission. It possesses greater abilities and resistance to common tactics than standard Ethereal units.
14. Is XCOM worth playing after XCOM 2?
Yes, absolutely. XCOM: Enemy Within brings unique features and gameplay elements not found in XCOM 2, offering a different experience that is well worth exploring, even after completing the second game. The tactical considerations are slightly different, and many fans prefer the original gameplay.
15. Who is the strongest enemy in XCOM 2?
In XCOM 2, the Berserker is often cited as the enemy with the strongest melee attack. This dangerous enemy can easily overwhelm poorly-positioned soldiers. The Alien Rulers, particularly the Archon King, also pose significant threats.
Conclusion
XCOM: Enemy Unknown is a successful and well-executed reboot of a beloved strategy series. By respecting the source material while embracing modern game design, Firaxis Games delivered an excellent game that captured the hearts of both new and veteran players, reigniting the XCOM franchise for a new generation. It laid the groundwork for the subsequent success of the series while also standing as a high-quality game in its own right.