Is XCOM: Enemy Unknown a sequel?

Is XCOM: Enemy Unknown a Sequel?

Introduction

XCOM: Enemy Unknown is a tactical role-playing game developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K Games. Released in 2012, the game is a reboot of the 1994 classic X-COM: UFO Defense. Many fans of the original game were curious about whether Enemy Unknown is a sequel or a standalone game. In this article, we will delve into the connection between Enemy Unknown and its predecessor, exploring the differences and similarities between the two games.

Is XCOM: Enemy Unknown a Sequel?

As the game’s developers stated, Enemy Unknown is considered a reboot of the XCOM series, rather than a direct sequel. This means that the game’s story is not a continuation of the original game, but rather a retelling of the same narrative. The game’s plot is set in a fictional world where an alien invasion is threatening humanity, and players take on the role of the commander of a secret organization known as XCOM, tasked with fighting against the alien threat.

Differences between XCOM: Enemy Unknown and X-COM: UFO Defense

Here are some key differences between the two games:

• Setting: Enemy Unknown takes place in a fictional world, whereas UFO Defense is set in the real world, with players defending against an alien invasion.
• Storyline: As mentioned earlier, Enemy Unknown is a retelling of the original game’s narrative, whereas UFO Defense has a more linear storyline.
• Gameplay mechanics: Enemy Unknown features more streamlined gameplay, with improved graphics and animations. UFO Defense, on the other hand, had more complex gameplay mechanics and a steeper learning curve.

Similarities between XCOM: Enemy Unknown and X-COM: UFO Defense

Despite the differences, there are also several similarities between the two games:

• Gameplay style: Both games feature turn-based combat, with players controlling a team of soldiers to fight against enemy forces.
• Alien threat: Both games feature an alien threat, with players fighting against different types of alien species.
• Base building: Both games allow players to build and manage their own bases, with facilities for research, production, and training.

Impact on the XCOM Franchise

Enemy Unknown has had a significant impact on the XCOM franchise, as it has introduced the series to a new generation of players. The game’s success has also led to the development of several expansions and sequels, including Enemy Within and XCOM 2.

Conclusion

In conclusion, XCOM: Enemy Unknown is not a direct sequel to X-COM: UFO Defense, but rather a reboot of the series. While there are differences between the two games, they share similarities in gameplay mechanics and setting. Enemy Unknown has had a significant impact on the XCOM franchise, introducing the series to new players and paving the way for future games in the series.

Table: Comparison of XCOM: Enemy Unknown and X-COM: UFO Defense

References

• [1] Firaxis Games. (2012). XCOM: Enemy Unknown. 2K Games.
• [2] MicroProse. (1994). X-COM: UFO Defense. MicroProse.
• [3] Wikipedia. (n.d.). XCOM: Enemy Unknown. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/XCOM:_Enemy_Unknown

Note: The references provided are based on the information available in the article and may not be exhaustive.