Do I have to play xcom in order?

Do I Have to Play XCOM in Order?

XCOM is a popular turn-based strategy game series that has gained a massive following worldwide. With multiple games in the series, it can be confusing for new players to know where to start. In this article, we will explore the question of whether you need to play the XCOM games in order to fully appreciate the series.

The Short Answer

No, you don’t necessarily need to play the XCOM games in order to enjoy them. Each game in the series is designed to be standalone, with its own unique story and gameplay mechanics. However, playing the games in order can provide a richer understanding of the XCOM universe and its characters.

The Long Answer

The XCOM series is known for its complex storyline, which spans multiple games and expansions. The games are set in a futuristic world where humanity is fighting against an alien invasion. The story is full of twists and turns, with characters dying and new ones being introduced throughout the series.

XCOM: Enemy Unknown and Enemy Within

The first game in the series is XCOM: Enemy Unknown, which was released in 2012. This game is a reboot of the classic XCOM series and introduces players to the world of XCOM. The game follows a team of soldiers as they fight against an alien invasion and try to uncover the truth behind the invasion.

Enemy Within is an expansion pack for Enemy Unknown, which adds new gameplay mechanics and storylines to the game. Playing Enemy Within after Enemy Unknown provides a richer understanding of the XCOM universe and its characters.

XCOM 2 and its Expansions

XCOM 2 is the sequel to Enemy Unknown and was released in 2016. The game takes place 20 years after the events of Enemy Unknown and follows a new team of soldiers as they fight against an alien occupation. The game introduces new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to play as a rebel faction, and a new storyline that explores the consequences of the events of Enemy Unknown.

The expansions for XCOM 2, such as War of the Chosen and Shen’s Last Gift, add new gameplay mechanics and storylines to the game. Playing these expansions after XCOM 2 provides a deeper understanding of the XCOM universe and its characters.

Bureau: XCOM Declassified

Bureau: XCOM Declassified is a spin-off game that takes place before the events of Enemy Unknown. The game follows a team of agents as they investigate a conspiracy involving the XCOM organization. While Bureau: XCOM Declassified is not necessary to play to enjoy the series, it provides a unique perspective on the XCOM universe and its characters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while you don’t necessarily need to play the XCOM games in order to enjoy them, playing them in order can provide a richer understanding of the XCOM universe and its characters. Each game in the series is designed to be standalone, with its own unique story and gameplay mechanics. However, playing the games in order can provide a deeper understanding of the series and its characters.

Recommended Play Order

Here is a recommended play order for the XCOM series:

1. XCOM: Enemy Unknown
2. Enemy Within (expansion pack for Enemy Unknown)
3. XCOM 2
4. War of the Chosen (expansion pack for XCOM 2)
5. Shen’s Last Gift (expansion pack for XCOM 2)
6. Bureau: XCOM Declassified (optional)

Tips for New Players

Here are some tips for new players who are just starting out with the XCOM series:

• Start with XCOM: Enemy Unknown and play through the game to get a feel for the series.
• Play Enemy Within after Enemy Unknown to get a deeper understanding of the XCOM universe and its characters.
• Play XCOM 2 and its expansions to experience the latest gameplay mechanics and storylines.
• Bureau: XCOM Declassified is optional, but provides a unique perspective on the XCOM universe and its characters.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different playstyles and strategies to find what works best for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the XCOM series is a complex and engaging series that offers a lot of depth and replayability. While you don’t necessarily need to play the games in order to enjoy them, playing them in order can provide a richer understanding of the XCOM universe and its characters. With this guide, you should be able to navigate the series and enjoy all that it has to offer.