Will There be a XCOM 3?
The XCOM franchise has been a beloved favorite among gamers for years, offering a unique blend of turn-based strategy and intense combat. Since the release of XCOM: Enemy Unknown in 2012, fans have been eagerly waiting for a sequel. So, will there be a XCOM 3?
Jack Solomon’s Teaser
In an interview with VGC, Jack Solomon, the creator of the XCOM series, dropped a major hint that the series will indeed return. He stated that as long as he and Firaxis, the developer of the series, are alive, XCOM will stay alive too. While this is not a concrete confirmation, it does give hope to fans that a new XCOM game might be on the horizon.
Timeline of XCOM Games
Here is a brief overview of the XCOM timeline:
| Game | Release Date | Plot Summary |
|---|---|---|
| XCOM: UFO Defense | 1994 | The original XCOM game, where players defend Earth from an alien invasion |
| XCOM: Enemie Unknown | 2012 | A reimagining of the original game with improved graphics and gameplay |
| XCOM: Enemy Within | 2013 | An expansion pack to Enemy Unknown, adding new features and missions |
| XCOM: The Board Game | 2014 | A board game adaptation of the XCOM series |
| Chimera Squad | 2020 | A new entry in the series, offering a co-op experience and new gameplay mechanics |
Firaxis’s Silence
While Jack Solomon has given us a hint that XCOM will return, Firaxis has remained mum on the topic. They have been busy with other projects, such as Total War: Three Kingdoms and Age of Sail 2, which have taken up their attention.
Other Clues
Here are a few more clues that hint at the possibility of a XCOM 3:
• Firaxis’s Staff: Some staff members who worked on Enemy Unknown and Enemy Within have moved on to other projects, but some remain with the company. It’s possible that they might be working on a new XCOM game.
• Intel from the Community: Some players have noticed Easter eggs and references to XCOM 3 in some of Firaxis’s games. While these might just be fun nods to fans, they could also be hinting at something more.
What Fans Want to See
Fans have been speculating about what they would like to see in a potential XCOM 3. Here are some popular requests:
• New Game Engine: A modern game engine that offers improved graphics and smoother gameplay
• New Features: New features like multiplayer, co-op, and customizable characters
• Expansive Storyline: A story that explores new themes and storylines, rather than just rehashing old plot points
Conclusion
While there is no official confirmation of a XCOM 3, there are some interesting hints and clues that suggest the series might return. Fans have been waiting patiently for years, and a new game could bring new life to the franchise. We can only hope that Firaxis and Jack Solomon will eventually bring us the next installment in the XCOM series.