Is it Necessary to Play XCOM 1 Before 2?
XCOM 2 is the latest installment in the XCOM series, and many fans are eager to dive in and start playing. But before you do, you may be wondering if it’s necessary to play XCOM 1 before XCOM 2. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Is XCOM 1 a Prequel or a Sequel?
Before we dive into whether you need to play XCOM 1 before XCOM 2, it’s essential to understand the relationship between the two games. XCOM 2 is not a direct sequel to XCOM 1, but rather a continuation of the story. The events of XCOM 1 take place in the 1990s, while XCOM 2 takes place 20 years later in 2035. The two games are connected, but they are not directly related in terms of gameplay or storyline.
War of the Chosen: A New Era for XCOM
In 2017, a new expansion pack called War of the Chosen was released for XCOM 2. This expansion introduced new enemies, storylines, and gameplay mechanics, making it a significant update to the game. If you’re planning to play XCOM 2, it’s highly recommended to play War of the Chosen as well, as it adds a new layer of depth and complexity to the game.
XCOM 1 vs XCOM 2: Key Differences
Here are some key differences between XCOM 1 and XCOM 2:
| Feature | XCOM 1 | XCOM 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Story | Takes place in the 1990s | Takes place in 2035, 20 years after the events of XCOM 1 |
| Gameplay | More strategic, less action-oriented | More action-oriented, with a greater emphasis on movement and combat |
| Graphics | Older graphics, less detailed | Newer graphics, more detailed and immersive |
| Gameplay Mechanics | More complex, with more emphasis on resource management | Simpler, with a greater emphasis on combat and movement |
Do I Need to Play XCOM 1 Before XCOM 2?
So, do you need to play XCOM 1 before XCOM 2? The answer is no. XCOM 2 is designed to be a standalone game, and you can start playing it without any prior knowledge of the series. However, if you’re interested in getting the most out of XCOM 2, playing XCOM 1 can provide some valuable context and background information.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key takeaways from this article:
- XCOM 2 is not a direct sequel to XCOM 1, but rather a continuation of the story.
- War of the Chosen is a significant update to XCOM 2 and is highly recommended.
- XCOM 1 and XCOM 2 have different gameplay mechanics and storylines.
- You don’t need to play XCOM 1 before XCOM 2, but playing it can provide valuable context and background information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, XCOM 2 is a standalone game that can be played without any prior knowledge of the series. However, playing XCOM 1 can provide some valuable context and background information that can enhance your experience with XCOM 2. Whether you play XCOM 1 or not, XCOM 2 is a game that offers hours of challenging and engaging gameplay, and is definitely worth checking out.