Is XCOM Enemy Within a Full Game?
XCOM: Enemy Within is an expansion pack for the turn-based tactical video game XCOM: Enemy Unknown. But is it a full game? In this article, we’ll delve into the details to answer this question.
What is XCOM Enemy Within?
XCOM: Enemy Within is an expansion pack that adds new gameplay elements to the base game, XCOM: Enemy Unknown. It introduces new themes of transhumanism via aggressive gene therapy, new enemies, and new storylines. The expansion pack is designed to provide more content and challenges for players who have completed the base game.
Is it a Full Game?
In terms of gameplay, XCOM: Enemy Within is not a full game. It is an expansion pack that builds upon the foundation of XCOM: Enemy Unknown. The game’s mechanics, story, and overall structure are similar to the base game. However, it does offer new content, including new enemies, characters, and storylines, which can extend the gameplay experience.
Key Differences from XCOM: Enemy Unknown
Here are some key differences between XCOM: Enemy Unknown and XCOM: Enemy Within:
| Feature | XCOM: Enemy Unknown | XCOM: Enemy Within |
|---|---|---|
| Storyline | The game’s storyline revolves around the alien invasion and the player’s mission to save humanity. | The expansion pack introduces new storylines and characters, expanding on the base game’s story. |
| Enemies | The game features a variety of alien enemies, including the Sectoid, Floater, and Chryssalid. | The expansion pack introduces new enemies, including the Seeker, Snakeman, and Ethereal. |
| Characters | The game features a roster of soldiers, each with their own abilities and skills. | The expansion pack introduces new characters, including the Reaper, Grenadier, and Specialist. |
| Gameplay Mechanics | The game features a turn-based combat system, where players must use cover, strategy, and tactics to defeat the enemy. | The expansion pack introduces new gameplay mechanics, including the ability to use MEC suits and gene modding. |
Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to play XCOM: Enemy Within:
Pros:
- New Content: The expansion pack offers new enemies, characters, and storylines, which can extend the gameplay experience.
- Improved Gameplay Mechanics: The new gameplay mechanics, such as MEC suits and gene modding, add a new layer of depth to the game.
- Increased Difficulty: The expansion pack introduces new challenges, including tougher enemies and more complex missions.
Cons:
- Not a Full Game: XCOM: Enemy Within is an expansion pack, not a full game. It builds upon the foundation of XCOM: Enemy Unknown.
- Limited Storyline: The expansion pack’s storyline is limited, and it does not offer a new, standalone narrative.
- High System Requirements: The game requires a powerful computer to run smoothly, which can be a drawback for players with lower-end hardware.
Conclusion
In conclusion, XCOM: Enemy Within is not a full game, but rather an expansion pack that builds upon the foundation of XCOM: Enemy Unknown. While it offers new content, gameplay mechanics, and challenges, it does not offer a new, standalone narrative. If you’re a fan of the XCOM series and have completed the base game, XCOM: Enemy Within is definitely worth playing. However, if you’re new to the series, it’s recommended that you start with XCOM: Enemy Unknown and then move on to the expansion pack.