Should I Beat XCOM 1 Before 2?
The XCOM series has been a staple of strategy gaming for decades, with its latest installment, XCOM 2, offering a thrilling and challenging experience for fans of the genre. If you’re new to the series, you may be wondering whether you should play XCOM 1 before diving into XCOM 2. In this article, we’ll explore the connections between the two games and provide guidance on whether beating XCOM 1 is necessary before playing XCOM 2.
Story Connection
XCOM 2 is set 20 years after the events of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, the first game in the series. The story follows a new resistance movement, the Avenger, as they fight against the alien occupation of Earth. While XCOM 2’s story is self-contained, it does reference events and characters from the first game. If you haven’t played XCOM 1, you may miss out on some of the subtle references and nods to the original game.
Gameplay Differences
XCOM 2 builds upon the gameplay mechanics of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, but with some significant changes. The game features new enemies, classes, and abilities, as well as a more dynamic battlefield and improved graphics. XCOM 2 is a more challenging game than its predecessor, with tougher enemies and a greater emphasis on strategy and resource management.
Should I Beat XCOM 1 Before 2?
In short, it’s not necessary to beat XCOM 1 before playing XCOM 2. While the games share a common universe and some story elements, they are designed to be standalone experiences. XCOM 2’s story is self-contained, and you can jump right into the game without worrying about missing out on important context.
Benefits of Playing XCOM 1 First
However, there are some benefits to playing XCOM 1 before XCOM 2:
- Improved understanding of the XCOM universe: Playing XCOM 1 will give you a deeper understanding of the world and its characters, which may enhance your experience with XCOM 2.
- Familiarity with gameplay mechanics: XCOM 1’s gameplay mechanics are similar to those in XCOM 2, so playing the first game will help you understand the basics of the series.
- Appreciation for the series’ evolution: Playing XCOM 1 first will allow you to appreciate the changes and improvements made in XCOM 2.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it’s not necessary to beat XCOM 1 before playing XCOM 2, playing the first game can enhance your experience with the series. If you’re new to XCOM, you can jump right into XCOM 2 and still enjoy the game. However, if you’re interested in getting a deeper understanding of the XCOM universe and its characters, playing XCOM 1 first may be worth your time.
Table: Key Differences Between XCOM 1 and XCOM 2
| XCOM 1 | XCOM 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Story | Set in the 1950s, during the initial alien invasion | Set 20 years after the events of XCOM 1, during the alien occupation of Earth |
| Gameplay | More linear, with a focus on base-building and resource management | More dynamic, with a greater emphasis on strategy and resource management |
| Enemies | Fewer enemy types, with a focus on the Chryssalid | More enemy types, including new classes and abilities |
| Difficulty | More forgiving, with a gentle learning curve | More challenging, with a steeper learning curve |
Final Thoughts
XCOM 2 is a standalone game that can be enjoyed without playing XCOM 1 first. However, playing the first game can enhance your experience with the series and provide a deeper understanding of the XCOM universe. Whether you choose to play XCOM 1 first or jump right into XCOM 2, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game!