Should I play XCOM games in order?

Should I Play XCOM Games in Order?

XCOM is a beloved series of turn-based strategy games that have captivated gamers for years. With three main games in the series, players often wonder if they should play the games in order or jump straight into the latest installment. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of playing the XCOM games in order, helping you make an informed decision about your gaming experience.

Is Playing the XCOM Games in Order Necessary?

In short, no, playing the XCOM games in order is not necessary. While each game builds upon the previous one, the developers have done an excellent job of making each game self-contained. You can jump into XCOM 2 without having played the original XCOM: Enemy Unknown or XCOM: Enemy Within. The story is designed to be accessible to new players, and the game will guide you through the introduction and early stages.

However, There Are Benefits to Playing the Games in Order

Playing the XCOM games in order can enhance your experience in several ways:

• Improved understanding of the game mechanics: Playing the games in order allows you to gradually learn the game mechanics, starting from the basics in the original XCOM: Enemy Unknown and building upon that knowledge in XCOM: Enemy Within and XCOM 2.
• More context for the story: Playing the games in order provides more context for the story, as you’ll be familiar with the characters, factions, and events from the previous games.
• Better understanding of the alien threat: As you progress through the series, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the alien threat, including their motivations, abilities, and weaknesses.

The Games in Order: A Brief Overview

Here’s a brief overview of each game in the XCOM series:

The Pros and Cons of Playing the Games in Order

Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to play the XCOM games in order:

Pros:

• Improved understanding of the game mechanics
• More context for the story
• Better understanding of the alien threat
• A more immersive experience

Cons:

• Playing the games in order can be time-consuming and may require a significant investment of time and effort
• Some players may not enjoy the earlier games as much as the newer ones
• The story may become too complex or convoluted if you’re not familiar with the earlier games

Conclusion

Playing the XCOM games in order is not necessary, but it can enhance your experience by providing a better understanding of the game mechanics, story, and alien threat. If you’re new to the series, you can start with XCOM 2 and still enjoy the game. However, if you’re willing to invest the time and effort, playing the games in order can provide a more immersive and rewarding experience. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can decide which approach works best for you.