XCOM 2 hands-on – the next encounter with aliens introduces many innovations

The XCOM – or X-COM – series has over two decades of history under its belt. The graphical progress it has made is undeniable, even though the core gameplay remains virtually the same from the beginning. The emphasis put on the tactical and strategic aspect, in a turn-based version to boot, was once nothing out of the ordinary, but today it is a rarity... What’s more, XCOM revamped in 2012 is currently second to none in this field. And this isn't due to sparse competition! To put it simply, Enemy Unknown hit all the right notes, appealing to the feeling of nostalgia as well as offering a variety of new solutions within a proven formula. Enemy Within, an expansion set released shortly thereafter, confirmed that Firaxis Games was in great shape. It also proved that in the times of dynamic, non-stop action there is still room for demanding, well laid-out gameplay. XCOM 2, announced a few months ago, is looking to continue this tradition. Although there is still some time until the premiere, I recently had the chance to see for myself if the production was moving in the right direction.

Aliens with a plan

Although shooting aliens is fun in itself, no game from the XCOM series can do without a sensible plot. What we will see in XCOM 2 continues the story presented in the previous installment to a large extent... but the events unfold in a direction that hardly any of the fans expected. The action takes place twenty years after the events of the saga’s first installment, wherein we were desperately trying to repel an alien invasion. In the new production the invaders have succeeded in their efforts to conquer Earth.

Those who didn't enjoy the new situation and the alien “rule” began to organize rebel cells, which are regularly fought by an organization named ADVENT. Comprised of the most faithful servants of the new regime, it was initially formed by people, but at the beginning of the game each one of its members had already undergone far-reaching mutations, which made them into hybrids of sorts. Of course, their status, history, as well as the general mood prevailing in the society will be revealed in a separate prologue, in which we also learn that XCOM, though heavily weakened, has survived. Despite the disarray it found itself in, the organization has no intention to give up the fight. In order to “take back” the world, it needs a fearless and experienced leader. The player learns which character he or she is going to assume during the first mission. As much as I am tempted to reveal who becomes the head of the organization, I'll keep this information to myself. Let me just say that we've already been acquainted with this person...