XCOM 2 recently launched for both PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, allowing fans to play the critically-acclaimed squad-based strategy game on console.
Leading up to game’s recent console launch, 2K and Firaxis published a series of development videos detailing the backstory and evolution of the XCOM world.
The XCOM series has been through many changes since the release of UFO: Enemy Unknown in 1994, but the developers have always maintained the overall tone and concept of the original titles.
XCOM 2 presented a unique design challenge, as the game needed to evolve while maintaining the core concepts from Enemy Unknown.
From XCOM: Enemy Unknown to XCOM 2
XCOM 2 takes place 20 years after the events of XCOM: Enemy Unknown, and Earth has been overrun by alien invaders after the failure of the XCOM project to protect the planet.
The player is tasked with directing the Resistance, a guerilla force made up of previous XCOM members and rebels, in their operations to free the planet from its alien conquerors.
A lot has happened between the events of the Enemy Unknown and XCOM 2, and both aliens and XCOM soldiers have evolved considerably.
Greg Foertsh, Art Director of XCOM, outlines the events that take place behind the scenes along with various gameplay concept changes in the video below:
The Resistance
The five classes in XCOM 2 are the Ranger, Grenadier, Specialist, Sharpshooter, and MEC, each suited for different tactical roles on the battlefield.
These classes have evolved from XCOM: Enemy Unknown to represent XCOM’s new brand of guerrilla warfare.
A mix of fan-favourite abilities from the previous game and powerful new abilities mean that soldiers can be outfitted for a variety of roles.
Watch Garth DeAngelis, Lead Producer on XCOM 2, discuss the new abilities and gameplay changes in the video below:
Both the XCOM 2 Standard Edition and XCOM 2 Digital Deluxe Edition are currently available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.
The Digital Deluxe Edition of XCOM 2 includes the Reinforcement Pack, a collection of three DLC packs:
- Anarchy’s Children: This rebellion-themed content pack introduces more than 100 new exotic customizations for the entire arsenal of armors available to your XCOM soldiers. These options are purely cosmetic and do not alter the stats of a soldier. (Available at launch)
- Alien Hunters: Transform the soldiers of XCOM into an elite alien hunting squad with impressive new weapons and armor to face off against new alien Rulers that will pursue your squad across an entire campaign. Additional cosmetic upgrades to soldiers and the Avenger are included, as well as a new epic mission where Central Officer Bradford leads a squad with the guidance of an old friend. (Available at launch)
- Shen’s Last Gift: Introduces a new soldier class with unique upgradeable weapons, armor and customization features, and a new narrative-driven mission and map. (Available at launch)
To find out more about the development of XCOM 2, subscribe to the XCOM channel on YouTube.
Be sure to follow XCOM on Twitter and Like XCOM on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest information on XCOM 2.
If you’re looking to enlist with the Resistance, join the 2K Forums.
This article was published in partnership with Prima Interactive.
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