Fans of the XCOM series of games, which were first released back in 1993 and more recently with the XCOM Enemy Unknown game that launched last year, will be pleased to learn that the 2K has finally officially announced the mysterious XCOM first-person shooter, called The Bureau XCOM Declassified. This game was first announced way back in 2010. Watch the trailer after the jump to learn a little more.
The Story and Gameplay
“The Bureau XCOM Declassified tells the story of XCOM’s mysterious beginnings,” said Morgan Gray, creative director at 2K Marin. “We’re expanding the universe with a declassified tale of government conspiracy and heroic cover-ups told through third-person tactical gameplay.
“The The Bureau XCOM Declassified team has been working hard to leverage core XCOM elements like tactical decision-making and permanent death of squad mates in a purposeful way that makes this a unique tactical shooter. To that end, The Bureau will challenge players unlike any other third-person tactical shooter.”
The Bureau XCOM Declassified will be arriving on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC game due out on August 20th, 2013. This game promises to delve deep into the origins of the XCOM organization, providing fans with a rich backstory that ties into the larger XCOM universe. The narrative is set in the 1960s, a period rife with Cold War tensions and government secrecy, which serves as the perfect backdrop for a story about alien invasions and covert operations.
Unique Tactical Elements
One of the standout features of The Bureau XCOM Declassified is its emphasis on tactical decision-making. Unlike traditional first-person shooters, this game incorporates elements that require players to think strategically about their every move. The permanent death of squad mates adds a layer of intensity and realism, forcing players to carefully consider their actions and the potential consequences. This feature is a nod to the core mechanics of the original XCOM games, where every decision could mean the difference between success and failure.
The game also introduces a unique command wheel that allows players to issue orders to their squad in real-time. This system is designed to be intuitive, enabling players to quickly adapt to changing battlefield conditions. For example, you might need to order one squad member to provide suppressive fire while another flanks the enemy. The success of these maneuvers depends on your ability to think several steps ahead, making for a deeply engaging gameplay experience.
In addition to its tactical elements, The Bureau XCOM Declassified features a robust upgrade system. Players can customize their squad members with various abilities and equipment, tailoring their team to suit their preferred playstyle. This level of customization adds another layer of depth to the game, encouraging players to experiment with different strategies and tactics.
The game’s setting and atmosphere are also worth noting. The 1960s aesthetic is meticulously crafted, from the period-appropriate technology to the cultural references scattered throughout the game. This attention to detail helps to immerse players in the world of The Bureau, making the experience all the more compelling.
In conclusion, The Bureau XCOM Declassified is shaping up to be a unique addition to the XCOM franchise. With its blend of tactical gameplay, rich storytelling, and immersive setting, it promises to offer something new and exciting for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Mark your calendars for August 20th, 2013, and get ready to uncover the secrets of XCOM’s origins.
Source: Gamespot
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