Back in 2010, before the current incarnation of XCOM both vindicated and realized the hopes of an entire fan community, it looked like the XCOM franchise would first be seeing an FPS addition. The website for the game, under development at 2K Marin, has been taken offline and YouTube videos for the game set to private.
The Uncertain Fate of the XCOM FPS
Take Two might be cancelling the game, either as a reaction to the recent tactical RPG’s success or as a result of XCOM fans’ chilly reception. The tactical RPG, known for its strategic depth and challenging gameplay, has garnered a dedicated following, which may have influenced the decision to reconsider the FPS direction. Fans of the series have always cherished the strategic elements that define XCOM, and the shift to an FPS format might have seemed like a departure from the core values of the franchise.
There’s also a possibility, suggested both by domain name registrations and the game’s reported subject matter of how XCOM came into being, that the game is being renamed and repositioned as The Bureau. This potential rebranding could indicate a shift in focus, perhaps blending elements of both FPS and strategy to create a hybrid experience that appeals to a broader audience. The Bureau: XCOM Declassified, as it was later known, aimed to explore the origins of the XCOM organization, providing a narrative-driven experience set in the 1960s.
Exploring the XCOM Universe
The XCOM franchise has always been about humanity’s struggle against overwhelming alien threats, and the tactical RPG format has allowed players to engage deeply with this theme. The potential FPS addition, however, promised a more immersive, first-person perspective on the alien invasion. This shift in perspective could have offered players a new way to experience the tension and urgency of defending Earth from extraterrestrial forces.
Despite the initial excitement, the FPS version faced significant challenges. The fan community, deeply invested in the strategic gameplay of the original XCOM titles, expressed concerns about the departure from the series’ roots. The tactical RPG’s success only amplified these concerns, as it demonstrated that there was still a strong appetite for the classic XCOM experience.
The Bureau: XCOM Declassified eventually emerged as a compromise, blending third-person shooter mechanics with strategic elements. This hybrid approach aimed to satisfy both fans of the original series and those looking for a more action-oriented experience. Set during the Cold War, The Bureau explored the early days of the XCOM organization, providing a rich narrative backdrop for the gameplay.
The development and eventual release of The Bureau highlight the challenges of evolving a beloved franchise. Balancing innovation with respect for the series’ heritage is a delicate task, and the mixed reception of The Bureau underscores the difficulty of striking that balance. While it may not have achieved the same level of acclaim as the tactical RPG, The Bureau offered a unique perspective on the XCOM universe, enriching the lore and providing fans with a new way to engage with the story.
The journey of the XCOM FPS reflects the complexities of game development and the importance of listening to the fan community. The eventual pivot to The Bureau: XCOM Declassified demonstrates a willingness to adapt and experiment, even if the results are met with mixed reactions. As the XCOM franchise continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how future installments balance innovation with the strategic gameplay that has defined the series for decades.
Source Digital Trends
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