XCOM

Definition

XCOM is a series of tactical video games that centers around a fictional paramilitary organization tasked with defending Earth from extraterrestrial threats. The series is known for its blend of strategy, resource management, and turn-based combat, and it raises important discussions about player agency and moral choices within game narratives, reflecting broader themes in video game art theory and the impact of player decisions on in-game worlds and characters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The XCOM series began with 'UFO: Enemy Unknown' in 1994 and has since evolved into a major franchise with several sequels and spin-offs.
2. The gameplay emphasizes strategic decision-making, as players manage resources, build their base, and engage in tactical battles against alien invaders.
3. XCOM features permadeath for soldiers, creating emotional stakes and prompting players to consider the consequences of their choices during missions.
4. Player choices significantly affect the storyline and gameplay experience in XCOM, such as which research projects to pursue or how to respond to global threats.
5. The aesthetic design of XCOM games incorporates elements of science fiction art, reinforcing themes of alien encounters while enhancing the immersive experience.

Review Questions

• How does the permadeath feature in XCOM influence player strategy and decision-making during gameplay?
  • The permadeath feature in XCOM requires players to carefully consider their tactics during missions, as losing a character means they cannot be revived. This heightens the emotional stakes of each encounter, forcing players to weigh the risks of aggressive strategies against more cautious approaches. The fear of losing beloved characters drives players to engage with the game's mechanics more thoughtfully, reinforcing the importance of strategic planning and resource management.
• Discuss how XCOM exemplifies key debates in video game art theory through its narrative structure and gameplay mechanics.
  • XCOM serves as a compelling case study in video game art theory, particularly in how it integrates narrative with gameplay mechanics. The player's decisions shape both the outcomes of individual missions and the overarching storyline, raising questions about authorship and narrative agency in interactive media. This interplay between strategy and storytelling challenges traditional notions of linear narratives in art, showcasing how player choices can transform the experience into a more personalized journey.
• Evaluate the impact of player agency in XCOM on character development and world-building, considering how it affects player investment in the game.
  • Player agency in XCOM significantly enhances character development and world-building by allowing players to shape their unique narrative experiences through choices that affect their soldiers' fates. As players witness the consequences of their decisions—such as which characters survive or fall—an emotional connection forms between them and their squad members. This investment transforms the gameplay into a deeply personal story where each character's journey is influenced by player input, making the world feel alive and responsive to their actions.

Related terms

Turn-Based Strategy: A gameplay style where players take turns making decisions, often emphasizing tactical planning and strategic depth.

Permadeath: A game mechanic where characters can permanently die, impacting gameplay and forcing players to make careful choices.

Player Agency: The degree of control and influence a player has over their decisions and actions within a game.