To fans of the series, dont start raging about the genre-change just yet. 2K have been careful to mention that the core gaming system is still based around the capture and study of alien artifacts, and the launching of risky tactical gambits across the country as was UFO: Enemy Unknown. These player choices in fact have a direct impact on the story, ensuring that no two playthroughs will be the same. From the high levels of detail and design evident in the trailer, theres every chance that XCOM could turn out to be the next big gaming franchise re-boot. In a recent press release, 2K listed some of the games main features in detail;
Features: Experience XCOM from an Immersive New Perspective: Step into the shoes of FBI agent William Carter and confront firsthand the horror, tension and fear of the unknown. Call the Shots and Bear the Consequences: The enemy threat is far-reaching and indiscriminate. As the man in charge, you will be tasked with deciding where and when to respond to the disturbances across the United States, and how best to use the limited resources at your disposal. Your choices and efforts have a direct involvement in the creation of new tools and technology that will aid in your battle to save mankind. But make a bad decision, and the consequences will be felt most by those you have failed. Struggle Against a Faceless Enemy: Knowledge is power. Confront the enemy in the field, and conduct research and investigation to learn more about them. Command your science and engineering teams to build tools to exploit their weaknesses as you struggle to gain the upper hand against the growing threat. No Two Experiences Are the Same: The player-driven, yet narrative-rich campaign progresses according to your choices and performance, while dynamic, unscripted conditions and emergent combat systems ensure that no two field operations play out the same way. There isnt much more to divulge about XCOM as yet, but be sure to check out the trailer if you havent already. WhatCulture! has an excited eye on this one, so check back; well be bringing you the details and updates as they happen. XCOM is out 9th March in the UK (6th in the US) on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.