XCOM 2 set a high standard with its intense gameplay and challenging strategy elements, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next entry in the series. However, XCOM 3 is not yet under development at Firaxis, as confirmed by Jake Solomon, despite some hints suggesting otherwise, including a 2021 Nvidia leak.
So, if XCOM 3 does get the green light, what could we expect and hope for? With the final DLC for XCOM 2 now out, it’s natural to look forward to where the series could go next. Here’s a look at some ideas that could bring fresh excitement to the XCOM universe.
The Classic ‘Invasion’ Theme
XCOM is all about a covert organization defending humanity from alien threats, and this theme is what made XCOM: Enemy Unknown and the classic X-Com: UFO Defense so memorable. Firaxis did try a different route in XCOM 2, with players leading an underground resistance against an established alien occupation.
While this approach brought new challenges, many fans miss the thrill of defending Earth from an emerging invasion. Imagine the suspense of watching the alien presence gradually grow—from the arrival of a few UFOs to a full-scale invasion. It’s a signature aspect of XCOM, and many would love to see it back in XCOM 3.
Diving into ‘Terror From The Deep’
It’s been a long time since we saw a proper remake of X-Com’s aquatic sequel, Terror From The Deep, where players fought against an alien menace rising from the ocean’s depths.
The original game was known for its creepy, underwater settings and added tension, elements that would make an exciting addition to XCOM 3.
Underwater maps and sea bases could provide unique battles and exploration opportunities. The end of XCOM 2 hinted at this storyline, even nodding to the original game’s eerie cover. Could XCOM 3 go under the waves?
Fresh Enemy Types
New enemy types are essential to keeping XCOM feeling dynamic and challenging. XCOM 2 introduced some interesting foes, but the same enemy units can get predictable.
A return to Terror From The Deep would naturally bring new alien designs and abilities, surprising players with creative, underwater-inspired adversaries. The game could truly challenge players again by adding enemies with fresh abilities and strategies, going beyond what we’ve seen before.
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Fully Destructible Terrain
Phoenix Point, a game from X-Com creator Julian Gollop, has already demonstrated the impact of fully destructible environments. Imagine facing a massive alien boss that can tear down buildings or obliterate cover, leaving players scrambling to adapt.
While XCOM has offered limited destructible environments, an upgrade to complete terrain destruction could transform XCOM 3’s battles into epic, high-stakes encounters. Adding fully destructible maps could elevate the gameplay, providing players with intense moments that make every mission memorable.
Fixing the Aiming System
XCOM’s aiming system is notorious among players—missing a “95% chance” shot at point-blank range has become a frustrating meme. While we don’t want Firaxis to scrap it entirely (as it adds an element of suspense), some tweaks could make it less frustrating.
Maybe it’s time for a more reliable system without losing the tension XCOM is known for. It could be redesigned to feel fairer and less random, giving players a more satisfying experience.
Fans have a long wish list for the next XCOM installment. Whether it ends up as Terror From The Deep or something new, XCOM 3 has the potential to revive the series’ classic elements while introducing bold, innovative changes. What would you like to see in XCOM 3?
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Summary
Fans eagerly await XCOM 3, even though it’s not in development. Ideas for the game include returning to the classic alien invasion theme, adding underwater elements inspired by Terror From The Deep, introducing new enemy types, enabling fully destructible terrain, and improving the aiming system.
These changes could bring excitement and freshness to the series while honoring what made XCOM great.