XCOM: Enemy Unknown Preview
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That's the beauty of XCOM's multiplayer. It's like being strong-armed into a terrifying game of speed chess where if you're smart enough you can plan several steps ahead of your enemy and watch your plan unfold, crushing them underfoot. That is incredibly satisfying indeed.
Or maybe, just maybe, behind the fog of war and right under your nose, your opponent could be doing exactly the same thing to you and you don't even know it. Before you've had a chance to figure out the ruse, your team are already in disarray and total failure is only a few moves away.
Fans of the original XCOM will already be accustomed to that sense of unease and the demand for smart thinking at all times. One stupid move or misplaced ability could create a weak spot in your defence, leaving you wide open for slaughter.
This new multiplayer offering is no different. At the start of each round both players are given the same point allowance that they must spend on human and alien units. The point cap is vital in keeping the game balanced, which is a smart move from Firaxis.
Stronger units cost more points as you'd expect, but even weaker units can be bolstered with a variety of add-ons such as medi kits to revive downed squad mates and weapon upgrades. Each choice is crucial to the make-up and success of your team.
