14 DAY TRIAL // Video game developer Firaxis Games and publisher Take Two have announced that they are working together to create a new strategy game called XCOM: Enemy Unknown, which takes the legacy of the series as a basis for a modern game that complements the already announced XCOM shooter from 2K Marin.
Players will take control of a global force created by the national state that will need to use research, production and full tactical engagements to protect Earth from attacks coming from alien forces.
The gamer will have a worldwide perspective and will be able to identify threats, reassure affected population centers and will also have to deal with the national leaders who fund his actions.
The main strategic window will run in full real time but the player will make the switch to turn based combat when aliens are finally met on the field of battle.
There are also destructible environments for players to use and a number of research and development options that allow them to keep up with the aliens in the arms race.
Firaxis is well known for creating the Civilization turn based strategy series and can count on the services of Sid Meier, one of the most respected designers in the field.
Steve Martin, who is the president of Firaxis Games, stated when the game was officially unveiled that, “It’s been a dream of ours to recreate X-COM with our unique creative vision. We’re huge fans of the original game and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to re-envision a game that is as beloved as X-COM.”
He added, “We were careful to keep XCOM: Enemy Unknown true to the elements that made X-COM such a revered game while delivering an entirely new story and gameplay experience for both die-hard X-COM fans and newcomers to the franchise.”
XCOM: Enemy Unknown will be launched on the Xbox 360, the PlayStation 3 and the PC at some point during the fall of the year.
The 2K Marin developed XCOM shooter is currently slated for a March launch date.