It has been nearly a decade since the release of XCOM 2, a game that not only captured the hearts of strategy enthusiasts but also set a high bar for tactical gameplay. As the years have rolled by, nostalgia for this beloved title lingers, and the anticipation for a sequel, XCOM 3, has only grown stronger. Yet, here we find ourselves, still waiting, with the hope of a new installment seemingly fading into the distance.
The State of Strategy Games
Julian Gollop, the visionary behind the original XCOM, reflects on the current landscape of strategy games. Despite a recent resurgence in real-time strategy (RTS) games, Gollop admits uncertainty about the future of XCOM 3. “I’m sure there’s an audience for it,” he notes, “but you have to accept the reality that strategy games are still a niche.” This niche, while substantial, presents challenges; even a highly anticipated title like XCOM 3 could struggle to find its footing in today’s gaming market.
Gollop draws parallels to the mixed reception of Civilization VII, highlighting how even industry giants like Firaxis can stumble when experimenting with established formulas. The evolution of strategy games is not solely in the hands of these major players; instead, Gollop points to a wave of innovation emerging from the indie scene. Titles such as Factorio, Tactical Breach Wizards, and The Last Spell are breathing new life into the genre, showcasing fresh ideas that resonate with players, albeit without the extensive budgets of their predecessors.
While the gaming community yearns for XCOM 3, other titles have begun to incorporate elements reminiscent of the franchise. Gollop mentions Jagged Alliance 3 and the Warhammer 40k: Rogue Trader game as examples of projects that echo the tactical depth and strategic gameplay that fans have come to love. These games may not carry the XCOM name, but they certainly capture some of its essence.
As the wait continues, the landscape of strategy gaming evolves, leaving players to wonder if XCOM 3 will ever materialize or if its legacy will be carried on by a new generation of games that draw inspiration from its groundbreaking mechanics.
