A Second Nod
I am really enjoying my time with XCOM. I mentioned it once before but it bears repeating. It’s one of those rare games that sets out to be something interesting and executes it perfectly. XCOM is what a game looks like when a simple concept, with straight forward design is implemented so well that the end product is robust and layered.
I’ve never been one for the Alien Abduction plot line but this game approaches it with the right amount of homage and self-awareness. The reward to difficulty ratio is among some of the best I’ve experienced in a game. The randomness is almost welcomed – like a Casino game. You know it’s screwing you but you’re having too much fun to care.
XCOM isn’t for everyone. But if you’re looking for strategy, difficulty, and depth of game play I highly recommend it.