XCOM: Enemy Within
Jun 19, 2014 12 years ago
XCOM: Enemy Within is a non-console expansion pack for XCOM: Enemy Unknown, a turn-based tactical strategy game. The expansion adds the ability to gene mod soldiers to add to their powers as well as the ability to create MECs, powerful robotic soldiers. These new features are created by collecting a resource called Meld on the tactical battlefield. A number of new maps were also added to the tactical game, as well as multiplayer. The PC version of Enemy Within is an add-on that requires the base game Enemy Unknown. The Console version of Enemy Within is a standalone expansion that does not require the base game Enemy Unknown.
What it’s like
Enemy Within deepens the tactical experience by introducing high-stakes customization through gene-modding and MEC (robotic) soldiers. The core loop remains a punishing test of resource management and positioning, but the new Meld mechanic adds a compelling layer of risk versus reward on the battlefield. Players must decide whether to harvest this dangerous alien substance for powerful upgrades or avoid it to maintain safety. This expansion significantly boosts replayability by allowing diverse squad compositions and playstyles, from stealthy specialists to heavy-hitting mechanized units. The tone remains tense and desperate, emphasizing the fragility of human life against superior alien forces. While the narrative framework is thin, serving primarily as a backdrop for tactical challenges, the writing effectively conveys the gravity of each decision. The structure encourages multiple playthroughs to master the new systems, offering a fresh strategic landscape without altering the fundamental, brutal difficulty that defines the series.
Strong in CombatGameplay / MechanicsProgression / ReplayabilitySystems Depth / Build VarietyAtmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicDifficulty / ChallengePacingPolish / PerformanceVisuals / Art
Keep in mind The difficulty remains unforgiving and can feel punitive to newcomers due to permadeath mechanics. The narrative is minimal, serving only as a vehicle for gameplay rather than an emotional journey.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from gamesradar.com, ign.com, pcgamer.com, gamespot.com, metacritic.com, pcworld.com.
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Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mac | Worldwide | Full release | Nov 12, 201313 years ago |
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | Nov 12, 201313 years ago |
| Linux | Worldwide | Full release | Jun 19, 201412 years ago |
