Expeditions: Rome, the highly anticipated turn-based strategy game, has drawn comparisons to the renowned XCOM series. While both games fall under the strategy genre and share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart. Let’s dive deeper into whether Expeditions: Rome is truly like XCOM or if it brings something unique to the table.
The Turn-Based Strategy Genre
Before we delve into the comparison, let’s briefly discuss what the turn-based strategy genre entails. In this type of game, players take turns making strategic decisions and executing actions, typically on a grid-based map. These decisions often involve managing resources, strategizing combat tactics, and controlling units to achieve specific objectives.
Similarities Between Expeditions: Rome and XCOM
At first glance, Expeditions: Rome does share several similarities with XCOM:
- Tactical Combat: Both games feature tactical combat sequences where players control individual units on a grid-based battlefield.
- Strategic Decision-Making: Both games require players to make strategic decisions beyond combat encounters. This includes managing resources, researching new technologies, and making choices that impact the overall narrative.
- RPG Elements: Both games incorporate role-playing elements by allowing players to customize their characters’ skills, abilities, and equipment.
- Permadeath: In both Expeditions: Rome and XCOM, losing a unit in combat means they are permanently gone from your roster.
Differences That Set Expeditions: Rome Apart
While there are clear similarities between the two games, Expeditions: Rome brings its own unique elements that differentiate it from XCOM:
- Historical Setting: Expeditions: Rome takes place in ancient Rome, offering a historically immersive experience that XCOM does not provide.
- Faction-Based Narrative: Unlike XCOM’s focus on defending Earth from alien invasion, Expeditions: Rome revolves around the political landscape of ancient Rome, where players navigate through complex faction dynamics.
- Non-Linear Storytelling: Expeditions: Rome offers a non-linear narrative structure, allowing players to make choices that significantly impact the story’s outcome.
- Exploration and Diplomacy: In addition to combat encounters, Expeditions: Rome emphasizes exploration and diplomacy. Players can engage in dialogue with various characters and undertake quests beyond the battlefield.
The Verdict
While Expeditions: Rome shares some similarities with XCOM in terms of turn-based tactical combat and strategic decision-making, it distinguishes itself by offering a historical setting, faction-based narrative, non-linear storytelling, and a focus on exploration and diplomacy. These unique elements make it an exciting addition to the turn-based strategy genre.
In conclusion, while Expeditions: Rome may draw inspiration from XCOM, it goes beyond being a mere clone. It brings its own flavor to the genre and offers an engaging experience for fans of both historical settings and turn-based strategy games alike.