INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the world of “The Bureau: XCOM Declassified,” an intriguing reinterpretation of the beloved XCOM strategy game series. As a twist, this entry swaps the strategic top-down view with an immersive third-person tactical shooter experience. No longer are you the unseen commander; instead, you’re right in the heart of the battlefield as a single soldier, thanks to the skilled craftsmanship of 2K Marin Studio, the same wizards behind Bioshock 2.
THE BEGINNING OF AN ORGANIZATION
“The Bureau: XCOM Declassified” takes you on a thrilling journey back to the birthplace of the revered XCOM organization. Initially christened “The Bureau,” this government agency was established in 1962, an era fraught with Cold War tension and fears of a nuclear apocalypse. Initially, they aimed to safeguard U.S. citizens from the Soviet Union’s harmful propaganda. However, a more pressing threat soon emerged – an extraterrestrial civilization.
FACING THE ZUDJARI THREAT
Humanity’s chief nemesis in the game is an alien race known as the Zudjari, who sustain themselves by consuming planets. They’ve set their sights on Earth, their survival hanging by a thread. Not only do they command an enslaved alien race from XCOM: Enemy Unknown to battle humans, but the Zudjari themselves also make appearances as formidable elite units on the battlefield.
WILLIAM CARTER, OUR HERO
Step into the boots of William Carter, leading a squad of three to face this existential threat. You don’t just shoot aliens; tactics are vital to your success. The game equips you with a command system, third-person perspective, and environmental covers to aid in strategy. Watch for advanced alien weapons – their unique effects often give you the upper hand in the battle against the invaders.
YOUR TRUSTED TEAM
Before stepping onto the battlefield, you handpick two teammates from four distinct classes: the Recon, the Engineer, the Support, and the Commando, each contributing unique capabilities. Command your squad to move, attack, or use special abilities in battle, leveraging time slow-down for tactical advantage. Remember, though, your companions aren’t invincible – if they fall, swift help is needed, or their death is permanent, losing their valuable experience and abilities.
BACK TO HEADQUARTERS
Each mission concludes with a return to the XCOM headquarters. There, you engage with the staff and select your following assignments, choosing from story-centric, minor tasks or dispatch missions completed by your squad. Carter’s decisions can sometimes influence someone’s fate or other weighty outcomes during these main missions.
THE VINTAGE SETTING
“The Bureau: XCOM Declassified” employs Unreal Engine 3.0, creating an immersive backdrop filled with ’60s nostalgia juxtaposed with futuristic sci-fi elements. Despite gaming trends, this title singularly focuses on a rich single-player experience, disregarding multiplayer or co-op play. Buckle up for an adventure that combines the charm of the past with the thrill of futuristic combat!
