The XCOM video game franchise has seen significant success over the years, with fans eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series. In this article, we explore the potential release of XCOM 3, discuss its gameplay possibilities, and review any updates or hints regarding the game’s trailer.
What is XCOM?
XCOM is a beloved science fiction gaming franchise that first made its debut in 1994. The game revolves around an elite international organization tasked with defending Earth from alien invasions. Created by Julian Gollop’s Mythos Games in collaboration with MicroProse, the series has evolved over the years with various episodes and reboots. Here’s a look at some of the key titles in the franchise:
| Game Title | Release Date |
|---|
| XCOM: UFO Defense | March 1994 |
| X-COM: Terror from the Deep | June 1995 |
| X-COM: Apocalypse | July 1997 |
| X-COM: Interceptor | June 1998 |
| X-COM: First Alien Invasion | September 1999 |
| X-COM: Enforcer | April 2001 |
| XCOM: Enemy Unknown | October 2012 |
| The Bureau: XCOM Declassified | August 2013 |
| XCOM 2 | February 2016 |
| XCOM: Chimera Squad | April 2024 |
Will XCOM 3 Be Released?
As of July 2024, there has been no official announcement regarding the release of XCOM 3. However, there have been several occasions where the possibility of a new installment has been hinted at.
During the 2022 Summer Games Fest, Firaxis Project Leader Garth DeAngelis indicated that there is “absolutely” a future for XCOM 3. In a later interview surrounding the development of Marvel Midnight Suns, DeAngelis expressed a strong affinity for the franchise, stating:
“We are enormous fans of XCOM. We love it. There’s absolutely a future for it.”
In September 2021, a significant leak occurred when the NVIDIA GeForce Now database revealed a list of unannounced titles, with XCOM 3 among them. When contacted, NVIDIA clarified that the list was used for internal tracking and testing, and the inclusion of a title did not confirm its development. While this doesn’t constitute an official announcement, it fueled speculation among fans.
What Can We Expect from XCOM 3’s Gameplay?
Though specific details about XCOM 3’s gameplay have yet to be revealed, it’s expected that the game will continue the series’ tradition of turn-based tactical strategy. As of 2024, no concrete gameplay footage has been shared. However, there is speculation that XCOM 3 may incorporate features from the previous games, such as the Breach Mode introduced in XCOM: Chimera Squad. This feature allowed players to engage enemies in a new, dynamic way, and many believe it could be integrated into the upcoming title.
Fans of the franchise are anticipating more enhancements to the tactical mechanics and storytelling that have defined the series. Considering the innovative changes in previous titles, XCOM 3 is expected to build on this legacy with fresh strategic elements.
Is There a Trailer for XCOM 3?
Unfortunately, there is no official trailer for XCOM 3 as of now. Since the game has not been officially announced, no teaser or footage has been made available to the public. The last major installment in the franchise, XCOM: Chimera Squad, was released in 2024, and players can enjoy the series’ previous entries on platforms such as PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.
While fans await more information, the absence of a trailer has done little to dampen the excitement surrounding the potential release of XCOM 3.
Final Thoughts
Though no official release date for XCOM 3 has been confirmed, there is growing anticipation that it will eventually be announced. The franchise’s long-standing popularity and the hints dropped by key developers suggest that XCOM 3 is likely on the horizon. Until then, fans can continue to enjoy the existing titles and speculate about what the next chapter of this iconic series will bring.
With its reputation for challenging gameplay and gripping narrative, the third installment in the XCOM series is poised to be a significant entry into the tactical strategy genre once it is announced. Fans are eagerly waiting for more concrete details and a first look at what XCOM 3 will offer.