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XCOM vs. Dishonored - Game of 2012

I just wish more developers would think of new IP’s
set in fantasy worlds with innovative mechanics.
Think back on the last year, and think hard: was
there any blockbuster game that was such an
interesting, original concept?
I didn’t think so. I rest my case.

Final summary - Ross
I just don’t get how you could feel so detached
from the XCOM experience, knowing that the men
and women you raised up from nothing are only
a second away from being snatched away from
you and that you will be the one to blame when it
happens.

Final Summary - Kirk

XCOM may not be a brand new IP, but those who
played the original X-COM games of the 90s know
that this is a new creation. It’s like comparing
2005’s Batman Begins with the 1966 Adam West
Movie: of course they share a theme, but one could
hardly say Nolan’s work lacked originality.

You felt nothing for Corvo Attano? Neither did I.
Do you know why you didn’t feel anything for him?
Because you ARE Corvo Attano, in Dishonored.
I haven’t felt a game as truly immersive since
Half-Life 2.

XCOM brought turn-based strategy out of its shell
and breathed new life into a dead franchise. It also
succeeded in the massive undertaking of bringing
the genre to the home console market without
sacrificing any of the game’s detail and integrity
Don’t get me wrong, I really did enjoy XCOM, but it’s (Civilization Revolution anyone?) Is there another
a detached experience when contrasted against home console TBS anywhere with the depth and
the oppressive, yet beautiful, Dunwall City.
playability of XCOM?
I suppose preference in narrative boils down to two
extremes: horrific Orwelian alternate history, or B
movie hamminess. There’s a place in my heart for
the Starship Troopers-esque alien fest, there really
is, but I didn’t just enjoy Dishonored as a game, I
know it’s a cliche, but it was an experience.

I’m sorry you don’t agree with me Kirk, but it doesn’t
matter. Gaming is such a personal hobby and we
will always fall in love with different games. I think
one thing we can both agree on is that 2012 was an
excellent year. You have Dishonored, I have XCOM,
and we both walk away happy.
Ross D. Brown & Kirk McKeand

XCOM: Enemy Within Special Edition 2013

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