XCOM Long War Meld Income: Assessing Map Design and Its Impact on Gameplay

When playing XCOM, map design plays a crucial role in shaping the overall gameplay experience. The placement of cover, elevation changes, and artificial structures can either hinder or enhance the player's ability to execute their strategy effectively. In this article, we will explore how XCOM 2 has addressed some of the common issues with map design found in Enemy Unknown (EU) and Enemy Within (EW), particularly when it comes to providing a more intuitive and enjoyable experience for players.

One area where EU/EW falls short is in its inconsistent cover placement. It was not uncommon to find isolated 'islands' of cover that were inaccessible or poorly positioned, making it difficult to advance safely and efficiently. In contrast, XCOM 2 takes a more thoughtful approach to map design, ensuring that cover is spaced and positioned to accommodate unit mobility and action point economy.

The game's focus on clarity and simplicity extends to its use of elevation changes. Unlike EU/EW, where height differences often felt arbitrary or confusing, XCOM 2's designers have deliberately created artificiality in their maps to provide a clear visual representation of the terrain. This approach has led to more intuitive gameplay, as players can easily identify areas that offer height advantages and adjust their strategy accordingly.

Another significant improvement is the way XCOM 2 handles slopes. Unlike EU/EW, where slopes often broke cover behavior or created artificial obstacles, XCOM 2's designers have carefully considered the placement of these features to ensure they do not disrupt gameplay. The observatory map provides a great example of this attention to detail, as the ramp leading up to the secondary building is designed to encourage players to position their soldiers in a way that takes into account cover and line-of-sight.

In conclusion, XCOM 2's map design has made significant strides in addressing some of the common issues found in EU/EW. By providing more intuitive cover placement, clear elevation changes, and thoughtful slope usage, the game offers a more enjoyable and engaging experience for players. As XCOM Long War players, it is essential to understand these design decisions and how they impact our gameplay strategy. With this knowledge, we can better optimize our tactics and make the most of XCOM 2's improved map design.

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