EGOSOFT has announced that X2-The Return, the planned expansion for X2 - The Threat, has been cancelled. Fans of the X-series of space combat/trading games however, can rejoice as the essence of the expansion pack has been used to give birth to the next generation of X game, in the form of X2: REUNION, the first multi format product, set in the X universe.
According to the developer the sheer volume of ideas, both from the developer and the fan community, meant that the expansion pack grew at a very fast pace. With development of the X3 engine moving at a rapid pace behind the scenes, the conception of a full, stand alone game became the logical choice.
X3: REUNION utilises a new generation game engine, developed with immersion in mind and will be released in Q3, 2005.
Extensive development has gone into the X3 engine, making full use of DirectX 9 technology, to create dramatic visual effects and stunningly realistic starships. The economy model in X3: REUNION is more complex than any previous X game. Coupled with the massively enhanced A.L. (Artificial Life) system, X3: REUNION will present players with an ever changing, evolving universe; where a player's actions really can shape the future of the universe. Community involvement has been extensive, throughout the development process and the launch of X3: REUNION will see many innovative fan creations in the final retail game.
X3: REUNION will also be the first chance for players to experience the thrills of deep space trading on a format other than PC, with the launch of a console version (TBA).
