XCOM 2 retiring multiplayer and challenge modes this month

XCOM 2 enthusiasts take note. Firaxis has announced that it will be retiring both the multiplayer support and challenge mode for the Steam version of the game. Owners of the game have only till March 28 before these functions are gone for good.

Meanwhile, owners of the game on Mac, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch may still be able to play these modes. 

According to the Firaxis Steam page:

"The decision to retire these services isn't something done lightly but it does allow us to refocus our resources. We appreciate your support and thank you for your understanding."

XCOM 2 isn’t known for its multiplayer functionality. In it, players face off against each other by forming teams from both ADVENT and XCOM factions and fighting it out on a map of their choice. Due to its highly moddable nature, you can even download a co-op multiplayer mod where you fight as a team. Challenge mode, on the other hand, lets you complete daily challenges for a spot on the XCOM leaderboard. 

While some may be tempted to think of XCOM 3 as the reason for retiring these modes, it’s more likely that Firaxis was referring to their newest IP, Marvel’s Midnight Suns. This is a strategy game that features some of Marvel’s greatest superheroes fighting against the cosmic threat of Lilith, Mother of Demons. Joining them is Lilith’s own child, the Hunter, who has rebelled against her mother and may hold Earth’s only hope in stopping her for good.

Midnight Suns also features turn-based combat like in XCOM, but will also include card-based mechanics that can change the nature of the battlefield.

Firaxis will update the Steam versions of XCOM 2 by March 28 to remove the two modes. Any players looking to grab related Steam achievements need to do so before then. And if you're looking for a Marvel’s Midnight Suns code, check out the best prices with our comparator.