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Apple Games' latest game feature takes aim at X3: Reunion, the sequel to X2: The Threat. The game introduces a new 3D engine, a new story, new ships, and new gameplay to the space adventure series. The Apple article examines X3's gameplay and offers a brief history of the series for those new to the X universe.

When you begin a new game, choose from three levels of difficulty, the hardest one presenting you with a harsh universe where everyone distrusts you and attacks come early and often. Or you can eschew the storyline and select one of three starting positions that put you in the role of a new character: Aspiring Explorer, where you investigate all of the X Universe’s mysteries, which extend beyond those uncovered during the story; Humble Merchant, a version that tasks you with building a trading empire, which shouldn’t be too difficult once you figure out the economy’s ins and outs; and Bankrupt Assassin, a fiendishly hard adventure in which you start with no money and must create wealth any way you can.

Other options include a custom game, where you define your starting parameters, including the chance to play as a member of another race, and the simulator, which lets you test your piloting and combat skills in situations that have no impact on the universe. Experiment with different playing styles to your heart’s content, remembering that there are always new things to discover in the X Universe. Dust and nebula fog may hide objects as large as factories, while locations far away from the oft-traveled traffic lanes could contain abandoned cargo or other treasures.

Apple Games: X3: Reunion

Virtual Programming

X3: Reunion

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