Introduction
XCOM 2: War of the Chosen is an expansion to the critically acclaimed XCOM 2, a turn-based strategy game developed by Firaxis Games. The expansion adds a significant amount of new content, including new factions, enemies, missions, and gameplay mechanics, making it one of the most comprehensive expansions in the genre. While the single-player campaign is the main draw for most players, XCOM 2 also features a multiplayer mode that offers a unique twist on the classic XCOM formula.
In this review, we’ll delve into the multiplayer aspect of XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, exploring how it compares to the single-player experience, its strengths and weaknesses, and whether it adds value to an already content-rich game.
Table of Contents
1. Overview of XCOM 2 Multiplayer
The multiplayer mode in XCOM 2 is a turn-based competitive experience where two players face off against each other using squads they have built. Unlike the single-player campaign, where you control a squad of human soldiers fighting against an alien invasion, the multiplayer mode allows players to create mixed squads of both human and alien units. This opens up a variety of strategic possibilities, as each side can experiment with different unit combinations and tactics.
In War of the Chosen, the multiplayer experience remains largely similar to the base game but with the addition of new units and abilities introduced in the expansion. Players can choose from the new factions—Reapers, Skirmishers, and Templars—each with their unique abilities and playstyles, adding further depth to the multiplayer battles.
2. Squad Building and Strategy
One of the key aspects of XCOM 2 multiplayer is squad building. Players are given a set number of points (referred to as Squad Points) to spend on their squad, with each unit costing a different amount based on its power and abilities. This point system ensures that matches are balanced, as both players have to make strategic decisions about which units to bring into battle.
Squad Composition: The variety of units available in multiplayer is one of its strongest points. Players can choose from a mix of XCOM soldiers, ADVENT troops, and alien units, each with its strengths and weaknesses. For example, XCOM soldiers are versatile and can be customized with different classes and abilities, while alien units like Mutons and Sectoids bring unique skills such as Psionics and powerful melee attacks.
Faction Units: The introduction of faction units in War of the Chosen adds a new layer of strategy to squad composition. Reapers, with their stealth abilities and long-range sniper attacks, can be used to harass the enemy from a distance. Skirmishers, with their grappling hooks and multiple actions per turn, are great for aggressive, hit-and-run tactics. Templars, on the other hand, excel in close combat and can build up Focus to unleash devastating attacks. Balancing these new units with traditional XCOM soldiers and alien units is a key challenge in multiplayer squad building.
Customization: Another important aspect of squad building is customization. Players can equip their soldiers with different weapons, armor, and items, tailoring their squad to their preferred playstyle. This allows for a high degree of creativity and experimentation, as players can try out different combinations to find the most effective strategies.
3. Multiplayer Gameplay
Once squads are built, players face off in a turn-based battle on a randomly generated map. The objective is simple: eliminate the opposing squad. However, the gameplay itself is anything but simple, as XCOM 2’s multiplayer requires careful planning, strategic movement, and smart use of abilities.
Turn-Based Strategy: Multiplayer matches in XCOM 2 are a test of tactical prowess. Each player takes turns moving their units, positioning them for attacks, and using abilities. The game’s cover system plays a crucial role, as positioning units behind cover reduces the chance of them being hit by enemy fire. Flanking is also a critical tactic, as attacking an enemy from the side or behind increases the chances of landing a critical hit.
Fog of War: The multiplayer maps are shrouded in fog of war, meaning that players can only see the areas where their units have line of sight. This adds a layer of uncertainty and tension to the gameplay, as you never know exactly where the enemy is or what they’re planning. Scouting and reconnaissance are important, and players must be careful not to overextend their units, as this can leave them vulnerable to ambushes.
Abilities and Skills: Each unit in XCOM 2 has a set of abilities and skills that can be used to turn the tide of battle. For example, Sharpshooters can use abilities like Deadeye for a high-damage shot, while Psionic units can use mind control to take control of an enemy unit. Managing these abilities and using them at the right time is key to success in multiplayer matches. Players must also consider the cooldowns and action points required for each ability, as mismanaging these resources can leave their units vulnerable.
Mind Games and Bluffing: Multiplayer in XCOM 2 isn’t just about tactics; it’s also about psychology. Since you’re playing against another human player, mind games and bluffing can play a big role in how the match unfolds. For example, you might deliberately leave a unit exposed to bait your opponent into a trap, or you might feign retreat to lure them into an ambush. Understanding your opponent’s playstyle and adapting your strategy accordingly is crucial.
4. The Impact of War of the Chosen on Multiplayer
The War of the Chosen expansion significantly enhances the multiplayer experience in XCOM 2 by introducing new content that adds variety and depth to the gameplay.
New Units: As mentioned earlier, the addition of faction units—Reapers, Skirmishers, and Templars—brings fresh strategic options to multiplayer. Each faction has its unique playstyle, and mastering the use of these units can give players a significant advantage in battles. For example, Reapers can stay hidden and pick off enemies from a distance, while Skirmishers can use their grappling hooks to quickly reposition and strike.
The Chosen: One of the most notable additions in War of the Chosen is the Chosen—powerful enemy bosses that appear during the campaign. While the Chosen themselves don’t appear in multiplayer, their influence can still be felt in the form of new abilities and tactics available to players. For instance, some abilities that the Chosen use in the campaign, such as teleportation or summoning reinforcements, can inspire new strategies in multiplayer.
New Maps and Environments: War of the Chosen also introduces new maps and environments that add variety to the multiplayer experience. These maps are procedurally generated, ensuring that no two matches are exactly alike. The new environments, such as the Lost City and the underground tunnels, provide different challenges and opportunities for strategic play.
Covert Actions and Resistance Orders: While these features are primarily used in the single-player campaign, they also influence the multiplayer experience by introducing new mechanics and abilities. Covert Actions, for example, can provide temporary buffs to units, while Resistance Orders can grant passive bonuses. These mechanics add another layer of depth to the game and can be used to create interesting and unique strategies in multiplayer matches.
5. Strengths of XCOM 2 Multiplayer
1. Strategic Depth: One of the biggest strengths of XCOM 2 multiplayer is the strategic depth it offers. With a wide variety of units, abilities, and customization options, players can experiment with different strategies and tactics. The addition of new units and abilities in War of the Chosen further enhances this depth, making each match a unique and challenging experience.
2. Balanced Gameplay: Despite the wide variety of units and abilities available, XCOM 2 multiplayer is surprisingly well-balanced. The Squad Points system ensures that both players have a fair chance, and the diversity of units means that there’s no single “best” strategy. Success in multiplayer depends on the player’s skill, adaptability, and ability to outthink their opponent.
3. Replayability: The procedurally generated maps and the variety of units and abilities available make XCOM 2 multiplayer highly replayable. Each match is different, and there’s always something new to try or a new strategy to experiment with. Whether you’re playing casually with friends or competitively online, the multiplayer mode offers endless hours of entertainment.
4. Tense and Exciting Gameplay: XCOM 2 multiplayer is full of tension and excitement. The turn-based nature of the game means that every move counts, and the fog of war adds an element of uncertainty and suspense. The satisfaction of outmaneuvering your opponent, landing a critical shot, or pulling off a successful ambush is unparalleled, making each match a thrilling experience.
6. Weaknesses of XCOM 2 Multiplayer
1. Limited Player Base: One of the biggest challenges facing XCOM 2 multiplayer is its limited player base. While the single-player campaign is immensely popular, the multiplayer mode hasn’t attracted as large an audience. This can make it difficult to find matches, especially at certain times of day or if you’re looking for ranked play.
2. Lack of Support and Updates: While War of the Chosen added new content to the game, the multiplayer mode hasn’t received the same level of support and updates as the single-player campaign. This has led to some players feeling that the multiplayer experience is somewhat neglected, with occasional bugs and balance issues that haven’t been addressed.
3. Learning Curve: XCOM 2 multiplayer can be challenging for newcomers due to its steep learning curve. Understanding the nuances of squad building, unit abilities, and map strategies requires practice and experience. New players may find it difficult to compete against more experienced opponents who have mastered these aspects. Additionally, the fog of war and the need for strategic positioning can be overwhelming at first, requiring time to grasp fully.
4. Lack of Variety in Game Modes: The multiplayer mode in XCOM 2 is primarily focused on one-on-one battles, which, while engaging, can become repetitive over time. Unlike the single-player campaign, which offers a rich variety of mission types and objectives, the multiplayer experience is limited to combat-focused matches. This lack of variety in game modes can lead to a sense of monotony for some players.
5. Technical Issues: Like many online games, XCOM 2 multiplayer can occasionally suffer from technical issues, such as connectivity problems or bugs that impact gameplay. While these issues are relatively rare, they can be frustrating when they disrupt an otherwise enjoyable match.
7. Strategies for Success in XCOM 2 Multiplayer
1. Master the Basics: Before diving into competitive matches, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the basics of the game. Understand how different units work, how to use cover effectively, and how to manage your squad’s abilities. Practice these fundamentals in skirmish mode or against AI opponents to build a solid foundation.
2. Experiment with Different Squads: One of the joys of XCOM 2 multiplayer is the ability to experiment with different squad compositions. Try out various combinations of units, abilities, and equipment to find what works best for your playstyle. Don’t be afraid to adapt and change your squad based on the challenges you face.
3. Utilize Terrain and Cover: The multiplayer maps in XCOM 2 are designed with various types of terrain and cover. Use these to your advantage by positioning your units in strategic locations. High ground often provides better visibility and accuracy, while full cover can reduce the risk of taking damage. Learn to use the environment to your benefit and position your units to control key areas of the map.
4. Pay Attention to Enemy Abilities: Understanding the abilities of your opponent’s units is crucial for crafting effective counter-strategies. If you know your opponent has a Reaper, for example, you might want to be extra cautious about revealing your positions. Similarly, if you’re facing Skirmishers, anticipate their mobility and plan accordingly.
5. Use Mind Games: As mentioned earlier, XCOM 2 multiplayer involves a psychological component. Use mind games to outwit your opponent. For instance, you might feign a retreat to lure your enemy into a trap or use a decoy to distract them from your true objective.
6. Manage Your Resources Wisely: Each unit in XCOM 2 has a limited number of actions and abilities per turn. Use these resources wisely and avoid wasting them on unnecessary moves. Efficient resource management can turn the tide of battle in your favor.
7. Adapt and Evolve: XCOM 2 multiplayer is dynamic, and the strategies that work well in one match might not be as effective in the next. Be prepared to adapt your tactics based on the evolving situation and the strategies employed by your opponents. Flexibility is key to achieving success in multiplayer battles.
8. Community and Multiplayer Experience
1. Community Engagement: Despite its challenges, the XCOM 2 multiplayer community is active and passionate. Engaging with the community can provide valuable insights and tips for improving your gameplay. Forums, social media groups, and dedicated multiplayer communities offer a wealth of knowledge and can be a great way to connect with other players.
2. Tournaments and Events: Occasionally, community-run tournaments and events offer an opportunity for players to showcase their skills and compete against others in a structured setting. Participating in these events can be a great way to test your abilities, gain recognition, and experience a different aspect of the multiplayer scene.
3. Modding Community: The modding community for XCOM 2 is vibrant and offers various mods that can enhance or alter the multiplayer experience. While mods for multiplayer are less common than those for single-player, some mods can add new units, abilities, or balance adjustments that might appeal to multiplayer enthusiasts.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, the multiplayer mode in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen offers a unique and engaging twist on the classic XCOM formula. While it may not have the same level of popularity or support as the single-player campaign, it provides a competitive and strategic experience that can be both challenging and rewarding. The addition of new units and abilities in War of the Chosen adds depth and variety to the multiplayer gameplay, making each match a fresh and exciting experience.
The strengths of XCOM 2 multiplayer lie in its strategic depth, balanced gameplay, and replayability. However, it also faces challenges such as a limited player base, a steep learning curve, and technical issues. For those who enjoy competitive turn-based strategy and are willing to invest the time to master the game, XCOM 2 multiplayer can be a highly satisfying and enjoyable experience.
Ultimately, whether you’re a seasoned XCOM veteran or a newcomer looking to test your skills against other players, XCOM 2: War of the Chosen multiplayer offers a rich and engaging experience that is worth exploring. With the right strategies, a bit of practice, and a willingness to adapt, you can make the most of this intriguing aspect of the game and enjoy countless hours of strategic battles.