Pilot Classes in Titanfall 2

Titanfall 2 is renowned for its fast-paced, high-octane action that seamlessly combines on-foot combat with mech-based warfare. At the heart of the game are its Pilots—highly skilled, nimble soldiers equipped with advanced technology that makes them more than a match for the towering Titans they control. In multiplayer, Titanfall 2 offers several unique Pilot classes, each with its distinct playstyle, abilities, and weapons. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the intricacies of these classes, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and the roles they play in the chaotic battlefield of Titanfall 2.

Overview of Pilot Classes

In Titanfall 2, Pilots are divided into seven distinct classes, each with its unique tactical ability and a corresponding set of gadgets and tools. These classes allow players to adapt their playstyle to the demands of the battlefield. Whether you prefer stealthy assassinations, outmaneuvering enemies with speed, or taking a more tactical and defensive approach, there’s a class for every type of player.

The seven Pilot classes in Titanfall 2 are:

1. Grapple
2. Pulse Blade
3. Stim
4. Cloak
5. Phase Shift
6. Holo Pilot
7. AWOL

Each class is designed to cater to different playstyles, and the combination of abilities, weapons, and movement mechanics offers near-infinite possibilities for creative gameplay.

1. Grapple: Mobility Master

The Grapple Pilot class is perfect for players who want to maximize their mobility. This class uses a grappling hook that allows players to swing across the battlefield, gain elevation quickly, and outmaneuver opponents with ease. The hook can also be used to pull enemies toward the player for close-quarters combat, creating some truly cinematic kills.

Strengths:

• Unparalleled Mobility: The Grapple ability enables players to traverse the map in ways that other Pilots simply can’t. It’s ideal for getting to hard-to-reach spots, surprising enemies from above, or quickly disengaging from combat.
• Versatility: The grapple hook can be used both for movement and for offense, making it a highly versatile tool. Players can use it to swing around corners or pull enemies in for a melee kill.
• High Ground Advantage: Grapple Pilots excel at gaining high ground quickly, giving them a tactical advantage in firefights.

Weaknesses:

• Cooldown Time: The Grapple has a cooldown period, and during this time, players can be left vulnerable, especially if they’re caught out in the open.
• Predictability: Skilled opponents may learn to predict a Grapple Pilot’s movements and take advantage of the slight delay before the hook fully engages.

Ideal Playstyle:

The Grapple class is perfect for players who love to be constantly on the move, using agility and creativity to outflank and outmaneuver opponents. It’s especially useful in game modes like Bounty Hunt and Capture the Flag, where speed and positioning are critical.

2. Pulse Blade: Recon Specialist

The Pulse Blade Pilot class is a recon-oriented class that comes equipped with a throwable blade capable of scanning the environment for enemies. When thrown, the blade sends out a pulse that reveals enemy locations through walls, giving Pulse Blade players a tactical advantage over their foes.

Strengths:

• Enemy Detection: The Pulse Blade is one of the best abilities for revealing enemy positions, allowing players to plan their attacks or avoid ambushes. This is invaluable in both team-based modes and free-for-all battles.
• Tactical Awareness: With the ability to see enemies through walls, Pulse Blade Pilots have superior battlefield awareness, allowing them to set up flanks and anticipate enemy movements.
• Good for Ambushes: Knowing where the enemy is allows Pulse Blade players to position themselves for devastating ambushes.

Weaknesses:

• Short Duration: The scan effect doesn’t last very long, so players need to act quickly on the information they receive.
• Reliance on Blade: Without the blade’s pulse, the Pilot loses a significant portion of their tactical edge, making them more vulnerable in prolonged engagements.
• Limited Range: The Pulse Blade only scans a small area, so it needs to be used strategically to be effective.

Ideal Playstyle:

The Pulse Blade class suits players who prefer a more tactical, methodical approach to combat. It’s great for players who like to scout ahead for their team and set up ambushes or avoid detection. This class excels in game modes like Amped Hardpoint and Pilot vs. Pilot, where battlefield awareness can make or break a match.

3. Stim: Speed Demon

The Stim Pilot class is built for speed and aggression. The Stim ability boosts the Pilot’s movement speed and health regeneration for a short period, making it a fantastic tool for both offensive pushes and quick escapes. Players who use the Stim class are often the ones darting around the battlefield, taking out enemies before they can react.

Strengths:

• Blazing Speed: Stim grants the fastest movement speed in the game, allowing players to close the gap on enemies or escape dangerous situations with ease.
• Health Regeneration: The health regeneration aspect of Stim gives players a second chance in fights, allowing them to recover after taking damage and return to the fray.
• Aggressive Play: Stim enables aggressive playstyles, as players can dart in and out of combat, taking out enemies before they even have a chance to react.

Weaknesses:

• Short Duration: Stim’s effects only last for a few seconds, so players need to time their ability use carefully to maximize its impact.
• Fragility: While Stim offers speed and regeneration, it doesn’t provide any defensive benefits. Stim Pilots are still vulnerable to taking heavy damage in a short period, especially from long-range enemies.

Ideal Playstyle:

Stim is ideal for players who want to be on the front lines, engaging in close-quarters combat and constantly keeping their enemies on their toes. It’s great for players who enjoy fast-paced, run-and-gun gameplay. Stim Pilots thrive in modes like Attrition and Last Titan Standing, where fast reflexes and rapid repositioning can turn the tide of battle.

4. Cloak: Stealth Operator

The Cloak Pilot class offers invisibility for a brief period, allowing players to sneak up on enemies or avoid detection altogether. While not entirely invisible, the Cloak ability makes it harder for enemies to spot the Pilot, especially from a distance.

Strengths:

• Invisibility: Cloak Pilots can become nearly invisible for a short time, making them perfect for flanking and sneaking behind enemy lines.
• Great for Snipers: Cloak pairs well with long-range weapons, allowing players to find a vantage point without being spotted and pick off enemies from a distance.
• Surprise Attacks: Cloak Pilots excel at ambushes, as they can move into advantageous positions unnoticed and unleash devastating attacks on unsuspecting enemies.

Weaknesses:

• Limited Duration: The Cloak ability has a short duration, and skilled players can still detect a cloaked Pilot at close range.
• Vulnerable to Detection: Titans and certain gadgets can still detect cloaked players, making them vulnerable to advanced technology on the battlefield.
• Reliance on Positioning: Cloak Pilots need to carefully plan their movements and positioning, as they lack the aggressive tools or mobility of other classes.

Ideal Playstyle:

Cloak is perfect for players who prefer a stealthy, calculated approach to combat. It’s an excellent class for snipers and players who enjoy staying hidden until the right moment to strike. Cloak Pilots perform exceptionally well in modes like Bounty Hunt and Pilot vs. Pilot, where the element of surprise can make all the difference.

5. Phase Shift: Dimensional Assassin

The Phase Shift Pilot class allows players to temporarily shift into another dimension, making them invulnerable for a short period. This ability is perfect for dodging incoming attacks or setting up surprise ambushes, as the Pilot becomes untouchable while in the alternate dimension.

Strengths:

• Invulnerability: Phase Shift grants temporary invincibility, allowing players to dodge bullets, explosions, and other dangers with ease.
• Great for Escapes: Phase Shift is an excellent tool for escaping sticky situations. When surrounded by enemies or caught in a Titan’s path, Pilots can simply shift dimensions and slip away unharmed.
• Tactical Ambushes: Phase Shift also allows players to reposition for sneak attacks, making it an offensive tool as much as a defensive one.

Weaknesses:

• Limited Duration: The Phase Shift ability only lasts for a few seconds, so timing is crucial.
• No Offensive Capabilities: While in the alternate dimension, players cannot attack or interact with the battlefield, making it purely a defensive or repositioning tool.
• Predictable Exit Points: Skilled opponents can predict where a Phase Shift Pilot will reappear, setting up ambushes for when the Pilot exits the shift.

Ideal Playstyle:

Phase Shift is for players who enjoy outplaying their opponents with clever positioning and evasive maneuvers. It’s great for dodging attacks and setting up counterattacks, making it a fantastic choice for players who excel at timing and strategy. Phase Shift Pilots shine in game modes like Last Titan Standing and Amped Hardpoint, where tactical maneuvers and survival are key.

6. Holo Pilot: Decoy Specialist

The Holo Pilot class utilizes a holographic decoy to mislead enemies and create confusion on the battlefield. When deployed, the Holo Pilot creates a lifelike hologram of itself that mimics its actions. This decoy can distract enemies, draw fire away from the real Pilot, and set up ambushes.

Strengths:

• Distraction and Confusion: The Holo Pilot’s decoy is highly effective at drawing enemy attention away from the real Pilot. This can be used to create openings, avoid being targeted, or set up traps.
• Tactical Advantage: The decoy can be used to bait enemies into unfavorable positions or lure them into traps set by the real Pilot. This is especially useful in chaotic battles where positioning and surprise are key.
• Versatile Use: Holo Pilots can deploy their decoy in various scenarios, whether it’s to distract enemies while reloading, drawing attention during a flanking maneuver, or confusing opponents during a retreat.

Weaknesses:

• Limited Impact: While the decoy can be very effective in causing confusion, it does not inflict any damage or directly affect enemies other than drawing their fire.
• Detection by Skilled Players: Experienced opponents may quickly recognize the decoy and avoid being tricked, reducing its effectiveness in highly competitive matches.
• Cooldown Time: The decoy ability has a cooldown period, meaning players must use it strategically and cannot rely on it continuously.

Ideal Playstyle:

Holo Pilot is suited for players who enjoy manipulating the battlefield and setting up deceptive plays. It’s ideal for players who excel at strategic thinking and creating opportunities through distraction. Holo Pilots perform well in game modes like Pilot vs. Pilot and Attrition, where creating confusion and setting up traps can lead to significant advantages.

7. AWOL: Experimental Prototype

The AWOL class is a unique and experimental class in Titanfall 2, featuring a special ability called “AWOL.” This ability allows the Pilot to deploy a set of automated drones that can scout, attack enemies, or provide additional support. The AWOL class is designed for players who want to leverage technology to gain an edge in combat.

Strengths:

• Automated Support: The drones deployed by AWOL can provide additional firepower, scout areas, or distract enemies. This allows players to focus on their primary objectives while the drones handle secondary tasks.
• Versatility: The AWOL class can adapt to various situations, whether it’s using drones for offense, defense, or reconnaissance. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for different playstyles.
• Enhanced Tactical Options: The drones can be used to gather intelligence, provide cover, or create opportunities for coordinated attacks.

Weaknesses:

• Limited Control: Players have limited control over the drones, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the situation and the player’s ability to manage them.
• Dependence on Drones: The AWOL class relies heavily on the drones for its effectiveness, making it less effective in situations where the drones are destroyed or unable to provide support.
• Complexity: The additional layer of managing drones can add complexity to gameplay, which may not appeal to players who prefer more straightforward combat.

Ideal Playstyle:

The AWOL class is perfect for players who enjoy using technology to gain an advantage and prefer a support-oriented role. It’s great for players who like to provide additional firepower, gather intelligence, or support their team with automated assistance. AWOL Pilots excel in game modes like Bounty Hunt and Amped Hardpoint, where their drones can provide significant tactical advantages.

Choosing the Right Pilot Class

When selecting a Pilot class in Titanfall 2, players should consider their personal playstyle, preferred tactics, and the specific demands of the game mode. Each class offers unique abilities and advantages, and mastering the strengths and weaknesses of each class can significantly impact a player’s performance on the battlefield.

For Aggressive Playstyles:

• Stim is ideal for players who thrive on speed and aggression, constantly pushing forward and engaging enemies up close.
• Grapple offers unparalleled mobility and can be used for both offensive and defensive maneuvers, making it great for players who like to be everywhere at once.

For Tactical Playstyles:

• Pulse Blade provides valuable information about enemy positions, allowing players to make informed decisions and set up ambushes.
• Phase Shift allows players to avoid damage and reposition strategically, making it perfect for those who excel at outmaneuvering opponents.

For Stealthy Playstyles:

• Cloak allows players to remain hidden and set up surprise attacks, making it ideal for players who prefer a more stealthy approach.
• Holo Pilot uses deception to create opportunities and distract enemies, appealing to those who enjoy manipulating the battlefield.

For Supportive Playstyles:

• AWOL offers automated support through drones, ideal for players who like to provide additional assistance and support their team in various ways.

Conclusion

The Pilot classes in Titanfall 2 are a testament to the game’s depth and versatility. Each class brings a unique set of abilities and tactics to the battlefield, allowing players to tailor their approach to their preferred playstyle and the demands of the game mode. Whether you’re a fast-moving aggressor, a stealthy infiltrator, or a supportive team player, there’s a Pilot class that suits your needs.

Mastering each class’s strengths and understanding their weaknesses can greatly enhance your performance in Titanfall 2. By experimenting with different classes and adapting to various situations, players can unlock new strategies, improve their gameplay, and contribute more effectively to their team’s success.

As Titanfall 2 continues to captivate players with its dynamic combat and engaging gameplay, the diverse range of Pilot classes ensures that there’s always something new to explore and master. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, the Pilot classes offer endless possibilities for exciting and tactical gameplay.