XCOM 2: War of the Chosen expands on the strategic depth of its predecessor with new mechanics, missions, and, importantly, armor options. Armor in XCOM 2 isn’t just a cosmetic choice; it significantly impacts your squad’s performance and survival. This review delves into the best armor choices available, examining their benefits, applications, and how they can be utilized to maximize your tactical advantage.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Armor in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen
In XCOM 2, armor serves several crucial functions. It enhances your soldiers’ survivability, provides resistance to various types of damage, and can grant special abilities or bonuses. With the addition of War of the Chosen, armor options have expanded, offering new ways to customize and strengthen your squad.
2. The Importance of Armor
Armor in XCOM 2 provides protection beyond the base health of your soldiers. It mitigates damage from attacks, reduces the effects of status ailments, and can even offer unique abilities that turn the tide of battle. Understanding and choosing the right armor for each situation is essential for success.
3. Types of Armor
There are several types of armor in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, each with unique properties and advantages. Here’s a detailed look at the best armor choices available:
3.1. Standard Armors
**3.1.1. Tactical Suit:
- Description: The Tactical Suit is the first line of armor that provides a basic increase in health and damage reduction.
- Benefits: Offers a straightforward increase in survivability with a small boost in health and a bit of damage resistance.
- Best For: Early-game use when more advanced armor is not yet available. Useful for basic protection and flexibility.
**3.1.2. Exo Suit:
- Description: The Exo Suit enhances mobility and provides an extra item slot, allowing soldiers to carry additional equipment.
- Benefits: Increases mobility and grants access to heavy weapons like the flamethrower. The extra item slot allows for more tactical flexibility.
- Best For: Mid-game, where you need more firepower and utility on the battlefield. Ideal for heavy weapons users and versatile roles.
**3.1.3. Warden Armor:
- Description: Warden Armor provides better protection than the Tactical Suit and comes with built-in abilities that improve survivability.
- Benefits: Enhanced protection and additional features like a small chance to dodge attacks.
- Best For: Soldiers who need extra protection while still retaining a balance of mobility and effectiveness.
3.2. Advanced Armors
**3.2.1. Spider Suit:
- Description: The Spider Suit is designed for high mobility and includes a grappling hook for vertical movement.
- Benefits: Provides excellent mobility, allowing soldiers to scale walls and reach high ground easily. The armor also gives a boost to health.
- Best For: Situations requiring high mobility and tactical positioning. Ideal for flanking and high-ground advantages.
**3.2.2. War Suit:
- Description: The War Suit offers high protection and includes powerful features like a rocket launcher.
- Benefits: High armor value and a built-in rocket launcher make it effective in heavy combat situations.
- Best For: Heavy combat scenarios where additional firepower is needed. Suitable for dealing with large groups of enemies or tough targets.
**3.2.3. Predator Armor:
- Description: Predator Armor provides high mobility and includes a stealth feature that helps soldiers remain undetected.
- Benefits: Allows for enhanced stealth capabilities, making it easier to avoid detection and execute surprise attacks.
- Best For: Stealth missions and scenarios where avoiding detection is crucial. Ideal for squads focusing on stealth and ambush tactics.
4. Armor Modifications and Upgrades
Armor modifications can greatly enhance the effectiveness of each armor type. Here’s how you can customize and upgrade your armor to maximize its potential:
**4.1. Upgrades
**4.1.1. Advanced Armor:
- Description: Upgrading to advanced armor enhances its core attributes, such as increasing health and damage resistance.
- Benefits: Improved overall protection and effectiveness in combat situations.
- Best For: All armor types, as advanced upgrades provide substantial improvements in survivability.
**4.1.2. Plasma Grenade Upgrade:
- Description: Upgrading to plasma grenades increases their damage and area of effect.
- Benefits: Provides more effective crowd control and damage output.
- Best For: Heavy combat scenarios where dealing with groups of enemies is critical.
**4.1.3. Battle Scanner Upgrade:
- Description: Upgrading the battle scanner increases its range and effectiveness in detecting enemies.
- Benefits: Enhanced reconnaissance capabilities, allowing for better planning and positioning.
- Best For: Stealth and reconnaissance missions where knowing enemy positions is crucial.
5. Choosing the Best Armor for Different Scenarios
Selecting the right armor for each mission can make a significant difference. Here’s a guide to choosing the best armor based on various scenarios:
**5.1. Urban Combat
In urban environments, mobility and protection are essential. Armor that provides high protection and mobility is ideal.
Recommended Armor:
- Spider Suit: For high mobility and tactical positioning.
- Warden Armor: For balanced protection and survivability.
**5.2. Heavy Combat
For heavy combat scenarios involving large groups or tough enemies, armor with high protection and additional firepower is crucial.
Recommended Armor:
- War Suit: For high protection and built-in rocket launcher.
- Exo Suit: For additional utility and heavy weapon access.
**5.3. Stealth Missions
In stealth missions, armor that enhances stealth capabilities and reduces detection is essential.
Recommended Armor:
- Predator Armor: For enhanced stealth and ambush tactics.
- Spider Suit: For mobility and tactical positioning.
6. Mods and Community Recommendations
The XCOM 2 modding community has produced numerous mods that enhance or alter armor options, providing additional customization and balance adjustments. Here are some notable mods and community recommendations:
**6.1. Armor Overhaul Mods
Long War 2: This mod introduces extensive changes to armor stats and customization, providing a more challenging and immersive experience.
The Alien Hunters: Adds new armor options and upgrades, enhancing the variety of armor available in the game.
**6.2. Cosmetic Mods
Armor Skins: Various mods offer new skins and appearances for armor, allowing for greater personalization and visual appeal.
Animations: Mods that change armor animations can enhance the visual experience of combat and make the game more engaging.
**6.3. Balance Mods
XCOM 2 Balance Mod: Adjusts armor stats to provide a more balanced experience, addressing any overpowered or underpowered armor options.
Enhanced Armor Customization: Expands the customization options available for armor, allowing for more tailored performance.
7. Conclusion
In XCOM 2: War of the Chosen, choosing the best armor is crucial for success in various combat scenarios. Whether you’re engaging in urban combat, heavy battles, or stealth missions, selecting the right armor can greatly impact your squad’s effectiveness and survivability.
Summary of Top Armor
- Tactical Suit: Basic protection for early-game use.
- Exo Suit: Enhanced mobility and heavy weapon access for mid-game.
- Warden Armor: Balanced protection and survivability.
- Spider Suit: High mobility and grappling hook for tactical positioning.
- War Suit: High protection and built-in rocket launcher for heavy combat.
- Predator Armor: Stealth capabilities for avoiding detection.
By understanding the strengths and applications of these armor options, you can build a well-rounded squad capable of tackling any challenge that comes your way. Combine these armor choices with thoughtful upgrades and customization to optimize their performance and adapt to various combat scenarios.
Whether you’re a veteran player or new to XCOM 2, knowing how to leverage the best armor will enhance your tactical prowess and contribute to a successful campaign.