XCOM 2: War of the Chosen Tutorial

Introduction

“XCOM 2: War of the Chosen” is an expansion for the highly acclaimed tactical strategy game “XCOM 2,” developed by Firaxis Games. The expansion adds a wealth of new content, including new factions, enemies, missions, and gameplay mechanics. For both veterans of the XCOM series and newcomers alike, the tutorial in “War of the Chosen” serves as a critical entry point, providing players with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex and challenging world of XCOM. In this comprehensive review, we will delve deep into the tutorial experience of “XCOM 2: War of the Chosen,” exploring its design, effectiveness, and how it sets the stage for the rest of the game.

The Importance of a Good Tutorial

In any complex strategy game, the tutorial plays a vital role. It’s the player’s first encounter with the game’s mechanics, systems, and overall design philosophy. A well-crafted tutorial can ease players into the experience, making them feel confident and capable, while a poorly designed one can frustrate and overwhelm, potentially driving players away before they even get a chance to experience the game’s depth.

“XCOM 2: War of the Chosen” is a game with a steep learning curve, featuring intricate tactical combat, resource management, and strategic decision-making. The tutorial, therefore, has a lot of ground to cover. It must introduce players to the basic mechanics, such as movement, combat, and unit management, while also hinting at the more complex systems that will come into play later. Moreover, since “War of the Chosen” is an expansion, it needs to integrate new content and mechanics seamlessly, ensuring that even players familiar with the base game are not left in the dark.

Initial Impressions: Presentation and Accessibility

The tutorial in “XCOM 2: War of the Chosen” begins with a cinematic introduction that sets the tone for the game. The atmosphere is tense, with a narrative that places the player in command of a resistance force fighting against an alien occupation of Earth. The stakes are high, and the tutorial immediately makes it clear that every decision matters.

Visually, the tutorial is impressive. The game’s art style, with its gritty, war-torn environments and detailed character models, is immediately engaging. The interface is clean and intuitive, with tooltips and prompts guiding the player through each step. The voice acting, particularly the narration by Central Officer Bradford, adds to the immersion, providing context and motivation for the player’s actions.

One of the strengths of the tutorial is its accessibility. The game offers different difficulty levels, and the tutorial adjusts accordingly. On easier difficulties, the tutorial is more forgiving, with more explicit guidance and leniency in combat scenarios. On higher difficulties, the tutorial assumes a certain level of familiarity with strategy games, offering less hand-holding and encouraging players to think critically about their decisions. This scalability ensures that the tutorial is useful for both newcomers and experienced players.

Core Mechanics: Movement and Combat

The tutorial begins by introducing the player to the core mechanics of movement and combat. These are the foundation of the XCOM experience, and the tutorial does an excellent job of breaking them down into manageable pieces.

Movement:

Movement in XCOM is grid-based, with each unit having a certain number of tiles they can move per turn. The tutorial introduces the concept of “cover” early on, emphasizing the importance of positioning your units behind obstacles to reduce their chances of being hit by enemy fire. The use of full cover versus half cover is explained, and the tutorial encourages players to think strategically about where to place their units.

One of the tutorial’s strengths is how it encourages experimentation. Players are prompted to move their units into different positions, allowing them to see firsthand how cover affects line of sight and the likelihood of being hit. This hands-on approach is effective in helping players internalize the mechanics, making them feel more comfortable with the idea of using the environment to their advantage.

Combat:

Combat in XCOM is turn-based, with players and enemies taking turns to move and attack. The tutorial introduces the basic concept of actions per turn, explaining that each unit typically has two actions: one for movement and one for attacking or using an ability. The tutorial also explains the concept of overwatch, where a unit can forgo their attack to automatically shoot at the first enemy that moves within their line of sight during the enemy’s turn.

The tutorial is careful to introduce these mechanics gradually. The first few encounters are straightforward, with enemies placed in obvious positions and the player given clear instructions on how to approach the situation. As the tutorial progresses, the complexity increases, with enemies taking up more strategic positions and the player having to think more carefully about their moves.

One of the tutorial’s standout features is its ability to teach through experience. Rather than simply telling the player what to do, the tutorial sets up scenarios that naturally lead the player to discover the best course of action. For example, an early encounter might place an enemy in a position where it can only be hit if the player flanks it, teaching the importance of maneuvering to gain a tactical advantage. This method of teaching is more engaging than a simple exposition and helps to build the player’s confidence.

Introducing New Elements: Factions, Heroes, and the Chosen

“War of the Chosen” introduces several new gameplay elements that significantly alter the XCOM experience. These include new factions, hero units, and the titular “Chosen” enemies. The tutorial does an admirable job of integrating these new elements, ensuring that players understand their roles and how they interact with the existing systems.

Factions and Hero Units:

One of the major additions in “War of the Chosen” is the introduction of three new factions: the Reapers, Skirmishers, and Templars. Each faction has its own unique hero unit, with special abilities and playstyles. The tutorial introduces these factions gradually, giving the player control over each hero unit in turn and demonstrating their strengths.

The Reaper, for example, is introduced as a stealthy sniper, capable of remaining concealed even after attacking. The tutorial sets up scenarios that highlight the Reaper’s ability to scout ahead and take out enemies from a distance without being detected. This not only teaches the player how to use the Reaper effectively but also reinforces the importance of scouting and information gathering in XCOM.

Similarly, the Skirmisher is introduced as a versatile unit capable of moving and attacking multiple times in a single turn. The tutorial places the Skirmisher in situations where this mobility is crucial, such as flanking enemies or retreating to a safer position after an attack. By presenting these scenarios, the tutorial helps the player understand the value of the Skirmisher’s unique abilities.

The Templar, with its focus on close combat and building up energy (Focus) to unleash powerful abilities, is introduced last. The tutorial places the Templar in situations where its melee attacks are most effective, such as taking down isolated enemies or finishing off weakened foes. This gradual introduction of the hero units allows the player to get a feel for each faction’s playstyle and how they can be integrated into a broader strategy.

The Chosen:

The Chosen are a new type of enemy introduced in “War of the Chosen,” acting as powerful antagonists that evolve over time and can appear in missions to harass the player’s forces. The tutorial introduces the first Chosen encounter in a way that highlights their threat and unpredictability.

The player is warned about the Chosen’s abilities and is encouraged to adapt their strategy to counter them. The tutorial makes it clear that the Chosen are not ordinary enemies; they require careful planning and coordination to defeat. This encounter is a pivotal moment in the tutorial, as it shifts the player’s mindset from simply reacting to enemies to actively planning for the long-term challenges posed by the Chosen.

Base Management: The Avenger and Strategic Layer

In addition to the tactical combat, XCOM 2 also features a strategic layer where players manage their base, the Avenger, and make decisions that affect the overall progress of the campaign. The tutorial provides a comprehensive introduction to these mechanics, ensuring that players understand the importance of managing resources, research, and personnel.

The Avenger:

The Avenger serves as the player’s mobile base of operations, housing various facilities that provide different benefits. The tutorial walks the player through the process of constructing new facilities, such as the Guerrilla Tactics School (GTS), which allows for soldier training and squad size upgrades, and the Resistance Ring, where players can undertake covert actions to gain additional resources and bonuses.

The tutorial emphasizes the importance of prioritizing certain facilities based on the player’s needs. For example, the GTS is highlighted as a crucial early-game facility, as it allows players to expand their squad size, giving them an edge in combat. The tutorial also introduces the concept of assigning engineers and scientists to speed up construction and research, respectively, teaching the player the value of efficient resource management.

Research and Development:

Research is a key aspect of XCOM, as it allows players to unlock new technologies, weapons, and equipment. The tutorial introduces the research mechanic by guiding the player through the process of selecting a research project and assigning a scientist to it. The tutorial also explains the importance of autopsies, which provide valuable insights into enemy weaknesses and can lead to powerful new upgrades.

The tutorial does a good job of balancing guidance with freedom. While it suggests certain research paths, such as prioritizing magnetic weapons or alien encryption, it also allows the player to explore different options. This approach encourages players to think about their overall strategy and how their research choices will impact their progress.

Covert Actions and Resistance Orders:

“War of the Chosen” introduces the concept of covert actions and resistance orders, which add a new layer of strategic depth to the game. The tutorial explains how covert actions work, allowing players to send soldiers on special missions that can yield rewards such as additional resources, new recruits, or intelligence on the Chosen. These actions are not without risk, as soldiers sent on covert actions can be injured, captured, or ambushed.

The tutorial effectively conveys the importance of covert actions by highlighting their strategic benefits. Players are encouraged to use covert actions to target specific goals, such as locating and weakening the Chosen, gaining new faction orders, or boosting resistance influence. The tutorial also introduces the concept of resistance orders, which are bonuses granted by the different factions that can be applied to the player’s overall strategy. These orders can provide a variety of benefits, from increased income to tactical advantages during missions.

The integration of covert actions and resistance orders into the tutorial is handled smoothly, with the player being guided through the process of selecting and executing a covert action. The tutorial also emphasizes the need to balance the risks and rewards of these actions, teaching players to weigh their options carefully before committing their forces.

Advanced Combat Techniques: Psy Ops, Bonding, and Fatigue

As the tutorial progresses, it introduces more advanced combat techniques that add depth to the tactical layer. These include the use of Psi Operatives, soldier bonding, and managing soldier fatigue, all of which are critical for success in the mid-to-late game.

Psi Operatives:

Psi Operatives are unique soldiers who harness psionic abilities to perform powerful attacks and support actions on the battlefield. The tutorial introduces Psi Ops gradually, starting with the construction of the Psi Lab and the training of a new Psi Operative. The tutorial then guides the player through the use of psi abilities in combat, showcasing their potential to turn the tide of battle.

The tutorial does an excellent job of demonstrating the versatility of Psi Ops. Players are shown how psi abilities can be used both offensively, such as with the “Soulfire” ability that deals guaranteed damage, and defensively, with abilities like “Inspire,” which grants an extra action to an ally. This balanced introduction ensures that players understand the full potential of Psi Operatives and how they can complement other units in their squad.

Soldier Bonding:

“War of the Chosen” introduces the concept of soldier bonding, where two soldiers can form a bond that provides them with unique tactical advantages. Bonded soldiers can gain access to special abilities, such as giving each other extra actions during combat or reducing each other’s stress and fatigue after a mission.

The tutorial introduces bonding in a way that feels organic, often pairing soldiers who have fought together in previous missions. It highlights the benefits of bonding by providing practical examples in combat scenarios, showing how a well-timed bond ability can make the difference between success and failure. The tutorial also covers the management aspect of bonding, explaining how players can nurture and maintain these bonds over time.

Fatigue and Stress Management:

A key addition in “War of the Chosen” is the introduction of the fatigue system, which simulates the physical and mental toll that prolonged combat takes on soldiers. The tutorial explains how soldiers accumulate fatigue over time, especially after difficult missions, and how this fatigue can lead to negative effects like decreased willpower, reduced effectiveness, or even the onset of negative traits.

The tutorial is effective in teaching players to manage fatigue proactively. It encourages the use of diverse squads, rotating soldiers in and out of missions to prevent burnout. The tutorial also introduces the concept of the infirmary, a facility that can help manage fatigue and remove negative traits, further emphasizing the importance of keeping the squad in peak condition.

By the end of the tutorial, players are well-equipped to handle the advanced combat mechanics introduced in “War of the Chosen.” They understand the importance of psi abilities, the value of soldier bonds, and the necessity of managing fatigue, all of which are critical for success in the challenging missions that lie ahead.

Narrative Integration: Storytelling and Immersion

One of the standout aspects of the “War of the Chosen” tutorial is how it integrates narrative elements into the gameplay. The expansion builds on the story of XCOM 2, deepening the conflict between the resistance and the alien occupiers while introducing new characters and plotlines. The tutorial is designed to immerse players in this narrative, making them feel like active participants in the ongoing struggle.

Character Development:

The tutorial does a great job of introducing key characters from the new factions, such as Volk from the Reapers, Mox from the Skirmishers, and Geist from the Templars. Each of these characters has a distinct personality and backstory, which is gradually revealed through dialogue and mission briefings. The interactions between these characters and the main cast, such as Central Officer Bradford and Dr. Tygan, help to build a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

The tutorial also uses these characters to convey important gameplay information. For example, Mox might explain the unique capabilities of the Skirmishers, while Geist provides insight into the Templars’ philosophy and abilities. This narrative-driven approach to tutorialization helps to keep players engaged, as they are learning about the game’s mechanics in the context of the story.

The Threat of the Chosen:

The Chosen are not just powerful enemies; they are also central to the narrative of “War of the Chosen.” Each of the Chosen has a distinct personality, voice acting, and motivation, and they actively taunt and challenge the player throughout the campaign. The tutorial introduces the Chosen early on, establishing them as a formidable and ever-present threat.

The first encounter with a Chosen is designed to be memorable, with the tutorial emphasizing their unique abilities and the need for a coordinated strategy to defeat them. The Chosen are also integrated into the broader story, with their actions and interactions with the player driving the narrative forward. This narrative integration helps to create a sense of urgency and personal stakes, making the player feel more invested in the conflict.

Dynamic Storytelling:

One of the strengths of XCOM 2 and its expansion is the use of dynamic storytelling, where the player’s actions and decisions shape the narrative. The tutorial introduces this concept by presenting the player with choices that have both immediate and long-term consequences. For example, the decision to pursue a certain research project or covert action can influence the availability of resources, the strength of the Chosen, or the development of the player’s soldiers.

The tutorial emphasizes the importance of these choices by showing how they can impact the flow of the game. For instance, choosing to focus on a specific faction might lead to stronger bonds with that faction, unlocking powerful resistance orders or new hero units. Conversely, neglecting certain aspects of the game, such as managing fatigue or upgrading equipment, can lead to difficult situations in later missions.

By integrating dynamic storytelling into the tutorial, “War of the Chosen” encourages players to think strategically and consider the long-term implications of their decisions. This approach not only enhances the immersion but also prepares players for the challenges of the full campaign.

Balancing Challenge and Guidance

One of the most challenging aspects of designing a tutorial for a complex game like XCOM 2 is striking the right balance between challenge and guidance. The tutorial needs to teach the player the necessary skills without overwhelming them, while also providing enough challenge to keep the experience engaging.

Gradual Difficulty Curve:

The tutorial in “War of the Chosen” is carefully designed to introduce mechanics and challenges gradually. The early missions are straightforward, with clear objectives and manageable enemies. As the tutorial progresses, the difficulty ramps up, with more complex scenarios, tougher enemies, and the introduction of new mechanics like the Chosen and covert actions.

This gradual increase in difficulty ensures that players have time to master the basics before being introduced to more advanced concepts. The tutorial also uses a variety of mission types, from standard combat missions to covert actions and resistance operations, to keep the experience fresh and varied.

Adaptive Feedback:

Another strength of the tutorial is its use of adaptive feedback. The game provides real-time feedback based on the player’s actions, offering tips and suggestions when necessary. For example, if the player repeatedly places soldiers in vulnerable positions, the tutorial might remind them of the importance of using cover. This feedback is presented in a way that feels natural and unobtrusive, helping players learn from their mistakes without feeling patronized.

The tutorial also adapts to the player’s performance, offering additional guidance or reducing the difficulty if the player is struggling. This adaptive approach ensures that the tutorial is accessible to players of all skill levels, providing a tailored experience that meets their needs.

Encouraging Exploration:

While the tutorial provides guidance, it also encourages players to explore and experiment with the game’s mechanics. Players are given the freedom to make their own decisions, whether it’s choosing a research path, deploying a specific squad composition, or engaging in a covert action. This sense of agency is important, as it helps players feel in control of their experience and fosters a deeper understanding of the game’s systems.

The tutorial rewards experimentation by providing positive feedback when players discover effective strategies or make good decisions. For example, successfully flanking an enemy or using a hero unit’s abilities effectively might be met with praise from Central Officer Bradford or a boost in mission rewards. This reinforcement of good play helps to build the player’s confidence and encourages them to continue exploring different approaches.

Preparing for the Full Campaign: Building a Strong Foundation

By the end of the tutorial, players should feel well-prepared to take on the challenges of the full “War of the Chosen” campaign. The tutorial lays a strong foundation by covering all of the game’s core mechanics, from tactical combat to base management and strategic planning. However, the true test of the tutorial’s effectiveness is how well it prepares players for the complexities and unpredictability of the campaign.

Strategic Decision-Making:

The tutorial in “War of the Chosen” equips players with the tools needed to make informed strategic decisions, an essential aspect of XCOM 2. As the campaign progresses, players will face increasingly complex choices, such as balancing the need to gather resources with the imperative to disrupt enemy operations. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of these decisions by simulating scenarios where the player must weigh the pros and cons of different actions.

For instance, players might need to decide whether to prioritize building new facilities, upgrading soldier gear, or investing in covert actions. Each choice has its implications, affecting the player’s ability to respond to threats, expand the resistance’s influence, or enhance the capabilities of their troops. By introducing these concepts early, the tutorial ensures that players are not only familiar with the mechanics but also understand the strategic thinking required to succeed in the full campaign.

Risk Management:

One of the key lessons imparted by the tutorial is the importance of risk management. XCOM 2 is a game where every decision carries potential consequences, and the tutorial does a good job of illustrating this. Players are taught to anticipate the risks associated with their actions, whether it’s sending soldiers on a risky covert action, engaging a Chosen in battle, or attempting to rescue a captured soldier.

The tutorial encourages players to consider alternative strategies, such as retreating from a mission that has gone sideways or delaying an assault until better equipped. It also highlights the need for contingency planning, reminding players that things don’t always go as expected in the world of XCOM. By preparing players to think about risk in this way, the tutorial ensures that they are better equipped to handle the unpredictable nature of the campaign.

Resource Management:

Another critical aspect covered in the tutorial is resource management. “War of the Chosen” introduces new resources, such as Intel and Supplies, which are essential for maintaining and expanding the resistance’s operations. The tutorial guides players through the process of acquiring and managing these resources, emphasizing the need to balance short-term needs with long-term goals.

Players learn to prioritize their spending, deciding when to invest in new technologies, expand their base, or hire additional soldiers. The tutorial also touches on the importance of gathering Intel, which is needed for various strategic actions, such as contacting new regions or countering enemy operations. By the end of the tutorial, players should have a good understanding of how to manage their resources effectively, setting them up for success in the full campaign.

Adapting to Enemy Strategies:

“War of the Chosen” introduces a more dynamic and adaptive enemy AI, particularly with the addition of the Chosen. The tutorial emphasizes the need for players to be adaptable in their strategies, as the enemies in XCOM 2 will not sit idly by while the player builds their forces. The Chosen, in particular, will actively hunt the player’s soldiers, sabotage their operations, and evolve their tactics based on the player’s actions.

The tutorial provides a glimpse of this dynamic by showing how the Chosen can disrupt the player’s plans and forcing them to adapt on the fly. For example, if a Chosen ambushes a covert action, the player must quickly react to save their soldiers and complete the mission. This experience teaches players the importance of being flexible and prepared for unexpected challenges.

Mastering Tactical Combat:

Finally, the tutorial ensures that players have a solid grasp of the tactical combat system, which is at the heart of XCOM 2. The game’s turn-based combat is highly tactical, requiring players to make the most of their soldiers’ abilities, positioning, and cover. The tutorial introduces players to the various combat mechanics, such as using overwatch to set up ambushes, taking advantage of height advantages, and combining soldier abilities for maximum effect.

The tutorial also highlights the importance of knowing when to push forward and when to pull back. It teaches players to assess the battlefield, consider the strengths and weaknesses of their enemies, and make tactical decisions accordingly. By the time the tutorial concludes, players should feel confident in their ability to navigate the complexities of XCOM 2’s combat system, ready to face the challenges that await in the full campaign.

Conclusion: A Comprehensive and Engaging Introduction

The “War of the Chosen” tutorial in XCOM 2 is a masterclass in game design, offering a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the expansion’s new mechanics and features. By seamlessly integrating narrative elements with gameplay tutorials, it ensures that players are not only informed about the game’s systems but also deeply invested in the story and characters.

The tutorial’s gradual difficulty curve, adaptive feedback, and emphasis on strategic decision-making prepare players for the rigors of the full campaign. It effectively teaches the importance of resource management, risk assessment, and tactical combat, all while encouraging exploration and experimentation. By the end of the tutorial, players are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to take on the challenges of “War of the Chosen” with confidence.

For both newcomers to the XCOM series and veterans alike, the “War of the Chosen” tutorial provides a solid foundation that enhances the overall experience of the game. It ensures that players are not only ready to face the threats posed by the Chosen and their alien overlords but are also eager to dive into the deep, strategic gameplay that has made XCOM 2 a beloved title among strategy enthusiasts. Whether you’re leading the resistance for the first time or returning to the fight, the tutorial ensures that you’re well-prepared for the battle ahead.