An Unforgettable Tactical Experience: XCOM 2 War of the Chosen Reviewed

Developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K Games, XCOM 2 War of the Chosen is an expansion pack to the critically acclaimed XCOM 2. Released in 2017, War of the Chosen takes the already intense and strategic gameplay of its predecessor and cranks it up to eleven. With its immersive storyline, new gameplay mechanics, and challenging missions, this expansion pack offers an unforgettable tactical experience for players.

Storyline and Setting

XCOM 2 War of the Chosen is set in a dystopian future where Earth has been conquered by an alien force known as the ADVENT Coalition. Players take on the role of the commander of the resistance group, XCOM, fighting against the alien occupation. In this expansion, a new enemy called the Chosen emerges, powerful beings with unique abilities and personalities who are determined to capture and kill the commander. The storyline is rich and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep players hooked from start to finish.

Gameplay and Mechanics

The gameplay in War of the Chosen remains true to its turn-based tactical roots. Players must carefully plan and execute their moves, utilizing cover, flanking maneuvers, and specialized abilities to overcome the enemy. The addition of the Chosen introduces new challenges, as they can appear unexpectedly during missions, providing an extra layer of excitement and tension.

One of the most significant additions in this expansion is the introduction of three new factions: the Reapers, Skirmishers, and Templars. Each faction offers unique soldiers with their own abilities, providing players with additional tactical options. The strategic layer of the game has also been expanded, allowing players to form bonds between soldiers, leading to increased effectiveness on the battlefield.

Visuals and Sound

War of the Chosen maintains the high-quality graphics and sound design seen in XCOM 2. The environments are detailed and immersive, with a variety of locales to explore, from abandoned cities to alien strongholds. The character models and animations are top-notch, adding to the overall realism of the game. The soundtrack is atmospheric and intense, perfectly capturing the tension and excitement of the battles.

Getting Started Guide for New Players

If you’re new to XCOM 2 and War of the Chosen, here’s a brief guide to help you get started:

1. Familiarize yourself with the game mechanics by playing through the tutorial. This will teach you the basics of combat, resource management, and base building.

2. Take your time during missions. Rushing can lead to costly mistakes. Analyze the battlefield, plan your moves, and use cover effectively to minimize casualties.

3. Experiment with different soldier classes and abilities. Each class has its own strengths and weaknesses, so finding the right combination for your playstyle is crucial.

4. Utilize the new factions and their unique soldiers. The Reapers excel in stealth and long-range attacks, the Skirmishers are versatile and mobile, and the Templars possess devastating psionic abilities. Use their strengths to your advantage.

5. Manage your resources wisely. Balancing research, engineering, and base expansion is essential for success. Prioritize upgrades that will benefit your squad the most.

6. Keep a close eye on soldier fatigue and injuries. Overworking your soldiers can lead to decreased effectiveness in combat, so rotate them regularly to maintain a well-rounded and healthy squad.

7. Adapt your strategy to the Chosen enemies. They have unique abilities and weaknesses that can be exploited. Gathering intelligence and countering their strengths will greatly improve your chances of success.

8. Don’t be discouraged by failure. XCOM 2 War of the Chosen is a challenging game, and setbacks are expected. Learn from your mistakes, adapt your strategy, and persevere.

In conclusion, XCOM 2 War of the Chosen is an expansion pack that raises the bar for tactical gaming experiences. With its gripping storyline, challenging gameplay, and immersive visuals and sound, it is a must-play for fans of the XCOM series. Whether you’re new to the franchise or a seasoned XCOM veteran, this expansion pack will provide countless hours of strategic entertainment.