XCOM 2 War Of The Chosen Review: Unleashing Tactical Brilliance in Turn-Based Strategy

XCOM 2 War Of The Chosen: An Overview

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen is an expansive expansion that builds upon the critically acclaimed XCOM 2 game, introducing a plethora of new features and gameplay mechanics that enhance the overall experience. Released in August 2017, this DLC not only adds new content but also significantly alters the pace and strategy of the original game. Players can expect to engage with richer narratives, new enemy factions, and an improved combat system that demands a more tactical approach.

One of the standout features of War of the Chosen is the introduction of the Chosen—powerful, multi-faceted enemies that adapt to player strategies, making them a formidable threat throughout the campaign. There are three distinct Chosen, each representing a different aspect of the Advent forces:

• The Assassin – Specializes in stealth and high mobility, making her a deadly opponent that can ambush your troops.
• The Hunter – Focuses on adaptability and skillful ranged attacks, often stalking players before moving in for the kill.
• The Warlock – Masters mental manipulation and can revive other enemies, making him a formidable foe during missions.

In addition to the Chosen, players will also encounter new factions fighting against the Advent regime, such as the Reapers, Skirmishers, and Templars. Each faction brings unique abilities and play styles, enriching the tactical options available to players. Collaborating with these factions not only provides additional gameplay mechanics but also deepens the narrative, offering new story arcs and quests that enhance the player’s engagement with the game world.

The expansion also introduces new mechanics for the Avenger base, allowing players to customize their operations more effectively. Players can build new rooms, recruit soldiers with unique abilities, and gain bonuses through alliance-building with the new factions. This organizational depth adds layers of strategy to the game, demanding that players make thoughtful decisions regarding resource allocation and combat readiness.

Furthermore, XCOM 2: War of the Chosen significantly modifies the combat system. Players must now account for a new Fatigue mechanic, which impacts soldier performance based on their deployment frequency. This necessitates more careful management of the roster, encouraging players to diversify their squad and rotate soldiers to maintain optimal readiness and morale. Taken together, these features create a more immersive and dynamic experience, ensuring that no two campaigns are ever quite the same.

Key Features of XCOM 2 War Of The Chosen

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen expands upon the tactical experience of the base game, adding a wealth of new features that enhance gameplay and offer fresh challenges. This expansion introduces three powerful factions, new enemy types, and an engaging narrative that deepens the overall experience. Below are some of the standout features that define this incredible DLC.

New Factions

War of the Chosen introduces three new resistance factions, each with unique abilities and objectives:

• The Reapers – Specializing in stealth and guerrilla tactics, the Reapers offer unique skills that allow players to execute ambushes and reconnaissance missions effectively.
• The Skirmishers – An elite faction that focuses on mobility and advanced weaponry, Skirmishers can swing the tide of battle with their extraordinary combat abilities.
• The Templars – Psychic warriors who harness the power of psionics for devastating effects, the Templars provide a unique gameplay style that emphasizes melee combat and special abilities.

New Enemies and Gameplay Mechanics

The expansion introduces new alien threats, including the formidable Chosen. Each Chosen has unique powers and abilities, forcing players to adapt their strategies continuously. Key aspects include:

• Dynamic Combat – The Chosen are persistent enemies that evolve by learning from their encounters with your squad, making each confrontation unpredictable and strategic.
• Unique Strengths and Weaknesses – Each Chosen faction has distinct fighting styles, requiring players to leverage their squad’s strengths to exploit the vulnerabilities of these enemies.

Expanded Soldier Classes

Players can customize their squads further with expanded soldier classes and abilities. Each new faction provides unique skills that enhance the existing gameplay structure. The notable additions include:

• New Skills – Each class comes with fresh skills that allow for advanced tactics, encouraging players to experiment with different squad compositions.
• Hero Units – Players can recruit new soldier types with unique attributes and background stories, enriching the game’s narrative and emotional investment.

Enhanced Tactical Gameplay

War of the Chosen deepens the tactical elements of XCOM 2, introducing a more complex strategy layer. Key features include:

• Increased Map Variety – New mission locations and environments provide diverse contexts for battles, strategically impacting player choices.
• Personalized Soldier Progression – Soldiers can develop personal stories and relationships through character interactions, fostering attachments and enhancing gameplay strategies.

New Story and Narrative Depth

The storyline in War of the Chosen is richly woven, offering an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional tactical gameplay. Key narrative elements include:

• Faction Interactions – Players must navigate relationships with new factions and manage their alliances to advance the story and gain powerful bonuses.
• Resistance Missions – These narrative-driven missions allow players to explore the lore of the game’s universe while completing objectives that impact the overall campaign.

Overall, the Key Features of XCOM 2: War of the Chosen significantly enhance the gameplay experience, bringing new challenges and enriching the tactical landscape. With diverse factions, dynamic combat mechanics, and a deep narrative, this expansion elevates XCOM 2 to new heights.

Gameplay Mechanics: What’s New in War Of The Chosen?

War of the Chosen introduces several exciting gameplay mechanics that significantly enhance player experience and deepen the strategic elements of XCOM 2. One of the standout features is the addition of Resistance Heroes, unique characters that assist in the fight against the Advent forces. Each hero possesses distinctive abilities and playstyles, allowing players to customize their strategies based on the needs of their squad and missions.

New Faction System

The expansion also introduces the concept of factions. Players can ally with three different Resistance factions, each offering their own set of missions and unique rewards. These factions provide players with new opportunities to gather resources, recruit heroes, and uncover more about the enemy’s lore. Completing faction missions is crucial for building alliances and unlocking powerful new abilities that can turn the tide of battle.

Enhanced Mission Objectives

With War of the Chosen, mission objectives have become more varied and engaging. Players will encounter dynamic mission types that require different tactical approaches. For instance, some missions may focus on rescuing VIPs, while others are geared towards sabotage or stealth. This variety keeps gameplay fresh and encourages players to think critically about their chosen tactics and squad composition for each encounter.

Chryssalid Evolution

Moreover, fans of the series will find new enemy types, such as the fearsome Chryssalids, which have evolved to pose an even greater threat. These enemies have new abilities that make them more challenging to fight and require players to adapt their strategies. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these new foes is essential to survive the myriad of confrontations players will face in the expanded universe.

Customization Options

War of the Chosen also places a greater emphasis on customization with the introduction of new equipment and soldier classes. Players now have access to a broader range of weapons, armor, and skill trees, allowing for a highly personalized approach to squad development. The ability to tailor soldiers to specific roles or missions adds another layer of depth to the tactical gameplay that fans have come to love.

Psychological Warfare

Lastly, the game introduces the concept of psychological warfare against the Advent enemy forces. Players will need to manage their soldiers’ morale, as prolonged exposure to stress and combat can impact their performance. This mechanic encourages players to maintain healthy troop dynamics and strategically rotate their squad members to avoid mental fatigue, further enriching the overall strategic gameplay experience.

Character Classes and Customization in XCOM 2 War Of The Chosen

XCOM 2: War Of The Chosen expands upon the already detailed character customization and class system from the base game. Players are given the ability to personalize their soldiers, enhancing their performance in battles while also reflecting individual play styles. Each soldier can belong to a specific character class, which defines their abilities, weapon preferences, and role on the battlefield.

Character Classes Overview

War Of The Chosen introduces three new character classes along with the original four, bringing the total to seven distinct classes. Each class has its own unique set of skills and tactical advantages:

• Templar: A melee-focused class that specializes in powerful attacks and gaining abilities through combat.
• Skirmisher: This hybrid class combines ranged combat with the ability to engage in close-quarter battles, utilizing unique movement capabilities.
• Assassin: An elusive and stealthy character, specializing in sneaky tactics and high single-target damage.
• Ranger: Masters of close combat, Rangers utilize shotguns and melee weapons, making them the frontline warriors.
• Specialist: Equipped with advanced technology, Specialists can hack enemy devices and support their squad with healing abilities.
• Sharpshooter: Long-range experts who excel at precision shooting, often picking enemies off from a distance.
• Grenadier: Heavy weapon users who deal damage with explosives and have the skills to destroy cover.

Customization Options

The customization options available in XCOM 2: War Of The Chosen allow players to tailor their soldiers’ appearance and skills extensively. Players can modify:

• Visual Appearance: Choose from a variety of hairstyles, facial features, and uniforms to create a distinct look.
• Weapons: Select and upgrade weapons for each soldier, enhancing their effectiveness in combat.
• Skills: As soldiers gain experience, players can choose which abilities to unlock, allowing for unique builds and strategies.

Strategic Roles

Understanding the role of each character class is crucial for success on the battlefield. The combination of different classes allows players to create well-rounded squads. For example, pairing a Templar with a Specialist can provide both strong melee capabilities and vital support, while including a Sharpshooter offers fire support to take out enemies from a distance.

Leveling Up and Progression

As soldiers progress through missions, they earn experience points, which contribute to their leveling up. Upon reaching new ranks, players can unlock powerful abilities that further define their class role. This progression encourages strategic planning, as players will want to choose abilities that complement their existing squad composition or counter specific enemy threats.

In summary, the character classes and customization elements in XCOM 2: War Of The Chosen elevate the tactical gameplay, offering players a chance to shape their squads significantly. From selecting the right class for a mission to customizing the appearance and abilities of individual soldiers, this aspect of the game is not only essential for tactical success but also enhances player engagement with their team.

The Impact of the Chosen on Combat Strategies

The concept of the Chosen has significantly influenced the way combat strategies are formulated and executed in various settings, from historical battles to modern warfare simulations. The Chosen often represent elite units or individuals recognized for their exceptional skills and abilities. Their presence can alter the dynamics of combat, prompting both allies and adversaries to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Enhanced Morale and Psychological Warfare

One of the most notable impacts of the Chosen on combat strategies is the boost in morale they provide to their team. The presence of a Chosen unit can inspire nearby soldiers, leading to increased cohesion and fighting spirit. This psychological aspect becomes a critical factor in battle, as troops are more likely to engage bravely when they know they are supported by top-performing warriors.

Shifting Tactical Approaches

Incorporating Chosen into a combat strategy necessitates a shift in tactical planning. Rather than relying solely on numerical advantage, commanders must consider the special abilities and strengths of the Chosen. This can lead to:

• Flanking maneuvers – Utilizing the Chosen’s agility to outmaneuver opponents.
• Focus fire – Concentrating firepower on key enemy targets where the Chosen can exploit their unique skills.
• Distraction techniques – Deploying Chosen to create diversions, allowing other units to regroup or reposition.

Specialized Roles and Diversified Tactics

The Chosen often specialize in distinct roles such as assassins, defenders, or support units, which encourages commanders to diversify their tactics. This specialization mandates a more intricate understanding of each Chosen’s capabilities, allowing forces to exploit enemy weaknesses more effectively.

Counter-Strategies from Opponents

The presence of Chosen can provoke rival forces to develop counter-strategies aimed at neutralizing their influence in battle. Enemies may focus on:

• Targeting the Chosen – Prioritizing attacks that will neutralize the elite units quickly.
• Gathering intelligence – Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the Chosen to adapt their battle plans.
• Exploiting vulnerabilities – Creating situations where the Chosen cannot effectively utilize their skills.

In summary, the integration of the Chosen into combat strategies serves as a pivotal element that influences both offensive and defensive tactics on the battlefield. As forces respond and adapt to their capabilities, the Chosen create a ripple effect that reshapes the very essence of warfare planning and execution.

Graphics and Sound Design: Aesthetic Improvements

The realm of graphics and sound design is pivotal in crafting immersive experiences in gaming, multimedia, and digital content. As technology evolves, the standards for aesthetic quality continue to rise, pushing designers to explore innovative approaches for enhancing visual and auditory appeal. The integration of high-definition graphics and rich soundscapes fosters a more engaging user experience, setting new benchmarks for industries reliant on compelling visuals and sounds.

Enhanced Visuals

Incorporating advanced graphical techniques, such as real-time ray tracing and high dynamic range (HDR), provides unprecedented realism in visual content. These technologies allow for dynamic lighting effects and more accurate reflections, contributing to a lifelike aesthetic that captures the viewer’s attention. Furthermore, texture mapping and 3D modeling enhance the depth and detail of visual elements, making them more appealing to the audience.

Color Palettes and Style Trends

• Vibrant Colors: Utilizing a wider spectrum of colors can evoke emotions and set the mood for different scenes.
• Minimalist Design: Clean, simple layouts are increasingly favored for their focus on content and clarity.
• Cinematic Techniques: Techniques such as depth of field and motion blur help create an immersive visual experience.

Aside from technology, the choice of color palettes plays a significant role in the aesthetics of graphics. Current trends favor vibrant and contrasting colors to create striking visuals that enhance user engagement. Meanwhile, the minimalist design trend highlights the power of simplicity, emphasizing content through clean layouts. These approaches ensure that the graphics align with modern artistic sensibilities while remaining accessible.

Sound Design Innovations

On the audio front, advancements in sound design significantly enrich the overall aesthetic. The implementation of spatial audio technologies creates an enveloping sound environment, allowing users to experience sound from all directions. This technology is particularly beneficial in gaming and VR applications, as it provides cues that enhance gameplay and interaction.

Furthermore, the use of dynamic soundtracks tailored to the scene or user interaction fosters emotional engagement. Incorporating sound elements that react to player actions adds a layer of excitement and connection. Sounds such as footsteps, ambient noise, and weather effects contribute to a more believable and immersive environment, highlighting the integral link between sound design and visual aesthetics.

Player Reception: What Critics Are Saying About War Of The Chosen

Since its release, War Of The Chosen has garnered significant attention from both players and critics alike. Reviewers have highlighted various elements of the expansion, including its storytelling, game mechanics, and overall immersion. The consensus tends to revolve around how well it enhances the base game, XCOM 2, by introducing new features that deepen the strategic and narrative aspects of the game.

Enhanced Gameplay Mechanics

Many critics have praised the new gameplay mechanics introduced in War Of The Chosen, particularly the addition of the Resistance Fighter system. This new feature enables players to recruit, train, and empower allies against the alien threat, introducing layers of strategy that were previously absent. Reviewers have noted that managing these fighters adds an exciting dynamic to missions, allowing players to tailor their gameplay experience based on individual strengths and weaknesses.

Engaging Storytelling and Characters

The narrative elements of War Of The Chosen have been well-received, with critics highlighting the expansion’s effort to develop deeper story arcs tied to new characters. The three new alien factions, each with their own unique abilities and narratives, create a richer universe that draws players in. According to several reviews, players feel more connected to their soldiers and the overarching struggle against the alien invasion, enhancing the overall emotional stakes of the game.

Visual and Audio Enhancements

Critics have also noted that War Of The Chosen offers noteworthy visual and audio enhancements. The graphics remain striking, with more detailed environments and character designs. The sound design, including a compelling soundtrack and immersive sound effects, contributes to the tension and excitement of battles. Many players feel that these improvements elevate the gaming experience, making each mission feel unique and engaging.

Mixed Reviews on Difficulty and Length

Despite the praise, some critics have expressed concern over the game’s difficulty spikes and overall length. Reviews mention that War Of The Chosen can be punishing at times, with some missions feeling overwhelming due to increased enemy strength and the pressure of managing multiple tasks. The length of the game is also debated, with some players noting that while the expanded content is rich, it can feel elongated without providing substantial new experiences as they progress.

Community Feedback

The player community has echoed many of the critics’ sentiments, with forums and social media buzzing with discussions about favorite features and challenges faced within the game. It’s evident that the reception is largely favorable, especially among fans of the original XCOM 2. Players appreciate the new layers of tactical depth and narrative richness, which many argue are indispensable for enhancing replayability.

Final Thoughts: Is XCOM 2 War Of The Chosen Worth It?

When considering whether XCOM 2: War of the Chosen is worth your time and investment, it’s essential to evaluate what this expansion brings to the table. For fans of tactical strategy games, the addition of new gameplay mechanics, characters, and challenges can significantly enhance the overall experience. So, let’s dive into some key aspects to consider.

Enhanced Gameplay Mechanics

The expansion introduces several new gameplay mechanics that enrich the tactical complexity of the game. Players can now engage with:

• New Alien Factions: The addition of the Chosen adds formidable enemies that require players to rethink their strategies and tactics.
• Resistance Faction Missions: These missions provide unique objectives and rewards, giving players more variety in gameplay.
• New Classes and Soldiers: The new soldier classes bring fresh abilities and skills that add depth to character customization.

Storyline and Lore Expansion

War of the Chosen expands the narrative significantly, weaving new lore into the existing XCOM universe. Players uncover intriguing backstories through:

• New Missions and Cutscenes: Engaging story-driven missions have been added that deepen the lore and introduce emotional stakes.
• Character Development: Expanded character interactions and development create a more immersive experience.

Replayability Factor

The introduction of new challenges and scenarios increases the game’s replayability. With different factions and environments to navigate, each playthrough can feel unique. The randomization of events and missions ensures that no two games will be the same, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. Players can also experiment with various combinations of new characters and strategies, making every campaign fresh and exciting.

Community and Mod Support

Another factor to consider is the game’s active community and mod support. The XCOM 2 community is vibrant, with numerous mods enhancing gameplay and adding content. War of the Chosen is compatible with many of these mods, providing even more reasons to invest time in the game. Players can tailor their experience to their preferences, from difficulty adjustments to cosmetic changes.

Overall Value Assessment

In summary, whether XCOM 2: War of the Chosen is worth it largely depends on your love for tactical games and storytelling. If you’re seeking a deeper, more challenging, and enriched experience, this expansion not only revitalizes the base game but also provides extensive content that justifies its price point. With enhanced mechanics, rich storytelling, and community support, War of the Chosen delivers substantial value for dedicated fans of the franchise.