In XCOM 2, the line-of-sight mechanic determines visibility between units and obstacles on the battlefield. It affects accuracy and range of actions for both players and enemies. Line-of-sight can be obstructed by various objects, requiring strategic positioning to maintain a clear view of targets and avoid being flanked.
Introduction
The line-of-sight mechanic in XCOM 2 is a crucial gameplay element that dictates which units can see and target each other on the battlefield. It plays a significant role in strategic decision-making and can greatly influence the outcome of each engagement. Understanding how line-of-sight works in XCOM 2 is essential for players to effectively plan their moves, prioritize targets, and maximize their chances of success.
Basic Concept of Line-of-Sight
Line-of-sight in XCOM 2 is based on the visibility between two points on the map, typically between a soldier and an enemy unit. A clear line-of-sight means that there are no obstacles blocking the view between the two points, allowing the soldier to target the enemy. However, if there are obstructions in the way, such as walls, cover objects, or environmental elements, the line-of-sight is blocked, and the soldier cannot see or target the enemy unit behind the obstruction.
Factors Affecting Line-of-Sight
Several factors can affect the line-of-sight mechanic in XCOM 2. The most obvious factor is the presence of cover objects on the battlefield, such as walls, buildings, vehicles, and other environmental elements. These obstacles can block the line-of-sight between two units, requiring players to maneuver their soldiers into better positions to gain a clear shot at the enemy.
Another important factor is elevation. Soldiers positioned on higher ground have better line-of-sight and can see and target enemies that are at lower elevations more easily. Elevation can provide a significant advantage in combat, allowing players to engage enemies from a distance while remaining relatively safe from return fire.
Additionally, certain battlefield conditions or environmental effects can also affect line-of-sight. For example, smoke grenades or other forms of concealment can partially obscure vision, making it harder for soldiers to maintain a clear line-of-sight to their targets. Understanding these factors and how they interact with the line-of-sight mechanic is essential for players to make informed tactical decisions during gameplay.
Use of Cover and Concealment
In XCOM 2, players must strategically utilize cover and concealment to maximize their soldiers' line-of-sight and minimize their exposure to enemy fire. Cover objects, such as walls or cars, can provide protection from enemy attacks and also influence the line-of-sight between units. By using cover effectively, players can block the enemy's line-of-sight to their soldiers while maintaining their own ability to target and engage the enemy.
Concealment, on the other hand, can be used to surprise enemies and gain a tactical advantage. Soldiers that are concealed are not immediately visible to enemy units, allowing players to position their troops strategically without alerting the enemy. This can be especially useful for setting up ambushes or flanking maneuvers where the element of surprise can be decisive in securing victory.
Advanced Line-of-Sight Tactics
As players progress through XCOM 2, they can discover and employ more advanced tactics to manipulate the line-of-sight mechanic to their advantage. One common tactic is "peeking," where players move their soldiers to the edge of a piece of cover to gain line-of-sight to an enemy without fully exposing themselves to return fire. This allows players to scout enemy positions and plan their moves more effectively.
Another tactic is "fog of war manipulation," where players intentionally break line-of-sight with enemies to force them to move and reveal their positions. By using this tactic strategically, players can lure enemies into traps or create opportunities for flanking maneuvers to take out high-value targets.
Players can also use explosives to remove cover objects or obstacles that are blocking their line-of-sight to enemies. By strategically placing explosives and destroying cover, players can open up new lines of sight and create opportunities for their soldiers to target and eliminate enemy units more effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the line-of-sight mechanic in XCOM 2 is a critical aspect of the game that requires careful consideration and strategic planning. By understanding how line-of-sight works and how various factors can influence it, players can make informed decisions to maximize their soldiers' effectiveness in combat, gain tactical advantages, and achieve success on the battlefield. Mastering the line-of-sight mechanic is essential for players to excel in XCOM 2 and overcome the challenges that await them in this immersive and challenging strategy game.