The strategic layer in XCOM 2 influences the availability of resources, research options, and mission choices. It dictates the overall progress of the game, impacting which tactical missions can be undertaken, what gear can be deployed, and the overall success in combat scenarios based on strategic decisions made at this level.
Strategic Layer in XCOM 2
The strategic layer in XCOM 2 serves as the overarching management interface for the player. It involves making decisions on research, construction, resource allocation, and global strategy to combat the alien threat. As the commander of XCOM, the player must juggle multiple aspects such as base building, resource management, mission selection, and global resistance efforts. Each decision made at the strategic layer can have repercussions on the tactical missions that are carried out in the game. These decisions directly impact the effectiveness and outcome of the tactical missions.
Resource Management
Resource management is a crucial component of the strategic layer in XCOM 2. The player is tasked with managing various resources such as supplies, intel, and alien alloys. These resources are used to research new technologies, recruit and train soldiers, construct facilities, and purchase equipment. The allocation of these resources can significantly impact the success of tactical missions. For example, having advanced weaponry and armor from successful research can give soldiers an edge in combat, while a lack of resources may result in under-equipped soldiers facing tougher challenges in missions.
Research and Development
Research and development play a vital role in XCOM 2's strategic layer. The player must prioritize research projects to unlock new technologies, weapons, and abilities for their soldiers. Making strategic decisions on research can directly affect the effectiveness of soldiers in tactical missions. For instance, researching alien weapons may provide a significant firepower boost to the squad, increasing their chances of success in combat engagements. On the other hand, neglecting research can leave soldiers at a disadvantage against more advanced alien threats.
Base Building and Facilities
Base building is another key aspect of the strategic layer in XCOM 2. The player must construct and upgrade facilities within the Avenger, XCOM's mobile headquarters. These facilities provide various benefits such as increased research speed, additional power generation, advanced training capabilities, and improved intel gathering. The decisions made in base construction directly impact the player's ability to prepare for and succeed in tactical missions. For example, building a Guerrilla Tactics School allows for the training of specialized soldier classes, giving the player more tactical options and flexibility in combat.
Mission Selection and Global Strategy
Mission selection and global strategy are interconnected elements of the strategic layer in XCOM 2. The player must choose which missions to undertake based on factors such as difficulty, rewards, and urgency. Prioritizing missions that offer valuable rewards or help counter the alien threat can enhance the player's overall progress and success. Neglecting certain missions may lead to increased alien activity and more difficult tactical missions. Additionally, the player must manage global resistance efforts by making strategic decisions on where to allocate resources, deploy soldiers, and influence regions to gain support against the alien occupation.
Impact on Tactical Missions
The decisions made at the strategic layer directly impact the outcome of tactical missions in XCOM 2. For example, having advanced technology and equipment from successful research can give soldiers an advantage in combat situations, increasing their chances of survival and mission success. Conversely, neglecting research or resource management may result in under-equipped soldiers facing tougher enemies, leading to higher casualty rates and mission failures. Base building decisions also influence tactical missions, as facilities that provide bonuses to soldier capabilities can give the player an edge in combat engagements.
In essence, the strategic layer in XCOM 2 acts as the foundation upon which successful tactical missions are built. Every decision made by the player, from resource allocation to research priorities to mission selection, has a direct impact on the effectiveness and outcome of the tactical missions. By carefully managing and optimizing the strategic layer, players can improve their chances of success in combat engagements and ultimately achieve victory against the alien forces threatening Earth.