User Interface & Controls — XCOM 2 Guide

Learn to master XCOM 2's user interface and controls. This guide provides essential tips and strategies for effective gameplay, action point management, and tactical advantages.

This guide focuses on the user interface and controls of XCOM 2, offering advice on how to manage your soldiers, utilize abilities effectively, and navigate the game's mechanics to overcome challenges.

Key UI & Control Concepts:

• Action Points: Manage action points carefully. Avoid sending single soldiers into unknown territory without support, as this can lead to ambushes and losses. Coordinate soldier actions for maximum effectiveness.
• Support Roles: Utilize Sharpshooters for long-range damage and Specialists for defensive buffs (Aid Protocol) and reconnaissance (Scanning Protocol). These roles become increasingly vital as soldiers rank up.
• Environmental Destruction: Use explosives to destroy enemy cover, opening up new lines of sight and increasing hit chances. Coordinate the use of explosives with standard attacks for optimal results.
• Armor Shredding: Explosives are effective at shredding enemy armor (indicated by yellow bars). Prioritize removing armor, especially on tougher enemies like Gatekeepers and Sectopods, to increase damage from subsequent attacks.
• Overwatch: While a core mechanic for defensive fire, overuse of Overwatch can be detrimental. Overwatch shots often have a reduced hit chance compared to in-turn actions. Consider using other abilities before resorting to Overwatch, especially when enemies are not moving.
• Cover: Always utilize cover. Leaving soldiers exposed makes them vulnerable to concentrated enemy fire. Skills like Ranger's Untouchable, smoke grenades, and Specialist's Aid Protocol can provide temporary protection.
• Concealment Ambush: Utilize the initial Concealment phase for ambushes. Overwatch shots from Concealment do not suffer the aim penalty. However, be strategic about when to spring the ambush to maximize its effectiveness and avoid revealing your position prematurely.
• Timed Missions: Timed missions require efficient movement and action. Utilize Sharpshooters positioned strategically for support, and Specialists for remote objective interaction (hacking, retrieval) to save turns and mitigate risks.
• Verticality: Use rooftops for improved line of sight and defensive positioning. Some Sharpshooter builds gain bonuses for engaging enemies at lower elevations.
• Special Abilities: Certain abilities, like Mindspikes and Ranger swords, can be used after moving. Coordinate these with support fire from other soldiers, especially those with Squadsight.

Effective management of the UI and understanding of control mechanics are crucial for success in XCOM 2.