How Many Hours Does It Take to Complete XCOM 2?

The time it takes to complete XCOM 2 varies significantly depending on your playstyle and goals. For players focusing solely on the main objectives, a playthrough typically clocks in around 33 and a half hours. However, those aiming for a more thorough experience, delving into all the game’s aspects, can expect to spend approximately 78 and a half hours to achieve 100% completion. For the truly dedicated, chasing all 50 achievements can easily push playtime to a whopping 150 to 200 hours, based on the average completion time of dedicated players.

The beauty of XCOM 2 lies in its replayability and adaptable difficulty. While the core story has a defined end, the game’s dynamic nature and endless side missions allow for playthroughs that can be as concise or as sprawling as you desire. This makes it difficult to give an exact time estimate, but these figures provide a solid framework. Now let’s dig into some specific questions to provide an even clearer picture of XCOM 2’s time investment.

Frequently Asked Questions About XCOM 2’s Playtime

Is XCOM 2 a Long Game?

Yes, XCOM 2 is generally considered a long game, especially compared to many titles in the strategy genre. Even a focused playthrough will take a considerable amount of time. If you aim to explore all the game has to offer, be prepared to invest a significant number of hours.

Does XCOM 2 Have a Time Limit?

While XCOM 2 doesn’t have a strict time limit in the traditional sense, there is a theoretical time limit imposed by the Avatar Project. This is a doomsday meter that increases as the aliens build structures. You must engage in missions that can slow or halt the Project if you don’t want the game to end prematurely with an alien victory. While this isn’t a timer that constantly ticks down, it does impose a sense of urgency to your actions.

Can You Play XCOM 2 Infinitely?

Yes, technically, you can play XCOM 2 infinitely. While there’s a final mission that ends the main storyline, the game will continue spawning side missions until you decide to initiate it. This means you can continue to upgrade your squad, experiment with builds, and test your tactics even after the core narrative is complete. If no blacksites are active, the Avatar project progression halts making it even easier to endlessly play.

Is XCOM 2 Hard to Beat?

The difficulty of XCOM 2 varies greatly based on the chosen difficulty setting. On Veteran and Commander, XCOM 2 is generally considered easier than previous series entries. But, on Legendary, the game can become exceptionally challenging, demanding mastery of the mechanics and careful planning. The lack of time constraints in the previous title, XCOM: Enemy Unknown/Enemy Within, does not exist as the game requires you to push forward or risk losing due to the Avatar project.

Is XCOM 2 Addictive?

Yes, XCOM 2 is notoriously addictive. The game’s blend of tactical turn-based combat and strategic resource management makes it difficult to put down. Many players often find themselves playing “just one more mission,” only to realize hours have passed. The combination of permadeath, deep customization, and constant progression creates an incredibly compelling loop.

Why Do Players Spend Hundreds of Hours in XCOM Games?

The sheer depth and replayability of XCOM games are a major factor in why players invest so much time. The strategic layer of base management, soldier customization, and research is equally engaging with the tactical combat itself. Many players use the extensive options to make the game exactly how they want and even enjoy mods to change it up from time to time.

Does XCOM 2 Have an Ending?

Yes, XCOM 2 does have an ending. Once you complete the final mission, the game will close. However, this is not a true “game over,” but a closing to the current storyline. You will have successfully lead your team and defeated the Avatar project with one last and impressive assault.

What’s the Most Fun Class in XCOM 2?

Many players consider the Grenadier class to be the most fun and powerful, thanks to their ability to deliver high damage and destroy cover at range. However, the “most fun” class ultimately depends on personal preference and playstyle. Experimenting with all of the classes is highly recommended and can change how you see the battlefield.

What is the Most Powerful Weapon in XCOM 2?

The Plasma Bolt Caster stands out as the most powerful weapon in XCOM 2 in terms of damage per shot. However, this weapon needs to be reloaded after each shot making the weapon very powerful but not always the most effective.

Is XCOM 2 Complex?

Yes, XCOM 2 can be very complex, particularly for new players. The game throws a lot at you right from the start, and mastering its various mechanics takes time and effort. The combination of soldier management, strategic upgrades, and challenging combat makes it a game that rewards patience and learning.

Is XCOM 2 Kid Friendly?

XCOM 2 is not particularly kid-friendly. It contains graphic violence, some blood, and depictions of soldiers using cigarettes. The game’s themes are also quite mature, exploring concepts of warfare, oppression, and resistance. Parents should be aware of these elements before allowing younger players to engage with the game.

Can You Make XCOM 2 Easier?

Yes, XCOM 2 has in-game options that can make it easier to play. You can choose a difficulty setting that fits your experience level. Beyond that, there are several options including “Lengthy Scheme” that doubles the Avatar Project timer, and “Time Turner” which doubles mission timers.

Is XCOM 2 Luck Based?

While skill and strategy are critical in XCOM 2, luck does play a significant role. Random number generation determines the outcomes of shots and many other events. You can improve your odds, but sometimes your best soldiers miss seemingly easy shots, and that’s part of the game’s inherent challenge. XCOM 2, at its core, is about making the best possible decisions even when luck isn’t on your side.

How Many Years Are Between XCOM 1 and 2?

XCOM 2 takes place approximately 20 years after the events of XCOM: Enemy Unknown. In XCOM: Enemy Unknown, you lose the fight to the aliens. In XCOM 2 you are leading the resistance against that tyrannical rule.

Which XCOM Should I Buy?

If you’re new to the series, a good starting point is either Vanilla XCOM 2 (without the Alien Hunters DLC) or XCOM Enemy Unknown with the Enemy Within DLC. Alternatively, you can jump straight into XCOM 2: War of the Chosen (WOTC), which is considered to be the definitive version of XCOM 2 and is essentially a whole new game with significantly more content and different game mechanics.