Can you melee a Berserker?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, melee attacks can be bizarrely effective against Berserkers, as they get close enough for easy meleeing, with the primary caveat being that if shooting-type enemies are around, going for a Slash might leave you in the open. The Berserker’s aggressive nature and tendency to close the distance to their targets make them vulnerable to melee attacks, but this requires careful consideration of the surrounding environment and potential threats.
About Berserkers
Introduction to Berserkers
The Berserker is a formidable enemy in XCOM 2, known for their strongest melee attack and ability to become enraged, increasing their attack range and damage output. These female monstrosities are a Force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.
History of Berserkers
In Norse and Germanic history and folklore, Berserkers were known as members of unruly warrior gangs that worshipped Odin, the supreme Norse deity. They were attached to royal and noble courts as bodyguards and shock troops.
Characteristics of Berserkers
Berserkers are characterized by their intense fury and rage, which allows them to enter a state of berserkergang, or “going berserk“. This state makes them immune to steel and fire, and they can inflict significant damage on their enemies.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
- Are Berserkers female in XCOM?: Yes, in XCOM 2, Berserkers are depicted as female enemies with the strongest melee attack.
- Who is the strongest soldier in XCOM?: According to rankings, the Reaper is considered the strongest soldier in XCOM 2.
- Are the Berserkers the Valkyries?: No, Berserkers are the strongest and largest males in the Ragnanival army, while their female counterparts are the Valkyries.
Berserker Weaknesses and Strengths
- What are Berserkers’ weaknesses?: Berserkers can be killed through the forceful removal or destruction of their bear skull, which binds the animal spirit of the Berserker to the human spirit.
- What kills Berserkers?: Using a flamethrower can stun Berserkers and make bullets do more damage against them.
Historical and Cultural Context
- Which God are Berserkers linked to?: Berserkers are linked to Odin, the supreme Norse deity, as they worshipped him and attached themselves to royal and noble courts.
- Why were Berserkers outlawed?: Berserkers were outlawed due to the influence of Christianity, which condemned their pagan practices and beliefs as demonic and barbaric.
- When were Berserkers banned?: Berserkers were banned in 1015 by Jarl Eiríkr Hákonarson of Norway, and by the 12th century, organized Berserker war-bands had disappeared.
Combat and Strategy
- Can you melee a Berserker in XCOM 2?: Yes, melee attacks can be effective against Berserkers in XCOM 2, but require careful consideration of the surrounding environment.
- How do you defeat a Berserker?: To defeat a Berserker, it’s essential to use the right tactics and strategies, such as stunning them with a flamethrower and using bullets to deal more damage.
Mythology and Folklore
- What is Berserker rage?: Berserker rage is a culture-bound condition that historically affected Norsemen, causing them to enter a state of intense fury and rage.
- Why did Odin hang himself?: Odin hanged himself in Yggdrasil, the tree of life, for nine days and nine nights to gain knowledge of other worlds and understand the runes.
XCOM 2 Game Context
- Who is the strongest enemy in XCOM 2?: The Berserker is considered the enemy with the strongest melee attack in XCOM 2.
- Who is the hardest alien ruler in XCOM 2?: The Archon King, or Subject Alpha, is the hardest alien ruler to kill in XCOM 2.
Additional Questions
- Is Berserker rage a real thing?: Berserker rage is a historical and cultural phenomenon that has been documented in Norse and Germanic history and folklore, but its existence and nature are subject to interpretation and debate.