How to Counter a Ruler Reaction in XCOM 2

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To counter a Ruler reaction in XCOM 2, you need to understand that Alien Rulers have the ability to perform one action after every action by one of the player’s units, making them highly unpredictable and challenging to deal with. The key to countering their reactions lies in using strategic abilities and equipment, such as the Psi Op’s Stasis ability, which can prevent an Alien Ruler from taking Ruler Reactions for an entire turn, allowing the player to position their troops advantageously without risking the Ruler moving, attacking, or causing status ailments that might interfere with their strategy.

Understanding Alien Rulers

Alien Rulers are powerful enemies in XCOM 2 that can significantly impact the gameplay, especially with their ability to react to every move the player makes. Each Ruler has unique abilities and powers derived from the basic enemy they evolved from. The three Alien Rulers introduced in the DLC are the Viper King, the Berserker Queen, and the Archon King, with the Archon King being considered the hardest to kill due to its exceptional strength and abilities.

Strategies for Countering Ruler Reactions

Using Strategic Abilities

Using strategic abilities like Stasis can give players a significant advantage. Stasis can neutralize the Ruler’s ability to react, providing a window of opportunity for the player to execute their strategy without interruption. Additionally, abilities that can deal massive damage or apply debilitating effects, such as Blaster which can shred all armor and deal significant damage, are highly effective.

Employing the Right Equipment

Employing the right equipment, such as Frost Grenades, can also be crucial. Frost Grenades can freeze the Ruler, setting them up for a devastating follow-up attack. Combining Frost Grenades with abilities that increase damage output, such as those provided by certain soldier classes like the Reaper, can lead to a quick elimination of the Ruler.

Choosing the Right Classes

Choosing the right soldier classes for the mission can also play a significant role in countering Ruler reactions. Classes like the Reaper, Grenadier, and Ranger offer unique abilities and strengths that can be leveraged against Alien Rulers. For instance, the Reaper’s ability to deal massive damage from stealth and the Grenadier’s capability to provide area-of-effect damage can be game-changers.

FAQs

1. What is the role of a Psi Op’s Stasis ability?

• A Psi Op’s Stasis ability prevents an Alien Ruler from taking Ruler Reactions for an entire turn, allowing for strategic troop positioning.

1. How do you beat the ruler in XCOM 2?

• Use strategic abilities and equipment like Blaster, Frost Grenades, and the right soldier classes to deal significant damage and neutralize the Ruler’s abilities.

1. Can you turn off Alien Rulers?

• No, to disable Alien Rulers, you must turn off the DLC when starting a new campaign or disable it from the Steam Library.

1. Who is the hardest Alien Ruler in XCOM 2?

• The Archon King is considered the hardest due to its exceptional strength and abilities.

1. How do you deal with the ruler reaction in XCOM 2?

• Use strategies like hitting them with a Frost Grenade and then unloading as much damage as possible, or employing classes and abilities that can neutralize their reactions.

1. What is the most op class in XCOM 2?

• The Reaper is often recognized as the strongest and best class in XCOM 2 due to its unique abilities.

1. How do you fight Alien Rulers?

• Scout with a Psi Op to immediately stasis the Ruler, and position troops strategically to maximize damage output.

1. Can you remove Alien Rulers in XCOM 2?

• Yes, by disabling the Alien Hunters DLC from the Steam Library.

1. How do rulers work in XCOM 2?

• Rulers have strong powers and abilities and can react after every player action, making them highly unpredictable.

1. What happens when the avatar bar is full in XCOM 2?

   • If the aliens fill all 12 blocks, a countdown timer starts, and if it reaches zero, XCOM will be defeated, ending the game.

2. What is the best enemy to mind control in XCOM 2?

   • Mutons, Heavy Floaters, and Muton Elites are good targets due to their low Will and potential to deal considerable damage against their comrades.

3. Can you ignore retaliation in XCOM 2?

   • Failing or ignoring a Retaliation Strike will scatter the Resistance, destroy radio relays, and permanently reduce the region’s income.

4. Who is the strongest enemy in XCOM 2?

   • The Berserker has the strongest melee attack and can become enraged, increasing its attack range and damage output.

5. Is XCOM 2 hard to beat?

   • XCOM 2 has a challenging difficulty curve, especially at the beginning, but becomes more manageable as the player progresses and unlocks more strategies and equipment.

6. What is the most powerful weapon in XCOM 2?

   • The Plasma Bolt Caster deals the most damage per shot among standard weapons, although it requires reloading after each shot, making it a high-risk, high-reward option.