Should I Select XCOM 2 or War of the Chosen? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of whether to dive into XCOM 2 or its massive expansion, War of the Chosen (WotC), is a common one for newcomers and veterans alike. The answer, while often leaning towards War of the Chosen, is nuanced and depends largely on your experience with the series and what you’re looking for in a strategy game.
The Direct Answer: War of the Chosen is Generally Recommended, But…
For most players, especially those who’ve played tactical turn-based games before, War of the Chosen is the superior experience and the recommended starting point. It significantly enriches the base game with new factions, unique enemy units known as the Chosen, new soldier classes (Reaper, Templar, and Skirmisher), and an expanded campaign structure. WotC isn’t just a minor addition; it fundamentally alters the gameplay, providing a more challenging, dynamic, and rewarding experience.
However, if you are completely new to the XCOM series and tactical turn-based strategy games in general, starting with the base XCOM 2 may still be beneficial. This allows you to get a handle on the core mechanics and basic campaign structure without the added complexities introduced by WotC. Think of it as boot camp: learning the ropes before throwing yourself into the deep end. Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals, you can then appreciate the full scope and depth that War of the Chosen offers. Essentially, Vanilla XCOM 2 gives you a foundation and WotC takes it up to eleven.
Understanding the Core Differences
To make a fully informed decision, it’s crucial to understand what exactly sets XCOM 2 and War of the Chosen apart.
XCOM 2: The Foundation
XCOM 2 is a turn-based tactics game where you manage a resistance force against an occupying alien power. Key features include:
- Strategic Layer: Managing resources, research, and global operations from the mobile base, the Avenger.
- Tactical Combat: Engaging in turn-based battles on a variety of maps, utilizing cover, soldier abilities, and squad composition.
- Class-Based Soldiers: Different classes like Rangers, Specialists, and Grenadiers offer diverse tactical roles on the battlefield.
- Campaign Progression: Following a narrative that unfolds through story missions, punctuated by side operations and research breakthroughs.
XCOM 2: War of the Chosen: The Enhanced Experience
War of the Chosen builds upon this solid foundation, adding several key features and alterations:
- The Chosen: Powerful, unique alien antagonists who appear throughout your campaign, evolving in abilities and relentlessly hunting your squad. These introduce significant variability and challenge.
- Resistance Factions: Three new factions (Reapers, Templars, and Skirmishers) offer powerful new hero units and strategic bonuses.
- Hero Units: The new faction soldiers add unique tactical abilities and strategies to combat.
- Fatigue and Soldier Bonds: Soldiers can develop fatigue, requiring them to rest, while also bonding with one another for combat bonuses.
- Photobooth, and other quality of life enhancements: Provides players a more immersive and personalised experience.
- Expanded Campaign: The campaign is restructured to incorporate the new elements, resulting in a more dynamic and engaging narrative.
Comparing Difficulty and Complexity
Many players wonder about the difficulty of each option. The consensus is that War of the Chosen is generally considered harder than vanilla XCOM 2, especially in the early game. The Chosen add significant challenge and unpredictability. However, once players understand WotC mechanics, the mid-to-late game can become easier as the new hero units and bonuses gained through factions, become powerful tools. It’s not so much that WotC is harder in a purely statistical sense, but it demands more adaptability and clever strategy.
XCOM 2 can feel simpler, allowing players to slowly learn the mechanics without being overwhelmed by new systems. It provides a more straightforward path to victory, which some beginners prefer. However, it can also feel slightly less dynamic compared to the highly varied experience of War of the Chosen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is XCOM 2: War of the Chosen easier than XCOM 2?
Not generally. While some players find the mid-to-late game easier due to the added strategic advantages from factions and hero units, the early game in War of the Chosen is definitely harder due to the constant threat of the Chosen.
2. What are the major gameplay differences between XCOM 2 and War of the Chosen?
War of the Chosen adds: The Chosen antagonists; new soldier classes (Reaper, Templar, Skirmisher); resistance factions; soldier fatigue and bonding; expanded strategic layer with covert ops; and an updated campaign structure.
3. Should I play XCOM 2 before War of the Chosen?
For complete beginners to the series, it’s not mandatory but can be helpful. If you want to learn the game step by step, start with Vanilla. However, if you’re familiar with turn-based tactics or want the complete experience, go directly to War of the Chosen.
4. Is the War of the Chosen DLC worth it?
Absolutely. War of the Chosen is considered one of the best expansions in the strategy genre. It enhances almost every aspect of XCOM 2, adding depth, replayability, and challenge.
5. How long does it take to beat XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
The main campaign takes around 35 hours, but completionists can easily invest over 75 hours to see everything the game has to offer.
6. What happens if a soldier holding a Chosen weapon is killed in War of the Chosen?
If a soldier holding a Chosen weapon dies without being evacuated, the weapon will be permanently lost.
7. Can you lose in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
Yes, you can absolutely lose in XCOM 2 and War of the Chosen. Failing missions, losing too many soldiers, and not managing the strategic layer effectively can lead to the Avatar Project reaching completion, resulting in a game over.
8. What are the best soldier classes in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
The Reaper is often considered the strongest, followed closely by the Grenadier and Ranger. The new hero classes (Reaper, Templar, and Skirmisher) are also very powerful when used correctly.
9. Does XCOM 2 collection include War of the Chosen?
Yes, the XCOM 2 Collection includes XCOM 2, War of the Chosen, and several other DLC packs, making it the best purchase option for new players.
10. Is XCOM 2 or XCOM Enemy Unknown better?
They are different experiences. XCOM 2 has improved graphics and mechanics. Enemy Within also offers a solid experience, especially to those who enjoy playing older games. If you’re new, XCOM 2 with War of the Chosen is usually recommended.
11. Is XCOM 2 a hard game?
Yes, XCOM 2 is considered a difficult game, especially on higher difficulty settings. Even on normal difficulty, it can present a significant challenge.
12. Can you make XCOM 2 easier?
Yes, you can adjust difficulty settings before beginning a campaign. Modders have also created mods to make the game easier, such as lengthy scheme.
13. Is XCOM 2 addictive?
Yes, the tactical gameplay and strategic layer make XCOM 2 highly addictive, keeping players coming back for more.
14. What is the most powerful weapon in XCOM 2: War of the Chosen?
The Plasma Bolt Caster is one of the most powerful standard weapons in the game, offering a large amount of damage per shot.
15. What other DLC’s should I be aware of besides War of the Chosen?
The main ones are: Shen’s Last Gift and Alien Hunters, and these two are included in the XCOM 2 Collection. Shen’s Last Gift adds a new mission and playable soldier class. Alien Hunters adds new enemy units called Alien rulers. Anarchy’s Children and the Resistance Warrior Pack are cosmetic and do not affect gameplay directly.
Conclusion: Choose Your Battlefield Wisely
Ultimately, the decision between XCOM 2 and War of the Chosen hinges on your personal preferences and tolerance for challenge. War of the Chosen offers the richer, more complex experience and is generally the better option for most players. However, if you’re entirely new to the XCOM series, starting with the base XCOM 2 can provide a gentler introduction. Regardless of your choice, both games offer a deep, engaging, and unforgettable tactical strategy experience.