Unleash the Horde: The Definitive Guide to State of Decay 2 Co-op Benefits
What are the benefits of co-op in State of Decay 2? Simply put, co-op enhances nearly every aspect of the game, transforming the lonely struggle for survival into a dynamic and rewarding shared experience. Teaming up with friends allows you to tackle the zombie apocalypse with increased efficiency, strategic depth, and significantly boosted rewards. From faster resource gathering to more effective zombie clearance and invaluable character progression, State of Decay 2’s co-op mode is a game changer. Players joining another’s game are not just along for the ride; they actively contribute and are handsomely rewarded for their efforts. Let’s dive deeper into the specific advantages this system provides.
The Power of Teamwork: Core Co-op Advantages
Enhanced Resource Gathering and Base Building
One of the most immediate benefits of co-op is the sheer increase in manpower. With additional hands, you can scavenge faster and more effectively, covering more ground in less time. This speed translates directly into more resources like food, materials, and ammunition being brought back to the community base. Furthermore, co-op makes clearing infestations quicker and less risky, providing more safe zones and loot opportunities. When it comes to base building, the ability to quickly clear large areas of zombies is incredibly helpful when looking for new, larger bases to occupy.
Combat Prowess and Strategic Depth
Facing hordes alone can be overwhelming, but with a teammate, the odds shift dramatically. Co-op allows for coordinated tactics, where players can support each other, flank enemies, and utilize different weapon types for maximum effectiveness. One player can act as a decoy, drawing zombie attention, while the other provides cover fire or melee support. This tactical element adds a new layer of depth to combat, making encounters less chaotic and more strategic. Having two players also provides backup, so there’s less chance of a survivor death.
Accelerated Character Progression and Powerful Rewards
The cooperative nature of State of Decay 2 rewards players generously. The longer a co-op partner plays, the better the loot they’ll receive when they leave the session. These rewards can include rare weapons, consumable items, facility mods, and valuable resources. Additionally, as co-op partners contribute and gain influence, they amass a random assortment of increasingly beneficial items when they return to their own game, incentivizing longer play sessions.
Shared Risk and Reduced Strain
In State of Decay 2, even experienced players are at risk of being overrun. Co-op mitigates this risk considerably. If one player is downed, the other can provide immediate assistance, preventing character loss. This mutual support system not only reduces stress but also makes exploring dangerous areas less daunting.
A Deeper, More Immersive Experience
Playing with friends makes the harsh realities of the zombie apocalypse more engaging and fun. The shared experience of building a community, overcoming challenges, and exploring a hostile world adds a powerful sense of camaraderie. The constant communication, shared strategies, and the laughter of close calls make the game more immersive and memorable than playing alone.
State of Decay 2 Co-op: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does the tethering system work in co-op?
State of Decay 2 utilizes a tethering system for co-op, which means players can’t stray too far from the host. A large circle is displayed on the map, and if a player leaves this circle, a warning appears prompting them to return to the host. This system is in place to ensure game performance and stability.
Can I play the entire campaign in co-op?
Yes, State of Decay 2 supports full co-op play. Up to three friends can join a host’s game in the main campaign, as well as in Daybreak and Heartland modes. You can also use the radio to find other players online.
What type of rewards can I expect from co-op?
When returning to your own game after a co-op session, you’ll receive a range of improved items. These can include: more ammunition, consumable items, valuable facility mods, potent melee weapons, and useful resources. The longer you play, the better the quality of these items becomes.
Can I bring my own characters into co-op?
Yes, you use your own existing survivors when joining a friend’s game. Any character you use in co-op will earn experience, but any progress made towards their long-term legacy will only count in your own game. Your characters will also return to your own game with any items they have collected during the co-op session.
Does progression made in a co-op session carry over to my game?
While individual character progression and items do transfer, any changes to the map or the host’s base will not affect your own. You will however, keep all items collected and influence earned. It’s important to note that the host’s choices impact their game’s progression, not the co-op players.
What is the Legacy Pool and how does it work with co-op?
The Legacy Pool allows you to save specific characters from your community to use in future playthroughs. You can send survivors to this pool before starting a new community, and they will remain there unless you decide to use them again. Your supply locker contents also carry over when starting a new community. This doesn’t directly affect co-op, but you can bring legacy characters into other games.
What is the difference between the main campaign and Heartland?
The main campaign focuses on building a community and surviving the zombie apocalypse. Heartland is a story-driven narrative set in the future of the main campaign, featuring unique blood plague mutations and bespoke playable characters. Co-op is available in both.
What is the maximum number of survivors I can have in my community?
The maximum community size is 12 survivors. Recruiting new survivors becomes less frequent once your community exceeds 9 members, making your recruitment choices critical.
Which map is the best for co-op play?
While personal preference plays a role, Meagher Valley is often considered the best map for co-op due to its dense layout, plentiful buildings, and abundance of resources. It balances ease of access and challenging zombie spawns effectively.
Do I need to sleep in State of Decay 2?
Yes, fatigue is a crucial factor. If you don’t have enough beds for every member, your survivors recover slower from fatigue. A fatigued character is slower and less accurate and will eventually abandon you if you don’t rest them. It’s important to cycle out characters to ensure everyone is rested.
How do I recruit more survivors in the game?
Recruiting additional survivors is mainly done by completing quests for other enclaves. Completing these missions not only gives you Influence and loot but also increases your relationship with them. Eventually, they may offer to join your community.
How long does it take to complete State of Decay 2?
Focusing solely on the main objectives, State of Decay 2 will take approximately 16 hours to complete. If you want to experience everything the game has to offer, a completionist run can take around 116 hours.
Do I have to fight other humans in State of Decay 2?
While most survivors are peaceful, you will encounter hostile enclaves and other survivors that will attack you. Enclaves can turn hostile if you threaten them or ignore their requests for help, making alliances and diplomacy an essential element of gameplay.
How many bases can I have in State of Decay 2?
You can only have one main base at a time but you can also claim several outposts. These outposts provide resources and benefits to your community, including, beds, food and ammunition.
What are the best character traits to look for when recruiting?
Traits like Volunteer Coordinator, Officer Material, and Red Talon Operative are highly valuable as they enhance community morale and skills. Additionally, traits like Indefatigable, Unbreakable, and Immortal are beneficial for ensuring character survivability.
By leveraging the power of cooperative gameplay, players can unlock the full potential of State of Decay 2. Whether you’re looking for faster progression, more strategic combat, or simply want to experience the zombie apocalypse with friends, co-op is an indispensable part of the game. From increased resource gathering, to faster infestation clearing and better gear, there is almost no down side to partnering with a friend for survival. So, gather your friends, strategize, and prepare to face the horde together.