The Commander’s Fate: Unraveling the Mystery of XCOM 2
The Commander’s experience in XCOM 2 is a stark departure from their role in the first game. Instead of leading the charge from day one, they are initially a captured prisoner of the alien invaders. This capture, which occurred shortly after XCOM’s fall in the early stages of the alien occupation, marks a pivotal point in the narrative. The Commander was held in an alien laboratory, undergoing unknown experimentation, for a considerable period. Following a dramatic rescue orchestrated by a resistance cell, they reemerge into a world vastly different from the one they left, a world now under complete alien control. The player then steps into the Commander’s role, taking charge of the resistance and attempting to liberate Earth. This captivity and subsequent resurgence form the backbone of the game’s narrative and the Commander’s essential purpose.
The Commander’s Capture: A Turning Point
The fall of XCOM in the early days of the invasion led to the capture of the Commander. Held within an alien laboratory, the Commander was the subject of countless experiments. These experiments are never explicitly detailed, but their effects are implied through the Commander’s amnesia and the fact that Dr. Tygan performs emergency surgery upon their rescue to remove an alien implant. It is never explained how the aliens obtained the Commander but it is clear this is an important aspect of the game. The implications of this captivity are significant; it highlights the desperation of the resistance and serves as a personal motivation for revenge for the commander. The Commander is treated as more than a simple hostage – their value to the aliens is considerable.
The Rescue and Reinstatement
After a period of captivity, a resistance cell manages to liberate the Commander. This rescue is not merely a lucky break; it is a critical moment that sets the stage for the entire resistance movement. The Commander’s rescue is followed by a personal briefing from Bradford, which establishes the current state of Earth under alien rule and the need to re-establish XCOM. This marks the official reinstatement of the Commander as the leader of XCOM on March 1, 2035. This moment is significant because it signals the beginning of a new chapter of the fight against ADVENT. The Commander, now with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear understanding of the stakes, assumes their role as the leader of the resistance, making their return a turning point in the fight for Earth.
The Importance of the Commander in XCOM 2
The Commander’s role in XCOM 2 goes beyond their tactical abilities. They are a symbol of hope for the scattered resistance movements. In a world where aliens have asserted complete control, the presence of the Commander reminds people of XCOM’s past victories and the potential for future success. The Commander embodies the idea that liberation is possible.
Inspiring the Resistance
For a resistance movement to be successful, popular support is necessary. The Commander’s return is instrumental in galvanizing that support. People recognize that this is the same XCOM that was previously thought to be defeated and they believe they are capable of saving them from the aliens. The Commander, once the figurehead of a powerful global force, becomes the leader of the revolution. The belief in the Commander’s capabilities and the possibility of freedom are essential to the resistance movement’s strength. This makes the Commander more than just a leader; they are an important person in the fight against ADVENT.
A Beacon of Hope
The Commander is a beacon of hope for those living under alien rule, especially those who remember XCOM’s earlier battles. Their return ignites a fire within the resistance, encouraging people to take action rather than passively waiting for salvation. The Commander is the primary means to convince them that they can join the fight. The Commander’s presence alone brings legitimacy to the resistance’s cause. The Commander’s value goes beyond leadership; they are also the embodiment of hope and the key element for a successful rebellion.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How was the Commander captured?
The Commander was captured when XCOM fell a couple of months into the alien invasion and was held captive in an alien laboratory.
2. Why is the Commander important to the resistance?
The Commander is vital for popular support and is the most important person to convince people that the new XCOM can save them from the aliens. They are the symbol of the resistance.
3. Who is the strongest soldier class in XCOM 2?
The Reaper is often considered the strongest soldier class due to their stealth and ability to deal high damage.
4. Who is the strongest melee enemy in XCOM 2?
The Berserker is the strongest melee enemy, possessing high attack damage and the potential to enrage, increasing its range and damage output.
5. Is the Commander an Ethereal?
There is a theory in the game’s community that suggests the Commander is actually an Ethereal, but there is no clear answer. This is only speculation.
6. Who is the hardest Alien Ruler in XCOM 2?
The Archon King, also known as Subject Alpha, is considered the hardest Alien Ruler to defeat.
7. What is the most powerful weapon in XCOM 2?
The Plasma Bolt Caster is the most powerful weapon, providing significant damage per shot, although it requires reloading after each shot.
8. What is the best enemy to mind control?
Mutons, Heavy Floaters and Muton Elites are the best targets for Mind Control because they have low Will and can deal high damage to their comrades. They also carry Alien Grenades.
9. What is the max rank in XCOM 2?
The maximum rank a soldier can achieve is Colonel.
10. Does XCOM 2 have an end game?
Yes, the game has a final mission that ends the main campaign, but you can continue to play indefinitely and complete side missions if you choose not to complete it.
11. What happens if you deploy a tired soldier in XCOM 2?
Tired soldiers have a higher chance of panicking and other negative effects during missions.
12. Why did the Elders invade Earth?
The Elders invaded Earth because they seek a cure for their rapid muscular degeneration, a condition they call their “lifeforce”.
13. Can you save a dead soldier in XCOM 2?
Yes, you can recover a dead soldier’s equipment by evacuating their body from the mission, but you cannot revive them.
14. Can you get captured soldiers back in XCOM 2?
Yes, captured soldiers can be rescued through Council Missions, VIP Rescue missions, or Covert Operations, depending on the DLC.
15. What is the best order to build facilities in XCOM 2?
A recommended balanced build order is: Advanced Warfare Centre > Guerrilla Training School > Power Relay > Resistance Comms > Proving Grounds > Psi Lab.