What is the Max Party Size in XCOM 2?
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The base game of XCOM 2 allows for a maximum squad size of 6 soldiers on most missions, without the use of mods or special mission parameters. However, this isn’t the whole story. The squad size can be modified and expanded upon through various methods, including in-game upgrades, specific missions, and especially through modifications (mods). Let’s delve deeper into the nuances of squad sizes in XCOM 2.
Standard Squad Size in XCOM 2
In the unmodded, standard XCOM 2 experience, you will begin most missions with a squad of four soldiers. Through research and facility upgrades, you will eventually increase this standard to six soldiers. This limit of 6 applies to the vast majority of missions. Special missions and story-driven encounters might offer deviations to this rule, but generally speaking, a maximum of 6 soldiers is the standard. This can be increased in mods or certain special missions.
Expanding Your Squad Size
While 6 soldiers is the general cap, there are a few exceptions and ways to increase this, which are detailed below.
Special Missions
Some specific narrative missions will allow you to deploy more than the standard six soldiers. These special missions can temporarily increase your squad size to a greater number, often in alignment with the narrative’s needs. However, these are not permanent increases and are limited to those particular scenarios.
The Impact of Mods
The most significant way players expand their squad size beyond the standard is through the use of mods. The modding community for XCOM 2 is incredibly active, and numerous mods exist that allow you to increase the maximum squad size. These mods often change the MaxSoldiers= values found within the game files, specifically in XComMissions.ini.
- Mod Customization: Modding allows you to set your preferred squad size, though it’s worth noting that the in-game user interface (UI) is designed to display a maximum of 12 soldiers. Any squad sizes larger than 12 may not be displayed effectively.
- User Experience: Players who increase squad sizes via mods often do so to enable different tactical approaches and to manage more soldiers in combat. Modding is where the bulk of squad size variation happens in XCOM 2
XCOM Long War 2 and Squad Size
Long War 2, a popular total conversion mod for XCOM 2, handles squad sizes differently. In Long War 2, the maximum squad size remains fixed throughout the entire campaign. Players can typically send 8 soldiers on most missions, while some special missions allow for 10 or even 12 soldiers. Note that Network Tower Assaults in Long War 2 have a maximum of only 5 soldiers. The Long War 2 squad sizes differ greatly from the standard experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About XCOM 2 Squad Sizes
1. Can I change squad size in XCOM 2 without mods?
Without mods, the standard max squad size is 6, though special missions will permit larger squads. Without accessing the game’s files via a mod, you will not be able to increase your squad size beyond 6 for the majority of missions.
2. How do I modify the squad size using mods?
You will need to locate the game files and modify the XComMissions.ini file. Find instances of MaxSoldiers= and adjust the numbers to your desired squad size. Remember that the UI is optimized for squads up to 12 soldiers.
3. What is the maximum squad size supported by the XCOM 2 UI?
The in-game UI can comfortably handle up to 12 soldiers. Modding beyond this may lead to display issues.
4. How does squad size in XCOM 2 compare to Long War 2?
In the base game, the standard max squad size is 6, while Long War 2 allows up to 8 soldiers on most missions, with some special missions allowing 10 or 12. Long War 2’s approach is static and set for the whole campaign.
5. Does XCOM 2 War of the Chosen change the max squad size?
War of the Chosen does not change the base max squad size in the base game. The squad size is still 6, unless changed by a mod or special mission. The expansion adds new hero classes and encounters, not a larger squad cap.
6. What is the optimal squad size in XCOM 2?
While this depends on playstyle, a balanced mid-game squad might include two Rangers, one Specialist, one Grenadier, and one Sharpshooter. This combination is efficient for offense, support, and area control. With six spots, adding a class you are training is a great way to advance your roster.
7. Who is considered the best soldier class in XCOM 2?
While subjective, the Reaper is frequently cited as the most powerful class, followed by the Grenadier, and the Ranger. Class strength, however, depends on the player’s style and strategy. All classes have their distinct utilities and advantages.
8. Are there any squad size increases based on research?
You will start with only four soldiers in the squad, but some research and building a facility will increase your standard squad size to six soldiers in the vanilla game.
9. Can I play XCOM 2 singleplayer endlessly?
Yes. After completing the campaign, you can continue to play. The game will spawn side missions indefinitely, with increasing difficulty over time.
10. What is the maximum rank a soldier can achieve in XCOM 2?
Soldiers can progress through ranks from Rookie all the way up to Colonel. Each rank unlocks new abilities and improves soldier stats.
11. What are the main classes I can utilize in XCOM 2?
There are several classes, including Rangers, Grenadiers, Sharpshooters, Specialists, Reapers, Templars, Skirmishers, and Psionic Operatives. Each class has unique abilities and battlefield roles.
12. Is there an XCOM 3 in development?
Yes, Firaxis has confirmed that XCOM 3 is still in development, although specific release details have not yet been released.
13. What is the largest mod available for XCOM 2?
The RPG Overhaul mod suite, created by Musashi, is considered one of the largest and most significant mods. It alters almost every aspect of the game, including squad size variations.
14. What is the strongest weapon in XCOM 2?
The Plasma Bolt Caster is among the strongest weapons, having some of the most damage per shot in the game. The drawback is that the weapon needs to be reloaded after each shot.
15. When should I play War of the Chosen?
It is generally recommended to play the base game first before starting War of the Chosen. This allows you to grasp the basic mechanics and gameplay before introducing new mechanics and challenges from the expansion.
By understanding the base squad size and ways to modify it, players can better strategize and enjoy the challenges that XCOM 2 presents. The flexibility offered by mods further enriches the XCOM 2 experience, allowing players to tailor the game to their preference and play styles.