What does concealment do in XCOM 2?

What Does Concealment Do in XCOM 2?

In XCOM 2, concealment is a crucial game mechanic that allows for stealth gameplay. While most missions begin with the squad in concealment, certain missions like Retaliation and V.I.P. require the player to stay hidden from the enemy. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of concealment in XCOM 2, exploring its effects on combat, enemy AI, and overall gameplay.

Concealment Mechanics

Concealment in XCOM 2 works by reducing the enemy’s ability to detect your units. When a unit is in concealment, the enemy’s chance to detect them is significantly reduced, making it easier to get close to objectives without being spotted. Concealment is not just limited to hiding behind objects; it also includes units that are prone, hiding in crates, or using other tactics to remain undetected.

Types of Concealment

There are two main types of concealment in XCOM 2: Soft Concealment and Hard Concealment.

• Soft Concealment: This type of concealment reduces the enemy’s detection chance, but does not completely eliminate it. Units in soft concealment may still be detected by enemies with higher detection skills.
• Hard Concealment: This type of concealment completely eliminates the enemy’s ability to detect the unit. Units in hard concealment are completely invisible and cannot be detected by enemies.

Effects on Combat

Concealment has a significant impact on combat in XCOM 2. When units are in concealment, enemies are less likely to attack them, reducing the amount of damage taken. This allows players to get close to objectives without being caught off guard by enemy patrols.

Effects on Enemy AI

Concealment also affects the behavior of enemy AI. Enemies that are unable to detect your units will not send patrols to investigate, allowing you to move freely without being detected. This gives players a significant advantage, as they can move freely and set up ambushes without being detected.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for using concealment effectively in XCOM 2:

• Use Concealment to Set Up Ambushes: Hide your units in concealment and wait for enemies to approach. When they are close enough, attack and take them out quickly before they can sound the alarm.
• Conceal Units with High Detection Skills: Units with high detection skills are more likely to detect enemies, even when in concealment. Use these units to spot enemies and set up ambushes.
• Keep Units Moving: Keep units moving and use concealment to stay one step ahead of enemies. This makes it harder for enemies to detect your units and will reduce the amount of damage taken.
• Use Concealment to Retreat: If your units are taking too much damage, use concealment to retreat and regroup. This will give you a chance to heal and reorganize before making another push.

Conclusion

Concealment is a vital game mechanic in XCOM 2, allowing players to stay hidden from enemies and set up ambushes. By understanding how concealment works and using it effectively, players can gain a significant advantage in combat and complete missions more easily. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the game, mastering concealment will take your gameplay to the next level.