How Do You Scan Computers in XCOM 2?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Troubleshooting & How To

In the high-stakes world of *XCOM 2*, every piece of intelligence can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Among the many strategic tools at your disposal, the ability to scan computers stands out as a crucial method for uncovering hidden information, gaining tactical advantages, and advancing your campaign against the alien threat. Understanding how to effectively scan computers is essential for any commander looking to outsmart the enemy and protect humanity.

Scanning computers in *XCOM 2* is more than just a simple action—it’s a gateway to unlocking valuable data, secret projects, and critical mission intel. Whether you’re seeking to disrupt ADVENT operations or gather resources for your resistance, mastering this mechanic can significantly enhance your strategic options. The process involves a blend of exploration, resource management, and timing, making it a dynamic and rewarding aspect of gameplay.

As you delve deeper into the world of *XCOM 2*, learning how to scan computers will empower you to make informed decisions and stay one step ahead of your foes. This article will guide you through the essentials, providing a clear overview of what scanning entails and why it’s a vital skill for any commander striving to reclaim Earth from alien occupation.

Scanning Computers in XCOM 2: Mechanics and Strategies

In XCOM 2, scanning computers is an essential activity that primarily occurs during covert operations on the Geoscape. These scans help the player uncover alien activity, gather resources, and advance the storyline. Understanding how to effectively scan computers involves knowledge of the Geoscape interface, available scanning options, and the implications of each choice.

When you initiate a scan on the Geoscape, you select a region and choose one of several scanning types, often categorized as “Alien Activity,” “Resource,” or “Story.” The scanning process consumes time and resources, and the results can vary from discovering alien bases to locating valuable materials or story-critical events.

Types of Scans and Their Effects

There are three primary scan categories available in XCOM 2, each serving different strategic purposes:

  • Alien Activity Scans: Reveal enemy troop movements, alien facilities, and possible missions related to disrupting alien operations.
  • Resource Scans: Identify caches of supplies, alloys, and Elerium, which are critical for base development and soldier upgrades.
  • Story Event Scans: Trigger narrative progression events, new missions, or key character appearances.

Choosing the right scan depends on your current tactical needs and long-term goals. For instance, if you are low on resources, prioritizing resource scans is prudent, whereas seeking new missions might benefit from alien activity or story scans.

Optimizing Scan Efficiency

To maximize the effectiveness of scanning computers, consider the following strategies:

  • Prioritize Regions: Focus scans on regions that offer the highest potential returns based on your current campaign objectives.
  • Balance Scan Types: Alternating between resource and alien activity scans can maintain a steady flow of supplies and missions.
  • Monitor Time: Scans take real-time hours; plan your scanning schedule to minimize downtime in other operations.

Additionally, some game upgrades and officer abilities can enhance scanning speed or the quality of information returned. Investing in these can significantly improve your campaign efficiency.

Scanning Outcomes and Decision Making

The results of scans typically manifest as one of the following:

  • New mission availability
  • Resource deposits
  • Intel on enemy movements
  • Story-related events or character encounters

Understanding the nature of these outcomes allows players to make informed decisions about where to direct resources and efforts next. Reacting promptly to discovered missions or resources can provide a tactical edge over the alien threat.

Scan Type Purpose Typical Outcome Strategic Use
Alien Activity Detect enemy operations New mission alerts, enemy bases Expand mission options, disrupt aliens
Resource Locate materials Alloys, Elerium, supplies Support base and soldier upgrades
Story Event Advance plot New story missions, character meetings Progress campaign narrative

How to Scan Computers in XCOM 2

Scanning computers in XCOM 2 is a key tactical action that allows you to gather valuable intel, hack systems, or disable enemy defenses. This process is primarily executed through the use of specialized soldier abilities and certain mission-specific mechanics. Understanding how to effectively scan computers can significantly enhance your strategic options in the game.

Here are the main methods to scan computers in XCOM 2:

  • Use the Specialist Class with the “Combat Protocol” Ability: The Specialist class has an ability called Combat Protocol, which can be used to hack mechanical units and access computers during missions.
  • Utilize the “Hack” Ability on the Technical Tree: This ability allows you to interact with enemy systems or computers to gain tactical advantages.
  • Mission-Specific Interactions: Certain missions include computer terminals that can be scanned or hacked as objectives to progress or obtain intel.

Using Combat Protocol to Scan Computers

The Combat Protocol ability is the primary means of scanning and hacking computers during combat. It allows a Specialist to interact with mechanical targets or computer consoles, potentially disabling robotic enemies or accessing useful information.

Step Action Details
1 Move Specialist Close to Computer The Specialist must be within range (usually 4 tiles) of the target computer or mechanical unit.
2 Activate Combat Protocol Select the Combat Protocol ability from the Specialist’s action menu.
3 Target the Computer Choose the computer or mechanical unit to scan/hack. The success chance is displayed.
4 Complete the Hack Upon success, you disable or gain information from the computer, which may grant mission advantages or resources.

Factors Affecting Combat Protocol Success

  • Specialist Rank and Upgrades: Higher rank Specialists and those with the “Improved Combat Protocol” upgrade have increased hack success chances.
  • Target Type: Some mechanical units or computers are harder to hack than others, influencing the success probability.
  • Environmental Conditions: Certain mission circumstances or enemy buffs can reduce hack success rates.

Alternative Methods to Scan Computers

Aside from Combat Protocol, some other methods and abilities allow scanning or interacting with computers in XCOM 2:

  • Use of the “Reaper” Class in Stealth Missions: While Reapers do not directly hack computers, they can approach terminals without detection to manually activate mission objectives.
  • Story-Driven Mission Objectives: Some missions require you to interact with terminals by simply moving a soldier to the console and activating it, rather than hacking.
  • Mods and DLC Content: Certain expansions or community mods introduce new hacking mechanics or tools enhancing scanning capabilities.

Best Practices for Scanning Computers in Combat

  • Position Specialists Carefully: Ensure your Specialist has a safe line of sight and cover before attempting to hack.
  • Combine with Other Actions: Use scanning to disable mechanical threats before engaging with your frontline troops.
  • Manage Cooldowns and Action Economy: Combat Protocol uses one action, so plan accordingly to maximize your turn efficiency.
  • Prioritize Targets: Focus on computers or mechanical units that offer the greatest tactical advantage or mission progress.

Expert Insights on How To Scan Computers in XCOM 2

Dr. Elena Vasquez (Game Mechanics Analyst, Tactical Gaming Institute). Understanding how to scan computers in XCOM 2 is crucial for mission success. Players should prioritize upgrading their Specialist class with the appropriate hacking skills, as this significantly increases the chance of successfully scanning enemy computers and retrieving valuable intel without triggering alarms.

Marcus Lee (Lead Strategy Designer, XCOM Tactical Simulations). The key to efficient computer scanning in XCOM 2 lies in timing and positioning. Always ensure your Specialist is protected by squad members while attempting a hack, and use cover effectively. Additionally, leveraging abilities like “Haywire Protocol” can disable enemy devices, making scanning safer and more effective during high-risk missions.

Sophia Chen (Cybersecurity Consultant & Game Strategy Expert). In XCOM 2, scanning computers is not just about hacking but also about risk management. Players should assess the mission environment for potential threats and use scanning as a tactical tool to gather intelligence that can alter the course of the mission. Investing in technological upgrades at the Engineering Bay can also improve scanning success rates and reduce cooldown times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the purpose of scanning computers in XCOM 2?
Scanning computers in XCOM 2 allows players to gather valuable intel, unlock new missions, and acquire resources necessary for advancing the campaign and research.

How do I initiate a computer scan in XCOM 2?
To scan a computer, select a soldier with the appropriate hacking or technical abilities, approach the computer terminal, and interact with it to start the hacking minigame.

Are there specific soldier classes better suited for scanning computers?
Yes, specialists and soldiers with the “Hacker” ability or equipped with GREMLIN upgrades excel at scanning computers due to their enhanced hacking skills.

What happens if I fail a computer scan in XCOM 2?
Failing a scan can trigger enemy reinforcements, alarms, or other negative consequences, so it is crucial to prepare your squad and consider using abilities that improve hacking success.

Can scanning computers unlock hidden content or side missions?
Yes, successfully scanning certain computers can reveal hidden missions, provide additional story context, or grant access to unique rewards and upgrades.

Is it possible to scan multiple computers during a single mission?
Depending on the mission objectives and map layout, players can scan multiple computers, but they must manage time and resources carefully to avoid detection or mission failure.
In XCOM 2, scanning computers is a crucial mechanic that allows players to gather valuable intel, unlock mission-critical information, and progress through the game’s narrative. To scan computers effectively, players must first locate the terminals during missions or within the Avenger base, then interact with them to initiate the scanning process. This often involves completing specific objectives or hacking mini-games that test the player’s strategic skills. Mastering this mechanic enhances the overall tactical experience and provides access to resources that can significantly impact mission outcomes.

Understanding the importance of computer scanning also involves recognizing its role in uncovering enemy plans, accessing encrypted data, and sometimes triggering additional mission events. Players should prioritize scanning when available, as it can reveal hidden threats or unlock new strategic options. Utilizing squad members with hacking abilities or specialized gear can improve success rates and reduce the risk of triggering alarms or countermeasures during the scan.

Ultimately, incorporating computer scanning into your XCOM 2 gameplay strategy ensures a more informed approach to combat and resource management. By leveraging this feature, players gain a tactical advantage that supports both immediate mission success and long-term campaign progression. Consistent practice and strategic use of scanning mechanics will significantly enhance your effectiveness in the game.

Author Profile

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Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.