For the series' first foray into the rapidly evolving turn-based tactics genre, **Gears Tactics ** is an impressively balanced and well constructed strategic experience. Managing to avoid the pitfalls of some other genre-crossing series (for all that is good about it, the first Halo Wars game had some pretty rough edges), Gears Tactics hits many of the right notes for a squad tactics title, including a fairly fleshed out equipm.ent customization system and some very involved soldier skill trees that allow for specialization that is critical to a rounded battle experience. While it is easy to see how these features have lead to comparisons to the likes of XCOM (which is amongst the highest of praises bestowable on a young turn based tactics series), the game manages to retain the unique flavor of its source material, finely portraying the gritty world that plays hosts to the ongoing conflict between mankind and the Locust hordes, with some clever, thematic mechanics to match . As adaptations go, this shifting of the Xbox flagship Gears series to a genre more about careful consideration than frenetic aggression has gone exceptionally smoot

Legacy of the Void is looking to be an extremely dynamic, high-octane multiplayer installment of the franchise. This closing chapter of the StarCraft II trilogy boasts some serious changes to the game on the economic and military fronts, with options for attacking, zone control and harassment more diverse than ever before. Expect some of the fastest and most frantic action you've ever seen. Commanders, hold on to your pants. This is going to be awesome.

Some substantial changes have been made to the existing insectoid arsenal as well. Swarm Hosts are now significantly more mobile, likely as a result of Lurkers being in play and filling the Hosts' former role. Their Locusts are now stronger can now spawn while the Host is in motion, and they can be upgraded to fly over terrain. Infestors have had the underused Neural Parasite removed in favor of Aggressive Mutation, which grants units in an area an additional 5 attack damage for 30 seconds. Corruptors can channel a la Void Ray, attacking a ground target and massive damage if a structure is targeted with their Caustic Spray ability. The ever-horrifying Nydus Worms are now invincible while unburrowing, making them a powerful tool for harassment.

If anyone is used to playing XCOM or Darkest Dungeon or any other tactical RPG , it may seem vital to heal the downed soldiers as soon as possible in battle, lest they develop some permanent negative trait. That’s not the case in Gears Tactics tho

Knights might not be the most tactful profession, but they will easily help the party by rushing to the frontlines, dispatching light infantry, and protecting their weaker allies. With a little more magic support, a Knight will turn into an unstoppable juggern

Though the standard three action points each character has available can feel quite limiting, it is helpful to remember that there are several ways to get more out of each point. One way to do this is to take full advantage of cover. In Gears Tactics , ending a movement action in cover will reduce the point cost, meaning that it is wise to plan moves from defensive point to defensive point to make the most of movement. Additionally, take full advantage of the execution mechanic: finishing off a downed enemy will award the executioner's squad an action point, adding some much-needed versatility. Take full advantage of this, clearing the field of executable enemies if it is possible without throwing a soldier into the o

For starting stats go with +3 in either Strength or Finesse, +1 Warfare, +1 Scoundrel, and a Civil Ability that fits your character, like Thievery for Fane or Persuasion for Red Prince. Initial skills should include Crippling Blow for strong close-range damage, Battle Stomp to clear out areas and knockdown enemies, and Adrenaline to get bonus AP on your first action. Because the main Knight weapon is two-handed, they will have access to All In, which deals additional damage for Baldur's Gate 3 classes AP. If playing a human Knight, use Encourage at the start of a turn before attacks, not after as a means of spending unused AP. The same should be done for elf Knights and Flesh Sacrif

The title's general fast pace comes with a significant flaw that waters down the gaming experience. It is impossible to speed up or skip enemy turns, whereas other similar games like Fire Emblem and XCOM have this feat

Of course, the Zerg are undergoing significant evolutions in Legacy. Two new units have been confirmed for the creepy-crawly aliens, the long-awaited Lurker from Brood War as well as the imposing Ravager (pictured above). The Lurker can be created once a Hydralisk Den is in play, and attacks in a straight line to deal splash damage while burrowed. It can be upgraded to have an attack range of 9 instead of 6, further increasing its lethality. The Ravager evolves from a Roach, and boasts the Corrosive Bile ability. This takes a few seconds to charge, and deals damage to both ground and air units at a target location as well as breaking forcefields, the importance of which can't be understated.