what does the shredstorm cannon do in xcom 2

jomslae

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15-04-2025

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The Shredstorm Cannon is a powerful late-game weapon in XCOM 2, known for its area-of-effect (AoE) damage and potential to devastate groups of enemies. Understanding its strengths and weaknesses is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness in your tactical battles. This guide dives deep into the Shredstorm Cannon's capabilities, helping you master this devastating weapon.

Understanding the Shredstorm Cannon's Capabilities

The Shredstorm Cannon is a heavy weapon, meaning it requires a soldier with high Strength to wield effectively. Its primary function is to deal significant damage to multiple targets within a specified radius. This makes it particularly useful against tightly packed groups of enemies, such as those often found in close-quarters combat. However, its effectiveness is significantly reduced when facing spread-out foes.

Key Features & Stats

• Area of Effect (AoE): The Shredstorm Cannon's defining feature is its AoE. Unlike single-target weapons, it damages all enemies within a designated radius.
• Damage: The Shredstorm Cannon inflicts substantial damage, although the exact figures vary depending on your soldier's stats and any applicable upgrades. It's particularly effective against lightly armored enemies.
• High Strength Requirement: Only soldiers with high Strength can effectively utilize this weapon's full potential, avoiding the penalty for low Strength.
• Accuracy: The Shredstorm Cannon's accuracy is somewhat lower than some single-target weapons. This is a trade-off for its area-of-effect capabilities.
• Range: The Shredstorm Cannon has a relatively short range compared to some other weapons. Strategic positioning is critical.
• Slow Reload: Be aware that the Shredstorm Cannon has a longer reload time than many other weapons. Plan your attacks accordingly.

Synergies and Optimal Use

The Shredstorm Cannon shines in situations where multiple enemies are clustered together. It's especially effective when combined with:

• Support Abilities: Abilities like "In The Zone" (from the Sharpshooter class) or "Battle Scan" (from the Psi Operative class) can enhance accuracy and increase the chances of hitting multiple targets.
• Grenades: A well-placed grenade that forces enemies to bunch up can create a devastating opportunity for a Shredstorm Cannon blast.
• Flanking: While the weapon has a short range, utilizing flanking maneuvers to get close to groups of enemies can maximize the weapon's AoE potential.

Potential Drawbacks

The Shredstorm Cannon isn't a perfect weapon. Its limitations include:

• Ineffective Against Spread-Out Enemies: Its short range and AoE nature are less effective when foes are scattered.
• Accuracy Penalty: The accuracy penalty is a factor to consider. Missed shots are costly, especially when you are limited by the reload time.
• Heavy Weapon Penalties: Soldiers using this weapon cannot utilize certain abilities that would otherwise be beneficial.

How to Effectively Utilize the Shredstorm Cannon

1. Strategic Positioning: Position your soldier carefully to maximize the impact of the AoE. Consider using cover to protect from return fire.
2. Enemy Clustering: Wait for an opportunity where multiple enemies are grouped together. Use grenades or other abilities to force clustering if necessary.
3. Support Abilities: Utilize support abilities to boost your soldier's accuracy and increase the weapon's effectiveness.
4. Awareness of Reload Time: Be mindful of the weapon's relatively slow reload. Plan your turns accordingly and don't waste shots on isolated enemies.
5. Soldier Specialization: Equip your soldier with Strength-enhancing gear and skills to improve the weapon's performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is the Shredstorm Cannon good against bosses?

A: Generally, no. Bosses often have high health and are frequently less susceptible to AoE attacks. Single-target weapons are generally better against bosses.

Q: When should I use the Shredstorm Cannon?

A: Use the Shredstorm Cannon when you can guarantee hits on multiple enemies clustered together, and when taking on less heavily armored foes.

Q: What other weapons are comparable to the Shredstorm Cannon?

A: The grenade launcher is a somewhat comparable option for AoE damage, although it typically has less raw power than the Shredstorm Cannon but also offers more versatility.

The Shredstorm Cannon is a potent weapon, but its effectiveness depends heavily on strategy and careful planning. By understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and optimal usage scenarios, you can significantly increase your chances of success in the intense battles of XCOM 2. Remember, strategic positioning and utilizing synergies are key to maximizing its deadly potential.