Maidens of the Kaleidoscope
~Beyond the Border~ => Akyu's Arcade => Topic started by: Tamer Anode/Cathode on May 19, 2015, 09:20:20 PM
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So some of you who have been long-time members here might remember that many years ago I attempted doing a playthrough of X-COM: UFO Defense. That kind of fizzled out, but I've had the urge to play the game again lately and I could use an audience for my suffering.
What's X-COM?
X-COM: UFO Defense is a tactical/strategy game from the end of 1993, created by Julian Gollop and released by Microprose (creators of other strategy/simulation megahits such as Civilization, Railroad Tycoon, and Rollercoaster Tycoon). It puts the player in charge of a covert organization tasked with defending the Earth from alien invasion, both on a global strategic level with the management of bases and resources and on a tactical level with the command of small squads. It was successful enough to warrant multiple sequels and spinoffs, and was eventually rebooted in 2012 by Firaxis Games.
What happened to your old X-COM playthrough, anyway?
College happened. My schedule is a lot more consistent these days now, so I should be able to stick with it this time now.
Why the original game when Enemy Unknown/Within is out?
Don't get me wrong, I love the new game and I played it to bits, but I find that what makes the original so fun is that it's completely unscripted and you don't know what will happen. Both UFO Defense and Enemy Unknown/Within are great games, but I find the former lends itself better to being LP'd.
Didn't the original X-COM have some bugs? Wasn't there something about savegames getting locked on the easiest difficulty?
I have patched the game with XCOMUtil; the difficulty bug has been fixed, and I am running this game on Veteran (the middle difficulty out of the five available ones). Other small bugs, such as hiccups with terrain and pathfinding have also been fixed.
So are we going to get units named after ourselves?
I don't recommend it, you'd be dead within a week. I will let you pick nicknames for squad members and equipment, but I'm not naming them after forum members because then it becomes way too difficult and time-consuming to try and keep them alive throughout the run.
How frequently will you update?
I will try to update on a daily basis whenever possible depending on my work schedule and what other life stuff I need to take care of.
Update 1: Starting (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1186436.html#msg1186436)
Update 2: Establishing a Base (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1186472.html#msg1186472)
Update 3: The X-COM Arsenal (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1186473.html#msg1186473)
Update 4: Early January (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1186652.html#msg1186652)
Update 5: Operation California Wildfire (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1186730.html#msg1186730)
Update 6: Recouping Losses (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1186892.html#msg1186892)
Update 7: Striking Back (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1186947.html#msg1186947)
Update 8: Operation Scavenger Hunt (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187120.html#msg1187120)
Update 9: End of January (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187173.html#msg1187173)
Update 10: February (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187360.html#msg1187360)
Update 11: Operation Evening Star (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187393.html#msg1187393)
Update 12: Armor Breakthrough (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187561.html#msg1187561)
Update 13: Research Advancements (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187582.html#msg1187582)
Update 14: End of February (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187755.html#msg1187755)
Update 15: X-COM Two (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1187980.html#msg1187980)
Update 16: Operation Elephant Graveyard (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188023.html#msg1188023)
Update 17: Interrogation Begins (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188233.html#msg1188233)
Update 18: Operation Iberian Hawk (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188277.html#msg1188277)
Update 19: Operation Sleepless Hunter (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188447.html#msg1188447)
Update 20: Interrogation Complete (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188519.html#msg1188519)
Update 21: Operation Second Meal (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188743.html#msg1188743)
Update 22: Interrupted Calm (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188824.html#msg1188824)
Update 23: Operation Amazon Sunray (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1188980.html#msg1188980)
Update 24: The Hyperwave Decoder (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189017.html#msg1189017)
Update 25: New Interceptor (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189129.html#msg1189129)
Update 26: Operation Spitfire Resistance (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189152.html#msg1189152)
Update 27: Operation Spring Mass (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189343.html#msg1189343)
Update 28: Operation Mediterranean Sunrise (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189398.html#msg1189398)
Update 29: Minor Preparations (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189602.html#msg1189602)
Update 30: Operation Italian Spring (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189801.html#msg1189801)
Update 31: Operation Atlantic Breeze (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189858.html#msg1189858)
Update 32: Operation Mojave Salt (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1189976.html#msg1189976)
Update 33: Tension (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190038.html#msg1190038)
Update 34: Operation Baltic Mongoose (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190135.html#msg1190135)
Update 35: Project Plasma (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190198.html#msg1190198)
Update 36: Obtaining Power (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190409.html#msg1190409)
Update 37: Operation Quick Trip (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190441.html#msg1190441)
Update 38: X-COM Three (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190537.html#msg1190537)
Update 39: America Falls (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190547.html#msg1190547)
Update 40: The Failure of Operation Shadow Seeker (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190667.html#msg1190667)
Update 41: Turnaround (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190740.html#msg1190740)
Update 42: Operation Due Vengeance (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190861.html#msg1190861)
Update 43: The Plasma Beam (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1190910.html#msg1190910)
Update 44: The Firestorm (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1191067.html#msg1191067)
Update 45: Operation Summer Vulture (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1191187.html#msg1191187)
Update 46: Operation Enduring Resistance (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1191417.html#msg1191417)
Update 47: Operation Jade Relic (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1191561.html#msg1191561)
Update 48: Operation Sahara Mirage (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1191663.html#msg1191663)
Update 49: The Martian Solution (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1191832.html#msg1191832)
Update 50: Operation Desert Condor (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1191924.html#msg1191924)
Update 51: Operation Pacific Pirate (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1192471.html#msg1192471)
Update 52: Operation Jungle Storm (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1192663.html#msg1192663)
Update 53: Starting Over Again (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1192769.html#msg1192769)
Update 54: Operation Clean Slate (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1192897.html#msg1192897)
Update 55: Operation Counter Harvest (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1193051.html#msg1193051)
Update 56: Temporary Reprieve (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1193331.html#msg1193331)
Update 57: Operation Green Field (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1193412.html#msg1193412)
Update 58: Operation August Crop (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1193596.html#msg1193596)
Update 59: Operation Fractured Beryl (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1193819.html#msg1193819)
Update 60: Operation Unknown Hunt (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1194082.html#msg1194082)
Update 61: Operation Emerald Relic (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1194323.html#msg1194323)
Update 62: Operation Magenta Raider (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1194397.html#msg1194397)
Update 63: Operation Oahu Storm (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1194601.html#msg1194601)
Update 64: X-COM Four (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1194849.html#msg1194849)
Update 65: Operation Noble Stand ? Defense of X-COM One (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1194959.html#msg1194959)
Update 66: End of August (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1195039.html#msg1195039)
Update 67: Operation Fading Green (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1195130.html#msg1195130)
Update 68: Operation Green Shore (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1195486.html#msg1195486)
Update 69: Operation Jade Forest (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1195719.html#msg1195719)
Update 70: Operation Crimson Blood (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1195962.html#msg1195962)
Update 71: Operation British Green (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1196120.html#msg1196120)
Update 72: Operation Verdant Sliver (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1196133.html#msg1196133)
Update 73: Operation Jagged Fang (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1196421.html#msg1196421)
Update 74: Operation Harvest Field (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1196534.html#msg1196534)
Update 75: Operation Noble Ascent (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1196733.html#msg1196733)
Update 76: Operation Gobi Sunrise (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1196890.html#msg1196890)
Update 77: Operation Iberian Sunset (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1197076.html#msg1197076)
Update 78: Operation Just Guardian: Defense of X-COM Three (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1197249.html#msg1197249)
Update 79: Operation Cold Vengeance (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1197434.html#msg1197434)
Update 80: Operation Solid Counterattack (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1197624.html#msg1197624)
Update 81: The Ultimate Craft (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1197801.html#msg1197801)
Update 82: Operation Wild Tortoise (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1198326.html#msg1198326)
Update 83: Psionic Training Commences (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1198600.html#msg1198600)
Update 84: Operation Midnight Savior (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1198904.html#msg1198904)
Update 85: Operation Border Break (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1199163.html#msg1199163)
Update 86: Operation Outback Rattler (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1199576.html#msg1199576)
Update 87: Operation Grey Skies (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1199771.html#msg1199771)
Update 88: Operation Night Viper (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1200105.html#msg1200105)
Update 89: Operation Soft Shell (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1200607.html#msg1200607)
Update 90: Operation Think Tank (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1200766.html#msg1200766)
Update 91: Operation Brain Buster (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1201022.html#msg1201022)
Update 92: Operation Desert Remnant (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1201292.html#msg1201292)
Update 93: Operation Forest Ranger (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1201506.html#msg1201506)
Update 94: Operation Serpent's Cache (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1201644.html#msg1201644)
Update 95: Operation Grey Eire (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1201968.html#msg1201968)
Update 96: X-COM Five (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1202162.html#msg1202162)
Update 97: Operation Winter Fall (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1202444.html#msg1202444)
Update 98: Operation Early Christmas (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1202630.html#msg1202630)
Update 99: The Avatar of War (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1202875.html#msg1202875)
Update 100: Operation Avatar's Awakening (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1203109.html#msg1203109)
Update 101: Operation Ice Breaker and Operation Hunter's Bane (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1203365.html#msg1203365)
Update 102: Operation Serpent Storm (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1203535.html#msg1203535)
Update 103: Operation Klondike Lode (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1203799.html#msg1203799)
Update 104: Operation Terrace Reaping (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1204090.html#msg1204090)
Update 105: End of January 2000 (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1204277.html#msg1204277)
Update 106: Operation Fallen Viper (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1205247.html#msg1205247)
Update 107: Operation Lakeside Hunt (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1205511.html#msg1205511)
Update 108: Operation Hollow Shell (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1208710.html#msg1208710)
Update 109: Operation Sylvan Scrapyard (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1208989.html#msg1208989)
Update 110: Expansion and Preparation (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1209231.html#msg1209231)
Update 111: Operation Tormented Sky (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1209576.html#msg1209576)
Update 112: Securing The Advantage (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1209747.html#msg1209747)
Update 113: Operation Raven Shade (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1210018.html#msg1210018)
Update 114: Operation Boreal Hatchet (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1210183.html#msg1210183)
Update 115: Air Superiority (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1210350.html#msg1210350)
Update 116: Operation Spring Permafrost (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1210541.html#msg1210541)
Update 117: Operation Mind Games (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1210712.html#msg1210712)
Update 118: Operation Brain Buster (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1211004.html#msg1211004)
Update 119: Operation Serpent Flayer (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1211116.html#msg1211116)
Update 120: Operation Severed Ouroboros (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1211270.html#msg1211270)
Update 121: Operation New Dawn (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1211337.html#msg1211337)
Update 122: Operation Bright Aurora, Phase One (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1211521.html#msg1211521)
Update 123: Operation Bright Aurora, Phase Two (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1211693.html#msg1211693)
Update 124: Maintaining the Edge (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1211846.html#msg1211846)
Update 125: Operation Sand Scourer (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1212031.html#msg1212031)
Update 126: Operation Meeting of Minds (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1212176.html#msg1212176)
Update 127: Operation Withered Leaf (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1212290.html#msg1212290)
Update 128: Operation Clashing Will (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1212412.html#msg1212412)
Update 129: Operation Serpent Sacrifice (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1212542.html#msg1212542)
Update 130: Operation Cold Judgement (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1212698.html#msg1212698)
Update 131: Transfer to the Arctic (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1212838.html#msg1212838)
Update 132: Air Domination (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1213000.html#msg1213000)
Update 133: Operation Defiant Will, Phase One (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1213079.html#msg1213079)
Update 134: Operation Devouring Wind]https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1213214.html#msg1213214]Update 134: Operation Devouring Wind (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1213214.html#msg1213214)
Update 135: Operation Defiant Will, Phase Two (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1213374.html#msg1213374)
Update 136: Operation Defiant Will, Phase Three (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1213566.html#msg1213566)
Update 137: Operation War Gods, Phase One (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1214053.html#msg1214053)
Update 138: Operation War Gods, Phase Two (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1214059.html#msg1214059)
Conclusion (https://www.shrinemaiden.org/forum/index.php/topic,18461.msg1214063.html#msg1214063)
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The ridiculously 90's intro cutscene (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ttggec6eJFY)
(http://i.imgur.com/XF2uTcVm.png) (http://imgur.com/XF2uTcV)
So here we are at the title screen. For those curious about the title: the game was originally released as UFO: Enemy Unknown in Europe, but was changed in North American and other releases for trademark reasons. Presumably the packaging was put together after the game was already printed to disk and they couldn't code a new title screen.
(http://i.imgur.com/zk7p5c0m.png) (http://imgur.com/zk7p5c0)
(http://i.imgur.com/fRsC1gom.png) (http://imgur.com/fRsC1go)
So we're starting a new game, and as promised, we're starting on Veteran difficulty.
(http://i.imgur.com/5fRfHe3m.png) (http://imgur.com/5fRfHe3)
When the game starts, we are taken to the Geoscape view. Before anything else, we have to establish our first base. This base will provide us with radar to detect UFOs in the region, aircraft to respond to detected UFO activity, troops to respond to alien activity on the ground, and facilities for research and development.
Where we set up our base will be crucial to our long-term strategy, as it determines which nations we can most effectively defend against alien activity. The countries we can defend more effectively will be more supportive of our organization, and will be more likely to provide us with improved funding in the future.
(http://i.imgur.com/9gV7458m.png) (http://imgur.com/9gV7458)
A base in Europe will provide radar coverage for a large number of supporting nations, and gives us operational range that covers most of Asia and Africa. However, our ability to act in the Americas and the South Pacific will be limited.
(http://i.imgur.com/NeXjBf3m.png) (http://imgur.com/NeXjBf3)
A base in North America would give us radar coverage over the United States (statistically likely to be our largest backer), with the ability to patrol over Canada and South America. Europe and Asia can be patrolled by occasional surveillance flights, but our ability to intercept across the Atlantic or the Pacific will be limited.
(http://i.imgur.com/fDyHekGm.png) (http://imgur.com/fDyHekG)
A base in Asia will cover Russia, China, India, and Japan, and allow us to patrol across most of the Pacific and in Europe. However, with such a large land area, radar will be less effective in detecting threats.
This is our first of many strategic choices available to us, and I appreciate your input on this decision.
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You should name every single person "guile"
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Let America burn. Go Europe.
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Let both of them burn. Go for Asia!
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As advised, I have set up our initial base in Europe. (Sorry Chaore, I didn't see your post before I started updating)
(http://i.imgur.com/1Lountom.png) (http://imgur.com/1Lounto)
I am good at names.
Before actually getting to managing the base, we'll look at some of the other stuff in the Geoscape.
(http://i.imgur.com/evbEbnNm.png) (http://imgur.com/evbEbnN)
This is a summary of funding from our backing nations. Depending on our ability to deal with alien activity in these regions, each nation will increase or decrease its support.
(http://i.imgur.com/bjEIf67m.png) (http://imgur.com/bjEIf67)
(http://i.imgur.com/pKbJrpSm.png) (http://imgur.com/pKbJrpS)
(http://i.imgur.com/LNqCEwTm.png) (http://imgur.com/LNqCEwT)
(http://i.imgur.com/HfwQtqom.png) (http://imgur.com/HfwQtqo)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hmubn2lm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hmubn2l)
(http://i.imgur.com/E8LvdOYm.png) (http://imgur.com/E8LvdOY)
We have just begun, so these graphs have no information yet. However, they will let us track our performance over time.
(http://i.imgur.com/hXkimpsm.png) (http://imgur.com/hXkimps)
The UFOpaedia contains information about all of the technology, equipment, and research currently available.
(http://i.imgur.com/wvtDfdym.png) (http://imgur.com/wvtDfdy)
This is our initial base. So far we have three hangars (with two interceptors and a transport aircraft), a radar facility, living quarters, equipment storage, a laboratory, and an engineering workshop. We have a starting staff of 8 soldiers, 10 scientists, and 10 engineers.
(http://i.imgur.com/3AWecfLm.png) (http://imgur.com/3AWecfL)
In research, we have three projects available to start on. Laser Weapons is fairly self-explanatory. The Medi-Kit will allow troops to treat severe wounds in the field, reducing our rate of combat fatalities. The Motion Scanner will provide us with a tool to detect activity through walls and doors. We can split our research team between projects, or focus our scientists entirely on one project.
(http://i.imgur.com/v5V8hSKm.png) (http://imgur.com/v5V8hSK)
Our engineers are pretty much on standby until a research project is done, there is nothing we have the ability to make in-house so far yet; all of our weapons and equipment are being purchased from external suppliers.
(http://i.imgur.com/migdIcBm.png) (http://imgur.com/migdIcB)
On that note, now is a good time to purchase some more equipment and hire some additional personnel. We will start with some additional soldiers and scientists and some additional weapons and supplies. I'll go into detail about the weapons and equipment next.
(http://i.imgur.com/IOkzahxm.png) (http://imgur.com/IOkzahx)
Our storage is near its limit, so we're going to have to get rid of some stuff too.
(http://i.imgur.com/lzY300Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/lzY300D)
Now back at managing the base, this would be a good time to add some new facilities.
(http://i.imgur.com/GgxM9xsm.png) (http://imgur.com/GgxM9xs)
Our starting base has one major issue; if it were to be found and attacked, enemies can get in not just through the access lift, but also through the hangars. Having hangars at every side of the base makes it much more difficult to defend. Although it'll take some time and expense to fix this, we are going to move all of the hangars in the base to the north side. This means all of the access points will be on the north side, and we can create an easily defended chokepoint.
(http://i.imgur.com/qe1BFQQm.png) (http://imgur.com/qe1BFQQ)
We need more storage facilities as soon as possible.
(http://i.imgur.com/LzJD3w9m.png) (http://imgur.com/LzJD3w9)
We are going to move our living quarters away from the access lift and hangar to make the chokepoint at the entryway narrower and easier to defend.
(http://i.imgur.com/LyoVDXwm.png) (http://imgur.com/LyoVDXw)
Adding a large radar system in addition to our current one will improve our detection range and effectiveness.
(http://i.imgur.com/XFDbuB5m.png) (http://imgur.com/XFDbuB5)
Finally, a containment facility will allow us to safely hold any aliens that are captured alive, allowing us to research them.
That's all the work we're doing on the base for now, we have basic facilities right now and in less than a month we should have improved radar, expanded storage, and a more fortified defensive position.
-
At this point, I will provide information about our current arsenal.
(http://i.imgur.com/1xBlvFRm.png) (http://imgur.com/1xBlvFR)
The Skyranger is our main transport craft. It can carry up to 14 troops, 3 vehicles, or any combination thereof to ground operations. In addition, its large fuel capacity and long range allows it to patrol and provide surveillance in areas not covered by radar. However, as it lacks speed or any air-to-air weapons, it cannot intercept.
(http://i.imgur.com/Uy1eHmXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Uy1eHmX)
The Interceptor is our main air-to-air combat aircraft. It is equipped with two weapon hardpoints, and has enough speed to pursue and shoot down most UFOs.
(http://i.imgur.com/AjLoAA4m.png) (http://imgur.com/AjLoAA4)
The Stingray is the primary weapon currently equipped to our interceptors. One launcher has a capacity of six missiles. The Stingray has a reasonable balance of ammunition capacity, range, power, and accuracy, however, it is merely ?average?.
(http://i.imgur.com/52D6Tkvm.png) (http://imgur.com/52D6Tkv)
The Cannon is the secondary weapon currently being used by our interceptors. Its main advantages are its rate of fire and large ammunition capacity; however, it requires getting to very close range to use, which is extremely dangerous in air-to-air combat.
(http://i.imgur.com/iU3xY1gm.png) (http://imgur.com/iU3xY1g)
The Avalanche is not currently equipped by our aircraft, but it will be brought into service as soon as possible. Each launcher can only carry three missiles, but with double the range of the Stingray, this weapon allows our aircraft to engage targets with minimum risk.
(http://i.imgur.com/gCAnA5qm.png) (http://imgur.com/gCAnA5q)
This is our current rifle in service. There's nothing to really say about it.
(http://i.imgur.com/pzuJGjHm.png) (http://imgur.com/pzuJGjH)
This is our current pistol in service. While less accurate than the rifle and having lower ammo capacity, pistols can be used with one hand without any penalty to accuracy, making them useful for when missions call for the use of grenades or other equipment.
(http://i.imgur.com/uBSeeQjm.png) (http://imgur.com/uBSeeQj)
The heavy cannon is one of our largest and most powerful infantry weapons. It can use armor-piercing rounds, explosive rounds capable of destroying walls and obstacles, or incendiary rounds that can provide light during night missions.
(http://i.imgur.com/5FrzzLPm.png) (http://imgur.com/5FrzzLP)
The auto-cannon uses smaller ammunition than the heavy cannon, but can load slightly more rounds at a time. While less powerful and less accurate than its counterpart, the auto-cannon's rapid fire is good for firing off a large number of HE or incendiary rounds at once.
(http://i.imgur.com/upjRc6Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/upjRc6X)
The rocket launcher is our most powerful infantry weapon. However, the user can only carry a small amount of ammunition with it, and there is a high risk of friendly fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/rUwMp9Km.png) (http://imgur.com/rUwMp9K)
Standard grenades are equipped with a timing mechanism that can be set for any amount of time between 0 (detonates at the end of the turn once set on the ground) and 30 (detonates in 15 turns at the end of the enemy's phase). Grenades and other explosives will not only damage enemies (and allies) in the vicinity, but will also destroy walls and terrain, as well as any enemies on the ground.
(http://i.imgur.com/ae53sGCm.png) (http://imgur.com/ae53sGC)
Smoke grenades cover a large area; the smoke they produce reduces the chance of anything in it to be hit by attacks. Smoke can also be produced by some other explosive weapons and certain objects in the landscape exploding.
(http://i.imgur.com/lU4sBzom.png) (http://imgur.com/lU4sBzo)
Once armed and on the ground, proximity grenades will detonate once movement is detected nearby. These are very useful for covering entrances or blocking off passageways.
(http://i.imgur.com/sIJuZ9Em.png) (http://imgur.com/sIJuZ9E)
Like standard grenades, explosives can be set on a timer. However, they are bulkier and heavier than grenades, so less of them can be carried by a single person.
(http://i.imgur.com/vgY8pQQm.png) (http://imgur.com/vgY8pQQ)
When used at melee range, the stun rod will deplete the stamina of its target, eventually knocking them unconscious. This is crucial for capturing aliens alive.
(http://i.imgur.com/QWdBECcm.png) (http://imgur.com/QWdBECc)
Electro-flares are portable light sources, critical in night missions. They will provide light in the area around where they are thrown. They can be picked up and reused.
(http://i.imgur.com/YerzwTpm.png) (http://imgur.com/YerzwTp)
(http://i.imgur.com/cUi3VAgm.png) (http://imgur.com/cUi3VAg)
Heavy weapons platforms, or HWPs, are unpiloted vehicles that provide armored support for ground squads. They have devastating firepower and can take significant damage, but take up significant space in storage and transport and require a constant supply of ammunition.
That's all for our arsenal so far, but as our research commences we should hopefully have more and better tools to work with. This brings us back to our priorities for research: our three available projects are Laser Weapons, the Medi-Kit, and the Motion Scanner. We currently have 10 scientists to allocate to projects, and 5 more will be arriving soon.
-
Go for lasers! Medi-kits don't do much good until after we've got armor, since all our guys will die in one hit :ohdear:
-
Seconding lasers. I imagine motion scanning isn't much good unless you have some sort of weapon that goes through walls, anyway.
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Neat, was actually playing UFO Defense over the weekend; team wipe on the first mission!
I usually go for motion detection to have a better guess of where the enemy is.
Also, I'll put my name up for (ab)use, with no preference for stats/equips and no qualms about dying repeatedly.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/MYsjmUbm.png) (http://imgur.com/MYsjmUb)
(http://i.imgur.com/O1jmpA2m.png) (http://imgur.com/O1jmpA2)
(http://i.imgur.com/onPk5Tcm.png) (http://imgur.com/onPk5Tc)
The decision is unanimous; we're pouring all our research effort into laser weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/mvJ9kJLm.png) (http://imgur.com/mvJ9kJL)
(http://i.imgur.com/FDGxqo9m.png) (http://imgur.com/FDGxqo9)
(http://i.imgur.com/0ZWFHtem.png) (http://imgur.com/0ZWFHte)
(http://i.imgur.com/mXNsZCVm.png) (http://imgur.com/mXNsZCV)
We only have one Avalanche launcher so far, so we're equipping that to our first Interceptor, putting our spare Stingray launchers on the second, and ditching the cannons entirely.
(http://i.imgur.com/w7tNUktm.png) (http://imgur.com/w7tNUkt)
The Interceptors will take a few hours to get the new weapons put on, but once that's done they'll be ready to fly patrol missions.
(http://i.imgur.com/kZIAx69m.png) (http://imgur.com/kZIAx69)
(http://i.imgur.com/9MVzzzSm.png) (http://imgur.com/9MVzzzS)
(http://i.imgur.com/d53wieQm.png) (http://imgur.com/d53wieQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/itCtLOFm.png) (http://imgur.com/itCtLOF)
(http://i.imgur.com/LndoUwvm.png) (http://imgur.com/LndoUwv)
Our Interceptor patrols will be sent over areas just outside of our radar range, such as eastern Europe, central Asia, and north Africa. The Skyranger will be used to monitor faraway areas, such as east Asia and the Americas.
(http://i.imgur.com/JVkGmrGm.png) (http://imgur.com/JVkGmrG)
After a day, our first shipment of new equipment arrives. Small equipment arrives the fastest, in about 24 hours. Aircraft, air-to-air weapons and ammunition, personnel, and HWPs take longer.
(http://i.imgur.com/BWgXKoZm.png) (http://imgur.com/BWgXKoZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZZNzydrm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZZNzydr)
(http://i.imgur.com/clows7um.png) (http://imgur.com/clows7u)
Eventually, the extra Avalanches do arrive, and they're immediately put on the Interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/T2dd0wYm.png) (http://imgur.com/T2dd0wY)
At this time, we also look at the equipment loaded onto the Skyranger. Anything loaded on board is available for the squad to use during missions. Up to 80 items can be taken and used in a mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/UrqyfDsm.png) (http://imgur.com/UrqyfDs)
Now that we have room in storage, we're getting an HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/q1ZvZjEm.png) (http://imgur.com/q1ZvZjE)
Additional soldiers arrived, so are getting assigned to the Skyranger. Two are being left unassigned to make room for the HWP once it's available.
(http://i.imgur.com/2lizmtjm.png) (http://imgur.com/2lizmtj)
(http://i.imgur.com/8XC9UGcm.png) (http://imgur.com/8XC9UGc)
The new scientists that have just arrived are getting put on laser development.
(http://i.imgur.com/jKCjylJm.png) (http://imgur.com/jKCjylJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/DWQofz7m.png) (http://imgur.com/DWQofz7)
More equipment slowly makes its way to the base; it's interesting to note that HWP ammunition will arrive 1-2 days faster than the HWP itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/OxGJsvkm.png) (http://imgur.com/OxGJsvk)
(http://i.imgur.com/E5BMzv2m.png) (http://imgur.com/E5BMzv2)
(http://i.imgur.com/yzSBgQPm.png) (http://imgur.com/yzSBgQP)
Early research on laser tech is finished fairly quickly; this allows us to start on developing a new pistol.
(http://i.imgur.com/gxKCkGJm.png) (http://imgur.com/gxKCkGJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/2jWjRBKm.png) (http://imgur.com/2jWjRBK)
(http://i.imgur.com/VL7gnMhm.png) (http://imgur.com/VL7gnMh)
A UFO is detected in America by the patrolling Skyranger. The Interceptors are sent after it, with the Skyranger in pursuit to keep it located.
(http://i.imgur.com/nX4cKtam.png) (http://imgur.com/nX4cKta)
(http://i.imgur.com/XqmJIqom.png) (http://imgur.com/XqmJIqo)
(http://i.imgur.com/fIaObJum.png) (http://imgur.com/fIaObJu)
(http://i.imgur.com/Xse4Crmm.png) (http://imgur.com/Xse4Crm)
(http://i.imgur.com/LLoZoPtm.png) (http://imgur.com/LLoZoPt)
(http://i.imgur.com/VxwiYCRm.png) (http://imgur.com/VxwiYCR)
(http://i.imgur.com/rSVbF1sm.png) (http://imgur.com/rSVbF1s)
(http://i.imgur.com/i7zl5pGm.png) (http://imgur.com/i7zl5pG)
We lose tracking, but attempt to keep pursuit. The Skyranger is forced to return to base due to low fuel during this pursuit; the Interceptors find the UFO and catch up, but the craft has landed on the ground. Before it takes off again and we can engage, the Interceptors also run low on fuel.
(http://i.imgur.com/OJsZXYUm.png) (http://imgur.com/OJsZXYU)
(http://i.imgur.com/rUtkIgCm.png) (http://imgur.com/rUtkIgC)
(http://i.imgur.com/978VxY7m.png) (http://imgur.com/978VxY7)
(http://i.imgur.com/faTFfaqm.png) (http://imgur.com/faTFfaq)
While all of our aircraft are in hangar and refueling, another contact is picked up, this time in Europe. It circles around the continent, lands in Britain for a short time. An interceptor is able to get out of the hangar and tries to pursue, but the UFO speeds up and exits the atmosphere before we can attack it.
Following this embarrassment, we get a moment of calm. More patrols are flown to try and locate any other possible activity, especially in the US and Europe where UFOs have already been detected.
(http://i.imgur.com/fFaDwLDm.png) (http://imgur.com/fFaDwLD)
(http://i.imgur.com/BaVltN5m.png) (http://imgur.com/BaVltN5)
Our additional storage facilities are ready for use, and the HWP arrives.
(http://i.imgur.com/PaSCIHOm.png) (http://imgur.com/PaSCIHO)
(http://i.imgur.com/T67F9XMm.png) (http://imgur.com/T67F9XM)
(http://i.imgur.com/8o6LEPnm.png) (http://imgur.com/8o6LEPn)
(http://i.imgur.com/so11ENKm.png) (http://imgur.com/so11ENK)
(http://i.imgur.com/i9K8ekSm.png) (http://imgur.com/i9K8ekS)
(http://i.imgur.com/v2bvhgbm.png) (http://imgur.com/v2bvhgb)
(http://i.imgur.com/6i1GjY4m.png) (http://imgur.com/6i1GjY4)
(http://i.imgur.com/nFPI5Q6m.png) (http://imgur.com/nFPI5Q6)
The research team finishes the laser pistol project, and it's sent off to Engineering for production while the scientists continue on to applying the concept to rifles.
(http://i.imgur.com/j1p5y0vm.png) (http://imgur.com/j1p5y0v)
(http://i.imgur.com/XMVsGDwm.png) (http://imgur.com/XMVsGDw)
A new UFO is detected on the ground in central Europe; the Skyranger is refuelling from a patrol flight, so interceptors are sent after it in case it takes off again.
(http://i.imgur.com/mcEFrHWm.png) (http://imgur.com/mcEFrHW)
(http://i.imgur.com/MefPCzpm.png) (http://imgur.com/MefPCzp)
(http://i.imgur.com/IerHYgEm.png) (http://imgur.com/IerHYgE)
(http://i.imgur.com/eHNpuxQm.png) (http://imgur.com/eHNpuxQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/8xKMIwim.png) (http://imgur.com/8xKMIwi)
(http://i.imgur.com/w83IBxxm.png) (http://imgur.com/w83IBxx)
(http://i.imgur.com/NJguG95m.png) (http://imgur.com/NJguG95)
The interceptor manages to catch this target in the air, and after the UFO's brief attempts to evade, it is shot down over the English Channel. If the craft was brought down over land, an attempt could be made to salvage the wreckage; however, it crashed in water, leaving us no way to recover it.
(http://i.imgur.com/qo7XAU8m.png) (http://imgur.com/qo7XAU8)
(http://i.imgur.com/LRwQ4nVm.png) (http://imgur.com/LRwQ4nV)
(http://i.imgur.com/gSyW8Vum.png) (http://imgur.com/gSyW8Vu)
The new living quarters at the base are finished, allowing us to disassemble the old one and reduce the points of entry into the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/GQsvtAWm.png) (http://imgur.com/GQsvtAW)
(http://i.imgur.com/QkgR0tmm.png) (http://imgur.com/QkgR0tm)
(http://i.imgur.com/7VEXPoNm.png) (http://imgur.com/7VEXPoN)
Before we can locate any new contacts on radar, we receive an urgent report: Los Angeles is under attack by alien forces. Our Skyranger is currently on patrol in the Arctic, and it still has enough fuel on board to reach the United States. Our forces will arrive in the United States at dawn.
(http://i.imgur.com/PEl86xxm.png) (http://imgur.com/PEl86xx)
(http://i.imgur.com/EdnguPUm.png) (http://imgur.com/EdnguPU)
This will be the first combat mission for our ground forces, and this is not a good place to start. We will be up against a large number of alien forces, including shock troops. In addition to being outnumbered, we must also attempt to minimize civilian casualties.
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I see we're doing splendidly!
Mamizou help plz.
-
ALIENS TERRORISE
Los Angeles
grabbag.mid
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The first mission, and it's Terror? Oh dear.
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Don't worry! I'm sure our general's brilliant tactics will lead X-COM to glorious victory!
Maybe.
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At least it'll get there during the day ?(?_o)/?
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(http://i.imgur.com/WoSvIc8m.png) (http://imgur.com/WoSvIc8)
We start the mission, codenamed California Wildfire, by selecting our troop equipment. Matthias is the first out after the HWP, so he's getting a smoke grenade to help cover the rest of the team.
(http://i.imgur.com/dj4eHASm.png) (http://imgur.com/dj4eHAS)
Gerhard Meyer gets a Heavy Cannon with AP ammo, plus side weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/4XG8s4Im.png) (http://imgur.com/4XG8s4I)
(http://i.imgur.com/AHodftum.png) (http://imgur.com/AHodftu)
Sata Yamanaka and Scott Sharpe have high reactions, so they're getting pistols.
(http://i.imgur.com/ICIAR7vm.png) (http://imgur.com/ICIAR7v)
Andrea Sharpe gets an auto-cannon with HE rounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/Gb4E0omm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gb4E0om)
(http://i.imgur.com/caTde91m.png) (http://imgur.com/caTde91)
(http://i.imgur.com/4fGKVdnm.png) (http://imgur.com/4fGKVdn)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q6OPmkpm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q6OPmkp)
(http://i.imgur.com/3AjD3KGm.png) (http://imgur.com/3AjD3KG)
Everybody else gets rifles and whatever grenades we have sitting around.
(http://i.imgur.com/Hfb3SJnm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hfb3SJn)
(http://i.imgur.com/XA9fAv0m.png) (http://imgur.com/XA9fAv0)
Right from the start from we have two enemies visible from our starting position. One is a large alien off and to the left, while another is in the shadows, concealed by the plants in the garden.
(http://i.imgur.com/QMaLk8wm.png) (http://imgur.com/QMaLk8w)
As the HWP exits out onto the ramp, it takes a bit of reaction fire from an unseen attacker on the left flank. However, the armor holds up well.
(http://i.imgur.com/w9JVGnam.png) (http://imgur.com/w9JVGna)
A shot is taken at the garden, but it falls a bit short of the mark.
(http://i.imgur.com/cOEEUu9m.png) (http://imgur.com/cOEEUu9)
(http://i.imgur.com/7TeGxjzm.png) (http://imgur.com/7TeGxjz)
One of the squad members in the ship takes a few shots at the enemy hiding in the garden, but also misses.
(http://i.imgur.com/B4fcxezm.png) (http://imgur.com/B4fcxez)
(http://i.imgur.com/W6KMvoZm.png) (http://imgur.com/W6KMvoZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/pfIeqFBm.png) (http://imgur.com/pfIeqFB)
Matthias prepares a smoke grenade, but due to a mistake, winds up stepping out on to the ramp instead of throwing it. Miraculously, anyone who has a chance to shoot at him decides not to.
(http://i.imgur.com/ddq9X6Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/ddq9X6W)
We can't see a lot of the enemy right now, but we definitely hear them; there's a lot of gunfire in the distance.
(http://i.imgur.com/DQCFNYYm.png) (http://imgur.com/DQCFNYY)
(http://i.imgur.com/TsWKQu7m.png) (http://imgur.com/TsWKQu7)
The HWP has a clear shot at an enemy, and gets a direct hit with a rocket.
(http://i.imgur.com/GQsEtZ2m.png) (http://imgur.com/GQsEtZ2)
(http://i.imgur.com/KxFAONum.png) (http://imgur.com/KxFAONu)
(http://i.imgur.com/n3dwDvVm.png) (http://imgur.com/n3dwDvV)
(http://i.imgur.com/eUsURC3m.png) (http://imgur.com/eUsURC3)
(http://i.imgur.com/tCABHPGm.png) (http://imgur.com/tCABHPG)
Matthias can see two hostiles from his position. The closer one is taken out with a burst of automatic fire, giving him a chance to get behind the landing gear... but not before he sees another hostile.
(http://i.imgur.com/B3V2Wm6m.png) (http://imgur.com/B3V2Wm6)
(http://i.imgur.com/jt15FLLm.png) (http://imgur.com/jt15FLL)
(http://i.imgur.com/XvY9SENm.png) (http://imgur.com/XvY9SEN)
Andrea Davies and Sata Yamanaka take some more shots at the enemy in the garden, but still miss. The HWP takes another shot, but falls short of the target yet again.
(http://i.imgur.com/Aa3iQB9m.png) (http://imgur.com/Aa3iQB9)
The alien that was hiding in the garden comes into plain view and takes shots at... something. It doesn't hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/VtG92Ctm.png) (http://imgur.com/VtG92Ct)
(http://i.imgur.com/KkwRnaWm.png) (http://imgur.com/KkwRnaW)
Matthias tries to take a shot at the alien that's moved up toward him, but can't get a clear shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/RcvK1Pqm.png) (http://imgur.com/RcvK1Pq)
(http://i.imgur.com/4Hl6Fkqm.png) (http://imgur.com/4Hl6Fkq)
The HWP tries to take a shot as well, but winds up hitting the building between it and the target... and taking out a civilian behind the wall.
(http://i.imgur.com/3GWSmssm.png) (http://imgur.com/3GWSmss)
(http://i.imgur.com/ofxsXDbm.png) (http://imgur.com/ofxsXDb)
(http://i.imgur.com/rO4hvafm.png) (http://imgur.com/rO4hvaf)
Yamanaka moves in to take a shot, but in spite of her reaction speed, the hostile fires back and gets her. Matthias gets downed by a shot from an out-of-sight enemy. The smoke grenade he was still carrying hits the ground and goes off.
(http://i.imgur.com/GLWGVbwm.png) (http://imgur.com/GLWGVbw)
Andrea Davies and Karin Steinbach enter into the smoke, fortunately out of the line of fire of hostiles at this point.
(http://i.imgur.com/TR1Gim5m.png) (http://imgur.com/TR1Gim5)
An alien tries taking a shot at the HWP... and promptly learns that those too are capable of reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/kIKSDLQm.png) (http://imgur.com/kIKSDLQ)
Davies gets ambushed while trying to get to the other set of landing gear for cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/WGhocYJm.png) (http://imgur.com/WGhocYJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/QYe8L0Am.png) (http://imgur.com/QYe8L0A)
(http://i.imgur.com/20e17k7m.png) (http://imgur.com/20e17k7)
The HWP spots another hostile through a window and takes a shot... and again falls short.
(http://i.imgur.com/ybBzCivm.png) (http://imgur.com/ybBzCiv)
(http://i.imgur.com/KVS6lMUm.png) (http://imgur.com/KVS6lMU)
Steinbach and Laroyenne try taking shots now. Laroyenne misses... and winds up taking out an alien that was just outside of visual range.
(http://i.imgur.com/3fwnljxm.png) (http://imgur.com/3fwnljx)
(http://i.imgur.com/zO9ht6pm.png) (http://imgur.com/zO9ht6p)
More of the team gets out onto the field now that there's somewhat of a safe zone to enter.
(http://i.imgur.com/GfGDfOdm.png) (http://imgur.com/GfGDfOd)
The HWP is out of ammo now, which puts us at a severe disadvantage.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3VjIoJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z3VjIoJ)
Scott Sharpe takes some shots at one of the aliens, but with all the smoke, it's near impossible to get a good hit in.
(http://i.imgur.com/M3m1Leom.png) (http://imgur.com/M3m1Leo)
A large alien manages to cram itself into a phone booth somehow. A few rifle and cannon shots are taken at it, but the ones that do hit aren't enough to take it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/WBVTt3am.png)
The squad is flanked from the side and Steinbach is fatally hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/yEwfHrpm.png) (http://imgur.com/yEwfHrp)
(http://i.imgur.com/MzirbUXm.png) (http://imgur.com/MzirbUX)
The squad spots an alien on the left. After a few missed shots, Laroyenne manages to take it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/n0o9g1Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/n0o9g1Y)
During the attack on the large alien to the right, another surviving civilian is spotted.
(http://i.imgur.com/ArmD5Ctm.png) (http://imgur.com/ArmD5Ct)
Unfortunately, that is short-lived as that civilian is pursued and mauled.
(http://i.imgur.com/aoNcXv6m.png) (http://imgur.com/aoNcXv6)
The alien then starts coming for the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/2IURmkJm.png) (http://imgur.com/2IURmkJ)
And another one's found on the left.
(http://i.imgur.com/z9LIzfXm.png) (http://imgur.com/z9LIzfX)
(http://i.imgur.com/W2Jx8Pzm.png) (http://imgur.com/W2Jx8Pz)
Scott throws a grenade at it, which is tricky with the remnants of the ceiling getting in the way.
(http://i.imgur.com/4Rb1zq8m.png) (http://imgur.com/4Rb1zq8)
(http://i.imgur.com/RgVq8xLm.png) (http://imgur.com/RgVq8xL)
The large alien continues coming towards the squad. It tries attacking the HWP, but the armor holds up.
(http://i.imgur.com/me9LaXYm.png) (http://imgur.com/me9LaXY)
(http://i.imgur.com/ShNH6Fsm.png) (http://imgur.com/ShNH6Fs)
(http://i.imgur.com/02Sf46mm.png) (http://imgur.com/02Sf46m)
Andrea Sharpe brings out the auto-cannon and starts firing off HE rounds at the enemy on the right. It does the trick.
(http://i.imgur.com/jhQiMyZm.png) (http://imgur.com/jhQiMyZ)
Laroyenne gets the one on the left.
(http://i.imgur.com/9pHcCPOm.png) (http://imgur.com/9pHcCPO)
Two hostiles are spotted in an alleyway. This would be a perfect moment for the HWP to shine... if it wasn't out of ammo by now.
(http://i.imgur.com/21hxFuLm.png) (http://imgur.com/21hxFuL)
(http://i.imgur.com/4C36EPIm.png) (http://imgur.com/4C36EPI)
Some long-range shooting takes out one of them.
(http://i.imgur.com/i0okbqam.png) (http://imgur.com/i0okbqa)
(http://i.imgur.com/v3z78fXm.png) (http://imgur.com/v3z78fX)
The other fires back... and takes out one of the squad under the landing gear.
(http://i.imgur.com/l6UakLOm.png) (http://imgur.com/l6UakLO)
Meyer's able to get the second hostile in the alley using the heavy cannon.
(http://i.imgur.com/DF3RM2Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/DF3RM2X)
More survivors are spotted.
(http://i.imgur.com/p4juigbm.png) (http://imgur.com/p4juigb)
The squad fans out to cover extra ground and keep the remaining civilians protected.
(http://i.imgur.com/RUTAuY0m.png) (http://imgur.com/RUTAuY0)
(http://i.imgur.com/I1RFDvIm.png) (http://imgur.com/I1RFDvI)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZEgLsmTm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZEgLsmT)
Another large alien is spotted in the alleyway. The HWP is used as bait to lure it into range of the rest of the team. It works... but the last attack is too much for the vehicle's armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/WdqRoBRm.png) (http://imgur.com/WdqRoBR)
(http://i.imgur.com/6EKaM0cm.png) (http://imgur.com/6EKaM0c)
Again, HE rounds do the job.
(http://i.imgur.com/83qPjlXm.png) (http://imgur.com/83qPjlX)
(http://i.imgur.com/oFsV1BEm.png) (http://imgur.com/oFsV1BE)
(http://i.imgur.com/YUDbW0qm.png) (http://imgur.com/YUDbW0q)
Searching the street, Laroyenne is shot by yet another hostile lurking out of sight. He survives the shot, but is wounded. He quickly takes cover behind a light post.
(http://i.imgur.com/sg0kHAPm.png) (http://imgur.com/sg0kHAP)
Sarah Stewart is out of ammo. With the rifle no longer useful, she puts it away and gets a grenade ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/esEHejFm.png) (http://imgur.com/esEHejF)
Meyer gets into position to back up Laroyenne. Time is of the essence here; if we take too long to finish up the mission, Laroyenne will bleed out. Even right now his combat performance is negatively impacted by his wounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZHEZQvim.png) (http://imgur.com/ZHEZQvi)
We spot the alien, but it's going to be hard to get a clear shot at it from this position.
(http://i.imgur.com/Iesb65wm.png) (http://imgur.com/Iesb65w)
Two more of the team gets into place to begin a takedown.
(http://i.imgur.com/PL7yJeMm.png) (http://imgur.com/PL7yJeM)
Scott is going around the side to try and flank.
(http://i.imgur.com/RhWA6cJm.png) (http://imgur.com/RhWA6cJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/ptys39Em.png) (http://imgur.com/ptys39E)
More fire comes down in the direction of the squad; Ulbricht gets wounded as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/pmQxjykm.png) (http://imgur.com/pmQxjyk)
(http://i.imgur.com/yRXVRHpm.png) (http://imgur.com/yRXVRHp)
Andrea brings the autocannon and opens fire. It doesn't hit the mark.
(http://i.imgur.com/HCUz3nqm.png) (http://imgur.com/HCUz3nq)
Meyer and Laroyenne line up against the wall, preparing to come around and strike. Scott gets spotted and shot while attempting to flank
(http://i.imgur.com/o3BPi69m.png) (http://imgur.com/o3BPi69)
(http://i.imgur.com/7yPxMWQm.png) (http://imgur.com/7yPxMWQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/o40I1Hym.png) (http://imgur.com/o40I1Hy)
Laroyenne rushes in and narrowly avoids getting hit, before taking a few shots and ducking back behind cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/lmCwTzdm.png) (http://imgur.com/lmCwTzd)
(http://i.imgur.com/bmB2WY6m.png) (http://imgur.com/bmB2WY6)
Andrea tries again with the auto-cannon, with no luck.
(http://i.imgur.com/PrOvsiKm.png) (http://imgur.com/PrOvsiK)
(http://i.imgur.com/l6d44Mlm.png) (http://imgur.com/l6d44Ml)
Laroyenne rushes back in and delivers a successful shot, finishing up the mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/EiJTgjUm.png) (http://imgur.com/EiJTgjU)
Result of Operation California Wildfire:
Andrea Sharpe: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Gerhard Meyer: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Rene Laroyenne: 4 kills, promoted to Squaddie. Wounded, will recover in 19 days
Gerhard Ulbricht: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie. Wounded, will recover in 28 days
Matthias Mederow: Killed in action
Andrea Davies: Killed in action
Sata Yamanaka: Killed in action
Karin Steinbach: Killed in action
Scott Sharpe: Killed in action
HWP destroyed
10 civilians killed by aliens
1 civilian killed by collateral damage
3 civilian survivors rescued
14 aliens killed
?Poor? is actually far better result than I was expecting for this mission. It's not often that more than one or two civilians survive one of these missions.
-
I'm impressed. In a pained sort of way.
Hopefully the corpses will get us something.
-
RIP in peace HWP, the true hero ;;
-
Jesus, that was brutal. But yeah, for a rookie terror mission, actually better than expected. Losing that HWP is a pain though, those things aren't cheap.
-
In retrospect, hiring A-team stunt actors for our gunmen may have been a bad move.
-
So far we have encountered two types of hostile aliens.
The aliens in purple robes are being referred to as ?Floaters?, as they appear to hover above the ground when moving. We do not know the extent of this hovering ability; it has yet to be determined if they can float in midair, or if they are limited to ground level. They have very quick reactions, on par some of our most agile operatives; this can make them dangerous in close-range firefights.
The large aliens are being referred to as ?Reapers?. They are strong physically, but lack any means of attacking other than melee strikes. Reapers seem to lack intellect, and without a clear target in front of them they will just wander aimlessly, making them easy targets.
(http://i.imgur.com/lvNABCkm.png) (http://imgur.com/lvNABCk)
One alien was found unconscious instead of dead at the end of the mission, but we couldn't bring it in as our containment facility isn't ready yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZtDTiaDm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZtDTiaD)
After the first mission, one of the surviving operatives almost always gets promoted to Sergeant. This gives a few minor stat boosts, but nothing incredibly gamechanging. Higher-ranking soldiers present during operations also help keep morale up during firefights.
(http://i.imgur.com/DB5cUonm.png) (http://imgur.com/DB5cUon)
We are using some of our remaining funds to replace the fallen soldiers and the lost HWP. We're obtaining some additional funds by selling off some of the alien corpses and weapons recovered from the mission; we can't make use of them yet and we're likely going to wind up with lots more. If somebody with too much money and too little sense wants to build their own private museum of alien artifacts, we don't really care.
(http://i.imgur.com/l8uGWg7m.png) (http://imgur.com/l8uGWg7)
Andrea Sharpe is now our highest-ranking operative out of the remaining squad. She has the best stats overall, with good reactions and strength, and decent weapon accuracy. She is well-suited to using heavy weapons such as cannons and rocket launchers.
(http://i.imgur.com/7i7mK5cm.png) (http://imgur.com/7i7mK5c)
Gerhard Ulbricht is currently in recovery, but also has good stats. His reactions and throwing accuracy are the highest in the squad, and his strength is also quite good. Apart from long-range sniping, he is ideal in numerous roles, such as demolitions, heavy weapons, and scouting.
(http://i.imgur.com/3Nl0O2Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/3Nl0O2N)
Gerhard Meyer is also fairly good apart from long-range shooting. His reactions, strength, and bravery are all fairly reliable, making him good for a variety of roles.
(http://i.imgur.com/70fy1Flm.png) (http://imgur.com/70fy1Fl)
In spite of his average stats, Rene Laroyenne has the most kills out of the squad so far and has survived being hit by enemy fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/OlXWJH7m.png) (http://imgur.com/OlXWJH7)
Sarah Stewart is fairly average in terms of stats, but she's worth keeping on the squad until she falls or we have a good number of superior replacements.
(http://i.imgur.com/IixDh1dm.png) (http://imgur.com/IixDh1d)
(http://i.imgur.com/B0Np9c2m.png) (http://imgur.com/B0Np9c2)
Gerard Cuvelier and Masanori Fujimoto were kept off-duty due to their questionable bravery, but their other stats show potential. While they are likely to be put back on reserve if better replacements arrive, they have a chance to shine in battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/EZ27Cmcm.png) (http://imgur.com/EZ27Cmc)
(http://i.imgur.com/o1JUi6Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/o1JUi6C)
Recovering alien bodies and weapons has given us a few new options for research. We can stick with the laser rifle development, or assign our scientists to new projects. Analyzing the alien weapons and ammunition will be very time-consuming, but will allow us to not only use those weapons, but reverse-engineer them and build our own as well. Studying the alien remains will give us some interesting biological data, but not much of immediate use compared to obtaining and studying a live alien.
(http://i.imgur.com/f2jFdLFm.png) (http://imgur.com/f2jFdLF)
Engineering continues to assemble the laser pistols. They are more accurate and can be fired in less time than conventional pistols, but that is not their biggest benefit. Laser-based weapons do not require an ammunition supply, which makes them very reliable in long-term engagements. As several are already completed, they will be sent to the Skyranger for use by our squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/eAd1Fd3m.png) (http://imgur.com/eAd1Fd3)
Construction continues on the base; the containment unit will be finished tomorrow, while the long-
range radar and the hangar bays on the north side will be completed in just over a week.
-
Here's some fluff.
Andrea Sharpe, after losing her twin brother Scott, picked up a strong personal hatred towards aliens. She was quickly promoted to Sergeant for her burning, almost suicidal desire to keep going on missions.
For his performance despite the wound he suffered, Rene Laroyenne became known as "Berserker". After returning from hospital, his fellow soldiers noticed a hint of insanity in his eyes.
-
Laser pistols are fun because you can spam autofire with them many times per turn, even if the accuracy is ass. Pew pew pew!
I think we want two labs to do alien weapon research at a reasonable pace? For now we can either complete all the laser research since we can build that stuff for profit, or start on armor when rifles are done.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/jlq3z7Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/jlq3z7R)
Our containment unit is finally finished, meaning that any aliens we capture can be safely stored on the base for analysis and interrogation.
(http://i.imgur.com/whfkTJhm.png) (http://imgur.com/whfkTJh)
(http://i.imgur.com/oMqwB9Um.png) (http://imgur.com/oMqwB9U)
We continue our recon flights; the interceptors take turns flying over Europe and Africa while the Skyranger keeps tabs on North America.
(http://i.imgur.com/fuv0CUjm.png) (http://imgur.com/fuv0CUj)
We get some new supplies at the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/i1YZ8dom.png) (http://imgur.com/i1YZ8do)
(http://i.imgur.com/ogcWRBGm.png) (http://imgur.com/ogcWRBG)
(http://i.imgur.com/ELaZi1um.png) (http://imgur.com/ELaZi1u)
(http://i.imgur.com/0x25N3um.png) (http://imgur.com/0x25N3u)
(http://i.imgur.com/9j4OeD0m.png) (http://imgur.com/9j4OeD0)
(http://i.imgur.com/dSZHfzgm.png) (http://imgur.com/dSZHfzg)
New squad members arrive at the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/7BlZB7Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/7BlZB7C)
The new troops and our reserves are put on board the Skyranger, bringing us back up to a team of ten.
(http://i.imgur.com/D0Hr81xm.png) (http://imgur.com/D0Hr81x)
Our replacement HWP arrives and is ready for use by the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/HYrPn6mm.png) (http://imgur.com/HYrPn6m)
(http://i.imgur.com/xCaP2x9m.png) (http://imgur.com/xCaP2x9)
(http://i.imgur.com/PJ982Z3m.png) (http://imgur.com/PJ982Z3)
(http://i.imgur.com/gjOb3wKm.png) (http://imgur.com/gjOb3wK)
Radar picks up a UFO over the Mediterranean. An interceptor catches up with it over France, and shoots it down near Paris.
(http://i.imgur.com/YM3qyFpm.png) (http://imgur.com/YM3qyFp)
Our last of ten laser pistols will be done in a few hours, meaning we have one for each member of our squad. Once that done, we're deploying
It's time for revenge. Let's attack aggressively.
-
*pewpewpewpewpewpewpew*
May the xenos scum know the glory of the Emperor in their final moments! Er, I mean let's round these jerks up.
-
A new day, a new accidentally destroyed reactor.
-
Is there any reason that Gerhard is such a popular name among XCOM recruits?
-
Is there any reason that Gerhard is such a popular name among XCOM recruits?
Small reference pools.
(http://i.imgur.com/cDY4cO7m.png) (http://imgur.com/cDY4cO7)
(http://i.imgur.com/o4szrE4m.png) (http://imgur.com/o4szrE4)
The laser pistols are ready for use, and we're ready to go.
(http://i.imgur.com/m8senDgm.png) (http://imgur.com/m8senDg)
(http://i.imgur.com/BK7teDCm.png) (http://imgur.com/BK7teDC)
(http://i.imgur.com/y5S5jrEm.png) (http://imgur.com/y5S5jrE)
The crash site isn't far from the base, and the squad takes very little time to arrive on the scene. This mission is being dubbed "Operation Scavenger Hunt".
(http://i.imgur.com/BEgrpTzm.png) (http://imgur.com/BEgrpTz)
(http://i.imgur.com/H9ouzuUm.png) (http://imgur.com/H9ouzuU)
(http://i.imgur.com/4pJ65XOm.png) (http://imgur.com/4pJ65XO)
(http://i.imgur.com/en5YrBxm.png) (http://imgur.com/en5YrBx)
(http://i.imgur.com/42AHVR9m.png) (http://imgur.com/42AHVR9)
(http://i.imgur.com/wOBLp3bm.png) (http://imgur.com/wOBLp3b)
(http://i.imgur.com/c6ibmFLm.png) (http://imgur.com/c6ibmFL)
(http://i.imgur.com/DuwkYRZm.png) (http://imgur.com/DuwkYRZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/20Nbacvm.png) (http://imgur.com/20Nbacv)
(http://i.imgur.com/W7PLK4Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/W7PLK4Q)
Everybody's getting the new laser pistols as sidearms in addition to the rifles, except Sergeant Sharpe, who is getting the Heavy Cannon with AP rounds, and Fujimoto, who is using the laser pistol and an extra grenade.
(http://i.imgur.com/WlgnlEnm.png) (http://imgur.com/WlgnlEn)
(http://i.imgur.com/p2jPMhpm.png) (http://imgur.com/p2jPMhp)
Right from the outset we have a clear view of the UFO; it's been visibly damaged from the interceptor strike.
(http://i.imgur.com/2Nk9LT2m.png) (http://imgur.com/2Nk9LT2)
(http://i.imgur.com/l7uBuJbm.png) (http://imgur.com/l7uBuJb)
(http://i.imgur.com/0NjMcDum.png) (http://imgur.com/0NjMcDu)
(http://i.imgur.com/7ehdAGdm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ehdAGd)
Moving the HWP up, we find the landing zone is clear and start moving the squad out.
(http://i.imgur.com/VIW4V47m.png) (http://imgur.com/VIW4V47)
(http://i.imgur.com/pBgYOslm.png) (http://imgur.com/pBgYOsl)
Some of the squad moves towards the entrance of the crashed UFO, while some of the squad uses the HWP for cover to move up and search the nearby fields.
(http://i.imgur.com/I1Ylybym.png) (http://imgur.com/I1Ylyby)
(http://i.imgur.com/hIXu2VZm.png) (http://imgur.com/hIXu2VZ)
Fujimoto gets a proximity grenade ready while moving towards the entrance of the UFO. The rest of the team moves up with him.
(http://i.imgur.com/EH3gKFFm.png) (http://imgur.com/EH3gKFF)
(http://i.imgur.com/e0Ebbabm.png) (http://imgur.com/e0Ebbab)
Opening the door of the UFO, we see that a large part of it was destroyed by the aerial battle, and part of the crew was killed in the explosion or in the resulting crash. There isn't enough time for Fujimoto to get back into cover, but fortunately, he isn't noticed so far.
(http://i.imgur.com/KaNBbWum.png) (http://imgur.com/KaNBbWu)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZgP6tRIm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZgP6tRI)
(http://i.imgur.com/6AcOiVNm.png) (http://imgur.com/6AcOiVN)
Luck on our side, he tosses the proximity grenade through the door, then gets back out of view.
(http://i.imgur.com/nLDl1Jfm.png) (http://imgur.com/nLDl1Jf)
(http://i.imgur.com/JIOPhZkm.png) (http://imgur.com/JIOPhZk)
(http://i.imgur.com/m0yyLJVm.png) (http://imgur.com/m0yyLJV)
The HWP spots an alien on the roof of a nearby building. Sarah and Gerard manage to take it down with two well-aimed shots.
(http://i.imgur.com/yPRLF7em.png) (http://imgur.com/yPRLF7e)
An explosion is heard through the door, and one of the aliens inside is taken out by the proximity grenade.
(http://i.imgur.com/9hdR8yFm.png) (http://imgur.com/9hdR8yF)
(http://i.imgur.com/x5obsexm.png) (http://imgur.com/x5obsex)
The team opens the door back up and opens fire; Andrea Watson takes out one of the ship's crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/49pTMfTm.png) (http://imgur.com/49pTMfT)
Fujimoto gets one closer to the door with a shot from the laser pistol.
(http://i.imgur.com/7JepkmHm.png) (http://imgur.com/7JepkmH)
(http://i.imgur.com/5e2WEgWm.png) (http://imgur.com/5e2WEgW)
Andrea Watson gets in a firefight with another of the aliens, but loses.
(http://i.imgur.com/nZzIpadm.png) (http://imgur.com/nZzIpad)
(http://i.imgur.com/xCMeCBvm.png) (http://imgur.com/xCMeCBv)
Another alien is spotted in the first floor of the building where the HWP spotted the previous one. It steps outside, saving us the effort and risk of having to go in and searching for it.
(http://i.imgur.com/RTwQdNtm.png) (http://imgur.com/RTwQdNt)
(http://i.imgur.com/YKfZ7pWm.png) (http://imgur.com/YKfZ7pW)
While it goes back inside and out of sight, the HWP doesn't need a clear visual to hit a target.
(http://i.imgur.com/DLaHez5m.png) (http://imgur.com/DLaHez5)
(http://i.imgur.com/T4B4W7Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/T4B4W7B)
Two more aliens are found in the ship. Leonid fires off a few bursts of automatic fire and manages to take both of them out.
Result of Operation Scavenger Hunt:
Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, promoted to Captain
Leonid Romanov: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Gerhard Meyer: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Gerard Cuvelier: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Masanori Fujimoto: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Mikhail Andianov: 0 kills, not promoted
Sarah Stewart: 0 kills, not promoted
Frank Robinson: 0 kills, not promoted
Dmitriy Voronin: 0 kills, not promoted
Andrea Watson: Killed in action
7 aliens killed by XCOM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems salvaged
-
Don't you just love the ways you can solve problems here? Enemy hides in a building? Just blow the whole place up!
-
Well that went considerably more smoothly. RIP that rookie, breaching UFOs is suffering.
Any reason you're favoring ballistic rifles over the laser pistols? Aren't the pistols strictly better?
-
Well that went considerably more smoothly. RIP that rookie, breaching UFOs is suffering.
Any reason you're favoring ballistic rifles over the laser pistols? Aren't the pistols strictly better?
(http://i.imgur.com/gCAnA5qm.png) (http://imgur.com/gCAnA5q)
(http://i.imgur.com/T67F9XMm.png) (http://imgur.com/T67F9XM)
A quick comparison: the laser pistols do more damage and fire faster, but the rifles are more accurate, especially at long distances.
The grey aliens we encountered are being referred to as ?Sectoids?. We have not seen any unusual capabilities from them so far.
(http://i.imgur.com/QNNpKuNm.png) (http://imgur.com/QNNpKuN)
Salvaging the UFO has given us some new research opportunities. Analyzing the alloys from the ship's hull will let us understand the alien materials, their composition, and their possible uses. Studying the UFO navigation systems will give us a partial understanding of the technology used in constructing the alien craft, but we will need to obtain more components to get a full understanding.
(http://i.imgur.com/WIUgZ63m.png) (http://imgur.com/WIUgZ63)
(http://i.imgur.com/zzQ7M1tm.png) (http://imgur.com/zzQ7M1t)
More patrols are carried out, but nothing's shown up so far.
(http://i.imgur.com/mQyd1QGm.png) (http://imgur.com/mQyd1QG)
(http://i.imgur.com/djiXNDkm.png) (http://imgur.com/djiXNDk)
(http://i.imgur.com/cgrSdTNm.png) (http://imgur.com/cgrSdTN)
(http://i.imgur.com/IC7NBmwm.png) (http://imgur.com/IC7NBmw)
The new hangars and long-range radar are completed, ending almost a month of improvements to the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/UF85Mimm.png) (http://imgur.com/UF85Mim)
(http://i.imgur.com/hPXUtdWm.png) (http://imgur.com/hPXUtdW)
(http://i.imgur.com/SYOXjVrm.png) (http://imgur.com/SYOXjVr)
(http://i.imgur.com/2QokZuDm.png) (http://imgur.com/2QokZuD)
(http://i.imgur.com/4nq1gVmm.png) (http://imgur.com/4nq1gVm)
(http://i.imgur.com/0rgFSl5m.png) (http://imgur.com/0rgFSl5)
(http://i.imgur.com/cUlFWiGm.png) (http://imgur.com/cUlFWiG)
Four new troops have arrived, and one of them has been assigned to the squad. New scientists have also arrived and been put on the research team.
(http://i.imgur.com/VXnmNQlm.png) (http://imgur.com/VXnmNQl)
(http://i.imgur.com/TSClLvFm.png) (http://imgur.com/TSClLvF)
(http://i.imgur.com/neBY0hcm.png) (http://imgur.com/neBY0hc)
(http://i.imgur.com/gRP61Ibm.png) (http://imgur.com/gRP61Ib)
The research into the laser rifle is complete and production can now begin. This is also where our research opportunities begin to branch off heavily. We can continue studying laser weapons, but we may be experiencing diminishing returns past this point. The motion scanner and medi-kit projects are still available to start on, and we have a lot of alien technology to analyze now.
We're approaching the end of the month. When the month ends, our performance will be rated by the council of funding nations; each nation will choose whether it wants to increase or decrease its financial commitment to X-COM.
Once our monthly income comes in, we have several options on how to allocate our resources. Option one is to build a new base somewhere, which over time will give us more radar coverage and the possibility of deploying more aircraft. Option two is to expand our current base, adding more storage and living facilities and getting more scientists and engineers for our R&D team.
-
Motion detectors sound like they'd be nice. Though maybe we can look over the alien materials and get some damn body armor.
I have no idea what's best so I say make an interceptor base so we can keep knocking the bastards out of the sky. But if that's a bad plan feel free to override.
-
My personal experiences on capture of aliens are somewhat shoddy, in that I get two dudes killed for every alien that I attempt to capture. So yeah, armor -> medikits are the choices I'd pick myself in terms of research.
-
I'll back up the armor research plan.
As for what to build, I think we should focus on fully staffing our main base with scientists and engineers before building a new one.
-
Keep our current base up to date and look into motion scanners if armor isn't an option. Research is probably priority at this point.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/ED2d5zwm.png) (http://imgur.com/ED2d5zw)
As requested, we're attempting to develop new troop armor. We're looking at the materials recovered from the UFO hull to see if they can be used for this purpose.
(http://i.imgur.com/0S6LhOJm.png) (http://imgur.com/0S6LhOJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/tbuNKk6m.png) (http://imgur.com/tbuNKk6)
(http://i.imgur.com/INvhUinm.png) (http://imgur.com/INvhUin)
Selling a few more bits of alien salvage lets us start on expanding our living quarters and storage now, before the month even ends.
(http://i.imgur.com/Fn9PRzLm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fn9PRzL)
(http://i.imgur.com/GLFoVBcm.png) (http://imgur.com/GLFoVBc)
(http://i.imgur.com/IPLUhIim.png) (http://imgur.com/IPLUhIi)
(http://i.imgur.com/wtkodr6m.png) (http://imgur.com/wtkodr6)
Our current batch of engineers starts on building the new laser rifle design.
(http://i.imgur.com/zkK0IVFm.png) (http://imgur.com/zkK0IVF)
(http://i.imgur.com/AbDh0hKm.png) (http://imgur.com/AbDh0hK)
Routine patrols continue in America and Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/KJgGcX0m.png) (http://imgur.com/KJgGcX0)
(http://i.imgur.com/WHk1CDkm.png) (http://imgur.com/WHk1CDk)
(http://i.imgur.com/jijhBnfm.png) (http://imgur.com/jijhBnf)
Our monthly performance review arrives. After so many alien craft managed to slip past us, most of the backers of the project aren't inclined to increase their support. The US is reducing their funding due to the LA incident. France is the only country increasing their funding. After personnel, equipment, and maintenance expenses, we have a good amount of money left over, at least.
(http://i.imgur.com/gtaGsY9m.png) (http://imgur.com/gtaGsY9)
(http://i.imgur.com/JvJzdCHm.png) (http://imgur.com/JvJzdCH)
A UFO is spotted on the ground in Germany. The Skyranger is busy refuelling from a recent patrol and can't investigate, so we have to send the interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/4KaZN07m.png) (http://imgur.com/4KaZN07)
(http://i.imgur.com/siVewfrm.png) (http://imgur.com/siVewfr)
(http://i.imgur.com/HCSlsJ9m.png) (http://imgur.com/HCSlsJ9)
One interceptor catches the UFO after it takes off again, engaging it over the mainland and getting a hit in before the craft changes course and speeds up.
(http://i.imgur.com/6rt6pbCm.png) (http://imgur.com/6rt6pbC)
(http://i.imgur.com/VLbzNg7m.png) (http://imgur.com/VLbzNg7)
The UFO is caught again and shot down over the North Sea; while we'd rather wait for it to be over land to recover the wreck, we can't risk it speeding up and evading us again.
(http://i.imgur.com/dEHHAaUm.png) (http://imgur.com/dEHHAaU)
We use part of our new funding to hire more engineers; we have just enough space in our current living quarters to fit five more personnel in the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/V7hyXnmm.png) (http://imgur.com/V7hyXnm)
(http://i.imgur.com/H11ByVwm.png) (http://imgur.com/H11ByVw)
Patrols are sent out to Scandinavia and South Africa, but nothing is spotted.
(http://i.imgur.com/lqsPlMKm.png) (http://imgur.com/lqsPlMK)
(http://i.imgur.com/1ffI2hhm.png) (http://imgur.com/1ffI2hh)
(http://i.imgur.com/VV0OoExm.png) (http://imgur.com/VV0OoEx)
The new engineers arrive, and are put to work manufacturing the new laser rifles. This will greatly speed up production.
(http://i.imgur.com/t0iIY1im.png) (http://imgur.com/t0iIY1i)
Nothing much happens for the next few days as continued patrols continue to turn up nothing. The new storage facilities are completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/SRM1D58m.png) (http://imgur.com/SRM1D58)
(http://i.imgur.com/5yI2AG4m.png) (http://imgur.com/5yI2AG4)
(http://i.imgur.com/oYe26Yum.png) (http://imgur.com/oYe26Yu)
(http://i.imgur.com/CxD0XChm.png) (http://imgur.com/CxD0XCh)
Study of the alien alloys is completed by the research team; with more work, these can be shaped into next-generation infantry armor. Now that we understand their composition, we can also recreate the alloys from scratch, but this will likely be unnecessary.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ej1hmkom.png) (http://imgur.com/Ej1hmko)
With the rifles being produced so much faster, we decide to produce a few extra.
(http://i.imgur.com/kGwPmZEm.png) (http://imgur.com/kGwPmZE)
The rifles we do have are assigned to the squad on board the Skyranger while the craft is busy refuelling.
(http://i.imgur.com/YLLpKoPm.png) (http://imgur.com/YLLpKoP)
(http://i.imgur.com/QbOfu5Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/QbOfu5G)
The expanded living quarters are eventually finished, and we hire additional scientists and engineers, giving us twenty-five of each once they arrive.
(http://i.imgur.com/RSj4roBm.png) (http://imgur.com/RSj4roB)
(http://i.imgur.com/vR18wCwm.png) (http://imgur.com/vR18wCw)
(http://i.imgur.com/MlMyWUcm.png) (http://imgur.com/MlMyWUc)
(http://i.imgur.com/AcP8Qn7m.png) (http://imgur.com/AcP8Qn7)
(http://i.imgur.com/SXSYBQnm.png) (http://imgur.com/SXSYBQn)
(http://i.imgur.com/rmvdlVTm.png) (http://imgur.com/rmvdlVT)
After days of near-complete silence on radar, we spot a UFO in Central Asia. It's going slightly faster than our interceptors, but it starts to slow down over Europe, at which point one of our fighters gets a few shots at it. The UFO changes course and heads east, at which point the interceptors catch up with it over eastern Europe and shoot it down.
Our Skyranger is currently refuelling, but once it's ready, we'll be ready to go after the alien crash site with improved weapons and more combat experience.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/qyvcZAVm.png) (http://imgur.com/qyvcZAV)
(http://i.imgur.com/xgBfDApm.png) (http://imgur.com/xgBfDAp)
(http://i.imgur.com/4GXcSr2m.png) (http://imgur.com/4GXcSr2)
Once it's all fueled up and ready to go, the Skyranger is sent to the crash site. We land at nightfall, so a slight change in our tactics is needed. This mission will be called "Operation Evening Star".
(http://i.imgur.com/Xd8zBtgm.png) (http://imgur.com/Xd8zBtg)
(http://i.imgur.com/01d6yVum.png) (http://imgur.com/01d6yVu)
(http://i.imgur.com/wdoypmwm.png) (http://imgur.com/wdoypmw)
(http://i.imgur.com/toqIJjCm.png) (http://imgur.com/toqIJjC)
(http://i.imgur.com/gzJKsc0m.png) (http://imgur.com/gzJKsc0)
(http://i.imgur.com/dPhwp9Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/dPhwp9F)
(http://i.imgur.com/JrAmRAHm.png) (http://imgur.com/JrAmRAH)
(http://i.imgur.com/2j9A09Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/2j9A09D)
(http://i.imgur.com/cq6XXhom.png) (http://imgur.com/cq6XXho)
Frank Robinson is getting the Heavy Cannon with HE rounds. Gerhard Meyer gets the autocannon, using incendiary rounds now. The rest of the team gets laser rifles, grenades, and whatever flares we have on hand.
(http://i.imgur.com/rjoPvCim.png) (http://imgur.com/rjoPvCi)
(http://i.imgur.com/AgqRDgfm.png) (http://imgur.com/AgqRDgf)
(http://i.imgur.com/9QrWyqcm.png) (http://imgur.com/9QrWyqc)
Sending the HWP down, we see a Floater off to the side.
(http://i.imgur.com/4Mhay0rm.png) (http://imgur.com/4Mhay0r)
The HWP opens fire, but the first shot ends up a bit short.
(http://i.imgur.com/fK0iIiXm.png) (http://imgur.com/fK0iIiX)
We start setting down flares, and spot the UFO crash close to our starting position.
(http://i.imgur.com/Zn4pqIxm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zn4pqIx)
The HWP advances forward into the darkness and toward the floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/AGLIZhPm.png) (http://imgur.com/AGLIZhP)
(http://i.imgur.com/cF8dNeKm.png) (http://imgur.com/cF8dNeK)
Meyer uses the autocannon; the Floater survives the onslaught, but it's in plain view now.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jstlh0Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jstlh0M)
Romanov takes it out from a distance.
(http://i.imgur.com/3wQdJDRm.png) (http://imgur.com/3wQdJDR)
With the landing zone cleared, more of the squad advances.
(http://i.imgur.com/97UNPaIm.png) (http://imgur.com/97UNPaI)
The HWP advances towards a building near the UFO to search for hostiles.
(http://i.imgur.com/0pzTXv4m.png) (http://imgur.com/0pzTXv4)
(http://i.imgur.com/QxJxeh7m.png) (http://imgur.com/QxJxeh7)
(http://i.imgur.com/nMsgepkm.png) (http://imgur.com/nMsgepk)
A Floater is spotted on a nearby rooftop. It tries firing on the squad, but misses. Stewart doesn't.
(http://i.imgur.com/LNw0xJRm.png) (http://imgur.com/LNw0xJR)
(http://i.imgur.com/x9YY5Qwm.png) (http://imgur.com/x9YY5Qw)
Another Floater is spotted on another rooftop. McNeil snipes it after a few missed shots from Stewart.
(http://i.imgur.com/gubvjzLm.png) (http://imgur.com/gubvjzL)
(http://i.imgur.com/6B6GIpTm.png) (http://imgur.com/6B6GIpT)
We start getting ready to move in on the ship. We are sending in our troops with the fastest reactions for this; Fujimoto will take point, with McNeil and Meyer backing him up. Meyer switches from the autocannon to the laser pistol. The other two get pistols and grenades ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/8dJYc8Km.png) (http://imgur.com/8dJYc8K)
The team assembles outside the door to the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/XoQxkcfm.png) (http://imgur.com/XoQxkcf)
(http://i.imgur.com/WTWfZaDm.png) (http://imgur.com/WTWfZaD)
Popping the door open, we see a number of aliens. McNeil gets one from just outside of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/ezawrJXm.png) (http://imgur.com/ezawrJX)
(http://i.imgur.com/lMsjXxmm.png) (http://imgur.com/lMsjXxm)
Fujimoto takes a few shots at the other visible alien, but Meyer gets the final hit in.
(http://i.imgur.com/BRxm8ZOm.png) (http://imgur.com/BRxm8ZO)
We pull everybody back to the entrance for a moment.
(http://i.imgur.com/kNdtUNcm.png) (http://imgur.com/kNdtUNc)
(http://i.imgur.com/NHE5kKam.png) (http://imgur.com/NHE5kKa)
(http://i.imgur.com/sJcjiL9m.png) (http://imgur.com/sJcjiL9)
We see more aliens when we search the ship again. Fujimoto takes a few shots ? and manages to avoid a shot when the Floater fires back. He pulls back, and McNeil gets another kill in.
(http://i.imgur.com/qGXHZKDm.png) (http://imgur.com/qGXHZKD)
(http://i.imgur.com/E4vgzDWm.png) (http://imgur.com/E4vgzDW)
McNeil spots another one the next time the team searches the ship, and at such a close range, a rapid burst from the laser pistol is inescapable.
Result of Operation Evening Star:
Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, not promoted
Samuel McNeil: 4 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Leonid Romanov: 1 kill, not promoted
Gerhard Meyer: 1 kill, not promoted
Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, not promoted
Mikhail Andianov: 0 kills, not promoted
Masanori Fujimoto: 0 kills, not promoted
Gerard Cuvelier: 0 kills, not promoted
Frank Robinson: 0 kills, not promoted
Dmitriy Voronin: 0 kills, not promoted
No XCOM casualties
7 aliens killed by XCOM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems salvaged
-
No XCOM casualties
What is this madness
-
What is this madness
Floaters really suck combat-wise.
-
Forget about everything else
HWP should get promoted STAT
get to it
-
(http://i.imgur.com/L4sKDjnm.png) (http://imgur.com/L4sKDjn)
Now that we have the new living quarters and some extra cash, we're putting it into personnel. More soldiers, engineers, and scientists will be a valuable asset.
(http://i.imgur.com/gmjgIJWm.png) (http://imgur.com/gmjgIJW)
We're using some of the remaining funds to expand our radar and detection capabilities.
(http://i.imgur.com/1lDutXxm.png) (http://imgur.com/1lDutXx)
For his proficiency with heavy weapons and amazing hair, we decided only one nickname was suitable for Gerhard Meyer..
(http://i.imgur.com/xV6s02xm.png) (http://imgur.com/xV6s02x)
Sam McNeil gets the nickname ?Lightspeed? for both his skill with laser weapons and his rapid rise in the X-COM ranks.
(http://i.imgur.com/7nIhtqMm.png) (http://imgur.com/7nIhtqM)
Rene Laroyenne is back from his combat injury. ?Berserker? wouldn't fit on the nametag so some creative liberties were taken.
We can't officially promote a vehicle, but we are giving our HWP the honorary rank of ?Demolitions Specialist?. We're still working on a nickname.
(http://i.imgur.com/0iJLMTwm.png) (http://imgur.com/0iJLMTw)
The two soldiers who were wounded in the LA operation have recovered and are rotated back into active duty. A few rookies are rotated out.
(http://i.imgur.com/DPoqCSFm.png) (http://imgur.com/DPoqCSF)
(http://i.imgur.com/0cV0C9zm.png) (http://imgur.com/0cV0C9z)
(http://i.imgur.com/RaevLwpm.png) (http://imgur.com/RaevLwp)
Production of the extra laser rifles is complete. For lack of anything better to do right now, we're having the engineering division work on laser pistols; this will give us some spare weapons in case of an emergency, and we can sell the surplus for funds.
(http://i.imgur.com/5Ofx5nSm.png) (http://imgur.com/5Ofx5nS)
(http://i.imgur.com/RlWmcwlm.png) (http://imgur.com/RlWmcwl)
Some additional engineers and scientists requested earlier have arrived. The scientists are put to work on the armor project, while the engineers are put on the production line.
(http://i.imgur.com/0xGaOHUm.png) (http://imgur.com/0xGaOHU)
(http://i.imgur.com/J346H0Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/J346H0Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/BYzjNh7m.png) (http://imgur.com/BYzjNh7)
The new scientists provide just the breakthrough we need.
(http://i.imgur.com/U0MuHZXm.png) (http://imgur.com/U0MuHZX)
(http://i.imgur.com/5DDFNhUm.png) (http://imgur.com/5DDFNhU)
Engineering shuts down production on the laser pistols and gets straight to work on the armor; we have enough funds and recovered alloys that we can produce just enough for our combat squad.
-
Unfortunately for our rookies, armor is destroyed if the person wearing it dies; I'd hesitate to give it to everyone on the squad when we don't have a large stockpile of alloys. I'd give them to our officers and most promising squaddies only.
Medi-kits seems like a good followup now that we can (maybe) survive a hit!
-
Can you nickname the new characters? Because the old guys might need the new ones to distract the opponent.
If it's possible, here is a few suggestion :
Homer Simpson
Justin Bieber
Austin Powers
Kamina
Mami Tomoe
Cirno
Mei Ling
Luigi :3
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Fffoooool! X-COM science is the best!
-
(http://i.imgur.com/6U581kGm.png) (http://imgur.com/6U581kG)
(http://i.imgur.com/bKGkE4mm.png) (http://imgur.com/bKGkE4m)
The research team gets to work on Medi-Kit development.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ne64U4Am.png) (http://imgur.com/Ne64U4A)
More personnel arrives shortly.
(http://i.imgur.com/CMn56GVm.png) (http://imgur.com/CMn56GV)
(http://i.imgur.com/28h0DCXm.png) (http://imgur.com/28h0DCX)
(http://i.imgur.com/n1mSaZHm.png) (http://imgur.com/n1mSaZH)
(http://i.imgur.com/4MgIR5Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/4MgIR5B)
Four new soldiers.
(http://i.imgur.com/0ftXgpZm.png) (http://imgur.com/0ftXgpZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/oLvRxezm.png) (http://imgur.com/oLvRxez)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ic1EJs7m.png) (http://imgur.com/Ic1EJs7)
Good progress is being made on the Medi-Kit project, so the new scientists are starting on the motion scanner.
(http://i.imgur.com/MloDD9hm.png) (http://imgur.com/MloDD9h)
The new engineers keep going with the Personal Armor assembly.
(http://i.imgur.com/sgzgPwam.png) (http://imgur.com/sgzgPwa)
(http://i.imgur.com/ix4yEREm.png) (http://imgur.com/ix4yERE)
While the Skyranger is stopped for refuelling from a patrol, Captain Sharpe and Sgt. ?Stroheim? get the first few pieces of the completed armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/eT9wd0Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/eT9wd0T)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vju9Pv7m.png) (http://imgur.com/Vju9Pv7)
(http://i.imgur.com/PJbDxYmm.png) (http://imgur.com/PJbDxYm)
The large number of scientists working on the Medi-Kit means the project is completed quickly; this should keep our battlefield fatalities low. However, all of our engineers are still working on armor, so putting these together will have to wait.
(http://i.imgur.com/DxJfiDem.png) (http://imgur.com/DxJfiDe)
Five more scientists are put on the Motion Scanner project, leaving us with twenty scientists free to start on a new project.
-
Hmm, that pretty much wraps up early-game tech. Can we get a list of what alien loot we're sitting on right now?
-
Hmm, that pretty much wraps up early-game tech. Can we get a list of what alien loot we're sitting on right now?
We currently have the following that hasn't been studied yet:
-Heavy alien weapon and ammunition
-Alien rifles and ammunition
-Alien pistols and ammunition
-Small alien launcher device and ammunition
-Alien grenades
-Alien probe
-UFO navigation systems
-Sectoid remains
-Floater remains
-Reaper remains
Other research not yet finished:
-Motion scanner (in progress)
-Heavy laser
-
Hmm, the probe or the small launcher would help get our capture game off the ground.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/YWvhfKym.png) (http://imgur.com/YWvhfKy)
(http://i.imgur.com/SwCDez7m.png) (http://imgur.com/SwCDez7)
(http://i.imgur.com/XRtDx45m.png) (http://imgur.com/XRtDx45)
Science team is starting on the small alien launcher and its ammunition.
(http://i.imgur.com/vjY9Ccum.png) (http://imgur.com/vjY9Ccu)
We're hiring a few more scientists since we have the funds to do so.
(http://i.imgur.com/2hXLJHLm.png) (http://imgur.com/2hXLJHL)
(http://i.imgur.com/kwbDYTem.png) (http://imgur.com/kwbDYTe)
The scientists arrive, and are put on studying the launcher's ammunition.
(http://i.imgur.com/B7NTuAEm.png) (http://imgur.com/B7NTuAE)
(http://i.imgur.com/LXsnh3ym.png) (http://imgur.com/LXsnh3y)
(http://i.imgur.com/aegeijtm.png) (http://imgur.com/aegeijt)
A UFO is spotted over Central Asia. However, it's moving too fast for our interceptor to catch up.
(http://i.imgur.com/4RTA5zHm.png) (http://imgur.com/4RTA5zH)
The month ends; most of the nations are satisfied with our improved performance this month, and we get a small boost to our funding. China, however, is concerned about UFO activity that was not detected or intercepted in its territory.
After equipment, maintenance, and personnel expenses, we have approximately $1,100,000 in surplus funds. We can continue trying to expand our research team and detection capabilities at the current base, or we can construct a new base in another continent to expand our radar and interception coverage. Excavation and installation of an access lift at a new facility will cost several hundred thousand dollars, varying depending on the location; additional time and funds will be required for construction of more facilities.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Ss1FNEqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ss1FNEq)
(http://i.imgur.com/pu65MZhm.png) (http://imgur.com/pu65MZh)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z7x0eCUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z7x0eCU)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q5tLVbBm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q5tLVbB)
With a need for more facilities becoming apparent, it is decided to construct a new base near the Himalayas. Selling some surplus alien tech gives us a few extra funds, letting us start on constructing some basic facilities, including living and storage quarters a single hangar.
(http://i.imgur.com/YP2TOsfm.png) (http://imgur.com/YP2TOsf)
(http://i.imgur.com/D7FqgQJm.png) (http://imgur.com/D7FqgQJ)
A contact shows up over the Atlantic. Before we are able to intercept it, it exits the atmoshpere.
(http://i.imgur.com/quBxxIIm.png) (http://imgur.com/quBxxII)
(http://i.imgur.com/gjxMgs0m.png) (http://imgur.com/gjxMgs0)
Our initial batch of armor is ready. The engineers are assigned to other projects, such as the Medi-Kit and producing surplus laser weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/H369gK2m.png) (http://imgur.com/H369gK2)
(http://i.imgur.com/61RbroJm.png) (http://imgur.com/61RbroJ)
A patrol encounters a contact in southern Africa; according to radar, it's much larger than anything we've previously encountered. Interceptors attempt to pursue, but it's much too fast.
(http://i.imgur.com/P8Oqk1Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/P8Oqk1B)
(http://i.imgur.com/fZyAUOSm.png) (http://imgur.com/fZyAUOS)
Another contact appears in the Mediterranean; this one is the smallest we've seen. It is completely broken apart by a salvo of missiles, leaving nothing of worth to recover.
(http://i.imgur.com/pqLlWRPm.png) (http://imgur.com/pqLlWRP)
Another large ship appears on radar. It's moving very fast, but begins to change course and slow down.
(http://i.imgur.com/npwKstzm.png) (http://imgur.com/npwKstz)
One interceptor fires every missile it has at the hostile, but it's not enough.
(http://i.imgur.com/1uHpjOpm.png) (http://imgur.com/1uHpjOp)
The second interceptor is rerouted from its patrol, and takes the UFO down, crashing it in eastern Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/EMTXTVZm.png) (http://imgur.com/EMTXTVZ)
It is our choice whether or not to investigate this crash site. A larger ship means there will be far more aliens aboard, and we don't know what species we'll be dealing with. Simply shooting it down means it is no longer carrying out whatever mission it was sent on, but a salvage operation will give us a chance to recover more alien technology.
-
Kill them, take their stuff. Such is the way.
-
I don't think I have ever rejected to loot a ship.
I haven't ever cleared fully a campaign but that's neither here or there.
-
We've kind of fallen behind in failing to shoot down so many UFOs, I think we kind of need to raid this one. Fortunately, our lasers and armor are ready, so let's go for it.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/FeIOeinm.png) (http://imgur.com/FeIOein)
Some of the new Medi-kits are put on board the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/KcyIPy9m.png) (http://imgur.com/KcyIPy9)
The new armor is assigned to the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/ydRt0eAm.png) (http://imgur.com/ydRt0eA)
(http://i.imgur.com/vCDLshBm.png) (http://imgur.com/vCDLshB)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mp2o8yMm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mp2o8yM)
(http://i.imgur.com/f6S1Cpjm.png) (http://imgur.com/f6S1Cpj)
(http://i.imgur.com/nBCT6Oem.png) (http://imgur.com/nBCT6Oe)
(http://i.imgur.com/hG4y3Zsm.png) (http://imgur.com/hG4y3Zs)
(http://i.imgur.com/8hdVAOQm.png) (http://imgur.com/8hdVAOQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/SWTMYTqm.png) (http://imgur.com/SWTMYTq)
(http://i.imgur.com/53bJSdAm.png) (http://imgur.com/53bJSdA)
(http://i.imgur.com/QcwPEKRm.png) (http://imgur.com/QcwPEKR)
?Stroheim? gets the Heavy Cannon with AP ammo. Captain Sharpe gets the autocannon with HE ammo. Everyone else gets laser weapons and assorted equipment. We are now ready to commence Operation Elephant Graveyard.
(http://i.imgur.com/0I3GW6Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/0I3GW6T)(http://i.imgur.com/DL9nW6rm.png) (http://imgur.com/DL9nW6r)
Right off the bat, the HWP spots a Floater off to the side. The rocket hits right on target.
(http://i.imgur.com/zHrlhsBm.png) (http://imgur.com/zHrlhsB)
Laroyenne moves out into the landing zone and is fired upon, but avoids getting hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/MRslvgfm.png) (http://imgur.com/MRslvgf)
The alien fires at Laroyenne and the HWP, but misses.
(http://i.imgur.com/ywO3oFSm.png) (http://imgur.com/ywO3oFS)
We spot the source of the shots.
(http://i.imgur.com/Bh2Mj9mm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bh2Mj9m)
The HWP moves up, spotting a Reaper after blowing away the Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/lRgrE3Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/lRgrE3T)
Several of the squad takes shots at it, but Fujimoto's the one that brings it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/4NrQgpFm.png) (http://imgur.com/4NrQgpF)
As the HWP goes around the side of the ship, it draws hostile fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/RVqQoTOm.png) (http://imgur.com/RVqQoTO)
(http://i.imgur.com/a5ZrjN8m.png) (http://imgur.com/a5ZrjN8)
It spots one Floater, but we don't know how many we're up against yet so we pull back for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/AW4cp8Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/AW4cp8Z)
With the landing zone clear, we get the entire squad out on the field.
(http://i.imgur.com/qiyPYzRm.png) (http://imgur.com/qiyPYzR)
We send one half of the squad around the outside of the UFO, intending to go to the far end.
(http://i.imgur.com/tCCw42xm.png) (http://imgur.com/tCCw42x)
The other half follows the HWP, approaching the near end.
(http://i.imgur.com/41vuCDmm.png) (http://imgur.com/41vuCDm)
The HWP spots another Floater, but it's far too close to safely use the rocket launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZMrfY96m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZMrfY96)
In driving across the small gap and going around to the nearby building, the HWP draws more hostile fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/6KZTv4Em.png) (http://imgur.com/6KZTv4E)
(http://i.imgur.com/N2MGEMQm.png) (http://imgur.com/N2MGEMQ)
The HWP takes some damage, but remains intact. There's no time to use the rocket launcher, so the squad starts moving in to open fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/dbu2EYDm.png) (http://imgur.com/dbu2EYD)
Romanov can't get a good shot in from so close to the wall, but Cuvelier can.
(http://i.imgur.com/IULsejkm.png) (http://imgur.com/IULsejk)
We spot a Reaper behind the fallen Floater. It's not quite close enough to threaten us yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/n1wynVOm.png) (http://imgur.com/n1wynVO)
The other half of the squad advances through the smoke and destruction left from earlier HWP attacks.
(http://i.imgur.com/NF5omXwm.png) (http://imgur.com/NF5omXw)
(http://i.imgur.com/wKmSAKzm.png) (http://imgur.com/wKmSAKz)
In turning to open fire on the Reaper we already saw, we spot another one.
(http://i.imgur.com/pKxgZ3om.png) (http://imgur.com/pKxgZ3o)
However, a Floater out of our sight gets a shot at Cuvelier, killing him.
(http://i.imgur.com/4bAE3usm.png) (http://imgur.com/4bAE3us)
Romanov finishes what Cuvelier started, taking out both Reapers.
(http://i.imgur.com/cJzaAtkm.png) (http://imgur.com/cJzaAtk)
Fujimoto sees a Floater at close range, and lets loose with a burst of laser fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/F0zxTrTm.png) (http://imgur.com/F0zxTrT)
Laroyenne moves up, meaning the squad on the near side of the ship is ready to move in.
(http://i.imgur.com/2HYHzCnm.png) (http://imgur.com/2HYHzCn)
(http://i.imgur.com/8tJCGPtm.png) (http://imgur.com/8tJCGPt)
The floater that hit Cuvelier comes into sight. Romanov gets hit, but survives.
(http://i.imgur.com/1JUxGWdm.png) (http://imgur.com/1JUxGWd)
(http://i.imgur.com/n1LCKram.png) (http://imgur.com/n1LCKra)
Fujimoto gets a Medi-kit out, and treats the wounds before they become life-threatening.
(http://i.imgur.com/sMFQCsGm.png) (http://imgur.com/sMFQCsG)(http://i.imgur.com/3Pak2uIm.png) (http://imgur.com/3Pak2uI)
The HWP has gone around the building near the UFO, and has a shot lined up on the Floater. With the rocket's trajectory perpendicular to the UFO hull, there's no way for the alien to escape the blast, and it falls out of the air.
(http://i.imgur.com/5yIj9Vgm.png) (http://imgur.com/5yIj9Vg)
Fujimoto gets his pistol ready, and the squad gets ready to push into the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/oKC7uZim.png) (http://imgur.com/oKC7uZi)
Going inside, we find that the interceptors have blown up the engines yet again... and that there's Reapers inside the ship, too.
(http://i.imgur.com/Cft0yH8m.png) (http://imgur.com/Cft0yH8)
(http://i.imgur.com/0Jeow8xm.png) (http://imgur.com/0Jeow8x)
Going around the outside of the ship, Stewart spots a single Floater wandering around. She gets it in one shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/feQQaYHm.png) (http://imgur.com/feQQaYH)
(http://i.imgur.com/zQiupIEm.png) (http://imgur.com/zQiupIE)
The situation inside the wrecked ship gets more precarious as we spot another Reaper. Andianov gets one of them, at least.
(http://i.imgur.com/FpwV5oJm.png) (http://imgur.com/FpwV5oJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/hFV98WHm.png) (http://imgur.com/hFV98WH)
Moving up, Fujimoto notices a hole in the upper part of the UFO, revealing even more hostiles. He tries taking some shots, but it's not enough. Because of that, there's not enough time to get out of the way and the Floater on the top floor guns him down.
(http://i.imgur.com/xGIFwW9m.png) (http://imgur.com/xGIFwW9)
There's no way to get a good shot in from the bottom floor, so we're just avoiding the hole and making our way up carefully.
(http://i.imgur.com/F4NHzOrm.png) (http://imgur.com/F4NHzOr)
We slowly advance through the hallway, being careful of the Reaper.
(http://i.imgur.com/yhwC2j7m.png) (http://imgur.com/yhwC2j7)
The floater hit by the HWP somehow managed to survive, but it's injured and no longer has its weapon. This is the perfect opportunity to stun it. Meanwhile, Andianov manages to take out the Reaper, clearing the way to advance to the doorway.
(http://i.imgur.com/5LEZJrBm.png) (http://imgur.com/5LEZJrB)
?Stroheim?, ?Berserk?, ,Andianov, and Romanov make their way to the upper portion of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/NOk21mxm.png) (http://imgur.com/NOk21mx)
?Stroheim? encounters a Floater in an unusual chamber; the Heavy Cannon's not enough to bring it down, and it returns fire with a small launcher. Romanov and Laroyenne are knocked out, but ?Stroheim? has enough stamina to take it at point-blank range.
(http://i.imgur.com/hf32l38m.png) (http://imgur.com/hf32l38)
Andionov goes around to the door behind the alien and opens fire at point-blank range from behind.
(http://i.imgur.com/GAEr6vQm.png) (http://imgur.com/GAEr6vQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/lMUp5Q9m.png) (http://imgur.com/lMUp5Q9)
While all this was going on, Captain Sharpe went back to the Skyranger to get a Stun Rod, and has caught up with the unarmed Floater. One good poke is all it takes to knock it back out.
(http://i.imgur.com/lZD0PbPm.png) (http://imgur.com/lZD0PbP)
The other half of the team has managed to get into the ship now.
(http://i.imgur.com/S3N1vUXm.png) (http://imgur.com/S3N1vUX)
On the upper floor, ?Stroheim? switches to a laser pistol for more effectiveness at close range.
(http://i.imgur.com/JULdQazm.png) (http://imgur.com/JULdQaz)
Things on the bottom floor are starting to go south. A Floater that escaped our search managed to take out Ulbricht and the HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/fzY8ZPym.png) (http://imgur.com/fzY8ZPy)
(http://i.imgur.com/fi78HFem.png) (http://imgur.com/fi78HFe)
?Stroheim? and Andianov raid the cockpit, which was partially damaged in the crash. The sole alien at the controls is quickly taken out by a close-range attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/YKI0mSgm.png) (http://imgur.com/YKI0mSg)
However, someone managed to ambush ?Stroheim?, taking him out from behind.
(http://i.imgur.com/OjJdkLkm.png) (http://imgur.com/OjJdkLk)
(http://i.imgur.com/9hd6hasm.png) (http://imgur.com/9hd6has)
A quick sweep finds the Floater who's been sneaking around the ship, and it gets taken down by Andianov.
(http://i.imgur.com/hiiG5qPm.png) (http://imgur.com/hiiG5qP)
All that's left is a Reaper trapped on a broken platform. With no way to get over or through the hole, it's a sitting duck for the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/AnHswmXm.png) (http://imgur.com/AnHswmX)
Result of Operation Elephant Graveyard:
Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Mikhail Andianov: 4 kills, not promoted
Leonid Romanov: 2 kills, not promoted, wounded in action, will recover in 29 days
Andrea Sharpe: 1 kills, 1 capture, not promoted
Rene ?Berserk? Laroyenne: 0 kills, not promoted
Sam ?Lightspeed? McNeil: 0 kills, not promoted
Gerhard ?Stroheim? Meyer: Killed in action
Gerard Cuvelier: Killed in action
Masanori Fujimoto: Killed in action
Gerhard Ulbricht: Killed in action
HWP destroyed
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
2 aliens captured by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation, and miscellaneous systems recovered
This was a brutal battle, with heavy casualties on both sides. Despite our losses, we came out ahead and not only recovered the UFO, but live aliens for study and interrogation. The ship contained massive numbers of alien forces, enough to attack a city. If that was the purpose of this flight, then we managed to avoid another Los Angeles scenario when we shot it down.
-
We only lost about half the squad! That's a win right?
-
Lucky it was just floaters on a map they can't really exploit.
No elerium, but a decent stack of alloys at least!
I want to say RIP stroheim but we all know he'll be back.
-
Welcome to HWP Valhalla, our brother ;;
-
Not covering your soldiers' back is kinda asking to be ambushed in this game, so losing Sgt. Meyer was probably avoidable. Then again, I can imagine him being hot-blooded and coming up with the "cool" plan to raid the cockpit from two sides. I guess lack of proper teamwork is why Mikha wasn't promoted despite his performance. ...I'm thinking too much about such things, aren't I?
Also, poor Ulbricht. Heavily wounded on his first mission, almost a month out of commission, killed on his second.
And yes, that was a Terror UFO, so that's one bigger headache averted.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/SmOoPdlm.png) (http://imgur.com/SmOoPdl)
Selling off some of the parts from the UFO gives us the funds to hire ten additional scientists, making the lab at our base fully staffed.
(http://i.imgur.com/pXXEOmzm.png) (http://imgur.com/pXXEOmz)
We start production on some additional armor. Medi-kit production is cancelled for a short time while engineering focuses on other projects
(http://i.imgur.com/n32Yhnlm.png) (http://imgur.com/n32Yhnl)
We assign some scientists from other projects to study one of the captured aliens.
(http://i.imgur.com/yYiqhT6m.png) (http://imgur.com/yYiqhT6)
(http://i.imgur.com/O7bLhXNm.png) (http://imgur.com/O7bLhXN)
We ran out of Avalanche ammunition at the base, and it takes a few days to get more in.
(http://i.imgur.com/vM1zgGxm.png) (http://imgur.com/vM1zgGx)
More supplies and ammunition are delivered to the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/IVF85ASm.png) (http://imgur.com/IVF85AS)
(http://i.imgur.com/YSunw8mm.png) (http://imgur.com/YSunw8m)
(http://i.imgur.com/dCeXnxym.png) (http://imgur.com/dCeXnxy)
A very small contact appears over Europe. Even though the interceptor hasn't been re-armed yet, one missile is enough to blow the UFO to bits.
(http://i.imgur.com/AbLwBP9m.png) (http://imgur.com/AbLwBP9)
(http://i.imgur.com/UdNy8fWm.png) (http://imgur.com/UdNy8fW)
Construction at the base in Asia is making good progress. Selling some more surplus lets us get another storage facility under construction; it's cheap to construct, letting us expand our base faster.
(http://i.imgur.com/sIdNwFJm.png) (http://imgur.com/sIdNwFJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/m4mcAmLm.png) (http://imgur.com/m4mcAmL)
(http://i.imgur.com/sKD9kdDm.png) (http://imgur.com/sKD9kdD)
The research team finishes developing the motion scanner.
(http://i.imgur.com/T0KNHJEm.png) (http://imgur.com/T0KNHJE)
The scientists who were working on that project are re-assigned to studying the small launcher and the Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/w7wtbEkm.png) (http://imgur.com/w7wtbEk)
(http://i.imgur.com/aRJeKKYm.png) (http://imgur.com/aRJeKKY)
More scientists arrive to assist with research.
(http://i.imgur.com/etkz1DLm.png) (http://imgur.com/etkz1DL)
(http://i.imgur.com/xj2UZNGm.png) (http://imgur.com/xj2UZNG)
Another small UFO appears on radar, but disappears before we can intercept it.
(http://i.imgur.com/4ahWk2Em.png) (http://imgur.com/4ahWk2E)
(http://i.imgur.com/eSRfQ6Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/eSRfQ6B)
Our new HWP arrives, along with some more Avalanches. We load it and some more equipment onto the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/DkDL4vlm.png) (http://imgur.com/DkDL4vl)
The squad on board the Skyranger is given armor, making us fully combat-ready again.
(http://i.imgur.com/2no9VFRm.png) (http://imgur.com/2no9VFR)
Additional radar comes online at our main base in Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/k8i4EWKm.png) (http://imgur.com/k8i4EWK)
(http://i.imgur.com/v2MhYvTm.png) (http://imgur.com/v2MhYvT)
The science team figures out the stun bomb, but we still need to fully analyze the accompanying launcher before we can use or construct it.
(http://i.imgur.com/CNOngPym.png) (http://imgur.com/CNOngPy)
(http://i.imgur.com/hH9qNrem.png) (http://imgur.com/hH9qNre)
(http://i.imgur.com/nosLIB6m.png) (http://imgur.com/nosLIB6)
(http://i.imgur.com/Fec2S86m.png) (http://imgur.com/Fec2S86)
Another UFO appears on radar, this time over northern Africa. It crosses the Mediterranean and is over Spain when it's intercepted. Our ground team is fully equipped and ready, and will be launching a recovery operation immediately.
-
Uh, I know I'm as late as it gets, but why did you build the second large radar? Effects from same type radars don't stack, unless some patch fixed that.
-
Uh, I know I'm as late as it gets, but why did you build the second large radar? Effects from same type radars don't stack, unless some patch fixed that.
Huh, they don't? I know range doesn't stack, but the UFOpedia entry says that each radar has a certain percent chance of detecting an object in its range every 10 in-game minutes, so I thought having multiple would let one radar catch what the others miss, unless that's not how it works.
-
Well, it's SUPPOSED to work like that, but in practice it doesn't. A small and a large one do work together, though.
-
Well, it's SUPPOSED to work like that, but in practice it doesn't. A small and a large one do work together, though.
Huh. I did not know this. Noted for the future.
(http://i.imgur.com/DzK3zeCm.png) (http://imgur.com/DzK3zeC)
We arrive at the crash site just after nightfall, commencing Operation Iberian Hawk.
(http://i.imgur.com/66w0OLQm.png) (http://imgur.com/66w0OLQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/FXcSWKZm.png) (http://imgur.com/FXcSWKZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/qJv7Pvcm.png) (http://imgur.com/qJv7Pvc)
(http://i.imgur.com/K7fbsEFm.png) (http://imgur.com/K7fbsEF)
(http://i.imgur.com/Yor3QXam.png) (http://imgur.com/Yor3QXa)
(http://i.imgur.com/GvVaYzhm.png) (http://imgur.com/GvVaYzh)
(http://i.imgur.com/o8Bh4qbm.png) (http://imgur.com/o8Bh4qb)
(http://i.imgur.com/VqI5Xnym.png) (http://imgur.com/VqI5Xny)
(http://i.imgur.com/ECz3TIOm.png) (http://imgur.com/ECz3TIO)
(http://i.imgur.com/21QjpAMm.png) (http://imgur.com/21QjpAM)
We get the squad ready to go. Sharpe gets the autocannon with incendiary rounds, everybody else gets standard-issue lasers and explosives. The HWP has been named ?Stroheim-II? in honor of our recently fallen sergeant.
(http://i.imgur.com/UfssvvWm.png) (http://imgur.com/UfssvvW)
From the start, we see we're right next to the UFO crash sight. It's been blown to hell.
(http://i.imgur.com/6qMHwNQm.png) (http://imgur.com/6qMHwNQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/MlV8gIam.png) (http://imgur.com/MlV8gIa)
We see a Floater on a nearby roof. Stroheim-II moves forward, takes a shot at it, misses, and draws back into cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/HCsMMa8m.png) (http://imgur.com/HCsMMa8)
(http://i.imgur.com/beanwFom.png) (http://imgur.com/beanwFo)
The next shot manages to hit, letting the tank advance forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/wO828H0m.png) (http://imgur.com/wO828H0)
We can see that the damage to the UFO is very severe. The hull is almost completely destroyed, there are no engine or navigation systems left, and there's a pile of bodies.
(http://i.imgur.com/eSaOOBvm.png) (http://imgur.com/eSaOOBv)
With the immediate area clear, the squad advances.
(http://i.imgur.com/OLZOvxom.png) (http://imgur.com/OLZOvxo)
Andianov enters the farmhouse and begins to to search around. We see some doors are opened, meaning there is likely someone else around here.
(http://i.imgur.com/iKfAAw0m.png) (http://imgur.com/iKfAAw0)
We go around the other side of the building, and see another open door. We must advance with caution.
(http://i.imgur.com/gzDYXoDm.png) (http://imgur.com/gzDYXoD)
We use the fences as cover to move forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/1yctHiMm.png) (http://imgur.com/1yctHiM)
(http://i.imgur.com/xuv32BMm.png) (http://imgur.com/xuv32BM)
Stroheim-II is fired on from the dark, but is undamaged by the hit. It fires into the field to try and illuminate the area; no fire, but the smoke will give us some cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/v36gfC4m.png) (http://imgur.com/v36gfC4)
Andianov continues searching the building; the first floor seems clear, so far.
(http://i.imgur.com/4fHNIYHm.png) (http://imgur.com/4fHNIYH)
(http://i.imgur.com/UUJzrWjm.png) (http://imgur.com/UUJzrWj)
(http://i.imgur.com/UUJzrWjm.png) (http://imgur.com/UUJzrWj)
More shots are fired at Stroheim-II in the dark. The tank takes some damage, but endures. Some shots are taken back, but the HWP's targeting systems have been damaged.
(http://i.imgur.com/X0pBHxCm.png) (http://imgur.com/X0pBHxC)
Sarah Steward goes around the building and takes a shot, but the Floater is still standing.
(http://i.imgur.com/LOthqqam.png) (http://imgur.com/LOthqqa)
The squad spots another Floater in the upper floor of the building.
(http://i.imgur.com/mBbMCYnm.png) (http://imgur.com/mBbMCYn)
More shots are taken at Stroheim-II, but many miss because of the smoke and the few that do hit are endured by the armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/5JwSJNYm.png) (http://imgur.com/5JwSJNY)
Stewart gets in another shot and takes down the Floater in the field.
(http://i.imgur.com/exmrdAum.png) (http://imgur.com/exmrdAu)
(http://i.imgur.com/lbaXayMm.png) (http://imgur.com/lbaXayM)
(http://i.imgur.com/4hvxlOlm.png) (http://imgur.com/4hvxlOl)
Stroheim-II blows a hole in the wall. The Floater takes a few shots at the vehicle, but fails to destroy it... and fails to notice Andianov coming up the stairs.
Results of Operation Iberian Hawk
Stroheim-II: 1 kill, damaged in battle, undergoing immediate repair
Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, not promoted
Mikhail Andianov: 1 kill, not promoted
Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, not promoted
?Berserk? Laroyenne: 0 kills, not promoted
Jane Bailey: 0 kills, not promoted
Masanaru Yamanaka: 0 kills, not promoted
?Lightspeed? McNeil: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Steinbach: 0 kills, not promoted
Damien Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Grigoriy Kolotov: 0 kills, not promoted
3 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
No UFO components recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/lJyNwJ4m.png) (http://imgur.com/lJyNwJ4)
The UFO was far too damaged to recover anything of use; even the hull was unsalvageable. All we got from this operation was a few dead Floaters and their weapons. However, we avoided any casualties.
-
Oh well. At least we can brag about it to the brass.
-
Wow, I didn't even know UFOs could take that much damage. I'm surprised those fuckers survived the crash!
-
A little more and it would have been one of those unrecoverable crashes that just end with sadness and maybe a happy country.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/k1kOZqFm.png) (http://imgur.com/k1kOZqF)
Before the Skyranger can even get refueled after returning from the previous UFO investigation, another appears on radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/EtZAy8Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/EtZAy8B)
(http://i.imgur.com/5XNK6Hym.png) (http://imgur.com/5XNK6Hy)
It evades the interceptor during initial contact over the UK, but gets shot down over mainland Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/3SPL5yCm.png) (http://imgur.com/3SPL5yC)
Once the Skyranger's refuelled and the squad is resupplied, we deploy and commence Operation Sleepless Hunter.
Standard loadout is assigned. Sharpe gets the auto-cannon with HE rounds, everybody else gets laser weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/AUZ5fJsm.png) (http://imgur.com/AUZ5fJs)
As we move out, Stroheim-II spots a single Sectoid out in the field. The HWP takes a shot but misses, backing away as some of the team gets into position from a safe distance away.
(http://i.imgur.com/nN0USfOm.png) (http://imgur.com/nN0USfO)
The Sectoid has taken an unexpected course of action and actually moved away from our forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/xf4Fsdym.png) (http://imgur.com/xf4Fsdy)
(http://i.imgur.com/mWFBJL4m.png) (http://imgur.com/mWFBJL4)
We get a visual on it again, and Laroyenne gets a shot in on it.
(http://i.imgur.com/3umJknom.png) (http://imgur.com/3umJkno)
Stroheim-II moves up through the smoke. It's lightly damaged from enemy fire, but in good shape.
(http://i.imgur.com/BNv5JFtm.png) (http://imgur.com/BNv5JFt)
We spot another Sectoid, and Stewart snipes it with the laser rifle.
(http://i.imgur.com/XTq1EIrm.png) (http://imgur.com/XTq1EIr)
We see the UFO; it's in better shape than the last one we shot down, at least.
(http://i.imgur.com/ufxml98m.png) (http://imgur.com/ufxml98)
(http://i.imgur.com/LCUuXvam.png) (http://imgur.com/LCUuXva)
A grenade is thrown in the direction of Stroheim-II, but it lands way off from the HWP, and the tank is undamaged by the blast and continues advancing.
(http://i.imgur.com/qF7Ls02m.png) (http://imgur.com/qF7Ls02)
A Sectoid tries advancing towards the squad from the fields, but Stewart takes a quick reaction shot and takes it out before it can attack. This clears out the area.
Result of Operation Sleepless Hunter
Sarah Stewart: 2 kills, not promoted
Rene “Berserk” Laroyenne: 1 kill, not promoted
Stroheim-II: 0 kills
Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, not promoted
Jane Bailey: 0 kills, not promoted
Mikhail Andianov: 0 kills, not promoted
Masaharu Yamanaka: 0 kills, not promoted
Sam “Lightspeed” McNeil: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Steinbach: 0 kills, not promoted
Damien Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Grigoriy Kolotov: 0 kills, not promoted
No X-COM casualties
3 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull fragments recovered
-
Wait, there was no one inside the thing? Huh.
-
Wait, there was no one inside the thing? Huh.
Either part of the ship's crew was vaporized by the Avalanche impact and subsequent engine explosion or whoever was on board decided to run as soon as the craft hit ground. Even for something that small, 3 aliens seems like a remarkably small number.
(http://i.imgur.com/UU3zdOJm.png) (http://imgur.com/UU3zdOJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/IosTR3Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/IosTR3N)
With some of the surplus material we've obtained from recent operations, we're able to continue base expansion. Our second base gets a second hangar, while our primary base gets additional living quarters.
(http://i.imgur.com/PbJZVmMm.png) (http://imgur.com/PbJZVmM)
(http://i.imgur.com/hW1AFJ0m.png) (http://imgur.com/hW1AFJ0)
(http://i.imgur.com/ydyJycem.png) (http://imgur.com/ydyJyce)
Our secondary base is ready to take personnel and equipment, and we start setting up radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/Vy6RYFCm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vy6RYFC)
(http://i.imgur.com/EjeSkdJm.png) (http://imgur.com/EjeSkdJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Augp42Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/Augp42R)
Some of our surplus laser weapons are shipped to the second base, which takes about a day.
(http://i.imgur.com/PTATz6Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/PTATz6B)
(http://i.imgur.com/CNuYtwVm.png) (http://imgur.com/CNuYtwV)
(http://i.imgur.com/hrhbNcZm.png) (http://imgur.com/hrhbNcZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/zmdGuyRm.png) (http://imgur.com/zmdGuyR)
A large contact is spotted over the Atlantic. Despite our efforts to intercept, it's too fast. We briefly pick it up again, but we lose track of it. We keep an eye on the situation, but we detect no reports of attacks or activity by this ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/KKxNc5zm.png) (http://imgur.com/KKxNc5z)
(http://i.imgur.com/kpd3epNm.png) (http://imgur.com/kpd3epN)
(http://i.imgur.com/6LpZ9ZQm.png) (http://imgur.com/6LpZ9ZQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/5OdxZw6m.png) (http://imgur.com/5OdxZw6)
(http://i.imgur.com/x8SknuAm.png) (http://imgur.com/x8SknuA)
(http://i.imgur.com/KKb7ESAm.png) (http://imgur.com/KKb7ESA)
(http://i.imgur.com/mcM83Czm.png) (http://imgur.com/mcM83Cz)
(http://i.imgur.com/h1P7Tdkm.png) (http://imgur.com/h1P7Tdk)
(http://i.imgur.com/pAL8hI1m.png) (http://imgur.com/pAL8hI1)
A few rookies are brought to X-CO M Two to act as security detail. Once we're able to support an additional Skyranger, they may act as an additional operations team.
(http://i.imgur.com/PRPovXKm.png) (http://imgur.com/PRPovXK)
The research division has made a major breakthrough; it has finished interrogating the Floater captured by Captain Sharpe.
(http://i.imgur.com/9XRhXncm.png) (http://imgur.com/9XRhXnc)
First of all, we got some information about the Floater's biology and behavior.
(http://i.imgur.com/k72RgAim.png) (http://imgur.com/k72RgAi)
Secondly, since the captured alien was a navigator aboard its ship, we got information about the mission it was involved in. The information is... disturbing. These infiltration missions mean that our enemy is aware of X-COM's existence and is actively attempting to sabotage our efforts. We can not be sure what nation the aliens targeted for these operations, or if we were successful in stopping them or not. If the aliens continue these infiltrations, X-COM's funding will slowly dry up.
(http://i.imgur.com/smd56btm.png) (http://imgur.com/smd56bt)
There is some good news, however. Being able to communication a live alien allows us to try and get some information about the source of the invasion, which will put us closer to stopping the attacks. In addition, interrogating the navigator has given us information about how the alien ships communicate. With more time, we can devise a means to tap into these communications and find out more about the movements and tactics of the invaders.
We need to decide carefully what the next research priority for our scientists will be. We have the UFO navigation systems to look at, but without a functioning reactor, we will quickly hit a dead end in reverse-engineering the alien craft. We are still studying the stun launcher, but until we fully investigate the intelligence we obtained from the Floater, capturing other aliens may be a low priority.
Alien technology not yet researched:
-Small launcher (in progress)
-Heavy alien weapon and ammunition
-Alien rifle and ammunition
-Alien pistol and ammunition
-Alien grenade
-Alien probe
-UFO navigation system
-Alien entertainment device?
-Sectoid remains
-Floater remains
-Reaper remains
Intelligence not yet researched:
-Alien origins
-Captured Reaper
X-COM technology not yet researched:
-Heavy laser
-Alien communications decoder
Technology that must still be obtained:
-UFO engine and fuel
-
I think we want access to their comms net. That way we can see where the bastards are targeting better.
-
Damn, we were lucky to catch a navigator by accident.
Yeah, we can put the small launcher on hold for now; let's go all in on that hyperwave decoder, that's a critical piece of tech.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/rAltZDlm.png) (http://imgur.com/rAltZDl)
(http://i.imgur.com/WjPuiiBm.png) (http://imgur.com/WjPuiiB)
Every scientist we have is assigned to finding a way to break the alien communication protocol. This could be the Enigma of our time, giving us a major edge against the invasion fleet.
(http://i.imgur.com/HQ635wim.png) (http://imgur.com/HQ635wi)
(http://i.imgur.com/chASjq8m.png) (http://imgur.com/chASjq8)
(http://i.imgur.com/4kGRenlm.png) (http://imgur.com/4kGRenl)
(http://i.imgur.com/HgoVN1Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/HgoVN1M)
A UFO is spotted over north Africa; it is shot down over Spain, close to where a similar craft was recovered in Operation Iberian Hawk.
(http://i.imgur.com/dUnnFiPm.png) (http://imgur.com/dUnnFiP)
(http://i.imgur.com/GHvOcTcm.png) (http://imgur.com/GHvOcTc)
We deploy for the recovery operation; we are calling this mission Second Meal.
(http://i.imgur.com/qlERc4dm.png) (http://imgur.com/qlERc4d)
(http://i.imgur.com/p8jVnLDm.png) (http://imgur.com/p8jVnLD)
(http://i.imgur.com/nWTuegkm.png) (http://imgur.com/nWTuegk)
(http://i.imgur.com/5IR7pANm.png) (http://imgur.com/5IR7pAN)
(http://i.imgur.com/nZVFIMLm.png) (http://imgur.com/nZVFIML)
(http://i.imgur.com/qaUxOrjm.png) (http://imgur.com/qaUxOrj)
(http://i.imgur.com/gvZAVDtm.png) (http://imgur.com/gvZAVDt)
(http://i.imgur.com/yqCi6rTm.png) (http://imgur.com/yqCi6rT)
(http://i.imgur.com/EV9WGk7m.png) (http://imgur.com/EV9WGk7)
(http://i.imgur.com/ciUEHlfm.png) (http://imgur.com/ciUEHlf)
This is a night mission, so use of light will be crucial to our tactics. The first few troops out of the Skyranger will be getting flares; Captain Sharpe is getting the auto-cannon with incendiary rounds. McNeil gets a laser pistol and medi-kit; everybody else gets standard laser rifles.
(http://i.imgur.com/LM9lp4Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/LM9lp4R)
(http://i.imgur.com/Jb8UoWSm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jb8UoWS)
Sending out the Stroheim-II and setting out some flares around the landing site, we start off in the clear. Taking advantage of that, we start slowly moving out.
(http://i.imgur.com/EaMDjo2m.png) (http://imgur.com/EaMDjo2)
(http://i.imgur.com/vSBy27zm.png) (http://imgur.com/vSBy27z)
(http://i.imgur.com/qXoSlq8m.png) (http://imgur.com/qXoSlq8)
In the shadows, we see the UFO, and a Floater coming towards us. Laroyenne takes it out in a single shot. Now that we have a clear visual of the crash, we now know where to advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/U4utDsqm.png) (http://imgur.com/U4utDsq)
(http://i.imgur.com/Rz5gwlBm.png) (http://imgur.com/Rz5gwlB)
As Stroheim-II advances towards the crash, another Floater is spotted. With this positioning, there's no way for it to escape the explosion.
(http://i.imgur.com/xVfiftom.png) (http://imgur.com/xVfifto)
(http://i.imgur.com/mAhDoU2m.png) (http://imgur.com/mAhDoU2)
Another Floater fires on our troops that are positioned under the Skyranger. Using the landing gear for cover, Laroyenne and Andianov manage to avoid getting hit. Captain Sharpe lights up a nearby field using the incendiary rounds, spotting the enemy.
(http://i.imgur.com/m9UvDmim.png) (http://imgur.com/m9UvDmi)
(http://i.imgur.com/ue82P12m.png) (http://imgur.com/ue82P12)
(http://i.imgur.com/tccnCNIm.png) (http://imgur.com/tccnCNI)
The alien opens fire again, but misses... it's started a firefight it cannot win, and counter fire from Andianov shoots it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/bkLcUo7m.png) (http://imgur.com/bkLcUo7)
(http://i.imgur.com/oOdhiQdm.png) (http://imgur.com/oOdhiQd)
We continue to advance, sending Laroyenne and Andianov up with the HWP. The area looks clear so far.
(http://i.imgur.com/oOdhiQdm.png) (http://imgur.com/oOdhiQd)
(http://i.imgur.com/EZHXPstm.png) (http://imgur.com/EZHXPst)
In rushing the squad towards the UFO, a tactical oversight has been made, We underestimated the number of aliens outside the ship, and a Floater ambushes from the other side of the farm buildings, sniping Andianov.
(http://i.imgur.com/CzHFT7rm.png) (http://imgur.com/CzHFT7r)
(http://i.imgur.com/aMGSCUgm.png) (http://imgur.com/aMGSCUg)
(http://i.imgur.com/XquCqTsm.png) (http://imgur.com/XquCqTs)
Laroyenne opens fire, but can't a good shot in. With him spotting, though, Stewart is able to get the kill from a safe distance away.
(http://i.imgur.com/fgFS8EXm.png) (http://imgur.com/fgFS8EX)
(http://i.imgur.com/eTBEHxgm.png) (http://imgur.com/eTBEHxg)
(http://i.imgur.com/XW9DO2zm.png) (http://imgur.com/XW9DO2z)
(http://i.imgur.com/FVBrNP3m.png) (http://imgur.com/FVBrNP3)
?Lightspeed? takes charge of breaching the UFO. We spot three aliens; what happens next is a gamble. If he turns around to run, one of the Floaters could just shoot him in the back despite his agility. Instead, he uses his reactions and the speed of the laser pistol to his advantage. Opening fire, he shoots at all of the aliens in front of them. While one gets a shot at him, it's not enough to stop him, and in a matter of moments the entire ship gets cleared out.
Results of Operation Second Meal:
Stroheim-II: 1 kill
Rene ?Berserk? Laroyenne: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Sam ?Lightspeed? McNeil: 3 kills, not promoted; wounded, will recover in 36 days
Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, not promoted
Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, not promoted
Jane Bailey: 0 kills, not promoted
Masaharu Yamanaka: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Steinbach: 0 kills, not promoted
Damien Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Grigoriy Kolotov; 0 kills, not promoted
Mikhail Andianov: 1 kill, killed in action
7 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, engine, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/Eji7c9Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/Eji7c9Q)
After several engagements and salvage operations, we've not only recovered a working UFO engine, but the fuel used by the aliens. It's unlike any element ever seen on this planet before; we're giving it the working name of ?Elerium?. Leonid Romanov, who is still in recovery from a previous operation, has been assigned the rank of Captain to help manage our growing ranks.
-
Lot a guy but finally got more stuff. Useful.
-
Goodbye, Mikha, the unsung hero of your Motherland ;_;7
Also, "Lightspeed" proving worthy of his name was awesome.
-
Yeah, not often a guy breaches a small with three aliens in it and lives. gj.
I think we have all the tech we need to start researching more advanced aircraft once the decoder is finished. Would be helpful to stop all those pesky UFOs outrunning us.
-
Aha, not only we get a relatively unharmed UFO but it lives to tell us its tale? Madness.
It's so mad, I can't believe a guy with a gun went inside solo, shot down everyone, and didn't make the whole shebang explode.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/0k9Yqk4m.png) (http://imgur.com/0k9Yqk4)
With one killed and one wounded from the previous mission, we're rotating two rookies into the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/J7yGtbmm.png) (http://imgur.com/J7yGtbm)
(http://i.imgur.com/7KAc2dXm.png) (http://imgur.com/7KAc2dX)
(http://i.imgur.com/xUxD4UJm.png) (http://imgur.com/xUxD4UJ)
We have some engineers free, so we start producing a few motion scanners and a few extra laser rifles.
(http://i.imgur.com/gKnUE2Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/gKnUE2L)
(http://i.imgur.com/AFzq4N3m.png) (http://imgur.com/AFzq4N3)
More engineers are assigned to producing rifles when a run of pistols is completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/zWzddeLm.png) (http://imgur.com/zWzddeL)
(http://i.imgur.com/jdiqfaHm.png) (http://imgur.com/jdiqfaH)
The motion scanners are finished in a few short days, and we start another production run of surplus laser pistols.
(http://i.imgur.com/t57CTmGm.png) (http://imgur.com/t57CTmG)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZUpTRcIm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZUpTRcI)
We swap out some of the equipment on the Skyranger. We put some of the new scanners in and add some additional flares for night missions, and take out the Heavy Cannon since it hasn't seen use in a while.
(http://i.imgur.com/epVI1QFm.png) (http://imgur.com/epVI1QF)
(http://i.imgur.com/LxfGxaPm.png) (http://imgur.com/LxfGxaP)
The first hangar at our Asia base is completed. It takes selling a lot of surplus, but we're able to get a new Interceptor; it and its armaments will arrive over the next few days.
(http://i.imgur.com/9ofY5h8m.png) (http://imgur.com/9ofY5h8)
We also get more Avalanche ammo for our main base so we don't run short.
(http://i.imgur.com/rnJZf1wm.png) (http://imgur.com/rnJZf1w)
(http://i.imgur.com/EZZR7Rrm.png) (http://imgur.com/EZZR7Rr)(http://i.imgur.com/22Oweasm.png) (http://imgur.com/22Oweas)
We spot a contact in central Europe; it's quickly brought down.
(http://i.imgur.com/NGTej0xm.png) (http://imgur.com/NGTej0x)
Our Skyranger is still refuelling from a patrol, but in the next few hours we should be ready to investigate the crash site.
(http://i.imgur.com/QCJXCmtm.png) (http://imgur.com/QCJXCmt)
(http://i.imgur.com/DOw0z5Om.png) (http://imgur.com/DOw0z5O)
Change of plans.
(http://i.imgur.com/7TizOeNm.png) (http://imgur.com/7TizOeN)
We redirect on a course to Brazil for another urban engagement with the alien forces.
-
Hopefully this one ends with less (human) death :<
-
(http://i.imgur.com/mIYnMN2m.png) (http://imgur.com/mIYnMN2)
The squad arrives in Brasilia just after dawn.
(http://i.imgur.com/bMO25mvm.png) (http://imgur.com/bMO25mv)
(http://i.imgur.com/FM3QNwBm.png) (http://imgur.com/FM3QNwB)
(http://i.imgur.com/opg5yxpm.png) (http://imgur.com/opg5yxp)
(http://i.imgur.com/eaBCguNm.png) (http://imgur.com/eaBCguN)
(http://i.imgur.com/bo2Dm3em.png) (http://imgur.com/bo2Dm3e)
(http://i.imgur.com/D4G2FPEm.png) (http://imgur.com/D4G2FPE)
(http://i.imgur.com/f3wSEzYm.png) (http://imgur.com/f3wSEzY)
(http://i.imgur.com/zHaBF5Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/zHaBF5N)
(http://i.imgur.com/MveGBmLm.png) (http://imgur.com/MveGBmL)
(http://i.imgur.com/gwCdumUm.png) (http://imgur.com/gwCdumU)
We get equipped and get moving, commencing Operation Amazon Sunray.
(http://i.imgur.com/VdyEGbIm.png) (http://imgur.com/VdyEGbI)
From the moment we land and the Skyranger opens up we're thrown right into combat.
(http://i.imgur.com/P3HMrEtm.png) (http://imgur.com/P3HMrEt)
Stroheim-II blows a hole in a nearby house, catching a Floater in the blastwave.
(http://i.imgur.com/IVMisM2m.png) (http://imgur.com/IVMisM2)
(http://i.imgur.com/GTE0iCcm.png) (http://imgur.com/GTE0iCc)
The other Floater takes some shots at the tank, but it's in vain; Stroheim-II remains completely undamaged.
(http://i.imgur.com/KiVS6yYm.png) (http://imgur.com/KiVS6yY)
(http://i.imgur.com/0u6X5dSm.png) (http://imgur.com/0u6X5dS)
The HWP takes a shot back, but overshoots with the rocket.
(http://i.imgur.com/30uPaRPm.png) (http://imgur.com/30uPaRP)
(http://i.imgur.com/GPXOxhym.png) (http://imgur.com/GPXOxhy)
(http://i.imgur.com/rrB4rREm.png) (http://imgur.com/rrB4rRE)
(http://i.imgur.com/5oSjFmHm.png) (http://imgur.com/5oSjFmH)
Reapers start swarming towards the exit ramp, attacking Stroheim-II. Fortunately, we avoid a repeat of what happened to our HWP last time we had an encounter like this.
(http://i.imgur.com/S8gi3OKm.png) (http://imgur.com/S8gi3OK)
We take a calculated risk; firing at this close a range could damage the HWP, but we're surrounded by Reapers and have no way of pulling back. A single rocket blast takes a few out, and the armor holds up.
(http://i.imgur.com/l8FubV4m.png) (http://imgur.com/l8FubV4)
(http://i.imgur.com/9Qju0Ttm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Qju0Tt)
(http://i.imgur.com/B21y9Gpm.png) (http://imgur.com/B21y9Gp)
More reapers surround the ramp. The squad starts opening fire from the exit of the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/alEfxuem.png) (http://imgur.com/alEfxue)
(http://i.imgur.com/sDUDaYym.png) (http://imgur.com/sDUDaYy)
(http://i.imgur.com/8tIB9LZm.png) (http://imgur.com/8tIB9LZ)
The reapers continue to advance, and another one comes out of the woodwork.
(http://i.imgur.com/t77LX2hm.png) (http://imgur.com/t77LX2h)
It's time for Stroheim-II to sort things out again.
(http://i.imgur.com/emFujDWm.png) (http://imgur.com/emFujDW)
(http://i.imgur.com/0Wfpom7m.png) (http://imgur.com/0Wfpom7)
(http://i.imgur.com/OhFBdgLm.png) (http://imgur.com/OhFBdgL)
We spot yet another one coming down the road. The laser pistol's rapid fire isn't very accurate at long range, but we're dealing with a big target here.
(http://i.imgur.com/gnVdpsqm.png) (http://imgur.com/gnVdpsq)
Laroyenne spots another Reaper after the wall and nearby Floater get blown away by another rocket from Stroheim-II.
(http://i.imgur.com/FRxA7yrm.png) (http://imgur.com/FRxA7yr)
We see a Floater moving in the shopping center, but don't have a good shot at it yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/kjVze6jm.png) (http://imgur.com/kjVze6j)
(http://i.imgur.com/R7QkKyem.png) (http://imgur.com/R7QkKye)
The squad spots another Floater coming from the other direction. It tries firing a stun bomb at the group, but misses by a large margin. Unfortunately, even Stewart can't get a shot in with that position.
(http://i.imgur.com/KKY37pEm.png) (http://imgur.com/KKY37pE)
(http://i.imgur.com/mX9IZvXm.png) (http://imgur.com/mX9IZvX)
We spot some civilian survivors.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZJD1XJHm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZJD1XJH)
We start moving forward, through the smoke left from HWP fire and alien explosives.
(http://i.imgur.com/JI6Dlgym.png) (http://imgur.com/JI6Dlgy)
More of the squad fans out, setting up an ambush for the alien to the southeast.
(http://i.imgur.com/BMdMRdom.png) (http://imgur.com/BMdMRdo)
We spot yet another Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/2EsYDoPm.png) (http://imgur.com/2EsYDoP)
Stroheim-II detects another Floater in a narrow alley. It fires its last rocket to blow away the wall and clear the way for someone else to take the shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/qU6xSqKm.png) (http://imgur.com/qU6xSqK)
(http://i.imgur.com/ENbfKnHm.png) (http://imgur.com/ENbfKnH)
However, it draws counter fire, and the armor isn't able to hold up.
(http://i.imgur.com/uftDePKm.png) (http://imgur.com/uftDePK)
With that final shot, however, the wall is gone, and Laroyenne can snipe the Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/e394uSam.png) (http://imgur.com/e394uSa)
(http://i.imgur.com/6nO4kRBm.png) (http://imgur.com/6nO4kRB)
Another Reaper comes out of the alley. Laroyenne pulls back to a safer position.
(http://i.imgur.com/xCFjtnTm.png) (http://imgur.com/xCFjtnT)
From that position, he's able to take out the hostile.
(http://i.imgur.com/xngv4Ram.png) (http://imgur.com/xngv4Ra)
We spot one of the Floaters we were pursuing hiding a house. It'll be too dangerous to pursue directly, so we consider an alternate plan of attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/NuQ8q0Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/NuQ8q0C)
We have someone throw a grenade at the wall.
(http://i.imgur.com/IGq7BJzm.png) (http://imgur.com/IGq7BJz)
With the wall destroyed, we get a clear line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/zlUbIalm.png) (http://imgur.com/zlUbIal)
Stewart misses two aimed shots in a row, a rare occasion.
(http://i.imgur.com/cp3ILUem.png) (http://imgur.com/cp3ILUe)
(http://i.imgur.com/kRGyNmDm.png) (http://imgur.com/kRGyNmD)
A shot from Steinbach is right on target, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/yGnoeAsm.png) (http://imgur.com/yGnoeAs)
Laroyenne is ambushed while passing the broken walls and entering the blasted alleyway. While he was lucky enough to survive with moderate wounds when he was shot on his first mission, this time he isn't so fortunate.
(http://i.imgur.com/OGwD82Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/OGwD82X)(http://i.imgur.com/23Bl1ZWm.png) (http://imgur.com/23Bl1ZW)
We spot the party responsible in the alley shortly afterward... and it's coming right for us.
(http://i.imgur.com/P1Am5LYm.png) (http://imgur.com/P1Am5LY)
(http://i.imgur.com/6pOziKqm.png) (http://imgur.com/6pOziKq)
(http://i.imgur.com/7RLwRbDm.png) (http://imgur.com/7RLwRbD)
Kolotov takes a shot. It ends in a brief firefight, with neither side hitting.
(http://i.imgur.com/QfxadRRm.png) (http://imgur.com/QfxadRR)
As if this wasn't bad enough, we see two Floaters, side by side.
(http://i.imgur.com/hGB10QOm.png) (http://imgur.com/hGB10QO)
(http://i.imgur.com/hoZ0C49m.png) (http://imgur.com/hoZ0C49)
(http://i.imgur.com/T0dcTdsm.png) (http://imgur.com/T0dcTds)
(http://i.imgur.com/WpFiFBxm.png) (http://imgur.com/WpFiFBx)
This is where Captain Sharpe and HE rounds come in. After a few shots, both of the hostiles are taken down... the body of one of the Floaters is blasted to bits, leaving it beyond recovery.
(http://i.imgur.com/hGB10QOm.png) (http://imgur.com/hGB10QO)
Unfortunately, a rookie gets hit during the ensuing firefight.
(http://i.imgur.com/oBlyO1zm.png) (http://imgur.com/oBlyO1z)
We maneuver carefully, searching for the enemy.
(http://i.imgur.com/xR3q9V1m.png) (http://imgur.com/xR3q9V1)
Another Floater is spotted in the smoke.
(http://i.imgur.com/WdVOBOim.png) (http://imgur.com/WdVOBOi)
(http://i.imgur.com/AuW7q4hm.png) (http://imgur.com/AuW7q4h)
To keep it from advancing, we set down a proximity mine. No explosions, so it must have moved back.
(http://i.imgur.com/B5tauolm.png) (http://imgur.com/B5tauol)
(http://i.imgur.com/ykA7Iq5m.png) (http://imgur.com/ykA7Iq5)
A rookie moves out into the street to the northeast, and is taken by surprise by a burst of alien fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/G9NLzTgm.png) (http://imgur.com/G9NLzTg)
(http://i.imgur.com/cwDjAKJm.png) (http://imgur.com/cwDjAKJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/EI1lCKCm.png) (http://imgur.com/EI1lCKC)
Kolotov moves out elsewhere, but is similarly ambushed.
(http://i.imgur.com/xURNaARm.png) (http://imgur.com/xURNaAR)
A Floater comes out of a warehouse.
(http://i.imgur.com/sfBa6MTm.png) (http://imgur.com/sfBa6MT)
Sharpe switches to the pistol, and prepares to advance slowly, using the buildings as cover to get to the far side of the street.
(http://i.imgur.com/6xPzDWHm.png) (http://imgur.com/6xPzDWH)
The far side of the street is where more hostiles happen to be lurking, so we have to move carefully.
(http://i.imgur.com/Kl5krG3m.png) (http://imgur.com/Kl5krG3)
The floater tries to throw a grenade at us. Tries to.
(http://i.imgur.com/7JgzA7jm.png) (http://imgur.com/7JgzA7j)
Robinson moves up against the wall, but not out into the street. We can't risk more reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/S1PamDOm.png) (http://imgur.com/S1PamDO)
Sharpe is nearly out of the shopping center, which gets her about halfway to her target.
(http://i.imgur.com/lug0eGfm.png) (http://imgur.com/lug0eGf)
(http://i.imgur.com/aZbkzlAm.png) (http://imgur.com/aZbkzlA)
We spot the Floater by the warehouse again. Sharpe's fire isn't able to hit it.
(http://i.imgur.com/lu6mat6m.png) (http://imgur.com/lu6mat6)
However, an unlikely long-distance pistol shot from Voronin does the trick.
(http://i.imgur.com/Tk0OssQm.png) (http://imgur.com/Tk0OssQ)
Robinson spots a Floater in a doorway.
(http://i.imgur.com/AlOcTMdm.png) (http://imgur.com/AlOcTMd)
Robinson's lucky enough to avoid getting hit, giving him a chance to get up behind the Floater and let loose a burst.
Result of Operation Amazon Sunray:
Andrea Sharpe: 2 kills, not promoted
Jane Bailey: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, not promoted
Frank Robinson: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Dmitriy Voronin: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Masaharu Yamanaka: 0 kills, not promoted
Stroheim-II: Destroyed
Rene ?Berserk? Laroyenne: Killed in action
Otto Steinbach: Killed in action
Damien Wright: Killed in action
Grigoriy Kolotov: Killed in action
11 civilians killed by alien forces
1 civilian killed by collateral damage
2 civilian survivors
14 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
2 aliens captured alive
(http://i.imgur.com/TsdEJWkm.png) (http://imgur.com/TsdEJWk)
This was a brutal battle; aliens attacking a city forces us to engage on their terms. Even then, this operation could have been handled better. Blind corners are proving to be deathtraps for our forces; we lost a number of our squad to ambushes while scouting. We will need to adapt our tactics to reduce our casualties in urban combat.
-
That's a lot of Reapers.
Still, good use of explosives there.
-
T-two civilians alive.
I guess we're doing worse?
-
While our losses during Amazon Sunray weren't massive, they're still a setback. Losing a soldier with combat experience like Laroyenne was bad, but the loss of an HWP is one we can't cover right now when we're already starved for funds. We're going to have to rely solely on our troops for the immediate future.
(http://i.imgur.com/5TaXb57m.png) (http://imgur.com/5TaXb57)
(http://i.imgur.com/3h3Kgksm.png) (http://imgur.com/3h3Kgks)
We get any combat-ready personnel we have left armored up and on the Skyranger.
We try and take a shot at the European crash site, but by the time we're all fueled up and ready to go, we lose the signal from the crash site. We're not sure if the site was dealt with by local authorities or the ship self-destructed, but we're not recovering anything now.
(http://i.imgur.com/SJoTh8wm.png) (http://imgur.com/SJoTh8w)
Our new interceptor hasn't arrived at X-COM Two yet, but its armaments have arrived. We also get some more Avalanches at X-COM One.
(http://i.imgur.com/UnFvcWDm.png) (http://imgur.com/UnFvcWD)
Engineering finishes a batch of laser rifles; we might have to let a few engineers go because we're running out of new projects for them and might not have the money or workshop space for 35.
(http://i.imgur.com/68oDsokm.png) (http://imgur.com/68oDsok)
Radar is now online at our second base. This expands our capabilities significantly, and puts us in a position to better defend Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/659aKUum.png) (http://imgur.com/659aKUu)
(http://i.imgur.com/Pn4ZXcKm.png) (http://imgur.com/Pn4ZXcK)
(http://i.imgur.com/1Xkvqtjm.png) (http://imgur.com/1Xkvqtj)
The scientists have finished analyzing the alien communications protocol and have developed a means of decoding it. This will be a very costly system to produce, but the results will be well worth it.
(http://i.imgur.com/HiDWZOlm.png) (http://imgur.com/HiDWZOl)
(http://i.imgur.com/ociSRIpm.png) (http://imgur.com/ociSRIp)
Selling off various bits of alien technology and surplus weapons gives us barely enough funds to start assembling the decoder.
(http://i.imgur.com/sPDLeLYm.png) (http://imgur.com/sPDLeLY)
(http://i.imgur.com/LVbRFNam.png) (http://imgur.com/LVbRFNa)
Now that the decoder is done, our scientists are free to work on a variety of other projects. We have alien weapons and UFO components to look at, plus the investigation into the alien origins. Our laboratory is currently at maximum capacity for staff; if we want to expand our research team any further, we'll have to invest the funds into additional facilities.
-
Engineering finishes a batch of laser rifles; we might have to let a few engineers go because we're running out of new projects for them and might not have the money or workshop space for 35.
At this point they should start producing stuff for us to sell! IIRC motion detectors are pretty profitable.
Well, I'd like to research UFO tech (navigation, elerium) but I don't think we've hauled in enough resources to actually make new aircraft yet...
Maybe it's time to start working on those plasma weapons? We should have enough in stock to equip the team.
-
Note that the Decoder also acts as a sure-fire radar, so you can dismantle other radars later to save on maintenance.
Split your research team between projects. Preferably into three groups. I suggest Heavy Plasma (will be abundant late-game), Elerium and Power Source. Even if we can't use the results yet, they WILL be useful in the future.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/T6qkmGxm.png) (http://imgur.com/T6qkmGx)
While letting engineers go would save on our monthly costs, we're probably going to need them later once UFO reverse-engineering makes progress. In the the meantime, we're just having them assemble more laser pistols, which are relatively cheap to produce and are worth over double their manufacturing cost when sold. Items like Medi-kits have a larger profit margin, but a steeper initial cost to produce.
(http://i.imgur.com/ngfJa4rm.png) (http://imgur.com/ngfJa4r)
Our scientists are put on an assortment of projects. The majority focus on reverse engineering the UFO technology, including the navigation, reactor, and Elerium fuel. Small teams are put on studying the alien weapons; the only reason we're not putting more effort into those right now is many of those have been sold to cover our operating costs and lasers are still sufficient for most of the encounters we have faced.
(http://i.imgur.com/8Qp9yXYm.png) (http://imgur.com/8Qp9yXY)
(http://i.imgur.com/JcSqj6fm.png) (http://imgur.com/JcSqj6f)
(http://i.imgur.com/4WlVIolm.png) (http://imgur.com/4WlVIol)
(http://i.imgur.com/GAy5Jwjm.png) (http://imgur.com/GAy5Jwj)
Our new Interceptor arrives, and it's quickly loaded up with Avalanches.
(http://i.imgur.com/OpY0E96m.png) (http://imgur.com/OpY0E96)
New troops arrive. The Skyranger is already out on patrol, so they can't be assigned to the squad quite yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/CnaMoV0m.png) (http://imgur.com/CnaMoV0)
(http://i.imgur.com/n5RSxk1m.png) (http://imgur.com/n5RSxk1)
(http://i.imgur.com/nbVCMhQm.png) (http://imgur.com/nbVCMhQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/6w65v4Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/6w65v4V)
(http://i.imgur.com/MJSwQMGm.png) (http://imgur.com/MJSwQMG)
Radar spots a UFO over north Africa. With two interceptors and the Skyranger in pursuit, it is shot down when it tries to change course over the UK.
(http://i.imgur.com/S02LvThm.png) (http://imgur.com/S02LvTh)
We get ready to commence Operation Spitfire Resistance.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/hgSv6aHm.png) (http://imgur.com/hgSv6aH)
(http://i.imgur.com/IRBSvl0m.png) (http://imgur.com/IRBSvl0)
(http://i.imgur.com/ODgbtWTm.png) (http://imgur.com/ODgbtWT)
(http://i.imgur.com/2owQpNDm.png) (http://imgur.com/2owQpND)
(http://i.imgur.com/SJRkUBWm.png) (http://imgur.com/SJRkUBW)
(http://i.imgur.com/2BI87fZm.png) (http://imgur.com/2BI87fZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/SReZ4fKm.png) (http://imgur.com/SReZ4fK)
(http://i.imgur.com/o3C6pQMm.png) (http://imgur.com/o3C6pQM)
Rookies at the front get extra equipment like the motion scanners and medi-kits. Captain Sharpe gets her autocannon and HE rounds. Everybody else gets laser rifles.
(http://i.imgur.com/rFWhhyVm.png) (http://imgur.com/rFWhhyV)
(http://i.imgur.com/rDgvzYqm.png) (http://imgur.com/rDgvzYq)
Moving out, we spot a Floater at medium range. Robinson manages to take it out before it can attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/oqqASKpm.png) (http://imgur.com/oqqASKp)
(http://i.imgur.com/fO9nlFvm.png) (http://imgur.com/fO9nlFv)
Michiko spots another in the narrow gap between the two farm buildings on the right. Her first few shots miss, so she ducks into cover before it counterattacks.
(http://i.imgur.com/r2RuyOgm.png) (http://imgur.com/r2RuyOg)
Stewart gets on the other side of the gap and prepares to back the rookies up.
(http://i.imgur.com/t7sDI2Em.png) (http://imgur.com/t7sDI2E)
Robinson gets behind the landing gear to take cover from any potential shots.
(http://i.imgur.com/cKbIxSQm.png) (http://imgur.com/cKbIxSQ)
Unfortunately, there's another Floater on the other side. It opens fire, but misses...
(http://i.imgur.com/IeiuZkOm.png) (http://imgur.com/IeiuZkO)
The one in the gap has a clear shot, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/5fTwWxKm.png) (http://imgur.com/5fTwWxK)
(http://i.imgur.com/tRNlbXEm.png) (http://imgur.com/tRNlbXE)
Michiko takes the Floater between the buildings out.
(http://i.imgur.com/86twDZOm.png) (http://imgur.com/86twDZO)
The squad comes under fire from the other side, but manages to avoid further harm.
(http://i.imgur.com/WbTgaH9m.png) (http://imgur.com/WbTgaH9)
(http://i.imgur.com/ApOHXFDm.png) (http://imgur.com/ApOHXFD)
(http://i.imgur.com/U3S0uMfm.png) (http://imgur.com/U3S0uMf)
(http://i.imgur.com/8HsZuBIm.png) (http://imgur.com/8HsZuBI)
(http://i.imgur.com/pgBWrc2m.png) (http://imgur.com/pgBWrc2)
After several missed shots, Stewart takes out the Floater on our flank.
(http://i.imgur.com/ioKSNZUm.png) (http://imgur.com/ioKSNZU)
(http://i.imgur.com/tYsuWt2m.png) (http://imgur.com/tYsuWt2)
We come under yet more enemy fire, this time from a Floater on a rooftop. We're very lucky to again not get hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/PMhgL0wm.png) (http://imgur.com/PMhgL0w)
(http://i.imgur.com/JhddlM3m.png) (http://imgur.com/JhddlM3)
Bailey shows some potential as a sharpshooter exceeding even Stewart's record, and two shots take the hostile out.
(http://i.imgur.com/aQi92d1m.png) (http://imgur.com/aQi92d1)
We start sweeping the nearby buildings.
(http://i.imgur.com/Kb1sk0Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/Kb1sk0T)
Captain Sharpe joins in the sweep, switching in the pistol since we can't use HE ammo at close range.
(http://i.imgur.com/OnbDlrym.png) (http://imgur.com/OnbDlry)
We advance slowly and cautiously, keeping alert for any potential ambushes.
(http://i.imgur.com/pxvAPJrm.png) (http://imgur.com/pxvAPJr)
We get up to the second floor of one of the buildings, and it's completely clear.
(http://i.imgur.com/3ys9R0ym.png) (http://imgur.com/3ys9R0y)
(http://i.imgur.com/3J94pZom.png) (http://imgur.com/3J94pZo)
We spot another Floater on another rooftop. Attempts to snipe it fail, so we go to plan B; use the nearby structures to stay out of the line of fire while slowly advancing forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/log0Vnfm.png) (http://imgur.com/log0Vnf)
Michiko and Masaharu are ready to breach the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/h57Aa7Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/h57Aa7D)
Michiko goes in first, spotting two Floaters in the smoke and wreckage. Our best tactic will be to have her take out the closest alien, get out, and then let Masaharu try for the second one before also getting out of the line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/g3iInxSm.png) (http://imgur.com/g3iInxS)
Michiko performs her part of the plan admirably.
(http://i.imgur.com/Tkw8kqpm.png) (http://imgur.com/Tkw8kqp)
The smoke and long distance makes Masaharu's shot a bit more difficult.
(http://i.imgur.com/dENO63Km.png) (http://imgur.com/dENO63K)
We get both of them into a safe spot and wait to try again.
(http://i.imgur.com/g6dZ7Zmm.png) (http://imgur.com/g6dZ7Zm)
On the second attempt, we spot another Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/j9S9luVm.png) (http://imgur.com/j9S9luV)
(http://i.imgur.com/oksr4A4m.png) (http://imgur.com/oksr4A4)
(http://i.imgur.com/PHKSvpUm.png) (http://imgur.com/PHKSvpU)
Michiko gets in a repeat performance, and Masaharu manages to snipe the Floater at the controls on his second attempt.
(http://i.imgur.com/xtNkVgnm.png) (http://imgur.com/xtNkVgn)
(http://i.imgur.com/uyo59tCm.png) (http://imgur.com/uyo59tC)
Bailey and Voronin move up towards the building.
(http://i.imgur.com/E1IaM8mm.png) (http://imgur.com/E1IaM8m)
(http://i.imgur.com/ioBqsm3m.png) (http://imgur.com/ioBqsm3)
(http://i.imgur.com/m2m8pc1m.png) (http://imgur.com/m2m8pc1)
The Floater has attempted to escape the rooftop and head eastward, but has wandered into sight of the rest of the squad. Captain Sharpe gets in an unlikely long-range shot with the pistol and takes it out.
Results of Operation Spitfire Resistance:
Michiko Yamanaka: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Masaharu Yamanaka: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, not promoted
Jane Bailey: 1 kill, not promoted
Andrea Sharpe: 1 kill, not promoted
Dmitry Voronin: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Unger: 0 kills, not promoted
Frank Robinson: 1 kill, killed in action
8 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
Unfortunately, we aren't able to recover another reactor.
(http://i.imgur.com/IHkBlbem.png) (http://imgur.com/IHkBlbe)
(http://i.imgur.com/okBDPcZm.png) (http://imgur.com/okBDPcZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Lda6s5Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/Lda6s5Z)
(http://i.imgur.com/rh84cy6m.png) (http://imgur.com/rh84cy6)
(http://i.imgur.com/xYlbPAdm.png) (http://imgur.com/xYlbPAd)
(http://i.imgur.com/Uq6OYwXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Uq6OYwX)
Once the Skyranger returns, the new rookies are rotated into the squad as soon as possible. We don't have any armor for them, so we'll have to make do for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/YjRzv48m.png) (http://imgur.com/YjRzv48)
Our living quarters at our primary base are further expanded. Selling a few laser pistols gives us the funds to obtain some more troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/8zsehukm.png) (http://imgur.com/8zsehuk)
(http://i.imgur.com/We1NJYRm.png) (http://imgur.com/We1NJYR)
The month ends. Our concerns over the alien infiltration mission have not come to pass; all of our backing nations have remained behind us, and our overall funding has increased. Hopefully with the radar at our Asia base operational, we can improve our ability to respond in China.
-
How is the change from infiltrated countries money-wise, anyways? Is it sudden or can it be gradual like what's happening in China?
-
How is the change from infiltrated countries money-wise, anyways? Is it sudden or can it be gradual like what's happening in China?
An infiltrated nation that has chosen to side with the aliens immediately pulls its all of its funding. The situation with China is just us needing to improve our detection/interception performance in that region. Fortunately, it was a very small funding reduction and is more than made up for by the increases from other countries.
Losing countries and income to infiltration can be very bad as if we end a month with our funds in the negative twice in a row all of the backing nations will pull the plug on X-COM.
-
...I have to mention that I am fully aware of... well, let's call it "an alternate timeline". You little devil. Can't blame ya, though.
-
...I have to mention that I am fully aware of... well, let's call it "an alternate timeline". You little devil. Can't blame ya, though.
I would have stuck with the results from that but when I opened the game up to continue I realized I forgot to save and lost any progress I had today. I do not intend to savescum to prevent any losses during this LP, which is why I've been reluctant to have any squad members named after forum members. Redoing a mission today was just an accident.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/ADivY0Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/ADivY0H)
Using our new funds, we start expanding. At X-COM Two, we start constructing a long-range radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/iBYeQTam.png) (http://imgur.com/iBYeQTa)
(http://i.imgur.com/EuuOMEhm.png) (http://imgur.com/EuuOMEh)
A slight change to the layout and the entryway to this base is also narrowed to a single chokepoint. While we're removing it now, building that storage room in that spot let us get the base online faster, allowing us to have that second hangar under construction well before the first was finished.
(http://i.imgur.com/UE2Ap3om.png) (http://imgur.com/UE2Ap3o)
(http://i.imgur.com/52Pz1fsm.png) (http://imgur.com/52Pz1fs)
At the primary base, we start constructing an additional lab.
(http://i.imgur.com/R6GLmu5m.png) (http://imgur.com/R6GLmu5)
Engineering keeps working on the laser pistols. After this, we can manufacture more armor for the new troops, or start manufacturing Medi-kits for additional funds.
(http://i.imgur.com/0lgpDFjm.png) (http://imgur.com/0lgpDFj)
(http://i.imgur.com/ER9uNOdm.png) (http://imgur.com/ER9uNOd)
Less than half a day into the new month, radar spots another UFO. It's moving from the Middle East towards Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/2dXOgU0m.png) (http://imgur.com/2dXOgU0)
(http://i.imgur.com/MpSx8cfm.png) (http://imgur.com/MpSx8cf)
An interceptor catches up with the craft and shoots it down over Ireland.
(http://i.imgur.com/uenysE4m.png) (http://imgur.com/uenysE4)
The Skyranger is sent out just after daybreak, for a recovery operation we're calling Spring Mass.
(http://i.imgur.com/P9ET32vm.png) (http://imgur.com/P9ET32v)
(http://i.imgur.com/u4mkVMlm.png) (http://imgur.com/u4mkVMl)
(http://i.imgur.com/zMs1dtBm.png) (http://imgur.com/zMs1dtB)
(http://i.imgur.com/1jhjj5Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/1jhjj5P)
(http://i.imgur.com/ALdo6MHm.png) (http://imgur.com/ALdo6MH)
(http://i.imgur.com/QDpvAFEm.png) (http://imgur.com/QDpvAFE)
(http://i.imgur.com/xsdT3hbm.png) (http://imgur.com/xsdT3hb)
(http://i.imgur.com/x60FSGBm.png) (http://imgur.com/x60FSGB)
(http://i.imgur.com/BYMbnTjm.png) (http://imgur.com/BYMbnTj)
(http://i.imgur.com/N8dyziDm.png) (http://imgur.com/N8dyziD)
(http://i.imgur.com/W5LuRIUm.png) (http://imgur.com/W5LuRIU)
Standard procedure. First two out the door get support equipment, Sharpe gets auto-cannon, HE rounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/5gI8XXVm.png) (http://imgur.com/5gI8XXV)
The landing zone is clear of any hazards, so we start to fan out.
(http://i.imgur.com/flBky1dm.png) (http://imgur.com/flBky1d)
We advance, mindful of the terrain.
(http://i.imgur.com/YM2fCg6m.png) (http://imgur.com/YM2fCg6)
Blocking our advance to the east is a fence; it seems intent on redirecting us into the nearby orchard, which is a perfect spot to get ambushed.
(http://i.imgur.com/pX7gh5em.png) (http://imgur.com/pX7gh5e)\
Captain Sharpe's having none of that today. She blasts open a hole in the fence, clearing the way for an advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/0eQmZZ0m.png) (http://imgur.com/0eQmZZ0)
We start moving a team up to take advantage of the newly-opened gap.
(http://i.imgur.com/bHR18nZm.png) (http://imgur.com/bHR18nZ)
Another team gets ready to move west.
(http://i.imgur.com/CY3h43vm.png) (http://imgur.com/CY3h43v)
Sharpe makes her way west, to clear any obstructions on that side.
(http://i.imgur.com/T0ANNyCm.png) (http://imgur.com/T0ANNyC)
We spot the UFO, and it's a total mess.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jq7gYwDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jq7gYwD)
We continue moving the east squad through the field, taking advantage of the natural cover and the smoke from the HE blast.
(http://i.imgur.com/r9bd0vVm.png) (http://imgur.com/r9bd0vV)
Sharpe opens up another fence for the west squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZAuSsHGm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZAuSsHG)
We spot an alien through the ruptured hull of the UFO; it's not a Floater, or any other species we've encountered before.
(http://i.imgur.com/NvVOp45m.png) (http://imgur.com/NvVOp45)
(http://i.imgur.com/xcIi7AQm.png) (http://imgur.com/xcIi7AQ)
Sharpe's the only one with a clear line of fire, and after some shaky shots with the auto-cannon, the hostile is taken down by a few HE rounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/JXADZt9m.png) (http://imgur.com/JXADZt9)
Voronin spots another alien through the window of a structure.
(http://i.imgur.com/vfqD53bm.png) (http://imgur.com/vfqD53b)
(http://i.imgur.com/HbiUkURm.png) (http://imgur.com/HbiUkUR)
He opens fire, but even a direct hit from the laser rifle only succeeds in getting the hostile's attention, and it immediately fires back at him. With him down and nobody else with a good line of fire, Plan B is to throw a grenade near the hole in the wall.
(http://i.imgur.com/3SotNr3m.png) (http://imgur.com/3SotNr3)
(http://i.imgur.com/dgnGKesm.png) (http://imgur.com/dgnGKes)
Bailey spots another one in a similar building. Rather than risk a similar firefight, Michiko throws a grenade at the wall beside the alien, letting Bailey pull back to safety.
(http://i.imgur.com/vwc3fzom.png) (http://imgur.com/vwc3fzo)
(http://i.imgur.com/kyeM2nom.png) (http://imgur.com/kyeM2no)
(http://i.imgur.com/zGpLxjkm.png) (http://imgur.com/zGpLxjk)
Neither grenade gets its target; however, with the wall opened up, Michael White can get a burst of fire in at close range.
(http://i.imgur.com/zjaa2COm.png) (http://imgur.com/zjaa2CO)
(http://i.imgur.com/M7iWJpdm.png) (http://imgur.com/M7iWJpd)
While we're busy trying to find where the other alien went, one comes out from behind a wall and snipes Masaharu, who's watching for an advance from the other side of a fence.
(http://i.imgur.com/QIa8ueOm.png) (http://imgur.com/QIa8ueO)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZLAOc4Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZLAOc4Z)
(http://i.imgur.com/VoYHCT3m.png) (http://imgur.com/VoYHCT3)
(http://i.imgur.com/IG8klA5m.png) (http://imgur.com/IG8klA5)
Chasing that alien down, we find two of them between the buildings. Fortunately, James White is close enough and quick enough to get both of them. That cleans this mission up; this was a small ship we were dealing with, and a severe crash.
Results of Operation Spring Mass:
James White: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Michael White: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Andrea Sharpe Stewart: 1 kill, not promoted
Sarah Stewart: 0 kills, promoted to Captain
Jane Bailey: 0 kills, not promoted
Siegfried Steinbach: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Krause: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Unger: 0 kills, not promoted
Michiko Yamanaka: 0 kills, not promoted
Dmitriy Voronin: Killed in action
Masaharu Yamanaka: Killed in action
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
No UFO components recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/7bdGrEMm.png) (http://imgur.com/7bdGrEM)
This could have gone way better. We lost two squad members and recovered very little.
The new alien we have encountered during this mission is being referred to the ?Snakeman?. It seems to lack the mobility of the Floater, but has far more stamina and endurance.
In other news, Leonid Romanov has been promoted to Colonel, despite not being involved in combat recently.
-
Why are the aliens the toughest things on the ship? >.<
-
You could make body armor out of their corpses. X-COM Hunter when.
-
The snakemen have arrived. I've been dreading this day.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/CwcgqInm.png) (http://imgur.com/CwcgqIn)
(http://i.imgur.com/BIyF0Xom.png) (http://imgur.com/BIyF0Xo)
(http://i.imgur.com/2qzkHckm.png) (http://imgur.com/2qzkHck)
(http://i.imgur.com/6I8qpFQm.png) (http://imgur.com/6I8qpFQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/IAco3rYm.png) (http://imgur.com/IAco3rY)
We get some reinforcements in at the base, and rotate the squad around.
(http://i.imgur.com/zBRRhv0m.png) (http://imgur.com/zBRRhv0)
(http://i.imgur.com/f317DqRm.png) (http://imgur.com/f317DqR)
We assign the engineering team to build some more armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/4qY8uD7m.png) (http://imgur.com/4qY8uD7)
We requisition some more supplies.
(http://i.imgur.com/1T2Uj5Om.png) (http://imgur.com/1T2Uj5O)
(http://i.imgur.com/kQejI4Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/kQejI4W)
(http://i.imgur.com/2KA2NNmm.png) (http://imgur.com/2KA2NNm)
(http://i.imgur.com/YP0gYulm.png) (http://imgur.com/YP0gYul)
(http://i.imgur.com/cOq9fTym.png) (http://imgur.com/cOq9fTy)
(http://i.imgur.com/dCpa2a9m.png) (http://imgur.com/dCpa2a9)
(http://i.imgur.com/URbU5nQm.png) (http://imgur.com/URbU5nQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/92z54c4m.png) (http://imgur.com/92z54c4)
(http://i.imgur.com/wtb0cvYm.png) (http://imgur.com/wtb0cvY)
Even more soldiers are brought in.
(http://i.imgur.com/7xi71dym.png) (http://imgur.com/7xi71dy)
Radar spots another UFO, in central Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/74VVBtsm.png) (http://imgur.com/74VVBts)
(http://i.imgur.com/3W9t5A3m.png) (http://imgur.com/3W9t5A3)
Interceptors catch up with it over the Mediterranean, at which point the ship changes direction and starts heading east. It is shot down over Italy.
(http://i.imgur.com/y9qgYyAm.png) (http://imgur.com/y9qgYyA)
The squad gets geared up and ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/OMYgQA8m.png) (http://imgur.com/OMYgQA8)
We deploy to Italy for our next operation, Mediterranean Sunrise.
(http://i.imgur.com/7uJRBV3m.png) (http://imgur.com/7uJRBV3)
Not going into detail about the mission loadout because it's nothing new. From the start, we see the UFO; it's in fairly good shape.
(http://i.imgur.com/iPA5wAVm.png) (http://imgur.com/iPA5wAV)
No hostiles are within sight, so we start fanning out.
(http://i.imgur.com/1HfnROAm.png) (http://imgur.com/1HfnROA)
Unfortunately, one that was out of sight snipes Michael.
(http://i.imgur.com/cOHyjwqm.png) (http://imgur.com/cOHyjwq)
Bailey spots something in the shadows of the orchard; we can presume it is a Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/OyIUaOsm.png) (http://imgur.com/OyIUaOs)
She quickly takes it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/xxaDLoom.png) (http://imgur.com/xxaDLoo)
We move someone up to scout that orchard out, using the hedge for cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/kY9AnKkm.png) (http://imgur.com/kY9AnKk)
Sharpe is on backup in case we need to clear any terrain.
(http://i.imgur.com/B6Hd4lbm.png) (http://imgur.com/B6Hd4lb)
Searching through the trees, it appears to be clear.
(http://i.imgur.com/04DAWk2m.png) (http://imgur.com/04DAWk2)
Moving towards the ship, we spot another Floater just on the edge of our vision.
(http://i.imgur.com/QghKFxZm.png) (http://imgur.com/QghKFxZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/6deIHjGm.png) (http://imgur.com/6deIHjG)
(http://i.imgur.com/D4B5Zrrm.png) (http://imgur.com/D4B5Zrr)
Krause's shooting accuracy is questionable, but he's out of the range of any counter fire and has plenty of time to take multiple shots. One hitting is all it takes.
(http://i.imgur.com/6aigaOzm.png) (http://imgur.com/6aigaOz)
We start going around the ship, sending people around both sides.
(http://i.imgur.com/u30UBTfm.png) (http://imgur.com/u30UBTf)
We send more people down to surround the crash.
(http://i.imgur.com/2dGv6dlm.png) (http://imgur.com/2dGv6dl)
We advance carefully, mindful of any windows and openings that ambushes can come from.
(http://i.imgur.com/oypjAr1m.png) (http://imgur.com/oypjAr1)
(http://i.imgur.com/BafzxTim.png) (http://imgur.com/BafzxTi)
The slow, cautious advance continues.
(http://i.imgur.com/B55PXCsm.png) (http://imgur.com/B55PXCs)
(http://i.imgur.com/ohwsky6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ohwsky6)
While moving up, we keep in mind the potential for attacks to come from the sides or from behind.
(http://i.imgur.com/CgtSZZUm.png) (http://imgur.com/CgtSZZU)
The people catching up with the east team search the buildings.
(http://i.imgur.com/3L20dnXm.png) (http://imgur.com/3L20dnX)
Siegfried moves through another orchard, checking for hostiles while catching up with the west team.
(http://i.imgur.com/szJO7Brm.png) (http://imgur.com/szJO7Br)
Eventually, we confirm the area is clear, and move up on the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/24a4dgim.png) (http://imgur.com/24a4dgi)
Masanori Okabe and Tatsuo Akira have the best reactions, so they're the first in. Okabe spots a Floater on the left.
(http://i.imgur.com/BIwfOEdm.png) (http://imgur.com/BIwfOEd)
(http://i.imgur.com/findvAMm.png) (http://imgur.com/findvAM)
One down. We pull back momentarily and wait to move in again, hoping to fight the UFO's crew one at a time.
(http://i.imgur.com/IxjtMKjm.png) (http://imgur.com/IxjtMKj)
(http://i.imgur.com/jpBP6jbm.png) (http://imgur.com/jpBP6jb)
(http://i.imgur.com/IEJAMQnm.png) (http://imgur.com/IEJAMQn)
On the second run, we get another Floater in almost exactly the same spot. Okabe takes this one out too.
(http://i.imgur.com/EalPUAom.png) (http://imgur.com/EalPUAo)
(http://i.imgur.com/27WXI7Km.png) (http://imgur.com/27WXI7K)
Tatsuo Akira starts the third breach, but isn't able to get a good shot in at the Floater on his right. Again, Okabe gets the kill.
Results of Operation Mediterranean Sunrise:
Masanori Okabe: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Otto Krause: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Tatsuo Akira: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, promoted to Colonel
Jane Bailey: 1 kill, not promoted
Yasuaki Yamazaki: 0 kills, not promoted
Siegfried Steinbach: 0 kills, not promoted
Clarence Carr: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Unger: 0 kills, not promoted
Michael White: Killed in action
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/Ftfprkom.png) (http://imgur.com/Ftfprko)
This operation went reasonably well. We only lost one of our squad, and we managed to retrieve the UFO fully intact.
Leonid Romanov has been promoted to the rank of Commander, even though he's still wounded and hasn't been involved in combat for several weeks. McNeil, also in recovery, has been promoted to Captain. I have no idea who's assigning these promotions. Sharpe, who's actually been leading missions and doing things, probably deserved the spot more.
-
Nepotism in the ranks.
-
Oh, man. X-Com. This takes me back. Played the hell out of it when I was in middle school. Best of luck to you, TAC. I'll be rootin' for ya.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/nVzKDRgm.png) (http://imgur.com/nVzKDRg)
Leonid Romanov has recovered from his injuries and returned to active duty. I still question the merits of his promotion to Commander given his relative inexperience, but he shows a lot of potential.
(http://i.imgur.com/AFJx1iTm.png) (http://imgur.com/AFJx1iT)
We rotate the squad and equipment around on the Skyranger a bit. While we have room on the craft for up to 14 troops, past 10-12 it becomes extremely time-consuming to manage everybody's equipment.
(http://i.imgur.com/Kif8SdPm.png) (http://imgur.com/Kif8SdP)
We now have a second hangar ready at X-COM Two.
With a free hangar slot, some extra funds, and a few pieces of extra alien tech we aren't using and can sell for a quick cash infusion, we have a few options here.
-Purchase a new Skyranger. This will give us more long-range patrol capability, and let us deploy an additional squad if required. We can send a few of our veterans like Sergeants and possibly a Captain to X-COM Two to support this new squad.
-Purchase and arm a new Interceptor. This will let us launch more frequent medium-range patrols.
-Purchase a new HWP to provide recon and armor support to our squad.
-
Tatsuo Akira
I forsee horrible mutations and/or city-wide explosions.
Andrei Ragulin
This guy's name is derived from a swear word :V
Anyway, I'd vote for an HWP. Do pick up an Interceptor instead if you think you really could use more patrols, but splitting the main team of veterans doesn't seem to have a good point to it. (I've read up on the game a bit, and it seems the amount of people of each rank that you can have is limited.)
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Uhif0xum.png) (http://imgur.com/Uhif0xu)
(http://i.imgur.com/DIzxdeRm.png) (http://imgur.com/DIzxdeR)
Selling a bunch of extra alien weapons we can't use means we have enough money to get both a replacement interceptor and a new HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/c7cjwArm.png) (http://imgur.com/c7cjwAr)
(http://i.imgur.com/L4h6vhEm.png) (http://imgur.com/L4h6vhE)
We can also get a new hangar under construction at our second base.
(http://i.imgur.com/eLh2FxPm.png) (http://imgur.com/eLh2FxP)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ye76lq2m.png) (http://imgur.com/Ye76lq2)
(http://i.imgur.com/U3HjyDjm.png) (http://imgur.com/U3HjyDj)
Our radar picks up another UFO going towards Europe. It gets shot down over Sardinia.
(http://i.imgur.com/K1QCQGem.png) (http://imgur.com/K1QCQGe)
We commence Operation Italian Spring.
(http://i.imgur.com/SlQJfGGm.png) (http://imgur.com/SlQJfGG)
We start off fairly close to the crash site, which seems to be in fairly good condition as we arrive.
(http://i.imgur.com/YZg3qlsm.png) (http://imgur.com/YZg3qls)
We start moving out into cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/HuYSelXm.png) (http://imgur.com/HuYSelX)
A Sectoid wanders around through the field, but doesn't seem to have noticed us yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/i7FmDXkm.png) (http://imgur.com/i7FmDXk)
We advance forwards slowly, trying to get a good line of sight for when it comes back in our direction.
(http://i.imgur.com/32OAwgKm.png) (http://imgur.com/32OAwgK)
We see it again, but nobody has a good line of fire from the position under the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/xsq0MEim.png) (http://imgur.com/xsq0MEi)
(http://i.imgur.com/94g6VRnm.png) (http://imgur.com/94g6VRn)
We do however have a line of fire on an alien walking out of the UFO. Bailey shows off her incredible sniping ability.
(http://i.imgur.com/6M0QeWem.png) (http://imgur.com/6M0QeWe)
We spot two Sectoids in the field now. With nobody in cover able to get a line of fire, we make a risky move and have Michael Blake try and take some shots.
(http://i.imgur.com/CduHBTQm.png) (http://imgur.com/CduHBTQ)
Inevitably, the Sectoids begin counter fire. Somehow, despite getting hit twice, Blake is still standing.
(http://i.imgur.com/4uni5Qtm.png) (http://imgur.com/4uni5Qt)
Bailey moves up a little and gets one of the Sectoids, clearing a path for Blake to retreat.
(http://i.imgur.com/gQxjTmYm.png) (http://imgur.com/gQxjTmY)
Another Sectoid fires at Blake. Miraculously, even in his wounded state, even this third shot isn't enough to be lethal.
(http://i.imgur.com/1UtTOYkm.png) (http://imgur.com/1UtTOYk)
Another Sectoid pops out of the UFO and gets sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/jroSZzzm.png) (http://imgur.com/jroSZzz)
Yamazaki gets out a medkit and patches Blake up.
(http://i.imgur.com/xSml8rqm.png) (http://imgur.com/xSml8rq)
No longer bleeding, Blake pulls back and out of battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/oPIn4AHm.png) (http://imgur.com/oPIn4AH)
We see another Sectoid at the front of the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/MSd1tmCm.png) (http://imgur.com/MSd1tmC)
Romanov snipes it, finally doing something to justify his promotions.
(http://i.imgur.com/NJekSDRm.png) (http://imgur.com/NJekSDR)
(http://i.imgur.com/aAWBZZTm.png) (http://imgur.com/aAWBZZT)
(http://i.imgur.com/jOYeLK4m.png) (http://imgur.com/jOYeLK4)
Another Sectoid fires at us, hitting nothing before also getting shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/oydyVxjm.png) (http://imgur.com/oydyVxj)
Yamazaki tries breaching the UFO, spotting a single Sectoid. After a few missed shots, he pulls back and waits for backup.
(http://i.imgur.com/aWLe1W8m.png) (http://imgur.com/aWLe1W8)
Bailey sweeps the area outside, spotting an open door, which means someone's been here.
(http://i.imgur.com/7ZQuT9Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ZQuT9H)
(http://i.imgur.com/gSbhgjum.png) (http://imgur.com/gSbhgju)
She spots a single Sectoid in the doorway; her sniping ability is overkill at this close range.
(http://i.imgur.com/uKrdewGm.png) (http://imgur.com/uKrdewG)
We get ready to breach the ship with a larger team.
(http://i.imgur.com/RuFjYk9m.png) (http://imgur.com/RuFjYk9)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q0skX2Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q0skX2Q)
Okabe spots the Sectoid at close range. The rifle's a bit slower than the pistol in getting the desired result, but we're in.
(http://i.imgur.com/falMW99m.png) (http://imgur.com/falMW99)
We start moving the rest of the team in.
(http://i.imgur.com/fsJQnhgm.png) (http://imgur.com/fsJQnhg)
A Sectoid pops out on the right and tries firing a stun launcher at the team, which doesn't do anything. It promptly tries to run away, at which point Romanov shoots it.
Results of Operation Italian Spring
Leonid Romanov: 3 kills, cannot be further promoted
Jane Bailey: 3 kills, not promoted
Masanori Okabe: 1 kill, not promoted
Sarah Stewart: 0 kills, not promoted
Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, cannot be further promoted
Yasuaki Yamazaki: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Unger: 0 kills, not promoted
Andrei Ragulin: 0 kills, not promoted
Paul Reynolds: 0 kills, not promoted
Michael Blake: 0 kills, not promoted; wounded in action, will recover in 14 days
7 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation, and fuel recovered
This went well, all things considered.
-
Now that's what we wanna see. Dead Xenos, looted parts.
-
"When people back at the base saw all the plasma damage on Blake's armor, they could barely believe he could still walk on his own. They say it took hours for the medic team to take it off safely.
Behind his back, a new name started circulating. Deadliar. Something that came from a stupid rumor that he was actually long-dead and lying about still being alive."
-
(http://i.imgur.com/0rr7rsym.png) (http://imgur.com/0rr7rsy)
New nicknames to go around at the base. Blake gets ?Dead Liar? because nobody can believe he's still alive after 3 shots to the chest. Technically, his armor took two hits and he took one, but even after the medical reports people still aren't sure that he isn't some kind of undead wraith or something.
(http://i.imgur.com/RNh8fu5m.png) (http://imgur.com/RNh8fu5)
Okabe's earned the title ?Doorcrasher? for repeated successful breaches into hostile UFOs.
(http://i.imgur.com/dAPL3lim.png) (http://imgur.com/dAPL3li)
Bailey gets the name ?Holepunch? for her incredible sniping.
(http://i.imgur.com/ANnuNhKm.png) (http://imgur.com/ANnuNhK)
(http://i.imgur.com/XjXIKvnm.png) (http://imgur.com/XjXIKvn)
(http://i.imgur.com/UTGFfb2m.png) (http://imgur.com/UTGFfb2)
Our new HWP and interceptor arrive. We get the Interceptor armed up and ready for patrol; the HWP is assigned to the combat squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/m1hUIoRm.png) (http://imgur.com/m1hUIoR)
(http://i.imgur.com/B3FpGiOm.png) (http://imgur.com/B3FpGiO)
(http://i.imgur.com/wzCvZP8m.png) (http://imgur.com/wzCvZP8)
Engineering has completed the batch of armor that was assigned to them. We start work on some Medi-Kits to sell for extra funds.
(http://i.imgur.com/wzCvZP8m.png) (http://imgur.com/wzCvZP8)
(http://i.imgur.com/kiBYKhtm.png) (http://imgur.com/kiBYKht)
(http://i.imgur.com/OJsJGMXm.png) (http://imgur.com/OJsJGMX)
A UFO is spotted over Central Asia, moving west over the Atlantic. It is moving slowly and showing no sign of changing course, so rather than wait and risk losing the pursuit, we shoot it down over water.
(http://i.imgur.com/tQ7xd1wm.png) (http://imgur.com/tQ7xd1w)
(http://i.imgur.com/QYa69gbm.png) (http://imgur.com/QYa69gb)
(http://i.imgur.com/XihyIqSm.png) (http://imgur.com/XihyIqS)
(http://i.imgur.com/I6cBfV7m.png) (http://imgur.com/I6cBfV7)
We spot another contact moving east from the Atlantic towards Europe. It makes its way over the northern United Kingdom, at which point we shoot it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/6CfY9c7m.png) (http://imgur.com/6CfY9c7)
We deploy for Operation Atlantic Breeze.
(http://i.imgur.com/rKliHd9m.png) (http://imgur.com/rKliHd9)(http://i.imgur.com/WY5OM5dm.png) (http://imgur.com/WY5OM5d)
(http://i.imgur.com/2nNlj6ym.png) (http://imgur.com/2nNlj6y)
(http://i.imgur.com/1MCqNgYm.png) (http://imgur.com/1MCqNgY)
(http://i.imgur.com/5hY7pf6m.png) (http://imgur.com/5hY7pf6)
(http://i.imgur.com/jtcJVPRm.png) (http://imgur.com/jtcJVPR)
(http://i.imgur.com/j118W2im.png) (http://imgur.com/j118W2i)
(http://i.imgur.com/rCFc1mfm.png) (http://imgur.com/rCFc1mf)
(http://i.imgur.com/otPICx5m.png) (http://imgur.com/otPICx5)
(http://i.imgur.com/LKVK3w7m.png) (http://imgur.com/LKVK3w7)
We know more of our squad is capable of using heavy weapons, so we're assigning more of them to the squad. Sharpe keeps her autocannon, while Romanov gets the Heavy Cannon and Stewart is keeping a rocket launcher on reserve.
(http://i.imgur.com/AY8RDOUm.png) (http://imgur.com/AY8RDOU)
We send the HWP out to scout.
(http://i.imgur.com/0E6Xabom.png) (http://imgur.com/0E6Xabo)
Yamazaki keeps an eye on the other direction, using the landing gear for cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/WBtAbt6m.png) (http://imgur.com/WBtAbt6)
A hostile fires a few shots at the HWP, but we can't see it yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/bICwBj1m.png) (http://imgur.com/bICwBj1)
(http://i.imgur.com/lcmqqnmm.png) (http://imgur.com/lcmqqnm)
Moving up, we spot a Floater. Romanov says ?hello? with an AP round.
(http://i.imgur.com/GHT7pAnm.png) (http://imgur.com/GHT7pAn)
The coast looks clear, so we move the team up.
(http://i.imgur.com/TeCqImWm.png) (http://imgur.com/TeCqImW)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZKTyD8gm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZKTyD8g)
(http://i.imgur.com/mDjbSjnm.png) (http://imgur.com/mDjbSjn)
(http://i.imgur.com/hgfuQKPm.png) (http://imgur.com/hgfuQKP)
However, we come under fire from a nearby building. Yamazaki gets hit; Stewart fires back with her laser rifle, getting the Floater that fired on us... but another Floater is on the upper floor of the building, and gets her too.
(http://i.imgur.com/jBjNS4Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/jBjNS4H)
We have the HWP start firing on the building.
(http://i.imgur.com/dENCxcCm.png) (http://imgur.com/dENCxcC)
It hits the building, but isn't able to get the second floor wall out of the way.
(http://i.imgur.com/htwazYbm.png) (http://imgur.com/htwazYb)
(http://i.imgur.com/gaDI023m.png) (http://imgur.com/gaDI023)
Another shot goes through a second-floor window and winds up hitting the ceiling.
(http://i.imgur.com/Sbcmkj7m.png) (http://imgur.com/Sbcmkj7)
(http://i.imgur.com/uYPL4DVm.png) (http://imgur.com/uYPL4DV)
Another Floater starts moving up on us, but Bailey takes care of that quickly.
(http://i.imgur.com/E9P5tVXm.png) (http://imgur.com/E9P5tVX)
(http://i.imgur.com/efkipfkm.png) (http://imgur.com/efkipfk)
(http://i.imgur.com/xbkwbkRm.png) (http://imgur.com/xbkwbkR)
We finally get the wall blown open, letting Bailey take out the Floater in the building.
(http://i.imgur.com/XTmYIZYm.png) (http://imgur.com/XTmYIZY)
With all that taken care of, we start advancing towards the crash site.
(http://i.imgur.com/GQShJYEm.png) (http://imgur.com/GQShJYE)
The HWP gets rid of some fences and walls that are blocking our way.
(http://i.imgur.com/rVdNyxMm.png) (http://imgur.com/rVdNyxM)
(http://i.imgur.com/X881jp5m.png) (http://imgur.com/X881jp5)
(http://i.imgur.com/wusuK5Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/wusuK5N)
We spot a Floater around the edge of the UFO. Bailey gets this one too.
(http://i.imgur.com/vTnpbzum.png) (http://imgur.com/vTnpbzu)
We spot another Floater just next to the previous one. We let some of the rookies take a shot at it from a safe distance, but not even Bailey can manage to hit the damn thing.
(http://i.imgur.com/5AS5sq4m.png) (http://imgur.com/5AS5sq4)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZmXx1ekm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZmXx1ek)
Eventually, after enough shots, one of them's bound to kill something, and Unger's the one who manages to land the hit.
Results of Operation Atlantic Breeze:
Cmdr. Leonid Romanov: 1 kill, cannot be promoted further
Col. Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, cannot be promoted further
Christel Unger: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 3 kills, promoted to Captain
Mark Crossett: 0 kills, not promoted:
Masanori ?Doorcrasher? Okabe: 0 kills, not promoted
Andrei Ragulin: 0 kills, not promoted
Paul Reynolds: 0 kills, not promoted
Cpt. Sarah Stewart: 1 kill, killed in action
Yatsuaki Yamazaki: Killed in action
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
-
Holepunch punches some holes, alright
-
Are you playing it on DOSbox or would the old CD-ROM version work if you ran it in compatibility mode for Win95 or something? Just wondering. I almost feel like playing this again.
-
Are you playing it on DOSbox or would the old CD-ROM version work if you ran it in compatibility mode for Win95 or something? Just wondering. I almost feel like playing this again.
I'm using the Steam version which comes with both the DOS version running in DOSBox and the Win9X version, I'm running the former. I'm not sure how well the Win9X version would work on modern systems; my previous experience with it was that it runs way too fast on anything faster than about a Pentium II. You might want to try a virtual machine or something.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/4tevNdmm.png) (http://imgur.com/4tevNdm)
Our second research lab and the Hyper-Wave Decoder will be done very soon, vastly expanding our capabilities. With lots of extra funds from selling surplus alien and X-COM technology, we're doing very well right now.
(http://i.imgur.com/FOyiqixm.png) (http://imgur.com/FOyiqix)
X-COM Two gets some extra equipment to deal with any potential incursions into the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/j62OaJ6m.png) (http://imgur.com/j62OaJ6)
We rotate the squad around on the Skyranger to replace our losses.
(http://i.imgur.com/IJCUZaEm.png) (http://imgur.com/IJCUZaE)
Radar finds a new UFO over the Atlantic, heading west.
(http://i.imgur.com/1SLPJXym.png) (http://imgur.com/1SLPJXy)
Interceptors are in pursuit.
(http://i.imgur.com/ia6AgS8m.png) (http://imgur.com/ia6AgS8)
(http://i.imgur.com/fvULnKym.png) (http://imgur.com/fvULnKy)
(http://i.imgur.com/9d8Eqehm.png) (http://imgur.com/9d8Eqeh)
We briefly lose contact, but find it again over the southwestern United States. It's shot down over the desert.
(http://i.imgur.com/F8o1EQlm.png) (http://imgur.com/F8o1EQl)
We send the Skyranger at dawn, landing for Operation Mojave Salt.
(http://i.imgur.com/1mGaWzym.png) (http://imgur.com/1mGaWzy)
(http://i.imgur.com/QlJDtbQm.png) (http://imgur.com/QlJDtbQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/KjmmHlKm.png) (http://imgur.com/KjmmHlK)
(http://i.imgur.com/8LtocoMm.png) (http://imgur.com/8LtocoM)
(http://i.imgur.com/68495aym.png) (http://imgur.com/68495ay)
(http://i.imgur.com/01v3MoSm.png) (http://imgur.com/01v3MoS)
(http://i.imgur.com/9b6j06Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/9b6j06N)
(http://i.imgur.com/QxSHDjgm.png) (http://imgur.com/QxSHDjg)
(http://i.imgur.com/bvb5Fzem.png) (http://imgur.com/bvb5Fze)
(http://i.imgur.com/uaZKVmJm.png) (http://imgur.com/uaZKVmJ)
Commander Romanov gets a heavy cannon with AP rounds, Sharpe gets the auto-cannon with HE rounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/AfmqW7rm.png) (http://imgur.com/AfmqW7r)
Right off the bat we're next to the crash site. It's in bad shape; if we recover anything at all it'll be surprising.
(http://i.imgur.com/b1TbbLpm.png) (http://imgur.com/b1TbbLp)
We spot an alien, not like any of the ones we've encountered before. The terrain here in the desert is very different from the usual farm fields we've fought in. There are very few obstructions, and the terrain is open, with the only cover being the occasional dune.
(http://i.imgur.com/zJmU4fKm.png) (http://imgur.com/zJmU4fK)
(http://i.imgur.com/2eV68cFm.png) (http://imgur.com/2eV68cF)
The HWP opens fire and gets a direct hit... but the alien is somehow still standing from the blast.
(http://i.imgur.com/7Y8zZSXm.png) (http://imgur.com/7Y8zZSX)
Even multiple hits from AP rounds can't bring the enemy down.
(http://i.imgur.com/v8f2mNlm.png) (http://imgur.com/v8f2mNl)
It's finally the blast from a second HWP rocket that finally does the job.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ht4tHW0m.png) (http://imgur.com/Ht4tHW0)
An alien throws a grenade in our direction, but misses.
(http://i.imgur.com/XZlLJR6m.png) (http://imgur.com/XZlLJR6)
We spot another of the new alien species some distance away.
(http://i.imgur.com/gZFL23pm.png) (http://imgur.com/gZFL23p)
(http://i.imgur.com/94ZdiXRm.png) (http://imgur.com/94ZdiXR)
Another rocket hit, another hostile still standing.
(http://i.imgur.com/cOo6NIQm.png) (http://imgur.com/cOo6NIQ)
It fires on the HWP, but the squad itself is beyond the enemy's sight range.
(http://i.imgur.com/TBwbi3am.png) (http://imgur.com/TBwbi3a)
(http://i.imgur.com/xhlNdhbm.png) (http://imgur.com/xhlNdhb)
A few shots from Bailey manage to get it.
(http://i.imgur.com/VLPmmd9m.png) (http://imgur.com/VLPmmd9)
Another alien emerges from nearby.
(http://i.imgur.com/EVHyeEOm.png) (http://imgur.com/EVHyeEO)
We spot a second alien behind a sand dune.
(http://i.imgur.com/fiTztmxm.png) (http://imgur.com/fiTztmx)
(http://i.imgur.com/XSSZc27m.png) (http://imgur.com/XSSZc27)
Bailey's laser shots don't do enough to stop this one.
(http://i.imgur.com/rkiDknim.png) (http://imgur.com/rkiDkni)
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNM42Um.png) (http://imgur.com/FwNM42U)
Even the Heavy Cannon isn't working.
(http://i.imgur.com/NI1PkW0m.png) (http://imgur.com/NI1PkW0)
(http://i.imgur.com/n7pTX8Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/n7pTX8W)
The HWP outright misses.
(http://i.imgur.com/OP9Z7Alm.png) (http://imgur.com/OP9Z7Al)
(http://i.imgur.com/UOCk4B9m.png) (http://imgur.com/UOCk4B9)
HE rounds don't have much more success.
(http://i.imgur.com/glRqFo0m.png) (http://imgur.com/glRqFo0)
Eventually, bringing one of the rookies and some additional shots in finally finishes the job.
(http://i.imgur.com/0WX3Gzhm.png) (http://imgur.com/0WX3Gzh)
Checking the UFO wreck, we find no survivors inside.
(http://i.imgur.com/PAdhhRcm.png) (http://imgur.com/PAdhhRc)
Another alien tries to make its way behind a sand dune.
(http://i.imgur.com/mwiSaZ9m.png) (http://imgur.com/mwiSaZ9)
(http://i.imgur.com/fHvD7oAm.png) (http://imgur.com/fHvD7oA)
Attempts to shoot it don't go well. In the process, Bailey accidentally hits the already-damaged HWP with a stray laser, puncturing the armor and rendering it inoperable.
(http://i.imgur.com/qrHEN5Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/qrHEN5X)
Steinbach manages to get this one too with enough persistence and enough laser fire.
Results of Operation Mojave Salt:
Siegfried Steinbach: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 1 kill, not promoted
Col. Andrea Sharpe: 0 kills, can not be promoted further
Cmdr. Romanov: 0 kills, cannot be promoted any further
Masanori ?Doorcrasher? Okabe: 0 kills, not promoted
Mark Crossett: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Krause: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Unger: 0 kills, not promoted
Tatsuo Akira: 0 kills, not promoted
Andrei Ragulin: 0 kills, not promoted
HWP: 1 kill, destroyed by friendly fire
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull fragments recovered
We're using the name ?Muton? to refer to these new aliens. We're dealing with something far beyond what we've encountered before; the endurance of these creatures is far beyond anything we've seen before. It might be prudent to re-allocate our scientists and put more effort into our weapons research programs.
-
Uh. Well then.
Yeah we need bigger guns.
-
Maybe Bailey would have got a promotion if she didn't shot the HWP. :P
-
We are not replacing the HWP. While we can easily afford to right now, their usefulness on the battlefield is obviously starting to come to an end.
(http://i.imgur.com/ja04YJsm.png) (http://imgur.com/ja04YJs)
(http://i.imgur.com/vfRULtom.png) (http://imgur.com/vfRULto)
(http://i.imgur.com/1lZefRmm.png) (http://imgur.com/1lZefRm)
(http://i.imgur.com/LfKkAiJm.png) (http://imgur.com/LfKkAiJ)
With the need to improve our weapons becoming immediate, we pull some scientists off the UFO reverse-engineering to work on studying the alien weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/CmSDro9m.png) (http://imgur.com/CmSDro9)
Our Hyper-Wave Decoder is completed. We can now tap into the communications of any alien craft that passes by our European base.
(http://i.imgur.com/qVRvrX2m.png) (http://imgur.com/qVRvrX2)
With our new lab coming online in a few days, we start hiring some new scientists. They should arrive at the moment the new facility is ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/AHJkp5om.png) (http://imgur.com/AHJkp5o)
We also hire some more engineers.
(http://i.imgur.com/H3ksS3Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/H3ksS3N)
Radar coverage is expanded at our second base. Once we get additional funds, we should look into constructing a decoder there as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/NC6NsAHm.png) (http://imgur.com/NC6NsAH)
(http://i.imgur.com/aymOCKjm.png) (http://imgur.com/aymOCKj)
The new staff arrive just as the new laboratory is completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/1a2VSJWm.png) (http://imgur.com/1a2VSJW)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZpHrd3Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZpHrd3J)
(http://i.imgur.com/QnLYwRvm.png) (http://imgur.com/QnLYwRv)
(http://i.imgur.com/9EJWSFvm.png) (http://imgur.com/9EJWSFv)
(http://i.imgur.com/j67LmKum.png) (http://imgur.com/j67LmKu)
(http://i.imgur.com/u4rvNlim.png) (http://imgur.com/u4rvNli)
(http://i.imgur.com/SBjRAOvm.png) (http://imgur.com/SBjRAOv)
We increase our research efforts across the board.\
(http://i.imgur.com/9VSQOmlm.png) (http://imgur.com/9VSQOml)
Our hyper-wave decoder detects its first UFO, and it doesn't look good. It's a very large ship moving at a very high rate of speed. We don't know what the nature of the ?retaliation? is, but it's coming in our direction.
(http://i.imgur.com/Rm4umfem.png) (http://imgur.com/Rm4umfe)
We pull the Skyranger back from its patrol, having the squad on board fall back to base.
(http://i.imgur.com/SEsnskHm.png) (http://imgur.com/SEsnskH)
(http://i.imgur.com/jcMSYbvm.png) (http://imgur.com/jcMSYbv)
(http://i.imgur.com/3aE6Idzm.png) (http://imgur.com/3aE6Idz)
(http://i.imgur.com/FRaKtHNm.png) (http://imgur.com/FRaKtHN)
We try and intercept, but this ship is nothing like what we've engaged before. We have to break off contact because we have no way to effectively damage it, and one of our own interceptors is hit in the process. It fortunately manages to return to base, but it'll be unusable for a while until we get it repaired.
(http://i.imgur.com/pLmaM93m.png) (http://imgur.com/pLmaM93)
The ship flies closer and closer to our base, circling in the vicinity like it's searching for us. However, it doesn't seem to find what it's looking for, and eventually just flies off.
(http://i.imgur.com/G6bshKDm.png) (http://imgur.com/G6bshKD)
(http://i.imgur.com/exVoOsIm.png) (http://imgur.com/exVoOsI)
After that dangerously close call, we make it to the end of the month with no other incidents. The council of backing nations is very pleased with out improved performance, and we get increased funding across the board; very good, considering all of our new staff and facilities are greatly adding to our costs.
Tomorrow: the alien you've all been waiting for!
-
"They're coming to stomp us. Turn off the lights and try to breath quietly.
Johnson that means you can't play MMOs right now! Turn it off!"
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Bb6QX4Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/Bb6QX4Y)
(http://i.imgur.com/AtOX4JCm.png) (http://imgur.com/AtOX4JC)
The scientists studying ?Elerium? have finished their analysis. According to their conclusions, an element with this level of complexity in its structure should not be able to exist in this universe. The fact that the aliens can utilize a substance like this in a stable form is likely part of why their technology is so advanced; obtaining it will be crucial to our efforts to combat the invasion.
(http://i.imgur.com/IJ56muom.png) (http://imgur.com/IJ56muo)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gmk98Epm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gmk98Ep)
(http://i.imgur.com/Eg1TTbbm.png) (http://imgur.com/Eg1TTbb)
(http://i.imgur.com/TFHgW6um.png) (http://imgur.com/TFHgW6u)
(http://i.imgur.com/rzMGhmJm.png) (http://imgur.com/rzMGhmJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/rzMGhmJm.png) (http://imgur.com/rzMGhmJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/YYYuAZSm.png) (http://imgur.com/YYYuAZS)
The scientists are put to other projects.
(http://i.imgur.com/uVZFvJNm.png) (http://imgur.com/uVZFvJN)
Another massive ship comes near our base and scouts around, leaving without finding us.
(http://i.imgur.com/IDrpoxQm.png) (http://imgur.com/IDrpoxQ)
We spot something else concerning, though: a Snakeman ship intending to target a city.
(http://i.imgur.com/Dx1XFWDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Dx1XFWD)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cty6u45m.png) (http://imgur.com/Cty6u45)
The first interceptor sent at it runs out of missiles before taking it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/jtju4Aqm.png) (http://imgur.com/jtju4Aq)
(http://i.imgur.com/7KQKM2bm.png) (http://imgur.com/7KQKM2b)
(http://i.imgur.com/Qo2LqA7m.png) (http://imgur.com/Qo2LqA7)
The repaired and ready Interceptor-2 shoots the craft down over northern Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/NhR0DDhm.png) (http://imgur.com/NhR0DDh)
(http://i.imgur.com/eM8KC7Am.png) (http://imgur.com/eM8KC7A)
(http://i.imgur.com/So0lfuhm.png) (http://imgur.com/So0lfuh)
(http://i.imgur.com/PM1gVeym.png) (http://imgur.com/PM1gVey)
(http://i.imgur.com/DUh2bGhm.png) (http://imgur.com/DUh2bGh)
(http://i.imgur.com/d7fesxym.png) (http://imgur.com/d7fesxy)
We get geared up and ready for Operation Baltic Mongoose.
(http://i.imgur.com/EiKjLLjm.png) (http://imgur.com/EiKjLLj)
We are landed very close to the crash site.
(http://i.imgur.com/54MaguQm.png) (http://imgur.com/54MaguQ)
Right off the bat we encounter something new. We can only assume these are the assault troops that the Snakemen use in terror operations. They don't appear to be armed, but given that the Floater's troops are capable of melee combat we can't be too cautious here.
(http://i.imgur.com/65S4Nmam.png) (http://imgur.com/65S4Nma)
After a few shots from Sharpe's auto-cannon, we see a second one.
(http://i.imgur.com/w1OBWpLm.png) (http://imgur.com/w1OBWpL)
Even a direct shot from an HE round isn't enough to kill one.
(http://i.imgur.com/4seeHXxm.png) (http://imgur.com/4seeHXx)
(http://i.imgur.com/yPJKRm6m.png) (http://imgur.com/yPJKRm6)
Crossett provides some supporting fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/fubdHaem.png) (http://imgur.com/fubdHae)
We get one of the two hostiles, and another one shows up to the so-called party.
(http://i.imgur.com/1UDDDp2m.png) (http://imgur.com/1UDDDp2)
(http://i.imgur.com/dErzIECm.png) (http://imgur.com/dErzIEC)
We get Bailey up to the exit door because she can actually hit worth a damn. She gets the second of at least three.
(http://i.imgur.com/1UDDDp2m.png) (http://imgur.com/1UDDDp2)
The third seems to have run away for now. Please don't let there be any-
(http://i.imgur.com/OsELs2lm.png) (http://imgur.com/OsELs2l)
-more. Fortunately, it doesn't seem to be able to climb up onto the ramp, if it even shows any interest in approaching. Unfortunately, it's out of our narrow field of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/pt6EW9mm.png) (http://imgur.com/pt6EW9m)
The one were were trying to attack before comes back into sight, but combined fire from Bailey and Crossett isn't enough to take it down yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/VOAApHkm.png) (http://imgur.com/VOAApHk)
(http://i.imgur.com/V0VEtQAm.png) (http://imgur.com/V0VEtQA)
A Snakeman slithers past on the other side of our peripheral vision, while the other unknown alien runs around seemingly without purpose.
(http://i.imgur.com/6AUAlBbm.png) (http://imgur.com/6AUAlBb)
(http://i.imgur.com/G90hyTAm.png) (http://imgur.com/G90hyTA)
(http://i.imgur.com/BZFxYLkm.png) (http://imgur.com/BZFxYLk)
(http://i.imgur.com/ufiGqL6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ufiGqL6)
Stepping forward, Crossett exchanges some fire with the Snakeman, taking it out but incurring some wounds in the process.
(http://i.imgur.com/OmPubfHm.png) (http://imgur.com/OmPubfH)
(http://i.imgur.com/fFraN7sm.png) (http://imgur.com/fFraN7s)
Okabe gets a medikit out and patches Crossett up.
(http://i.imgur.com/mSeDfium.png) (http://imgur.com/mSeDfiu)
(http://i.imgur.com/qQ29gUWm.png) (http://imgur.com/qQ29gUW)
(http://i.imgur.com/lwOYEUmm.png) (http://imgur.com/lwOYEUm)
(http://i.imgur.com/UPCyrW3m.png) (http://imgur.com/UPCyrW3)
Another Snakeman comes into view from some hedges we've blasted a hole in. Our initial attempts to snipe it fail, but Crossett's rapid fire proves to be reliable.
(http://i.imgur.com/5nVP7oOm.png) (http://imgur.com/5nVP7oO)
We see another of those unknown hostiles in a field some distance away.
(http://i.imgur.com/1eNx1pbm.png) (http://imgur.com/1eNx1pb)
How many more of these are there?
(http://i.imgur.com/AnCTsuEm.png) (http://imgur.com/AnCTsuE)
Less composed tacticians would probably be reduced to frothing and spittle at this point. However, we are still mostly in control of the situation, although with all these enemies roaming around we're going to be on the defensive for a bit yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/UjdQr4Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/UjdQr4Z)
The initial plan of ?send someone a short ways down the ramp and shoot at them? doesn't work as well as anticipated, and we pull Crossett back.
(http://i.imgur.com/D2Z6AEEm.png) (http://imgur.com/D2Z6AEE)
Bailey doesn't do much better.
(http://i.imgur.com/9nt9STOm.png) (http://imgur.com/9nt9STO)
(http://i.imgur.com/vrzqOhhm.png) (http://imgur.com/vrzqOhh)
Another Snakeman decides it wants to get involved in this battle, while the other hostiles continue attempting to threaten our advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/kC3VfN4m.png) (http://imgur.com/kC3VfN4)
(http://i.imgur.com/RrRKJS4m.png) (http://imgur.com/RrRKJS4)
Bailey gets rid of the first problem, although the second's going to take some work.
(http://i.imgur.com/vBVbegYm.png) (http://imgur.com/vBVbegY)
(http://i.imgur.com/xgHY57hm.png) (http://imgur.com/xgHY57h)
Eventually we get impatient with their wandering around and start resorting to the next plan: explosives. We throw a proximity mine near the bottom of the ramp where the aliens are wandering.
(http://i.imgur.com/408Vxjnm.png) (http://imgur.com/408Vxjn)
(http://i.imgur.com/bnQhXQym.png) (http://imgur.com/bnQhXQy)
(http://i.imgur.com/4t34p0zm.png) (http://imgur.com/4t34p0z)
We then follow up by tossing some high explosives off the side.
(http://i.imgur.com/9BwXYjJm.png) (http://imgur.com/9BwXYjJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/dDxC8zxm.png) (http://imgur.com/dDxC8zx)
The one wandering around near the field eventually has enough of being shot at and finally falls.
(http://i.imgur.com/weMwjomm.png) (http://imgur.com/weMwjom)
The explosives go off, and we hear some alien screaming, which means it probably worked.
(http://i.imgur.com/CBlVZ1xm.png) (http://imgur.com/CBlVZ1x)
(http://i.imgur.com/O5GvSMZm.png) (http://imgur.com/O5GvSMZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/kQ4X8Gfm.png) (http://imgur.com/kQ4X8Gf)
A Snakeman apparently wasn't the one screaming, so Crossett has to go deal with some more nonsense. He's doing fairly well for a rookie with no prior combat experience.
(http://i.imgur.com/Icym7Afm.png) (http://imgur.com/Icym7Af)
It's finally clear for us to get out of the Skyranger and onto the ground.
(http://i.imgur.com/qhNp2jKm.png) (http://imgur.com/qhNp2jK)
Bailey takes a position near one of the doors to the ship in case anything else is coming.
(http://i.imgur.com/lLS5HHFm.png) (http://imgur.com/lLS5HHF)
Okabe prepares for a breach.
(http://i.imgur.com/85FwBmMm.png) (http://imgur.com/85FwBmM)
The rest of the squad gets ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/uu6wmX2m.png) (http://imgur.com/uu6wmX2)
(http://i.imgur.com/7tH4lcnm.png) (http://imgur.com/7tH4lcn)
An initial look into the ship shows things to be mostly clear, but again, we can't be too careful. We pull Okabe back and wait for more backup.
(http://i.imgur.com/BWVkPKJm.png) (http://imgur.com/BWVkPKJ)
Some of the rest of the squad sweeps through the fields, looking for hostiles we might have missed.
(http://i.imgur.com/bPATudbm.png) (http://imgur.com/bPATudb)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ox6Ldjmm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ox6Ldjm)
(http://i.imgur.com/ALRhtFFm.png) (http://imgur.com/ALRhtFF)
We spot a single Snakeman, but we have things under control and quite a few of the squad in cover and ready to open fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/d2CDEYZm.png) (http://imgur.com/d2CDEYZ)
Right when we get the Snakeman, another of those unidentified aliens comes at us.
(http://i.imgur.com/6W1UvyUm.png) (http://imgur.com/6W1UvyU)
And we spot two hostiles just past the entrance to the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Yi6NoW3m.png) (http://imgur.com/Yi6NoW3)
A burst from Okabe gets one, and Bailey gets the other.
(http://i.imgur.com/KXZT13Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/KXZT13C)
(http://i.imgur.com/wL762izm.png) (http://imgur.com/wL762iz)
(http://i.imgur.com/snQNgd8m.png) (http://imgur.com/snQNgd8)
The other hostile rushes towards the squad outside. It's faster than we anticipated; Crossett nearly gets caught in the blast of an HE round from Sharpe before gunning it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/oGtqS80m.png) (http://imgur.com/oGtqS80)
(http://i.imgur.com/n5eBxF4m.png) (http://imgur.com/n5eBxF4)
With the entryway to the ship clear, we consider moving to clear the other side as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/CG82B2Um.png) (http://imgur.com/CG82B2U)
Other parts of the team move to take the entrance we've already secured.
(http://i.imgur.com/3qXn5pom.png) (http://imgur.com/3qXn5po)
We hear gunfire from higher up in the ship; the massive enemy casualties have demoralized one of the crew, who has panicked and started firing randomly.
(http://i.imgur.com/iiVfKdPm.png) (http://imgur.com/iiVfKdP)
(http://i.imgur.com/q35GB4Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/q35GB4M)
The alien Crossett just shot wasn't as dead as we hoped, and has got up and started coming after him. He doesn't have enough time to get away, and he's...
(http://i.imgur.com/CqFyrP1m.png) (http://imgur.com/CqFyrP1)
...what?
(http://i.imgur.com/qmOXAArm.png) (http://imgur.com/qmOXAAr)
(http://i.imgur.com/DNjgL7Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/DNjgL7X)
Sharpe blows away the assailant with more HE rounds, but now we have to deal with... whatever Crossett's been turned into.
(http://i.imgur.com/6zWrdFsm.png) (http://imgur.com/6zWrdFs)
(http://i.imgur.com/FmHkccAm.png) (http://imgur.com/FmHkccA)
Steinbach, who's almost right next to him, is forced to pull back before the squad opens fire on what's left of Crossett...
(http://i.imgur.com/upKt4cZm.png) (http://imgur.com/upKt4cZ)
...what? Another of those things just hatched from Mark Crossett's corpse.
(http://i.imgur.com/AMWwRIpm.png) (http://imgur.com/AMWwRIp)
(http://i.imgur.com/cS8eCUxm.png) (http://imgur.com/cS8eCUx)
We unleash everything we have on this new target.
(http://i.imgur.com/pVof2CHm.png) (http://imgur.com/pVof2CH)
(http://i.imgur.com/LQNDBdNm.png) (http://imgur.com/LQNDBdN)
(http://i.imgur.com/w4IuZe3m.png) (http://imgur.com/w4IuZe3)
And this time we're making sure that it's DEAD this time.
(http://i.imgur.com/rZcTruXm.png) (http://imgur.com/rZcTruX)
We push into the other side of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Si7e5zUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Si7e5zU)
With squad members at both sides, it's time to push in.
(http://i.imgur.com/mfP2ozum.png) (http://imgur.com/mfP2ozu)
Sharpe makes her way in as well, switching to the pistol for close-range indoor combat.
(http://i.imgur.com/PHhL1Epm.png) (http://imgur.com/PHhL1Ep)
We spot a Snakeman through a hole in the upper level; it appears to be the one that panicked earlier, and by this point it has dropped its weapon out of fear.
(http://i.imgur.com/cpXhc6bm.png) (http://imgur.com/cpXhc6b)
We are cleared to make our way up to the second level. The engines are gone, as well as whoever was working on them.
(http://i.imgur.com/0cgJZPtm.png) (http://imgur.com/0cgJZPt)
(http://i.imgur.com/VQs3vyAm.png) (http://imgur.com/VQs3vyA)
Okabe's first to go up, with Tatsuo in tow. We prepare to breach the second level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/gVYgHWpm.png) (http://imgur.com/gVYgHWp)
Surprisingly, we encounter little resistance.
(http://i.imgur.com/4bVfTW5m.png) (http://imgur.com/4bVfTW5)
Bailey and Sharpe fire at the Snakeman through the hole in the floor.
(http://i.imgur.com/S51C7Izm.png) (http://imgur.com/S51C7Iz)
The cockpit is empty; that one Snakeman we encountered was apparently the only one up here.
(http://i.imgur.com/S51C7Izm.png) (http://imgur.com/S51C7Iz)
During the sweep outside, we find another unarmed, demoralized alien. Before another squad member can catch up with a stun rod, Unger fires on the Snakeman through the window.
Results of Operation Baltic Mongoose:
Col. Andrea Sharpe: 1 kill, can not be promoted further
Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 6 kills, not promoted
Masunori ?Doorcrasher? Okabe: 2 kills, not promoted
Tatsuo Akira: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Unger: 1 kill, not promoted
Cmdr. Leonid Romanov: 0 kills, can not be promoted further
Otto Krause: 0 kills, not promoted
Siegfried Steinbach: 0 kills, not promoted
Andrei Ragulin: 0 kills, not promoted
Mark Crossett: 8 kills, killed in action
17 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, and entertainment devices recovered
The new alien we have encountered is being referred to as the ?Chryssalid?. It is a parasitic lifeform that reproduces by killing and ?puppeting? other life to use as a host for its larva. We understand little about the larval growth, but we do know that the Chryssalid is an extreme threat. It was fortunate we prevented this ship from reaching a civilian population; there's no telling what would have happened in that case.
-
Say "hi" to your new nightmare...
-
It's outrageous how much damage those things can take. We're getting to the point where we actually need that plasma!
-
Godspeed, Mr. Crossett.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/sawljSmm.png) (http://imgur.com/sawljSm)
(http://i.imgur.com/kE3n00Im.png) (http://imgur.com/kE3n00I)
We're approaching our limits on living space and workshop capacity at our main base, so using the funds we got from the recent terror ship raid's surplus is getting put towards expansion.
(http://i.imgur.com/67JBOhVm.png) (http://imgur.com/67JBOhV)
We're also hiring additional staff.
(http://i.imgur.com/HaoFUZAm.png) (http://imgur.com/HaoFUZA)
(http://i.imgur.com/BDKtPe9m.png) (http://imgur.com/BDKtPe9)
(http://i.imgur.com/KcgOz9Im.png) (http://imgur.com/KcgOz9I)
The research division has figured out the UFO navigation systems. This leaves just the reactor for reverse-engineering UFO components. We can build our own navigation systems, but given how often we recover them, this would be completely unnecessary.
(http://i.imgur.com/aMC5i3Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/aMC5i3T)
(http://i.imgur.com/n75AyYlm.png) (http://imgur.com/n75AyYl)
(http://i.imgur.com/5dtrBX3m.png) (http://imgur.com/5dtrBX3)
(http://i.imgur.com/0jTcucCm.png) (http://imgur.com/0jTcucC)
(http://i.imgur.com/6T05cwLm.png) (http://imgur.com/6T05cwL)
With staff freed up, we put more effort into our current projects.
(http://i.imgur.com/lvqJrLjm.png) (http://imgur.com/lvqJrLj)
The third hangar at our secondary base is completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/urMxUAem.png) (http://imgur.com/urMxUAe)
(http://i.imgur.com/2RIQF6Am.png) (http://imgur.com/2RIQF6A)
Our new personnel arrive. Morita's rotated into the squad...
(http://i.imgur.com/mEeAoDOm.png) (http://imgur.com/mEeAoDO)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wmcc4a6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Wmcc4a6)
...while the scientists are assigned to weapon analysis.
(http://i.imgur.com/X5ksFOIm.png) (http://imgur.com/X5ksFOI)
(http://i.imgur.com/0gfePium.png) (http://imgur.com/0gfePiu)
The decoder picks up a scout craft heading in our direction. We aren't able to catch up to it, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/6XIXulhm.png) (http://imgur.com/6XIXulh)
Until a need for new weapons or armor arises or we have a new project to develop, Engineering's just going to be developing Medi-Kits for sale to various agencies.
(http://i.imgur.com/b07zuEzm.png) (http://imgur.com/b07zuEz)
(http://i.imgur.com/TLE3LYCm.png) (http://imgur.com/TLE3LYC)
(http://i.imgur.com/kkHL9eYm.png) (http://imgur.com/kkHL9eY)
Eventually, the team studying the alien weapons gets some results. Their weapons are particle-based, using the properties of Elerium to propel an energy charge. We still need to figure out the ammunition system before we can use or construct our own, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/YkB7aTdm.png) (http://imgur.com/YkB7aTd)
(http://i.imgur.com/5ST49S2m.png) (http://imgur.com/5ST49S2)
(http://i.imgur.com/edxjQ4wm.png) (http://imgur.com/edxjQ4w)
We put some more scientists on studying that ammunition system, and also look at the alien pistol.
(http://i.imgur.com/AKdzw8Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/AKdzw8L)
A patrolling interceptor in Africa detects a small contact...
(http://i.imgur.com/rQA943gm.png) (http://imgur.com/rQA943g)
...and the decoder detects another scout on an infiltration mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/G5yun6lm.png) (http://imgur.com/G5yun6l)
Interceptor-2 keeps an eye on the small craft, which appears to have landed in central Africa for an unknown operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/7LXlsjhm.png) (http://imgur.com/7LXlsjh)
The larger ship is detected in North America by the Skyranger on its tail, and it's slowed down significantly.
(http://i.imgur.com/hVFzHeDm.png) (http://imgur.com/hVFzHeD)
(http://i.imgur.com/yomh4rQm.png) (http://imgur.com/yomh4rQ)
We shoot it down in the midwestern United States.
Our Skyranger is in the vicinity and ready to deploy if we wish to. However, we must decide if this is an operation we want to undertake. We know from the decoder transmissions that Mutons are on board, and as this is a larger ship than the previous time we encountered them, we are likely to encounter a greater force. Our weapons may not be sufficient for a prolonged battle with them. This craft's mission has been disrupted for now; any further engagement with them is purely at our discretion.
-
I don't think we need the stuff? I mean, so far every UFO we've blown up has been junked. No need to get shot by mutton heads while we desperately look for better guns.
-
We can check out the smaller craft while it's still landed.
-
The option of going after the smaller UFO was considered, but the Interceptor that was watching it had to turn back due to low fuel and we have lost radar contact. The Skyranger goes to patrol the area we last saw it just in case, but nothing turns up. Until our weapon technology improves, we are not fighting Mutons except when we have no other choice.
(http://i.imgur.com/M0MrhsEm.png) (http://imgur.com/M0MrhsE)
Fortunately, we're making some progress in that regard.
(http://i.imgur.com/YyZNfXAm.png) (http://imgur.com/YyZNfXA)
We've managed to figure out the large plasma weapons used by the aliens. ?Heavy? is likely a misnomer here; while the weapon has the size and bulk of a cannon or rocket launcher, the actual weight is comparable to a rifle.
(http://i.imgur.com/0FKJCDbm.png) (http://imgur.com/0FKJCDb)
While we still need to figure out the ammunition system for the weapon, as soon as we do so, we will be equal in firepower to the alien forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/YJXdWthm.png) (http://imgur.com/YJXdWth)
(http://i.imgur.com/yaduwmXm.png) (http://imgur.com/yaduwmX)
(http://i.imgur.com/F5gj435m.png) (http://imgur.com/F5gj435)
(http://i.imgur.com/odl9c2Km.png) (http://imgur.com/odl9c2K)
We put our efforts into other projects.
(http://i.imgur.com/ASh1JhVm.png) (http://imgur.com/ASh1JhV)
(http://i.imgur.com/9VtWhIIm.png) (http://imgur.com/9VtWhII)
The scientists quickly present us with another discovery. They've figured out the Elerium reactors used as engines in the alien craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/E1O8stEm.png) (http://imgur.com/E1O8stE)
With all the major UFO components analyzed, we can start studying how they work together as a single craft. Additionally, the suggestion has been made of using a small Elerium power source to offset the weight of alloys, allowing us to create heavier, more advanced troop armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/2NJ6Irym.png) (http://imgur.com/2NJ6Iry)
(http://i.imgur.com/A0bMG0Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/A0bMG0P)
Both proposals are too good to pass up.
(http://i.imgur.com/hyxehBAm.png) (http://imgur.com/hyxehBA)
We can build our own reactors now. Given our track record in recovering them, we might have to consider this at some point.
(http://i.imgur.com/sGZMxcbm.png) (http://imgur.com/sGZMxcb)
We pick up a large contact on radar. Once the transmissions are decoded, it's clear we need to blow the hell out of this ship immediately.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jp6Nomkm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jp6Nomk)
(http://i.imgur.com/nKiJJAim.png) (http://imgur.com/nKiJJAi)
(http://i.imgur.com/XJ8EGGQm.png) (http://imgur.com/XJ8EGGQ)
After a short pursuit, we catch up with two interceptors and open fire. The first uses up its ammo and breaks away,
(http://i.imgur.com/cDK56Pbm.png) (http://imgur.com/cDK56Pb)
(http://i.imgur.com/xmhh48Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/xmhh48H)
The second interceptor takes it down after two salvos, leaving the ship to crash in Spain.
We've neutralized the ship and prevented an attack on civilians. We can try and recover it, but we'll be facing Chrysalids again.
-
Fuck that. We're on the verge of plasma so let's just wait for that before fighting any unnecessary battles.
-
We are not dealing with that terror ship crash site; when we have the chance to pick our battles, it's best to pick ones we have the advantage in.
(http://i.imgur.com/AWchKkkm.png) (http://imgur.com/AWchKkk)
(http://i.imgur.com/6tIa5zUm.png) (http://imgur.com/6tIa5zU)
Radar picks up a UFO. It's not within the range of our main base's decoder so we can't crack the communications, but it appears to be a scout craft judging by the size.
(http://i.imgur.com/A2Yrc7Em.png) (http://imgur.com/A2Yrc7E)
(http://i.imgur.com/xPbLaH8m.png) (http://imgur.com/xPbLaH8)
We lose track of it before we pick it up again on the decoder.
(http://i.imgur.com/yldwhRim.png) (http://imgur.com/yldwhRi)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZFrSKKvm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZFrSKKv)
Patrols pick up a UFO on the ground in Africa. We're presuming it's another scout. We have an Interceptor keep an eye on it, but it takes off and slips away.
(http://i.imgur.com/98kuzvPm.png) (http://imgur.com/98kuzvP)
Our living quarters at our main base are expanded, giving us room for more personnel.
(http://i.imgur.com/Apz6Brqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Apz6Brq)
(http://i.imgur.com/q4khUv4m.png) (http://imgur.com/q4khUv4)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ybyb7Hhm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ybyb7Hh)
Research has analyzed the alien grenades.
(http://i.imgur.com/MxI8a11m.png) (http://imgur.com/MxI8a11)
(http://i.imgur.com/sRgxv62m.png) (http://imgur.com/sRgxv62)
We allocate the scientists to other projects.
(http://i.imgur.com/xEDCwT6m.png) (http://imgur.com/xEDCwT6)
(http://i.imgur.com/UXmszKCm.png) (http://imgur.com/UXmszKC)
We pick up a large contact, presumably the main ship of the alien operation. It flies around, but it doesn't attack; we can only presume the scouting operations did not complete their goal. Although it's moving too fast to intercept, it poses no significant threat at this point.
(http://i.imgur.com/22Z0caFm.png) (http://imgur.com/22Z0caF)
(http://i.imgur.com/UnEWQPnm.png) (http://imgur.com/UnEWQPn)
(http://i.imgur.com/ti64XKam.png) (http://imgur.com/ti64XKa)
And another ship shows up on radar. We pursue it as it slows down.
(http://i.imgur.com/VlGt5Z7m.png) (http://imgur.com/VlGt5Z7)
(http://i.imgur.com/nE7ic7cm.png) (http://imgur.com/nE7ic7c)
(http://i.imgur.com/nuYIS9om.png) (http://imgur.com/nuYIS9o)
We finally catch up with a hostile and shoot it down after several UFOs have eluded us. We send the Skyranger in to survey the situation. We don't know what's down there, but if it's something too strong for us to handle we will pull back immediately.
(http://i.imgur.com/5DE5syIm.png) (http://imgur.com/5DE5syI)
(http://i.imgur.com/ndVUN57m.png) (http://imgur.com/ndVUN57)
(http://i.imgur.com/YRojR2Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/YRojR2X)
(http://i.imgur.com/JPzxCeJm.png) (http://imgur.com/JPzxCeJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cs9BgFtm.png) (http://imgur.com/Cs9BgFt)
(http://i.imgur.com/rtRGXAPm.png) (http://imgur.com/rtRGXAP)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q1qYQuKm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q1qYQuK)
(http://i.imgur.com/idsmUsAm.png) (http://imgur.com/idsmUsA)
(http://i.imgur.com/OkH2Svym.png) (http://imgur.com/OkH2Svy)
(http://i.imgur.com/ECKyoeGm.png) (http://imgur.com/ECKyoeG)
We get ready for Operation Quick Trip.
(http://i.imgur.com/BDUhRqfm.png) (http://imgur.com/BDUhRqf)
We're dealing with jungle terrain here; there's a lot of obstacles to sight and line of fire here, but we can use this to our advantage.
(http://i.imgur.com/vAOl979m.png) (http://imgur.com/vAOl979)
We spot the crash and an alien firing in the direction; we're up against Floaters, for which our current level of weapons is more than enough.
(http://i.imgur.com/kuX7Bb9m.png) (http://imgur.com/kuX7Bb9)
Bailey has some bad luck trying to hit with the rifle.
(http://i.imgur.com/bBkuKZbm.png) (http://imgur.com/bBkuKZb)
Morita gets hit head-on, but the armor takes the brunt of the hit and he emerges without even a scratch.
(http://i.imgur.com/7nW8xrLm.png) (http://imgur.com/7nW8xrL)
The two front scouts take numerous laser pistol shots, but none of them manage to hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/4O1LlQdm.png) (http://imgur.com/4O1LlQd)
Eventually Colonel Sharpe comes and sorts the situation out with the auto-cannon.
(http://i.imgur.com/6FIF6HBm.png) (http://imgur.com/6FIF6HB)
(http://i.imgur.com/8NYZ0Ypm.png) (http://imgur.com/8NYZ0Yp)
We take one Floater out, but another comes into view. Bailey's aim is better this time around.
(http://i.imgur.com/UqhqKAym.png) (http://imgur.com/UqhqKAy)
With the path ahead clear, we get ready to move in on the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/DTKg6B4m.png) (http://imgur.com/DTKg6B4)
(http://i.imgur.com/syoAkCZm.png) (http://imgur.com/syoAkCZ)
Another one pops out of the ship, sees what's transpiring outside, and decides to get inside. However, lasers move faster Floaters, and the alien falls over dead in the doorway, shot in the back by Bailey.
(http://i.imgur.com/1DXJ5b6m.png) (http://imgur.com/1DXJ5b6)
(http://i.imgur.com/ANCp4Nsm.png) (http://imgur.com/ANCp4Ns)
We get our breach specialists into position.
(http://i.imgur.com/iSkuehum.png) (http://imgur.com/iSkuehu)(http://i.imgur.com/sCbcwldm.png) (http://imgur.com/sCbcwld)
Okabe gets the door first, and gives a personalized greeting to the Floater waiting for him.
(http://i.imgur.com/EWiG70um.png) (http://imgur.com/EWiG70u)
(http://i.imgur.com/SI5yIm4m.png) (http://imgur.com/SI5yIm4)
(http://i.imgur.com/xHvCe71m.png) (http://imgur.com/xHvCe71)
(http://i.imgur.com/jWJKavbm.png) (http://imgur.com/jWJKavb)
We see another Floater in the cockpit; Okabe moves out of the way, giving Bailey a clean shot through the door.
(http://i.imgur.com/UcltG01m.png) (http://imgur.com/UcltG01)
(http://i.imgur.com/GXuJhsBm.png) (http://imgur.com/GXuJhsB)
(http://i.imgur.com/VHsMUYem.png) (http://imgur.com/VHsMUYe)
(http://i.imgur.com/nTJGD8Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/nTJGD8R)
Akira moves in next, spotting another one at the controls. He tries moving to give Bailey a clear shot, but this Floater's a bit quicker than the other ones. With the line of fire clear, Bailey takes the shot.
Results of Operation Quick Trip:
Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 4 kills, not promoted
Col. Andrea Sharpe: 1 kill, can not be promoted further
Masanori ?Doorcrasher? Okabe: 1 kill, not promoted
Toshio Morita: 0 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Michael ?Dead Liar? Blake: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Cmdr. Leonid Romanov: 0 kills, can not be promoted further
Siegfried Steinbach: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Krause: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Unger: 0 kills, not promoted
Tatsuo Akira: killed in action
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
-
Everything by the num--
Tatsuo Akira: killed in action
God damn breaches!
-
(http://i.imgur.com/kurRtFqm.png) (http://imgur.com/kurRtFq)
(http://i.imgur.com/299biXIm.png) (http://imgur.com/299biXI)
(http://i.imgur.com/GTMFcClm.png) (http://imgur.com/GTMFcCl)
(http://i.imgur.com/1a8Nxlsm.png) (http://imgur.com/1a8Nxls)
(http://i.imgur.com/jrkAeVDm.png) (http://imgur.com/jrkAeVD)
(http://i.imgur.com/XWlE0r6m.png) (http://imgur.com/XWlE0r6)
With our difficulty in maintaining patrols over Africa, the decision is made to establish a new base in Kenya to extend our range of operations.
(http://i.imgur.com/KWX6qUSm.png) (http://imgur.com/KWX6qUS)
(http://i.imgur.com/8iaPcttm.png) (http://imgur.com/8iaPctt)
We detect a large ship; it's roughly the same size as a terror ship, but decoded transmissions indicate it's actually some kind of supply transport. We send an interceptor after it to see what's going on, and find it on the ground in Northern Canada.
(http://i.imgur.com/jnRBpKNm.png) (http://imgur.com/jnRBpKN)
Further investigation from the air reveals some kind of facility in the region. Do the aliens have a base here?
(http://i.imgur.com/Xz5pPXim.png) (http://imgur.com/Xz5pPXi)
(http://i.imgur.com/nmuAmkWm.png) (http://imgur.com/nmuAmkW)
(http://i.imgur.com/WUU4hPCm.png) (http://imgur.com/WUU4hPC)
The decoder picks up three more ships, indicating massive-scale infiltration operations going on somewhere in North America. However, these ships are moving too fast for us to intercept, and exit Earth's atmosphere over Europe. This infiltration fleet could have something to do with the recently discovered ground facility...
(http://i.imgur.com/BCTyXqUm.png) (http://imgur.com/BCTyXqU)
(http://i.imgur.com/1c4sTAzm.png) (http://imgur.com/1c4sTAz)
(http://i.imgur.com/LQw3EWmm.png) (http://imgur.com/LQw3EWm)
The research team has figured out the ammunition system for the plasma rifle, allowing us to use the weapons in combat.
(http://i.imgur.com/modfrNxm.png) (http://imgur.com/modfrNx)
(http://i.imgur.com/peehlGhm.png) (http://imgur.com/peehlGh)
Now that we understand the alien weapons, we can attempt to scale them up to develop a new vehicle-mounted weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/kfUpNXem.png) (http://imgur.com/kfUpNXe)
We get news of an alien assault in South Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/q7ykzpbm.png) (http://imgur.com/q7ykzpb)
Our Skyranger is still refuelling from a patrol. We're not sure if we'll make it in time.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/W9HmmP8m.png) (http://imgur.com/W9HmmP8)
We are not able to get the Skyranger fueled back up before the aliens wrap up their operation in Pretoria. Our forces are not able to intervene.
(http://i.imgur.com/m9bO9z9m.png) (http://imgur.com/m9bO9z9)
(http://i.imgur.com/RLwuyhym.png) (http://imgur.com/RLwuyhy)
A storage facility is completed at our Africa base, allowing us to accelerate our expansion.
(http://i.imgur.com/hm7og6fm.png) (http://imgur.com/hm7og6f)
(http://i.imgur.com/FbcA6ldm.png) (http://imgur.com/FbcA6ld)
May ends, and we get our monthly report. Our inability to respond to the fleets operating in southern Africa and North America has massively impacted our performance rating there, but that's not the most troubling part. I initially assumed that the alien infiltration operations were targeting Canada, based on flight activity and the presence of the ground facility there. However, it's the United States that has been the target of alien agents. We have lost our largest financial backer.
(http://i.imgur.com/EdF9C7Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/EdF9C7Y)
Our third base gets radar online, but that would have been a lot more helpful a few days ago.
(http://i.imgur.com/qNh2p74m.png) (http://imgur.com/qNh2p74)
(http://i.imgur.com/KSJqdfom.png) (http://imgur.com/KSJqdfo)
(http://i.imgur.com/LpIab7Im.png) (http://imgur.com/LpIab7I)
The research team finishes development of the powered armor. It's vastly superior to the personal armor we're using right now, but we will have difficulty producing it with our limited funds right now. It would be worth considering at least a few sets for our scouts and breachers who are at the front of battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/B3QGw1vm.png) (http://imgur.com/B3QGw1v)
The research team can try improving on the concept of the armor by using elements of the UFO navigation systems, allowing us to create flight-capable powered armor. However, work also still needs to be done on various weapons projects and the reverse-engineering of UFOs.
-
Ugh. That's what you get for not having a base in western hemisphere.
Anyway, flying armor isn't all that useful, at least for now. Instead, we need all the plasma tech we can get ASAP.
-
Looks like the Aliens sent Snakewomen to the USA. :P
More seriously, while the USA were affected a lot by the aliens it's the case somewhat for Canada too.
Hopefully, the USA leaving X-Com won't create a domino effect with Canada.
-
I think we need to get our guns on and find a way to wreck that base.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/NdWkszDm.png) (http://imgur.com/NdWkszD)
(http://i.imgur.com/cxO3PE9m.png) (http://imgur.com/cxO3PE9)
We put more effort into our plasma research.
(http://i.imgur.com/uRuT1J0m.png) (http://imgur.com/uRuT1J0)
We start on a second hangar at our third base.
(http://i.imgur.com/BmbYo43m.png) (http://imgur.com/BmbYo43)
Our second workshop at our main base is complete, expanding our space for engineering and production.
(http://i.imgur.com/spfURIem.png) (http://imgur.com/spfURIe)
(http://i.imgur.com/hU2SggEm.png) (http://imgur.com/hU2SggE)
(http://i.imgur.com/0ISb2BDm.png) (http://imgur.com/0ISb2BD)
(http://i.imgur.com/pl0X2dom.png) (http://imgur.com/pl0X2do)
We spot new UFO contacts operating in Africa; one gets away, but we're able to catch the second one on the ground. We have a narrow window to land near it, meaning we have to deploy at night.
(http://i.imgur.com/jMj3nMim.png) (http://imgur.com/jMj3nMi)
(http://i.imgur.com/O5QRNkem.png) (http://imgur.com/O5QRNke)
(http://i.imgur.com/U4lkvQGm.png) (http://imgur.com/U4lkvQG)
(http://i.imgur.com/npIam1em.png) (http://imgur.com/npIam1e)
(http://i.imgur.com/kGguSmim.png) (http://imgur.com/kGguSmi)
(http://i.imgur.com/axoAnIom.png) (http://imgur.com/axoAnIo)
(http://i.imgur.com/kxi2MKpm.png) (http://imgur.com/kxi2MKp)
(http://i.imgur.com/pkviEq2m.png) (http://imgur.com/pkviEq2)
(http://i.imgur.com/dTJVXYsm.png) (http://imgur.com/dTJVXYs)
(http://i.imgur.com/XSVA8BRm.png) (http://imgur.com/XSVA8BR)
We get equipped for Operation Shadow Seeker.
(http://i.imgur.com/1yzuTHtm.png) (http://imgur.com/1yzuTHt)
(http://i.imgur.com/y5veF4Im.png) (http://imgur.com/y5veF4I)
We set out flares and prepare our advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/Zzv80Kzm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zzv80Kz)
We can already see the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/CWG9v9jm.png) (http://imgur.com/CWG9v9j)
Sharpe fires off some incendiary rounds; it might be a bit much in a heavily forested area.
(http://i.imgur.com/wSRLCF1m.png) (http://imgur.com/wSRLCF1)
An alien fires on us from the east, and we decide to fire some rounds off at that spot.
(http://i.imgur.com/I0ZTGfum.png) (http://imgur.com/I0ZTGfu)
The rounds reveal ? and ignite ? a Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/zneEO6Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/zneEO6P)
The Floater succumbs to the flames as they spread through the jungle.
(http://i.imgur.com/SQQYLTQm.png) (http://imgur.com/SQQYLTQ)
We spot two Floaters hovering above the ground to the south, side by side.
(http://i.imgur.com/IBShUVAm.png) (http://imgur.com/IBShUVA)
(http://i.imgur.com/ECJ8Ozkm.png) (http://imgur.com/ECJ8Ozk)
(http://i.imgur.com/9OaWD4qm.png) (http://imgur.com/9OaWD4q)
Bailey gets one with the new plasma rifle, while Yamanaka cleans up the other one.
(http://i.imgur.com/d2NIIjvm.png) (http://imgur.com/d2NIIjv)
As we push up, we start coming under fire, but avoid getting hit for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/DzE4PCNm.png) (http://imgur.com/DzE4PCN)
We use some more incendiary rounds, but these don't ignite for some reason.
(http://i.imgur.com/jyQhb56m.png) (http://imgur.com/jyQhb56)
We consider the rocket launcher, but don't have a good line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/3XzrIOPm.png) (http://imgur.com/3XzrIOP)
Eventually, our luck runs out, and Blake gets hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/1QVpJgDm.png) (http://imgur.com/1QVpJgD)
We consider our next best option: have someone with really good reactions run down there and try to spot the enemy so someone else can snipe it.
(http://i.imgur.com/ifkM6FSm.png) (http://imgur.com/ifkM6FS)
We spot another Floater on the other side while trying to do that, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/E5oP7mem.png) (http://imgur.com/E5oP7me)
(http://i.imgur.com/iK41FENm.png) (http://imgur.com/iK41FEN)
(http://i.imgur.com/GfMYQw6m.png) (http://imgur.com/GfMYQw6)
We spot the Floater we are trying to go after, and Bailey snipes it.
(http://i.imgur.com/YzwfurLm.png) (http://imgur.com/YzwfurL)
(http://i.imgur.com/OV7DqsZm.png) (http://imgur.com/OV7DqsZ)
The other one somehow manages tor survive a shot from plasma, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/gkcmqd6m.png) (http://imgur.com/gkcmqd6)
(http://i.imgur.com/Pd2Dv67m.png) (http://imgur.com/Pd2Dv67)
While trying to pull back from the remaining Floater, McNeil gets shot in the back.
(http://i.imgur.com/pHz4e7cm.png) (http://imgur.com/pHz4e7c)
Bailey finally gets the Floater taken down.
(http://i.imgur.com/ihdA5D2m.png) (http://imgur.com/ihdA5D2)
(http://i.imgur.com/nzpAdwBm.png) (http://imgur.com/nzpAdwB)
(http://i.imgur.com/jQBp349m.png) (http://imgur.com/jQBp349)
And then mops up another one that's coming at us.
(http://i.imgur.com/xX3iQN8m.png) (http://imgur.com/xX3iQN8)
(http://i.imgur.com/3eZ0PmMm.png) (http://imgur.com/3eZ0PmM)
(http://i.imgur.com/oUqJRbfm.png) (http://imgur.com/oUqJRbf)
Trying to advance is a painful process; the incendiaries have burned through a lot of the cover, leaving us completely out in the open to anything that tries to ambush us. A Floater around the corner manages to sneak up on us. Bailey manages to get this one too, but not before we lose Colonel Sharpe.
(http://i.imgur.com/Fa3l1Arm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fa3l1Ar)
(http://i.imgur.com/hdiehiqm.png) (http://imgur.com/hdiehiq)
(http://i.imgur.com/8YuoGL3m.png) (http://imgur.com/8YuoGL3)
We spot an alien on the roof of the UFO; trying to shoot at it doesn't work and our better shots don't have a clear line of fire. We settle for a grenade instead.
(http://i.imgur.com/fvm7FeEm.png) (http://imgur.com/fvm7FeE)
We start finally moving in on the ship, with Yamanaka and Steinbach right outside the door.
(http://i.imgur.com/KgPGoWnm.png) (http://imgur.com/KgPGoWn)
(http://i.imgur.com/XXPfsI1m.png) (http://imgur.com/XXPfsI1)
(http://i.imgur.com/AjjUNE6m.png) (http://imgur.com/AjjUNE6)
A Floater comes right out the door, killing Steinbach during the exchange of fire. Another alien is waiting just inside and fires out, getting Yamanaka too.
(http://i.imgur.com/zDoE3uXm.png) (http://imgur.com/zDoE3uX)
We get ready for that Floater to come out as well, getting Bailey and Okabe into position.
(http://i.imgur.com/hkqiDLLm.png) (http://imgur.com/hkqiDLL)
Okabe gets shot at, but survives with minor wounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/eew3UCzm.png) (http://imgur.com/eew3UCz)
(http://i.imgur.com/stJ0eaMm.png) (http://imgur.com/stJ0eaM)
He pursues, finishing the Floater off at point blank range.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ot6BA04m.png) (http://imgur.com/Ot6BA04)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ay5UrpJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ay5UrpJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/VTuqnKtm.png) (http://imgur.com/VTuqnKt)
Krause picks up Blake's equipment, going over with the Medi-kit to treat Okabe's wound.
(http://i.imgur.com/whtGbosm.png) (http://imgur.com/whtGbos)
(http://i.imgur.com/kXxSoMYm.png) (http://imgur.com/kXxSoMY)
Another Floater fires at us, getting Unger.
(http://i.imgur.com/68IDd1Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/68IDd1B)
Okabe moves up to scout around, but gets sniped by another Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/VFQMc65m.png) (http://imgur.com/VFQMc65)
This is bad. We are down to only a few troops, and there is a hostile around that corner, out of our line of sight and beyond our ability to hit. Trying to go toward it is just going to get us shot at.
(http://i.imgur.com/zMcnaI0m.png) (http://imgur.com/zMcnaI0)
(http://i.imgur.com/ugzfq4Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/ugzfq4J)
We try and have Romanov go around from behind, spotting it while it's not looking.
(http://i.imgur.com/DJxAPP4m.png) (http://imgur.com/DJxAPP4)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZeonRlqm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZeonRlq)
Krause tries to move away from the side of the UFO to get a line of fire, and just gets shot as a result.
(http://i.imgur.com/tjBvfVnm.png) (http://imgur.com/tjBvfVn)
The Floater spots Romanov behind it, and he's next to go.
(http://i.imgur.com/mlGa4nfm.png) (http://imgur.com/mlGa4nf)
We're down to just Bailey now. If we lose her, we lose the entire squad. If we lose the entire squad, our position gets overrun and we lose the Skyranger and any equipment on board as well. We recover as many bodies and equipment as we can before retreating, but eventually she gets exhausted and we have to go.
Result of Operation Shadow Seeker
Cpt. Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 7 kills, not promoted
Cmdr. Leonid Romanov: Killed in action
Col. Andrea Sharpe: Killed in action
Sam ?Lightspeed? McNeil: Killed in action
Michiko Yamanaka: Killed in action
Michael ?Dead Liar? Blake: Killed in action
Masanori ?Doorcrasher? Okabe: Killed in action
Otto Krause: Killed in action
Christel Unger: Killed in action
Siegfried Steinbach: Killed in action
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO not recovered
This was an unprecedented disaster. We've dealt with night operations before, but so many things worked against us here. A lot of our most skilled and experienced troops were lost during this raid, and with little to show for it.
(http://i.imgur.com/elmF1yWm.png) (http://imgur.com/elmF1yW)
(http://i.imgur.com/DzJcrTEm.png) (http://imgur.com/DzJcrTE)
The interceptor watching the landed UFO shoots it down the moment it takes off, but we are in no shape to investigate the crash.
-
Uh.
Well.
That's bad.
-
Hopefully, a comeback might be possible with the advantage of Power Suits. Even just a few.
-
Order up another round of rookies. This ain't over yet.
-
Wow, things went badly super quickly.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/zW3xjBCm.png) (http://imgur.com/zW3xjBC)
(http://i.imgur.com/ji9oTNom.png) (http://imgur.com/ji9oTNo)
(http://i.imgur.com/6WJxrmOm.png) (http://imgur.com/6WJxrmO)
The power suits will take a bit of money and a bit of our reserves of alien materials, but at this point our standard armor just isn't cutting it any more.
(http://i.imgur.com/hAIbueNm.png) (http://imgur.com/hAIbueN)
We put some more of our money into hiring additional personnel.
(http://i.imgur.com/uqP684sm.png) (http://imgur.com/uqP684s)
We have just enough reserves left to make a new squad of ten. Fortunately, rotating our squad between missions means we still have some experienced soldiers left.
(http://i.imgur.com/WhuaemAm.png) (http://imgur.com/WhuaemA)
(http://i.imgur.com/FHQeSSUm.png) (http://imgur.com/FHQeSSU)
(http://i.imgur.com/jcnvWf8m.png) (http://imgur.com/jcnvWf8)
Research finishes analyzing the Heavy Plasma ammunition. We can start using these weapons in battle now, and not a moment too soon.
(http://i.imgur.com/pLbHZZYm.png) (http://imgur.com/pLbHZZY)
(http://i.imgur.com/zm3k0Kmm.png) (http://imgur.com/zm3k0Km)
(http://i.imgur.com/TGQ2od8m.png) (http://imgur.com/TGQ2od8)
We put our research efforts into UFO reverse engineering and other plasma weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/6ycmf3tm.png) (http://imgur.com/6ycmf3t)
(http://i.imgur.com/HXv7xLrm.png) (http://imgur.com/HXv7xLr)
(http://i.imgur.com/vyPCEXJm.png) (http://imgur.com/vyPCEXJ)
That reverse engineering soon gives us some results and we can start developing next-generation fighters based on the alien technology.
(http://i.imgur.com/3cu7FYFm.png) (http://imgur.com/3cu7FYF)
(http://i.imgur.com/xnROsaam.png) (http://imgur.com/xnROsaa)
With the living quarters at our Africa base finished, we requisition some soldiers to provide security detail there. We're sending them the laser weapons that our squad at the main base is no longer using.
(http://i.imgur.com/y6ZoAfdm.png) (http://imgur.com/y6ZoAfd)
New personnel arrive at our base.
(http://i.imgur.com/nQ3Iv0tm.png) (http://imgur.com/nQ3Iv0t)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hwgp2AWm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hwgp2AW)
(http://i.imgur.com/rfsCfACm.png) (http://imgur.com/rfsCfAC)
(http://i.imgur.com/TUJvdbcm.png) (http://imgur.com/TUJvdbc)
(http://i.imgur.com/oH605Stm.png) (http://imgur.com/oH605St)
(http://i.imgur.com/FG1utbhm.png) (http://imgur.com/FG1utbh)
(http://i.imgur.com/sIajSrrm.png) (http://imgur.com/sIajSrr)
(http://i.imgur.com/FBfqYyym.png) (http://imgur.com/FBfqYyy)
New troops arrive at our main base.
(http://i.imgur.com/4Uenewtm.png) (http://imgur.com/4Uenewt)
(http://i.imgur.com/AT9ueiqm.png) (http://imgur.com/AT9ueiq)
The engineers are put to work on armor production.
(http://i.imgur.com/cWrlyKRm.png) (http://imgur.com/cWrlyKR)
The scientists are put to work on weapon analysis.
(http://i.imgur.com/RJz0MOPm.png) (http://imgur.com/RJz0MOP)
Radar spots a massive contact that's heading for Africa. We're not going to be able to intercept it, but maybe we can get a chance to intercept it on the ground.
(http://i.imgur.com/pGeskKrm.png) (http://imgur.com/pGeskKr)
We get every piece of armor we have equipped on our troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/Plgi9sOm.png) (http://imgur.com/Plgi9sO)
As expected, we're in range to make contact with the ship and disrupt its operations on the ground. We have vastly improved weapons and armor since our last battle. It's time to turn things around.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Y509G4Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y509G4Z)
We get ready to commence Operation Due Vengeance. Working in our favor are three factors: we are arriving at the landing site during daytime, we are using more advanced power suits, and we have plasma weapons on par with the aliens' own.
(http://i.imgur.com/697E8XOm.png) (http://imgur.com/697E8XO)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y5wcHtzm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y5wcHtz)
(http://i.imgur.com/fPdBQMYm.png) (http://imgur.com/fPdBQMY)
(http://i.imgur.com/yVYt0Jjm.png) (http://imgur.com/yVYt0Jj)
(http://i.imgur.com/SanVuZtm.png) (http://imgur.com/SanVuZt)
(http://i.imgur.com/3GPaPWrm.png) (http://imgur.com/3GPaPWr)
(http://i.imgur.com/hOgVhNdm.png) (http://imgur.com/hOgVhNd)
(http://i.imgur.com/GmwzZJAm.png) (http://imgur.com/GmwzZJA)
(http://i.imgur.com/x1ZM8iJm.png) (http://imgur.com/x1ZM8iJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bcxnxtkm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bcxnxtk)
Our mission loadout has heavily changed. Most of the squad is using plasma weapons now, with the exception of our breachers, who are still using the rapid-fire laser pistols. Constant training has caused Bailey to become more than capable of handling heavy weapons, so she's keeping a rocket launcher with her in the event we need it.
(http://i.imgur.com/Nzq1991m.png) (http://imgur.com/Nzq1991)
(http://i.imgur.com/GXUvMSpm.png) (http://imgur.com/GXUvMSp)
Right from the outset, we spot a Reaper. It's not any particular threat to us at this distance, so we ignore it for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/vJwC3Bmm.png) (http://imgur.com/vJwC3Bm)
We get ready to move out and scope out the situation.
(http://i.imgur.com/mOvud4Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/mOvud4D)
We spot a Floater moving out of a building, and the ship itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/6nLdfGum.png) (http://imgur.com/6nLdfGu)
We continue fanning out, using available cover. In the process, someone fires from a window and hits Bailey in the back...
(http://i.imgur.com/o18PLAMm.png) (http://imgur.com/o18PLAM)
(http://i.imgur.com/e3Z9lPFm.png) (http://imgur.com/e3Z9lPF)
However, what would normally be a lethal injury with the previous generation of armor is just a minor scratch. Bailey fires back, getting two perfect shots through the window at her attacker.
(http://i.imgur.com/MFyuwaJm.png) (http://imgur.com/MFyuwaJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/DAA72Sfm.png) (http://imgur.com/DAA72Sf)
Jones has the medi-kit ready and is right next to her, and gets right to work treating the wound.
(http://i.imgur.com/KM5qN3Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/KM5qN3P)
(http://i.imgur.com/bwnU0wbm.png) (http://imgur.com/bwnU0wb)
(http://i.imgur.com/USXu3iSm.png) (http://imgur.com/USXu3iS)
While wounds normally interfere with firing accuracy, Bailey's just too good a shot to let that get in the way.
(http://i.imgur.com/jKiPBH6m.png) (http://imgur.com/jKiPBH6)
(http://i.imgur.com/FGM81dSm.png) (http://imgur.com/FGM81dS)
The Reaper's still not a particular threat, so this is a good opportunity for a rookie to get some firing practice in.
(http://i.imgur.com/PURnaj5m.png) (http://imgur.com/PURnaj5)
(http://i.imgur.com/tUKdCR4m.png) (http://imgur.com/tUKdCR4)
(http://i.imgur.com/ojcij4Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/ojcij4N)
The Floater is a problem, however. From her position kneeling behind the wall she can't quite get a line of fire... but White can.
(http://i.imgur.com/l41VI5ym.png) (http://imgur.com/l41VI5y)
The power suit is even capable of taking a direct blast from a grenade.
(http://i.imgur.com/vCbQlqim.png) (http://imgur.com/vCbQlqi)
(http://i.imgur.com/0TYbAf6m.png) (http://imgur.com/0TYbAf6)
Morita puts some holes in the wall trying to get the Floater that threw it, but after a few shots eventually manages to hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/W5Pp6E1m.png) (http://imgur.com/W5Pp6E1)
(http://i.imgur.com/poo0AP4m.png) (http://imgur.com/poo0AP4)
Unfortunately, the armor isn't perfect, and White gets taken down by a lucky shot from behind.
(http://i.imgur.com/gl0vd6wm.png) (http://imgur.com/gl0vd6w)
We start sweeping the buildings for any other hostiles.
(http://i.imgur.com/kYbnJnFm.png) (http://imgur.com/kYbnJnF)
Bailey and Jones get to the rear landing gear, hoping to use the Skyranger to block any line of fire from above.
(http://i.imgur.com/fvdU50Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/fvdU50N)
(http://i.imgur.com/O0OP4t2m.png) (http://imgur.com/O0OP4t2)
We spot a Floater hiding between the buildings, and Bailey quickly resolves the situation.
(http://i.imgur.com/fxoowwUm.png) (http://imgur.com/fxoowwU)
Searching the other buildings finds no other hiding hostiles, clearing the way to move forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/2aFQzoim.png) (http://imgur.com/2aFQzoi)
We use some of the wall for cover, but with foliage between the Skyranger and the UFO near non-existent, we'll need to try something to reduce our exposure to hostile fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/Tnz31rsm.png) (http://imgur.com/Tnz31rs)
(http://i.imgur.com/untC0G4m.png) (http://imgur.com/untC0G4)
We use a smoke grenade to make it safer to progress.
(http://i.imgur.com/XJ45vXHm.png) (http://imgur.com/XJ45vXH)
(http://i.imgur.com/8XXHrDIm.png) (http://imgur.com/8XXHrDI)
As we maneuver around the sides of the ship, we find another Floater. A few plasma bursts from Morita deal with this.
(http://i.imgur.com/N7tCRFwm.png) (http://imgur.com/N7tCRFw)
(http://i.imgur.com/aSxRrg0m.png) (http://imgur.com/aSxRrg0)
We soon encounter a second one. It takes some risky and aggressive tactics but Morita manages to get this one too, with Jones assisting.
(http://i.imgur.com/gkC7rMJm.png) (http://imgur.com/gkC7rMJ)
We get ready to move in on what seems to be the main accessway into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/clWcEo4m.png) (http://imgur.com/clWcEo4)
(http://i.imgur.com/qbBOqb7m.png) (http://imgur.com/qbBOqb7)
(http://i.imgur.com/13g6fXym.png) (http://imgur.com/13g6fXy)
More Reapers come at us. Carr is able to come around the side and ambush one, leaving us just out of the reach of the other.
(http://i.imgur.com/1cF5ycRm.png) (http://imgur.com/1cF5ycR)
(http://i.imgur.com/y07scKEm.png) (http://imgur.com/y07scKE)
We set down a proximity grenade in front of the door to try and thin out the herd.
(http://i.imgur.com/UGXp4INm.png) (http://imgur.com/UGXp4IN)
More of the squad comes around the other side to watch the other entrance.
(http://i.imgur.com/T1cYeBrm.png) (http://imgur.com/T1cYeBr)
(http://i.imgur.com/SKspv0Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/SKspv0S)
A Floater comes out and fires on us; apparently the proximity grenade isn't close enough to the door to work. Morita's hit, but survives, merely passing out from his injury...
(http://i.imgur.com/Mqy0NLXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mqy0NLX)
...but before Jones can use the medi-kit to revive him, a grenade goes off. Jones himself is unharmed, but the unconscious Morita and several dead Floaters are blown away.
(http://i.imgur.com/VrCIuVOm.png) (http://imgur.com/VrCIuVO)
(http://i.imgur.com/x22eOvtm.png) (http://imgur.com/x22eOvt)
(http://i.imgur.com/kEjrOGvm.png) (http://imgur.com/kEjrOGv)
The squad on the other side handles the other Reaper by shooting it from behind repeatedly.
(http://i.imgur.com/647p4dAm.png) (http://imgur.com/647p4dA)
We get ready to move everybody we can in on the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/4QGH986m.png) (http://imgur.com/4QGH986)
Carr takes care of the Floater in the accessway.
(http://i.imgur.com/kK3VTF9m.png) (http://imgur.com/kK3VTF9)
A Floater having been driven to panic by the constant deaths of the ship's crew comes out and fires at nothing. At this point it's an easy target.
(http://i.imgur.com/yNwnOBqm.png) (http://imgur.com/yNwnOBq)
(http://i.imgur.com/3gI1PT0m.png) (http://imgur.com/3gI1PT0)
(http://i.imgur.com/EhVAJmwm.png) (http://imgur.com/EhVAJmw)
(http://i.imgur.com/ccfKdf7m.png) (http://imgur.com/ccfKdf7)
We move up through the ship's accessway, which seems to be some sort of anti-gravity mechanism. We take care of more Floaters on the way up.
(http://i.imgur.com/a6tCfvfm.png) (http://imgur.com/a6tCfvf)
With the alien crew obviously demoralized and vulnerable, this would be a good opportunity to attempt captures. We get the stun rod ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/JVrdsrKm.png) (http://imgur.com/JVrdsrK)
(http://i.imgur.com/DmTYHxjm.png) (http://imgur.com/DmTYHxj)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZkjHz1ym.png) (http://imgur.com/ZkjHz1y)
(http://i.imgur.com/kB09alJm.png) (http://imgur.com/kB09alJ)
We sweep the ship to search for other hostiles, finding nothing else on the second level.
(http://i.imgur.com/tLGJJBZm.png) (http://imgur.com/tLGJJBZ)
We get ready to raid the third and top level of this ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/MNmOUt9m.png) (http://imgur.com/MNmOUt9)
(http://i.imgur.com/eXU9fsUm.png) (http://imgur.com/eXU9fsU)
(http://i.imgur.com/uzcnAEMm.png) (http://imgur.com/uzcnAEM)
(http://i.imgur.com/P7Sgy6Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/P7Sgy6B)
Right off the bat we spot a Floater. Ragulin gives it a good whack with the rod.
(http://i.imgur.com/xY7yg33m.png) (http://imgur.com/xY7yg33)
(http://i.imgur.com/rHs2c71m.png) (http://imgur.com/rHs2c71)
In trying to raid one of the control rooms, Jones is shot by a Floater from just behind the door. He bleeds out before anybody can render assistance.
(http://i.imgur.com/RdPBfZmm.png) (http://imgur.com/RdPBfZm)
(http://i.imgur.com/9JmFAJqm.png) (http://imgur.com/9JmFAJq)
Watson, our other breacher, attempts to attack this room. A point blank burst of laser fire isn't enough to take down this Floater, and he's quickly met with a matching burst of plasma.
(http://i.imgur.com/coTiCvPm.png) (http://imgur.com/coTiCvP)
(http://i.imgur.com/fHgGmsFm.png) (http://imgur.com/fHgGmsF)
(http://i.imgur.com/1TLBak4m.png) (http://imgur.com/1TLBak4)
(http://i.imgur.com/YbRQtRSm.png) (http://imgur.com/YbRQtRS)
Attempts by Ragulin and Tanikawa to get in are met with similarly lethal resistance.
(http://i.imgur.com/RrMiQUbm.png) (http://imgur.com/RrMiQUb)
(http://i.imgur.com/mkTYCW4m.png) (http://imgur.com/mkTYCW4)
(http://i.imgur.com/7Kj6ntFm.png) (http://imgur.com/7Kj6ntF)
Eventually, Carr's able to bring the Floater in this command room down after numerous troops have died in the attempt.
(http://i.imgur.com/Yf3Naaim.png) (http://imgur.com/Yf3Naai)
(http://i.imgur.com/YWh043Om.png) (http://imgur.com/YWh043O)
(http://i.imgur.com/WcEXzn5m.png) (http://imgur.com/WcEXzn5)
Bailey finds one more Floater. It's unarmed, demoralized, and weakened. She picks up the stun rod off of Ragulin, and administers a high-voltage beatdown.
Results of Operation Due Vengeance
Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 3 kills, promoted to Colonel; wounded in action, will recover in 4 days
Clarence Carr: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Paul Reynolds: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Pierre Revenu: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Toshio Morita: Killed in action
James White: Killed in action
Arthur Jones: Killed in action
John Watson: Killed in action
Andrei Ragulin: Killed in action
Tatsuo Tanikawa: Killed in action
15 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
3 aliens captured
UFO hull, reactors, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
Heavy losses were taken in this battle, but we have made even more staggering gains as a result of our victory. We not only managed to recover a massive alien ship in a nearly pristine state, but we have also captured multiple aliens alive for future interrogation. In addition, we discovered a new type of alien weapon; it was not used against us, but it appears to be some kind of launcher.
-
The cost of victory seems to be high in blood and broken armor. On the other hand Alien Harvesting sounds bad so...
Hopefully we get some good stuff off our winnings and prisoners.
-
Amazing. What's Holepunch's combined kill count?
-
Amazing. What's Holepunch's combined kill count?
29 kills total, 14 missions carried out. If she is not next in line to become commander I will be very disappointed.
Selling off some of the surplus parts and weapons we obtained from the recent raid gave us a vast surplus of cash to work with.
(http://i.imgur.com/KRwFw29m.png) (http://imgur.com/KRwFw29)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mh4ByGwm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mh4ByGw)
We disassemble one of the radar systems we no longer need with the decoder in place, and add some more storage to make room for the vast quantities of alloys and Elerium we're obtaining.
(http://i.imgur.com/mfMeBtDm.png) (http://imgur.com/mfMeBtD)
We hire some more personnel.
(http://i.imgur.com/32iBG2zm.png) (http://imgur.com/32iBG2z)
(http://i.imgur.com/rSrts8Um.png) (http://imgur.com/rSrts8U)
We expand the radar system at our Africa base.
(http://i.imgur.com/YbXMHYJm.png) (http://imgur.com/YbXMHYJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/rKCV4GFm.png) (http://imgur.com/rKCV4GF)
(http://i.imgur.com/uD6441Am.png) (http://imgur.com/uD6441A)
We spot a small UFO on radar; it is destroyed during interception.
(http://i.imgur.com/v1zmDo5m.png) (http://imgur.com/v1zmDo5)
(http://i.imgur.com/v1zmDo5m.png) (http://imgur.com/v1zmDo5)(http://i.imgur.com/RgIKIQWm.png) (http://imgur.com/RgIKIQW)
Another is spotted and destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/cJSc02am.png) (http://imgur.com/cJSc02a)(http://i.imgur.com/qapZaW2m.png) (http://imgur.com/qapZaW2)
The personnel we've hired for security at our Africa base have arrived. Additional storage facilities are finished soon after.
(http://i.imgur.com/xb9JfLHm.png) (http://imgur.com/xb9JfLH)
Our new troops, engineers, and scientists arrive at our main base.
(http://i.imgur.com/YQKvAfjm.png) (http://imgur.com/YQKvAfj)
The engineers are put to work on the power suits.
(http://i.imgur.com/6VvL02Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/6VvL02D)
(http://i.imgur.com/xpItWSXm.png) (http://imgur.com/xpItWSX)
The scientists are put to work on studying weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/T9hrLqIm.png) (http://imgur.com/T9hrLqI)
Eventually we get a hangar up and running at our third base; we don't quite have the funds to purchase a new craft yet, but we may be able to bring an interceptor over from one of the other two bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/sneL7Qmm.png) (http://imgur.com/sneL7Qm)(http://i.imgur.com/HZbKC6sm.png) (http://imgur.com/HZbKC6s)
(http://i.imgur.com/JVBd0smm.png) (http://imgur.com/JVBd0sm)
We spot a scout ship crossing over the Atlantic; our interceptors bring it down over the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/WpGYFTlm.png) (http://imgur.com/WpGYFTl)
Eventually, our storage expansion at our main base is completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/FpYcOCpm.png) (http://imgur.com/FpYcOCp)
(http://i.imgur.com/JguUNI8m.png) (http://imgur.com/JguUNI8)
The initial batch of power suits is completed, letting us fully armor a squad. The engineering team is put to work on medi-kits to bolster our funds until another project comes up.
(http://i.imgur.com/nOc4k96m.png) (http://imgur.com/nOc4k96)
(http://i.imgur.com/1yZtydom.png) (http://imgur.com/1yZtydo)
Another alien scout is intercepted and destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/nRm8T4Im.png) (http://imgur.com/nRm8T4I)
(http://i.imgur.com/lJVhbwcm.png) (http://imgur.com/lJVhbwc)
(http://i.imgur.com/bpzx88qm.png) (http://imgur.com/bpzx88q)
(http://i.imgur.com/BwztIFmm.png) (http://imgur.com/BwztIFm)
The research team starts making some breakthroughs. We can now use the alien pistols. They have some disadvantages compared to laser pistols; they have a slightly slower rate of fire and require ammunition. However, they are far more accurate and lethal, which will make them a valuable tool for our breachers.
(http://i.imgur.com/r8jbqbMm.png) (http://imgur.com/r8jbqbM)
(http://i.imgur.com/4gHuFFrm.png) (http://imgur.com/4gHuFFr)
We have also developed a large plasma weapon that can be used by our interceptors. It has slightly less range than the Avalanche, but more than enough to attack the majority of hostile craft without receiving return fire. Its main advantage is not damage or range, but lasting power; a massive Elerium-based power supply lets the plasma cannon fire over and over again, unlike the Avalanche which can only fire three times before having to reload.
(http://i.imgur.com/spvPvInm.png) (http://imgur.com/spvPvIn)
We can look into trying to create an Elerium-based surface-to-air defense to repel potential incursions to our bases. The idea of designing an HWP that uses plasma weapons has been considered, but we will need to design a new frame to accommodate the size of the power source. Perhaps our development of new fighter craft will help us make some progress in this regard.
At this point we have several options for research:
-Put everything we have into developing new craft.
-Look into developing the flying power armor.
-Look into the other alien weapons, including the small launcher we have not finished analyzing and the newly discovered larger launcher and its ammunition.
-Start studying the origin of the alien attacks. We will not make any progress on stopping this invasion otherwise.
-
I lean towards lawnchairs or fighters myself
-
(http://i.imgur.com/gz7OO87m.png) (http://imgur.com/gz7OO87)
(http://i.imgur.com/sEwIfyDm.png) (http://imgur.com/sEwIfyD)
(http://i.imgur.com/V15yb1gm.png) (http://imgur.com/V15yb1g)
We put our scientists into studying the alien weapons we haven't analyzed yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/QJKATKtm.png) (http://imgur.com/QJKATKt)
(http://i.imgur.com/pdgeSfAm.png) (http://imgur.com/pdgeSfA)
(http://i.imgur.com/QQPjQbkm.png) (http://imgur.com/QQPjQbk)
We start work on some aircraft plasma weapons. They're expensive, but they should earn back their costs over time as we spend less on missile ammunition. We can only afford a few right now, but even three is enough to give us a huge edge.
(http://i.imgur.com/WIrr8pOm.png) (http://imgur.com/WIrr8pO)
The second hangar at our Africa base is completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/GEnm5Bem.png) (http://imgur.com/GEnm5Be)
(http://i.imgur.com/iiRDbwXm.png) (http://imgur.com/iiRDbwX)
(http://i.imgur.com/9HA0f4ym.png) (http://imgur.com/9HA0f4y)
They're completed in just over a day, and we start equipping them to our Interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/wMNlYrum.png) (http://imgur.com/wMNlYru)
(http://i.imgur.com/BLeSgDvm.png) (http://imgur.com/BLeSgDv)
(http://i.imgur.com/b4EKfMfm.png) (http://imgur.com/b4EKfMf)
We send one of the beam-equipped planes to an open hangar at our Africa base.
(http://i.imgur.com/7eFY8JEm.png) (http://imgur.com/7eFY8JE)
(http://i.imgur.com/aGGP1lrm.png) (http://imgur.com/aGGP1lr)
(http://i.imgur.com/yZGpgNfm.png) (http://imgur.com/yZGpgNf)
We ship the third beam to our Asia base to be equipped to one of the Interceptors there.
(http://i.imgur.com/pdNTCY0m.png) (http://imgur.com/pdNTCY0)
(http://i.imgur.com/6gBSXHam.png) (http://imgur.com/6gBSXHa)
The research team finishes developing their fighter prototype. Codenamed the ?Firestorm?, it uses an Elerium-powered engine to gain massive speed. However, its reliance on Elerium fuel means that it has a shorter operating time in and less range than our standard interceptors. These new ships will not replace our current aircraft, but will be part of a larger air defense strategy. The Firestorm will be used for fast-moving hostile contacts, while our interceptors will be kept for patrols and attacking slower ships or ones further away from our bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/YN8PF8wm.png) (http://imgur.com/YN8PF8w)
In addition to the Firestorm, we also developed a new type of HWP using the same technology.
(http://i.imgur.com/JoR7Ih7m.png) (http://imgur.com/JoR7Ih7)
In addition to continuing our research into craft derived from alien technology, we also have the other lines of research to work on. We can put everyone we have on studying the alien launchers, start studying the origins of the alien attacks, or look into other technologies.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/91ynX5Em.png) (http://imgur.com/91ynX5E)
(http://i.imgur.com/d4PHLtgm.png) (http://imgur.com/d4PHLtg)
With weapon research under control and no other clear research priorities, we start looking into the alien origins.
(http://i.imgur.com/g2gkzOdm.png) (http://imgur.com/g2gkzOd)
(http://i.imgur.com/3owKLQ1m.png) (http://imgur.com/3owKLQ1)
Our engineering team starts on building one of the Firestorm high-speed fighters.
(http://i.imgur.com/9jfvGMcm.png) (http://imgur.com/9jfvGMc)
Before the very end of the month, we spot a UFO on radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/dhznosnm.png) (http://imgur.com/dhznosn)
We get our monthly performance review. Although the remaining backing nations are satisfied with our performance, they are worried about our excess expenses. We are going to have to cut costs by reducing staff, or build up cash reserves by obtaining more alien materials and tech to sell.
(http://i.imgur.com/J7rGPJcm.png) (http://imgur.com/J7rGPJc)
(http://i.imgur.com/429ShZSm.png) (http://imgur.com/429ShZS)
The UFO is shot down over the United Kingdom. The new plasma beam is performing well.
(http://i.imgur.com/yGN1zRxm.png) (http://imgur.com/yGN1zRx)
We get ready for the salvage mission, codenamed Summer Vulture.
(http://i.imgur.com/4YJRCumm.png) (http://imgur.com/4YJRCum)
(http://i.imgur.com/P2kAwNim.png) (http://imgur.com/P2kAwNi)
(http://i.imgur.com/yyZK27Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/yyZK27T)
(http://i.imgur.com/9Vi1R77m.png) (http://imgur.com/9Vi1R77)
(http://i.imgur.com/xcUur7Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/xcUur7H)
(http://i.imgur.com/zdBnofkm.png) (http://imgur.com/zdBnofk)
(http://i.imgur.com/RmA5fdzm.png) (http://imgur.com/RmA5fdz)
(http://i.imgur.com/e8Yc4pRm.png) (http://imgur.com/e8Yc4pR)
(http://i.imgur.com/WO9cmLWm.png) (http://imgur.com/WO9cmLW)
First out the door get plasma pistols and medkits, most of the squad gets heavy plasma. Bailey gets a rifle and rocket launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/p5q4nI7m.png) (http://imgur.com/p5q4nI7)
Starting off, things look fairly calm.
(http://i.imgur.com/7RYjy2um.png) (http://imgur.com/7RYjy2u)
We spot a Floater on the second floor of a farm building.
(http://i.imgur.com/w3gmFuBm.png) (http://imgur.com/w3gmFuB)
Bailey switches to the rocket launcher for this situation.
(http://i.imgur.com/n7CEZFmm.png) (http://imgur.com/n7CEZFm)
(http://i.imgur.com/SNa4HXjm.png) (http://imgur.com/SNa4HXj)
She moves forward and away from the rest of the squad, then blows out the wall. The Floater survives, but we have a clear shot at it now.
(http://i.imgur.com/TJl1yNvm.png) (http://imgur.com/TJl1yNv)
(http://i.imgur.com/CHQXWUHm.png) (http://imgur.com/CHQXWUH)
(http://i.imgur.com/DcCPMTym.png) (http://imgur.com/DcCPMTy)
One shot from Bailey is all it takes.
(http://i.imgur.com/k0LLIoxm.png) (http://imgur.com/k0LLIox)
(http://i.imgur.com/4WDbObIm.png) (http://imgur.com/4WDbObI)
We spot another Floater trying to hide in a crop. Reynolds is able to pick it out and gun it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/STNmlsrm.png) (http://imgur.com/STNmlsr)
Searching the UFO wreck, there seems to be nothing inside of note. The equipment is completely destroyed, and any aliens inside are dead. Any remaining Floaters must be elsewhere.
(http://i.imgur.com/21kER6Em.png) (http://imgur.com/21kER6E)
We start searching around. This area is not advantageous for us. Going around the fences gives anything that would be on the other side of that wall a good opportunity to shoot at us through the windows.
(http://i.imgur.com/6YSUb1hm.png) (http://imgur.com/6YSUb1h)
We just get rid of the fence and the wall instead. This turns out to be a bit excessive, given that we find nothing on the other side.
(http://i.imgur.com/tcbuZDXm.png) (http://imgur.com/tcbuZDX)
While searching, one of our rookies spots a Floater near one of the buildings.
(http://i.imgur.com/5jcPbREm.png) (http://imgur.com/5jcPbRE)
(http://i.imgur.com/NPxxPyom.png) (http://imgur.com/NPxxPyo)
A brief firefight ends with him losing.
(http://i.imgur.com/aGkzNoam.png) (http://imgur.com/aGkzNoa)
We move carefully around the side of the building to prepare for a takedown.
(http://i.imgur.com/6akC1Gfm.png) (http://imgur.com/6akC1Gf)
We attempt using a grenade on a timer just around the corner to try and set a trap.
(http://i.imgur.com/pSqoOFAm.png) (http://imgur.com/pSqoOFA)
It doesn't work as planned, and we see we have two Floaters to deal with now.
(http://i.imgur.com/Np3xyLqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Np3xyLq)
(http://i.imgur.com/TSDA7uxm.png) (http://imgur.com/TSDA7ux)
We continue our careful advance, while attempting another grenade.
(http://i.imgur.com/3Dw49uBm.png) (http://imgur.com/3Dw49uB)
(http://i.imgur.com/0FOCAxEm.png) (http://imgur.com/0FOCAxE)
(http://i.imgur.com/IMD8GoQm.png) (http://imgur.com/IMD8GoQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/cKFS698m.png) (http://imgur.com/cKFS698)
The Floaters move into the blasted-out farmhouse, and straight into our field of fire. Another rookie winds up managing to take both of them out.
Result of Operation Summer Vulture:
Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 1 kill, promoted to Commander
Paul Reynolds: 1 kill, promoted to Captain
Christel Zander: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Clarence Carr: 0 kills, promoted to Captain
Wolfgang Siedler: 0 kills, not promoted
Scott Taylor: 0 kills, not promoted
Masaharu Sato: 0 kills, not promoted
Sumie Okamoto:: 0 kills, not promoted
Michael Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Mikhail Scharov: Killed in action
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull recovered
We might want to consider a lighter touch for intercepting scout ships if we want to recover material from them. Once we have the funds, it might be worth giving at least switching one Interceptor over to the smaller Stingray missiles so we aren't constantly obliterating the engines on scout craft.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/L6xN2cOm.png) (http://imgur.com/L6xN2cO)
We screen our current batch of rookies; to save on funds, any that aren't up to our current standards for combat personnel are getting dropped from the roster
The screening process and assigning roles in a squad:
Scouts/Breachers: Squad members with high reactions are the best for scouting. When moving, they are less likely to get fired on by enemies they spot. Scouts are usually given pistols to fire as often as possible on targets they spot; accuracy is generally not a concern as they are either at very close range or supported by sharpshooters. As they can use items in their off-hand without an accuracy penalty, they also tend to act as medics.
Sharpshooters: Squad members with high firing accuracy are best for long-range shooting. They generally stay out of the sight range of enemies, letting other squad members spot targets for them. Rifles are the weapon of choice here, and snap shots are used to take multiple shots; the lower accuracy from them is offset by the high base accuracy of a skilled sniper.
Heavy Weapons Users: Squad members with high strength are assigned our larger weapons, such as cannons and launchers. Firing accuracy is not as crucial for these weapons, as they either do not need to directly hit their targets or are used against large objects such as walls and terrain. Low reactions are preferred, as there is nothing worse than someone with a twitchy trigger finger and high-explosive munitions.
General Infantry: Squad members with no clear defining trait but good all-around performance become general troops. They are given our best all-around weapon, which at this time is the Heavy Plasma. They do not particularly excel in any role, but are capable and flexible enough to handle short-range and long-range shooting, recon, and small-scale demolitions.
(http://i.imgur.com/M3jZgHvm.png) (http://imgur.com/M3jZgHv)
(http://i.imgur.com/m91Psm3m.png) (http://imgur.com/m91Psm3)
The long-range radar at our Africa base is completed. The layout's not particularly good right now, but we can't particularly fix it right now with our current funds.
(http://i.imgur.com/arLp4Nxm.png) (http://imgur.com/arLp4Nx)
(http://i.imgur.com/M9gOCSqm.png) (http://imgur.com/M9gOCSq)
The research team's investigation into the alien origins makes some headway, but we'll need to interrogate an alien leader to narrow down the range of possibilities for the location of their stronghold.
(http://i.imgur.com/dVewcAQm.png) (http://imgur.com/dVewcAQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/vAxQcBjm.png) (http://imgur.com/vAxQcBj)
Fortunately we already have at least one from the raid on that massive alien ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/QxnkxQwm.png) (http://imgur.com/QxnkxQw)
We have more pressing matters on Earth, however: the aliens have attacked New York. Why they want to attack an American city is beyond us when they already control the US government, but we have to respond.
(http://i.imgur.com/rygy8bGm.png) (http://imgur.com/rygy8bG)
We get ready to deploy for Operation Enduring Resistance.
(http://i.imgur.com/r4Bs1NBm.png) (http://imgur.com/r4Bs1NB)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ip5Ug6Um.png) (http://imgur.com/Ip5Ug6U)
(http://i.imgur.com/B7MKlDom.png) (http://imgur.com/B7MKlDo)
(http://i.imgur.com/CFYrBOXm.png) (http://imgur.com/CFYrBOX)
(http://i.imgur.com/4yjWIG1m.png) (http://imgur.com/4yjWIG1)
(http://i.imgur.com/vYNETZ5m.png) (http://imgur.com/vYNETZ5)
(http://i.imgur.com/t6INLRXm.png) (http://imgur.com/t6INLRX)
(http://i.imgur.com/UDHHBQ3m.png) (http://imgur.com/UDHHBQ3)
(http://i.imgur.com/3HojuKAm.png) (http://imgur.com/3HojuKA)
(http://i.imgur.com/8Sco1Hkm.png) (http://imgur.com/8Sco1Hk)
We get equipped and ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/D7VbFxfm.png) (http://imgur.com/D7VbFxf)
(http://i.imgur.com/ixoyQwKm.png) (http://imgur.com/ixoyQwK)
(http://i.imgur.com/y20zodtm.png) (http://imgur.com/y20zodt)
Off the bat, we spot a Sectoid on the ground. Zander takes it down without having to take a step from the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/I7YPpG1m.png) (http://imgur.com/I7YPpG1)
(http://i.imgur.com/XFQdx2pm.png) (http://imgur.com/XFQdx2p)
(http://i.imgur.com/Jrv0Hozm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jrv0Hoz)
We spot another Sectoid across the street. A few shots with a plasma pistol gets this one.
(http://i.imgur.com/0RKYqSnm.png) (http://imgur.com/0RKYqSn)
We get into position and get ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/ILzPxO4m.png) (http://imgur.com/ILzPxO4)
(http://i.imgur.com/I4Jzkpfm.png) (http://imgur.com/I4Jzkpf)
We spot another pair of Sectoids.
(http://i.imgur.com/DHAdkb3m.png) (http://imgur.com/DHAdkb3)
(http://i.imgur.com/um76Q03m.png) (http://imgur.com/um76Q03)
We get Commander Bailey into position for sniping.
(http://i.imgur.com/w2TkXFtm.png) (http://imgur.com/w2TkXFt)
A stun bomb is fired in our direction, but with the power suits, it has no effect whatsoever.
(http://i.imgur.com/SLbx9uQm.png) (http://imgur.com/SLbx9uQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/uI7nwFsm.png) (http://imgur.com/uI7nwFs)
Another Sectoid comes into our field of fire, and is taken down in two shots from Bailey.
(http://i.imgur.com/lpmsV2Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/lpmsV2B)
(http://i.imgur.com/qrhkDHum.png) (http://imgur.com/qrhkDHu)
With this corner, it's better to try and use a grenade rather than try to chase after it.
(http://i.imgur.com/in4v1uKm.png) (http://imgur.com/in4v1uK)
In the Skyranger, a situation suddenly develops. Masaharu Sato suddenly reels like he's been hit, even though an enemy hasn't even seen him. He suddenly panics, dropping his weapon and freezing in place.
(http://i.imgur.com/fdoKSXFm.png) (http://imgur.com/fdoKSXF)
We spot a new type of alien in the gas station that is acting as our current front. Is this some kind of alien HWP?
(http://i.imgur.com/SuiBX7vm.png) (http://imgur.com/SuiBX7v)
(http://i.imgur.com/wM76EJbm.png) (http://imgur.com/wM76EJb)
(http://i.imgur.com/F7ahwJbm.png) (http://imgur.com/F7ahwJb)
It's about as fragile as our HWPs are, it turns out. And highly explosive, given that it puts another hole in the pavement as soon as we've punctured the shell of the vehicle.
(http://i.imgur.com/2nwsNtBm.png) (http://imgur.com/2nwsNtB)
(http://i.imgur.com/8uBjIHCm.png) (http://imgur.com/8uBjIHC)
We spot more Sectoids skulking in the burning wreckage of the gas station.
(http://i.imgur.com/oUzhxiRm.png) (http://imgur.com/oUzhxiR)
(http://i.imgur.com/cuXhPnzm.png) (http://imgur.com/cuXhPnz)
(http://i.imgur.com/ka1ykjLm.png) (http://imgur.com/ka1ykjL)
Pearce has things well under control. He takes cover in the garage and prepares for the next strike.
(http://i.imgur.com/8F8KYXkm.png) (http://imgur.com/8F8KYXk)
We spot another Sectoid coming out of a residential building.
(http://i.imgur.com/DfvPxaym.png) (http://imgur.com/DfvPxay)
(http://i.imgur.com/83ABXdEm.png) (http://imgur.com/83ABXdE)
Bailey moves to get a line of fire, and takes the alien down.
(http://i.imgur.com/JlScZF7m.png) (http://imgur.com/JlScZF7)
(http://i.imgur.com/tGJ9sZVm.png) (http://imgur.com/tGJ9sZV)
(http://i.imgur.com/HeBtBGAm.png) (http://imgur.com/HeBtBGA)
Pearce moves out and spots another Sectoid at close range. After a brief exchange of fire, he comes out on top with not a single injury.
(http://i.imgur.com/a0ywGJxm.png) (http://imgur.com/a0ywGJx)
On the edge of our vision we spot a Sectoid trying to run away from the gas station,
(http://i.imgur.com/WnCfxvIm.png) (http://imgur.com/WnCfxvI)
(http://i.imgur.com/hLZZ4WJm.png) (http://imgur.com/hLZZ4WJ)
Another alien is found on the sidewalk between the back of the gas station and a residential building and is quickly mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/1iFtSmWm.png) (http://imgur.com/1iFtSmW)
(http://i.imgur.com/DNSIiPKm.png) (http://imgur.com/DNSIiPK)
The Sectoid trying to retreat from the battlefield is picked off by Zander, who had fanned out to the southeast.
(http://i.imgur.com/sZsppJPm.png) (http://imgur.com/sZsppJP)
(http://i.imgur.com/2ORB0Vem.png) (http://imgur.com/2ORB0Ve)
We spot one last Sectoid hiding in an alley, where it can't escape from us.
Results of Operation Enduring Resistance
Cmdr. Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 3 kills, cannot be promoted further
David Pearce: 4 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Wolfgang Seidler: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Scott Taylor: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Christel Zander: 2 kills, not promoted
Clarence Carr: 0 kills, promoted to Captain
Michael Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Gennadi Maleev: 0 kills, not promoted
Masaharu Sato: 0 kills, not promoted
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kill, not promoted
No X-COM casualites
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
6 aliens killed by alien forces
1 civilian survivor rescued
The surplus weapons and alien corpses have been sold off, putting us back at a positive balance.
The alien weapon platform we encountered is being referred to as the ?Cyberdisc?. Although it was destroyed before it could attack and we have no clear understanding of its weapons, we do know it possesses a hover capability and some level of armor. If we had encountered these units earlier on we would have had difficulty, but our current weapons are more than enough to handle them. We must be careful of collateral damage; the Cyberdisc appears to have a self-destruct function and will detonate if critically damaged.
We are observing Masaharu Sato's condition, and there is little that indicates he would be prone to the kind of breakdown he experienced during this mission. He reports feeling like ?something was crawling inside his mind?. If it is possible for our minds to be attacked, then we have greatly underestimated the power of the Sectoids ? or perhaps the entire invasion.
-
It's like there's less civilian survivors with each passing terror mission D:
At least none of ours died this time, though. But psyker stuff is starting to become relevant.
-
Floater Leader
I just knew there was a reason you hadn't mentioned who the captured xenos were ;)
-
(http://i.imgur.com/hsBHrmQm.png) (http://imgur.com/hsBHrmQ)
With our recent surplus, we're getting some Stingray launchers for some of our fleet. They'll be used against the smaller craft so we have a higher chance of recovering valuable materials like reactors and Elerium. If these components don't go into our own engineering programs, surplus UFO parts are worth a good amount of money.
(http://i.imgur.com/0FCire7m.png) (http://imgur.com/0FCire7)
We invest in an additional hangar for our Africa base as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/c5pxXRam.png) (http://imgur.com/c5pxXRa)
We also order an Interceptor and Stingrays for that base as part of the ?light touch? strategy for scout interception.
(http://i.imgur.com/yItNwnDm.png) (http://imgur.com/yItNwnD)
Our first Firestorm is online.
(http://i.imgur.com/P2iLwzim.png) (http://imgur.com/P2iLwzi)
(http://i.imgur.com/F3fuBp5m.png) (http://imgur.com/F3fuBp5)
However, before we can use it, we need to get it armed. Engineering gets to work on a Plasma Beam.
(http://i.imgur.com/lFttRuMm.png) (http://imgur.com/lFttRuM)
(http://i.imgur.com/9OMHDMBm.png) (http://imgur.com/9OMHDMB)
The science branch finishes its interrogation of the Floater leader, and we get more info on the location of the alien stronghold. The answers we're getting seem almost absurd, but we have to look into every possibility.
(http://i.imgur.com/LZUhaxfm.png) (http://imgur.com/LZUhaxf)
(http://i.imgur.com/lxeOGgNm.png) (http://imgur.com/lxeOGgN)
We see a ship heading away from the alien base in Canada. We would go after it, but it's moving too fast for our standard interceptors and our Firestorm is not prepared yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/8ObQYjBm.png) (http://imgur.com/8ObQYjB)
(http://i.imgur.com/PCBm94Km.png) (http://imgur.com/PCBm94K)
A few hours later, our Firestorm is armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/tJ4jNz0m.png) (http://imgur.com/tJ4jNz0)
We add an additional hangar to our Central Asia base. As our funds allow us, this base will be expanded for the purpose of aircraft production; we will transfer some of our engineering staff here and use the space to construct Firestorms and other new craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/gBn3oprm.png) (http://imgur.com/gBn3opr)
(http://i.imgur.com/K32hIvKm.png) (http://imgur.com/K32hIvK)
Our batch of Stingrays arrive, letting us re-equip one of our interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/2aCmcckm.png) (http://imgur.com/2aCmcck)
(http://i.imgur.com/XDjQ6tjm.png) (http://imgur.com/XDjQ6tj)
(http://i.imgur.com/GseSTVhm.png) (http://imgur.com/GseSTVh)
(http://i.imgur.com/Lrsmbqhm.png) (http://imgur.com/Lrsmbqh)
We spot a scout craft moving over North America. This proves to be a perfect test run for the Firestorm, and it quickly crosses the Atlantic, shoots down its target, and returns.
(http://i.imgur.com/iNpZQ5Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/iNpZQ5C)
(http://i.imgur.com/UQUKzUTm.png) (http://imgur.com/UQUKzUT)
Another UFO appears on our radar, and the Firestorm goes for a second sortie after a quick stop to refuel.
(http://i.imgur.com/Mb7xs8Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mb7xs8N)
We go after the crash site in the US first; while Mutons are a more difficult target than Floaters, we'll be arriving in daytime for an easier fight.
(http://i.imgur.com/AMt8Brxm.png) (http://imgur.com/AMt8Brx)
(http://i.imgur.com/BRM2Mymm.png) (http://imgur.com/BRM2Mym)
(http://i.imgur.com/MH8ITvTm.png) (http://imgur.com/MH8ITvT)
(http://i.imgur.com/h9fX8jHm.png) (http://imgur.com/h9fX8jH)
(http://i.imgur.com/ffhlKhom.png) (http://imgur.com/ffhlKho)
(http://i.imgur.com/wWNsx19m.png) (http://imgur.com/wWNsx19)
(http://i.imgur.com/SsJhHfQm.png) (http://imgur.com/SsJhHfQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/HRabnZPm.png) (http://imgur.com/HRabnZP)
(http://i.imgur.com/rGMR2c2m.png) (http://imgur.com/rGMR2c2)
(http://i.imgur.com/cQLlPIVm.png) (http://imgur.com/cQLlPIV)
We get equipped and ready for Operation Jade Relic.
(http://i.imgur.com/hwWxj5em.png) (http://imgur.com/hwWxj5e)
(http://i.imgur.com/WiQD3X8m.png) (http://imgur.com/WiQD3X8)
We start by setting down some smoke in the field.
(http://i.imgur.com/stYpq6Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/stYpq6X)
With some cover in place, we start scouting the area out.
(http://i.imgur.com/aX6pf0Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/aX6pf0H)
We're already spotting Mutons.
(http://i.imgur.com/nRhfNp7m.png) (http://imgur.com/nRhfNp7)
(http://i.imgur.com/QNqMWUBm.png) (http://imgur.com/QNqMWUB)
Some early attempts at shooting it miss, but with the smoke, it's going to be a lot harder for them to spot us and hit us.
(http://i.imgur.com/XKMS3wAm.png) (http://imgur.com/XKMS3wA)
(http://i.imgur.com/AN0eT2Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/AN0eT2H)
Sato, eager to make up for what happened in New York, gets the lethal hit in.
(http://i.imgur.com/PZlFiSMm.png) (http://imgur.com/PZlFiSM)
We spot another Muton just under the Skyranger and one of their more troublesome traits starts to become apparent; they seem to almost blend in with grassy terrain.
(http://i.imgur.com/ArYrUugm.png) (http://imgur.com/ArYrUug)
(http://i.imgur.com/5PyuMWim.png) (http://imgur.com/5PyuMWi)
(http://i.imgur.com/hb5oQBBm.png) (http://imgur.com/hb5oQBB)
(http://i.imgur.com/KEO591Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/KEO591Y)
A brief exchange of fire leads to some non-serious injuries to Christel Zander, but fails to stop the Muton. As usual, Commander Bailey sorts things out.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ukl4uXom.png) (http://imgur.com/Ukl4uXo)
(http://i.imgur.com/l3i0Tc1m.png) (http://imgur.com/l3i0Tc1)
More are spotted in our vicinity.
(http://i.imgur.com/ENY4KEQm.png) (http://imgur.com/ENY4KEQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/AVhOvgCm.png) (http://imgur.com/AVhOvgC)
Some plasma from Sato sorts out the one to the east without it getting a chance to fire back.
(http://i.imgur.com/tJq62gHm.png) (http://imgur.com/tJq62gH)
(http://i.imgur.com/iNSio6Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/iNSio6P)
After some failed shots by some of the other squad members, Bailey cleans the last one up.
Results of Operation Jade Relic
Cmdr. Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 2 kills
Masaharu Sato: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Clarence Carr: 0 kills, not promoted
Scott Taylor: 0 kills, not promoted
Wolfgang Seidler: 0 kills, not promoted
David Pearce: 0 kills, not promoted
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills
Gennadi Maleev: 0 kills
Michael Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Zander: 0 kills, not promoted; wounded, will recover in 2 days
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
We don't know who screwed up the math; 5 aliens were reported killed but we only saw 4 and only added that number to our roster's records.. Either way, this was a very simple and straightforward operation with only one minor injury among our troops. An easy mission is good for us, as we're going to be deploying to the other crash site as soon as possible.
-
Looks like we're making progress again.
-
Nice to see a Muton mission not go horribly.
-
We're barely back from our previous deployment and we're already off for Operation Sahara Mirage.
(http://i.imgur.com/99MnJetm.png) (http://imgur.com/99MnJet)
(http://i.imgur.com/UDLLKJdm.png) (http://imgur.com/UDLLKJd)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vm6KZb2m.png) (http://imgur.com/Vm6KZb2)
(http://i.imgur.com/d8t5Vkom.png) (http://imgur.com/d8t5Vko)
(http://i.imgur.com/dxe2RLSm.png) (http://imgur.com/dxe2RLS)
(http://i.imgur.com/PDjNTtGm.png) (http://imgur.com/PDjNTtG)
(http://i.imgur.com/RCZnPnrm.png) (http://imgur.com/RCZnPnr)
(http://i.imgur.com/sWZQAYYm.png) (http://imgur.com/sWZQAYY)
(http://i.imgur.com/ROA3dg2m.png) (http://imgur.com/ROA3dg2)
(http://i.imgur.com/VQzPuVsm.png) (http://imgur.com/VQzPuVs)
The squad gets geared up.
(http://i.imgur.com/NMKctJum.png) (http://imgur.com/NMKctJu)
(http://i.imgur.com/QiUl7onm.png) (http://imgur.com/QiUl7on)
Right off the bat, we're close to the crash site and it seems to be in good shape.
(http://i.imgur.com/RlZyAWJm.png) (http://imgur.com/RlZyAWJ)
We have squad search through the desert for any stray aliens while preparing for the breach.
(http://i.imgur.com/NdxeFPDm.png) (http://imgur.com/NdxeFPD)
We have someone go up to top of the dunes to get a better look. It doesn't seem like it, but these dunes are actually quite risky for us. It is hard to see across, and we must expend time and stamina to get up to the top. There is no cover on the dunes, meaning that if we spot an enemy during the climb, we are in an extremely vulnerable position.
(http://i.imgur.com/mhpkqqSm.png) (http://imgur.com/mhpkqqS)
Half the team is in position and ready to breach.
(http://i.imgur.com/W27shTom.png) (http://imgur.com/W27shTo)
(http://i.imgur.com/b49YLfgm.png) (http://imgur.com/b49YLfg)
The entrance looks clear, giving us a good window to move everybody in.
(http://i.imgur.com/tdUIg9dm.png) (http://imgur.com/tdUIg9d)
(http://i.imgur.com/bWH9q4Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/bWH9q4Z)
We push in on the left side, moving Carr and Siedler into a small room near the cockpit.
(http://i.imgur.com/3134zfLm.png) (http://imgur.com/3134zfL)
Taylor and Okamoto move up on the right.
(http://i.imgur.com/HfnyoV8m.png) (http://imgur.com/HfnyoV8)
A Floater comes into the room, shooting Carr and walking back out before Siedler can retaliate.
(http://i.imgur.com/u2Ttzujm.png) (http://imgur.com/u2Ttzuj)
(http://i.imgur.com/VxTcIMum.png) (http://imgur.com/VxTcIMu)
Siedler goes through the door and pulls the same trick on the attacker.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZUWW4Z1m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZUWW4Z1)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZLJ25szm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZLJ25sz)
He turns, spots another Floater near the controls, and takes that one down too.
(http://i.imgur.com/EIkYRxjm.png) (http://imgur.com/EIkYRxj)
However, there isn't time to shoot the third one.
(http://i.imgur.com/08dnUklm.png) (http://imgur.com/08dnUkl)
(http://i.imgur.com/yKwPDPjm.png) (http://imgur.com/yKwPDPj)
(http://i.imgur.com/3RSzlwVm.png) (http://imgur.com/3RSzlwV)
(http://i.imgur.com/5eufvN0m.png) (http://imgur.com/5eufvN0)
(http://i.imgur.com/DpqQDvKm.png) (http://imgur.com/DpqQDvK)
Okamoto and Taylor come in from the right and deal with the situation.
(http://i.imgur.com/N16wngDm.png) (http://imgur.com/N16wngD)
(http://i.imgur.com/GnT75Mzm.png) (http://imgur.com/GnT75Mz)
(http://i.imgur.com/4a5NIxnm.png) (http://imgur.com/4a5NIxn)
We move up, taking out another Floater that was hiding around the corner in the process.
(http://i.imgur.com/WQFRRxym.png) (http://imgur.com/WQFRRxy)
(http://i.imgur.com/yLcB5d0m.png) (http://imgur.com/yLcB5d0)(http://i.imgur.com/ctc5nlCm.png) (http://imgur.com/ctc5nlC)
A Floater comes out of the engine room and tries attacking with a stun launcher, but only succeeds in knocking itself out.
(http://i.imgur.com/DMOHkx3m.png) (http://imgur.com/DMOHkx3)
(http://i.imgur.com/h3OH6Aqm.png) (http://imgur.com/h3OH6Aq)
Siedler looks into the engine room and spots one more Floater watching the reactor. At this distance, there's no way for it to escape.
Result of Operation Sahara Mirage
Wolfgang Siedler: 4 kills, not promoted
Scott Taylor: 1 kill, promoted to Captain
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Cmdr. Jane “Holepunch” Bailey: 0 kills
David Pearce: 0 kills, not promoted
Masaharu Sato: 0 kills, not promoted
Victor Maleev: 0 kills, not promoted
Gennadi Maleev: 0 kills, not promoted
Michael Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Clarence Carr: Killed in action
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/Yck1Jygm.png) (http://imgur.com/Yck1Jyg)
(http://i.imgur.com/YJlBLPMm.png) (http://imgur.com/YJlBLPM)
(http://i.imgur.com/ikiXjXum.png) (http://imgur.com/ikiXjXu)
Using our funds, we expand the Asia base further. It finally gets a Hyper-Wave Decoder, and we add on to the living quarters and storage facilities.
-
"Today only one person was shot in the face. Great success."
-
(http://i.imgur.com/nVeRNlzm.png) (http://imgur.com/nVeRNlz)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z5soe1zm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z5soe1z)
Our additional interceptor arrives and is armed up.
(http://i.imgur.com/wEzakZHm.png) (http://imgur.com/wEzakZH)
(http://i.imgur.com/ArgKJ6Im.png) (http://imgur.com/ArgKJ6I)
We spot a small craft on radar, but a single shot from an Interceptor obliterates it.
(http://i.imgur.com/Wx7zLtYm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wx7zLtY)
(http://i.imgur.com/TYnVhzvm.png) (http://imgur.com/TYnVhzv)
Research has finished analyzing the ammunition for the large alien launcher; it appears to be some kind of Elerium-based warhead.
(http://i.imgur.com/C1TNWVHm.png) (http://imgur.com/C1TNWVH)
We also finish studying the recent intelligence obtained from the alien leader. We have confirmed the location of the alien stronghold is on Mars. However, we will need more information to find out the precise location; our best chance is to find an alien commander from either one of their capital ships or their Earth bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/fzbt2aim.png) (http://imgur.com/fzbt2ai)
(http://i.imgur.com/KBgoaCVm.png) (http://imgur.com/KBgoaCV)
We put more work into the alien launchers.
(http://i.imgur.com/KBgoaCVm.png) (http://imgur.com/KBgoaCV)
(http://i.imgur.com/xfJhEoZm.png) (http://imgur.com/xfJhEoZ)
We also start interrogating the Engineer we obtained from the previous operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/cHNzEbqm.png) (http://imgur.com/cHNzEbq)
(http://i.imgur.com/nK6s3ETm.png) (http://imgur.com/nK6s3ET)
We discover another scout craft on radar, which gets vaporized by a single shot from the Firestorm.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z3iIEq7m.png) (http://imgur.com/Z3iIEq7)
(http://i.imgur.com/HeyapXnm.png) (http://imgur.com/HeyapXn)
Another scout on a different mission gets taken down over the Atlantic.
(http://i.imgur.com/hFCAexbm.png) (http://imgur.com/hFCAexb)
(http://i.imgur.com/sk5VChOm.png) (http://imgur.com/sk5VChO)
(http://i.imgur.com/cmbtmyom.png) (http://imgur.com/cmbtmyo)
The small alien launcher is now fully analyzed and ready for us to use.
(http://i.imgur.com/Kqvmc5om.png) (http://imgur.com/Kqvmc5o)
(http://i.imgur.com/tsU5vWym.png) (http://imgur.com/tsU5vWy)
(http://i.imgur.com/t6oUoqHm.png) (http://imgur.com/t6oUoqH)
The Firestorm catches another Scout over the Middle East, knocking it out of the air with a single shot. We are ready to move in and salvage the crash.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/yHkD0TUm.png) (http://imgur.com/yHkD0TU)
We commence Operation Desert Condor.
(http://i.imgur.com/4ZJYgKMm.png) (http://imgur.com/4ZJYgKM)
(http://i.imgur.com/W5F8Eqrm.png) (http://imgur.com/W5F8Eqr)
(http://i.imgur.com/MlwQESvm.png) (http://imgur.com/MlwQESv)
(http://i.imgur.com/NfXdn69m.png) (http://imgur.com/NfXdn69)
(http://i.imgur.com/TeiPm3rm.png) (http://imgur.com/TeiPm3r)
(http://i.imgur.com/lzQhubCm.png) (http://imgur.com/lzQhubC)
(http://i.imgur.com/S8mjgARm.png) (http://imgur.com/S8mjgAR)
(http://i.imgur.com/ipwanIYm.png) (http://imgur.com/ipwanIY)
(http://i.imgur.com/uEmKDxhm.png) (http://imgur.com/uEmKDxh)
(http://i.imgur.com/GHHEmGkm.png) (http://imgur.com/GHHEmGk)
Standard loadout, apart from one of the rookies getting the stun launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/WOGQ953m.png) (http://imgur.com/WOGQ953)
(http://i.imgur.com/VBOkBIUm.png) (http://imgur.com/VBOkBIU)
From the start, a Floater is in our field of view. Christel Zander blows it away.
(http://i.imgur.com/33EulNZm.png) (http://imgur.com/33EulNZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/5KJuGnNm.png) (http://imgur.com/5KJuGnN)
As we move down the exit ramp, we spot more.
(http://i.imgur.com/bmEVtarm.png) (http://imgur.com/bmEVtar)
(http://i.imgur.com/J3OILIvm.png) (http://imgur.com/J3OILIv)
(http://i.imgur.com/MANkMfcm.png) (http://imgur.com/MANkMfc)
We try to have our scout pull back into cover, but he takes a few hits. He survives, but is wounded. Siedler evades more shots as he escapes up the ramp.
(http://i.imgur.com/BxhBHLTm.png) (http://imgur.com/BxhBHLT)
(http://i.imgur.com/2sBtYMAm.png) (http://imgur.com/2sBtYMA)
We move the team out, taking one of the Floaters down.
(http://i.imgur.com/3NJIdQSm.png) (http://imgur.com/3NJIdQS)
Despite his aim being off from his wound, Siedler gets the other one.
(http://i.imgur.com/9L0qdFbm.png) (http://imgur.com/9L0qdFb)
Okamoto patches him up.
(http://i.imgur.com/wH7jANLm.png) (http://imgur.com/wH7jANL)
We get ready to move in on the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/alwPaLSm.png) (http://imgur.com/alwPaLS)(http://i.imgur.com/YyCa4Dkm.png) (http://imgur.com/YyCa4Dk)
(http://i.imgur.com/YyCa4Dkm.png) (http://imgur.com/YyCa4Dk)
(http://i.imgur.com/YyCa4Dkm.png) (http://imgur.com/YyCa4Dk)
Our team gets ready to breach. Okamoto spots a Floater right through the door and deals with it right away, clearing the way for the team to advance,
(http://i.imgur.com/XpWcN0Km.png) (http://imgur.com/XpWcN0K)
We get part of the team ready to move through one side of the ship...
(http://i.imgur.com/6nVvNySm.png) (http://imgur.com/6nVvNyS)
...and part of it ready to move through the other while someone goes around.
(http://i.imgur.com/H6UMbXZm.png) (http://imgur.com/H6UMbXZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/6mubxsDm.png) (http://imgur.com/6mubxsD)
We start moving towards the cockpit.
(http://i.imgur.com/MiNuIuOm.png) (http://imgur.com/MiNuIuO)
A Floater from the engine room hits one of our troops, but not fatally.
(http://i.imgur.com/h0iKQkum.png) (http://imgur.com/h0iKQku)
(http://i.imgur.com/tmZf7H1m.png) (http://imgur.com/tmZf7H1)
Pearce rushes the engine room and finishes clearing out the UFO.
Result of Operation Desert Condor
David Pierce: 2 kills, not promoted
Suzie Okamoto: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Wolfgang Siedler: 1 kill, not promoted; wounded
Christel Zander: 1 kill, not promoted
Cmdr. Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 0 kills, not promoted
Masaharu Sato: 0 kills, not promoted
Victor Maleev: 0 kills, not promoted
Pierre Revenu: 0 kills, not promoted
Paul Reynolds: 0 kills, not promoted; wounded
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/S5RnBDp,.png) (http://imgur.com/S5RnBDp)
In the meantime. we've shipped our Firestorm and a supply of Elerium fuel to our Asia base...
(http://i.imgur.com/hD4ki7qm.png) (http://imgur.com/hD4ki7q)
...and started production on a new craft and its armaments.
(http://i.imgur.com/roZZXgAm.png) (http://imgur.com/roZZXgA)(http://i.imgur.com/Th2QyITm.png) (http://imgur.com/Th2QyIT)
Interrogating the captured alien engineer gave us some information about one of their ships, including its functions and combat capabilities.
(http://i.imgur.com/VQaXnbBm.png) (http://imgur.com/VQaXnbB)
(http://i.imgur.com/GI6MQ5Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/GI6MQ5L)
(http://i.imgur.com/fpXELO1m.png) (http://imgur.com/fpXELO1)
A passing UFO is utterly obliterated by the Firestorm.
(http://i.imgur.com/FDroYoom.png) (http://imgur.com/FDroYoo)
The research team has finished analyzing the large alien launcher and... it utterly terrifies them. The course of the projectiles fired by this weapon can be ?programmed? before a launch. The projectiles themselves use the anti-gravity properties of Elerium; they can change direction in midair, going around corners and even going from level flight to vertical and back. While we have not tested the warheads, simulations suggest that they have an immense explosive yield powered by a carefully contained fusion reaction.
(http://i.imgur.com/lsHrqlLm.png) (http://imgur.com/lsHrqlL)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vwjg5W3m.png) (http://imgur.com/Vwjg5W3)
We start looking into a potential craft-based variant of this weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/cApyq9Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/cApyq9W)
We also look at some of our other remaining in-house weapons projects.
(http://i.imgur.com/IGQN6jVm.png) (http://imgur.com/IGQN6jV)
Engineering can not only replicate the alien launcher, but can also build a new HWP design using the weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/bc5MWnhm.png) (http://imgur.com/bc5MWnh)
(http://i.imgur.com/5n0vZVIm.png) (http://imgur.com/5n0vZVI)
The Skyranger's patrol picks up a UFO travelling over the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/AwoGQm8m.png) (http://imgur.com/AwoGQm8)
(http://i.imgur.com/oXugYTum.png) (http://imgur.com/oXugYTu)
(http://i.imgur.com/VGesEcJm.png) (http://imgur.com/VGesEcJ)
We soon get three more contacts in its instrument range; there's an entire swarm flying over the vicinity of California.
(http://i.imgur.com/dEuvLdAm.png) (http://imgur.com/dEuvLdA)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vc58kBVm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vc58kBV)
There are two ships landed on the ground and within range of the Skyranger. However, we only have the ability to attack one. The small one is a scout craft and most likely a guaranteed win. The larger craft is riskier, but will give us far more components when recovered. If it is a terror ship, we will be dealing with potentially dangerous aliens; if it is a supply ship, we've hit a potential treasure trove.
Of course, we can choose to attack neither of these sites. Our firepower gap with the aliens is pretty much gone, and once our two wounded recover from the previous mission we have enough troops and equipment to mount a full assault on the alien base in the Arctic. Any losses we incur during a ship recovery now would be a setback to that mission; however, an operation with minimal or no losses would put us greatly ahead of our operating costs.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/SrrVMKnm.png) (http://imgur.com/SrrVMKn)
We go after the large ship to capture and salvage it.
(http://i.imgur.com/4v4d9NMm.png) (http://imgur.com/4v4d9NM)
(http://i.imgur.com/E1ateckm.png) (http://imgur.com/E1ateck)
(http://i.imgur.com/FqvAaQZm.png) (http://imgur.com/FqvAaQZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/lcKv2gVm.png) (http://imgur.com/lcKv2gV)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gp55ko2m.png) (http://imgur.com/Gp55ko2)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZlSiCBhm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZlSiCBh)
(http://i.imgur.com/2yOwzKQm.png) (http://imgur.com/2yOwzKQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gdu9anPm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gdu9anP)
(http://i.imgur.com/nEljLoXm.png) (http://imgur.com/nEljLoX)
(http://i.imgur.com/OZVtVkKm.png) (http://imgur.com/OZVtVkK)
We get geared up for Operation Pacific Pirate.
(http://i.imgur.com/dmZgwDKm.png) (http://imgur.com/dmZgwDK)
(http://i.imgur.com/WRVJ81Um.png) (http://imgur.com/WRVJ81U)
(http://i.imgur.com/iNVBE9Em.png) (http://imgur.com/iNVBE9E)
We set down smoke, and right off the bat we have Mutons coming at us.
(http://i.imgur.com/WihQ4wom.png) (http://imgur.com/WihQ4wo)
(http://i.imgur.com/bE6RvwKm.png) (http://imgur.com/bE6RvwK)
Zander gets one of them, but we're still in a rough position.
(http://i.imgur.com/RhTYM7Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/RhTYM7G)
Checking the ramp, we can't spot the other Muton. Rather than risk going out into the open, we move back and hold our postion.
(http://i.imgur.com/HUbQIsCm.png) (http://imgur.com/HUbQIsC)
(http://i.imgur.com/NEZzAaLm.png) (http://imgur.com/NEZzAaL)
We pass a proximity mine down to the front and toss it at the front of the ramp to try and catch the wandering hostile.
(http://i.imgur.com/gCf6Ybym.png) (http://imgur.com/gCf6Yby)
However, it's too far forward, and the Muton's able to get a shot into the Skyranger and hit Cuvelier.
(http://i.imgur.com/rORtdegm.png) (http://imgur.com/rORtdeg)
(http://i.imgur.com/rirUxMum.png) (http://imgur.com/rirUxMu)
(http://i.imgur.com/xTSukc4m.png) (http://imgur.com/xTSukc4)
Pearce moves up to the door and takes down the Muton.
(http://i.imgur.com/ktocQXlm.png) (http://imgur.com/ktocQXl)
However, we have another one to deal with now.
(http://i.imgur.com/99hsZggm.png) (http://imgur.com/99hsZgg)
(http://i.imgur.com/9Fa4Lphm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Fa4Lph)
We try using a grenade to take out both the Muton and the planted mine, but accidentally order Pearce down the ramp.
(http://i.imgur.com/1jSAJ4am.png) (http://imgur.com/1jSAJ4a)
(http://i.imgur.com/jHpgvDtm.png) (http://imgur.com/jHpgvDt)
We send Zander down to clean up this mess.
(http://i.imgur.com/ykFDPMWm.png) (http://imgur.com/ykFDPMW)
We spot a new type of alien close to the landing gear. It seems to have no clear method of long-range attack, so we ignore it for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/XyoDGGSm.png) (http://imgur.com/XyoDGGS)
(http://i.imgur.com/qwrldeEm.png) (http://imgur.com/qwrldeE)
We also spot another Muton blending in with the grass, but that gets taken out swiftly.
(http://i.imgur.com/jhqCuqXm.png) (http://imgur.com/jhqCuqX)
The unknown alien moves up and suddenly attacks Gaudin.
(http://i.imgur.com/O6yx00mm.png) (http://imgur.com/O6yx00m)
An enemy grenade goes off in the distance, but far from our forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/3rtuY51m.png) (http://imgur.com/3rtuY51)
We take down the unknown alien, but too late to save Gaudin.
(http://i.imgur.com/i7jzI5Im.png) (http://imgur.com/i7jzI5I)
We switch Maleev over from the auto-cannon to the heavy plasma.
(http://i.imgur.com/uGHeGhOm.png) (http://imgur.com/uGHeGhO)
(http://i.imgur.com/zICdq5zm.png) (http://imgur.com/zICdq5z)
Another unidentified alien pops out of a doorway, and is taken out by reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/QyGneArm.png) (http://imgur.com/QyGneAr)
(http://i.imgur.com/p0tLbfWm.png) (http://imgur.com/p0tLbfW)
Another is spotted, and we throw a grenade to try and get it from around the side of the building.
(http://i.imgur.com/GqWPBy6m.png) (http://imgur.com/GqWPBy6)
(http://i.imgur.com/sQGtcpVm.png) (http://imgur.com/sQGtcpV)
(http://i.imgur.com/MKDKEBem.png) (http://imgur.com/MKDKEBe)
We spot a Muton standing next to the side of the ship. Bailey snipes it from the exit of the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/jJtT6LCm.png) (http://imgur.com/jJtT6LC)
(http://i.imgur.com/vFGHTIhm.png) (http://imgur.com/vFGHTIh)
(http://i.imgur.com/xEM4RUcm.png) (http://imgur.com/xEM4RUc)
We spot another of the unidentified aliens, which is taken out by Zander.
(http://i.imgur.com/d80jQ2Km.png) (http://imgur.com/d80jQ2K)
(http://i.imgur.com/j6MR5mlm.png) (http://imgur.com/j6MR5ml)
(http://i.imgur.com/RD5n9WNm.png) (http://imgur.com/RD5n9WN)
We find a Muton in a grove, and it gets brought down by combined fire from the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/mrPvR47m.png) (http://imgur.com/mrPvR47)
(http://i.imgur.com/9QlnWIFm.png) (http://imgur.com/9QlnWIF)
Zander gets hit by a flanking shot and knocked out. Before we can get to her to render aid, she bleeds out.
(http://i.imgur.com/0hh9glWm.png) (http://imgur.com/0hh9glW)
(http://i.imgur.com/jCN7VnBm.png) (http://imgur.com/jCN7VnB)
A Muton moves through the smoke and guns down another of our troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/LefDVbAm.png) (http://imgur.com/LefDVbA)
(http://i.imgur.com/3lIuFbom.png) (http://imgur.com/3lIuFbo)
It gets taken out in a retaliatory burst of fire from Revenu.
(http://i.imgur.com/E1hfslPm.png) (http://imgur.com/E1hfslP)
With the area cleared out, we get ready to move in on the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/pwQirsOm.png) (http://imgur.com/pwQirsO)
(http://i.imgur.com/nE3hAdfm.png) (http://imgur.com/nE3hAdf)
(http://i.imgur.com/F200Eevm.png) (http://imgur.com/F200Eev)
Breaking through the door, it seems clear. We start pushing in through both sides.
(http://i.imgur.com/slegcRWm.png) (http://imgur.com/slegcRW)
(http://i.imgur.com/t2xa27Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/t2xa27P)
(http://i.imgur.com/xlwdxEQm.png) (http://imgur.com/xlwdxEQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/8ayefuFm.png) (http://imgur.com/8ayefuF)
We spot one of the new alien types on the right side of the ship. We pull back into cover, and throw a grenade in its direction.
(http://i.imgur.com/191ERYFm.png) (http://imgur.com/191ERYF)
We spot another hostile, but it's not close enough to attack us.
(http://i.imgur.com/MiXw75Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/MiXw75F)
(http://i.imgur.com/MiXw75Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/MiXw75F)
We try throwing another grenade, but wind up hitting a bit short.
(http://i.imgur.com/ON99MZ2m.png) (http://imgur.com/ON99MZ2)
We make our way in to the reactor room, which is impressively intact.
(http://i.imgur.com/0SNojfxm.png) (http://imgur.com/0SNojfx)
(http://i.imgur.com/SuAZxthm.png) (http://imgur.com/SuAZxth)
(http://i.imgur.com/oKYEZP1m.png) (http://imgur.com/oKYEZP1)
Sato spots a Muton in the passage to the upper part of the ship, and takes it out rapidly.
(http://i.imgur.com/ztOzNrOm.png) (http://imgur.com/ztOzNrO)
(http://i.imgur.com/DP0LBTKm.png) (http://imgur.com/DP0LBTK)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hycg5T0m.png) (http://imgur.com/Hycg5T0)
We send two people up to the entryway to the upper area. A Muton walks past them, utterly failing to notice them. It is promptly blasted against the wall.
(http://i.imgur.com/Uu9yaXRm.png) (http://imgur.com/Uu9yaXR)
(http://i.imgur.com/XbMlYdpm.png) (http://imgur.com/XbMlYdp)
We get ready to fan out and sweep the upper portions of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/zcMDAXum.png) (http://imgur.com/zcMDAXu)
The alien we were trying to grenade earlier has shown up again, and we quickly dispatch it.
(http://i.imgur.com/xqM7C7am.png) (http://imgur.com/xqM7C7a)
The cockpit is clear, so we go back down to sweep the area again.
(http://i.imgur.com/2FW0nEkm.png) (http://imgur.com/2FW0nEk)
(http://i.imgur.com/ekfG64Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/ekfG64W)
(http://i.imgur.com/pf5FMVXm.png) (http://imgur.com/pf5FMVX)
(http://i.imgur.com/e7GhlD9m.png) (http://imgur.com/e7GhlD9)
Searching around finds some of the Mutons that survived the initial battle. We could capture them, but they are just footsoldiers and won't provide much in terms of intelligence.
(http://i.imgur.com/MTG3uzrm.png) (http://imgur.com/MTG3uzr)
(http://i.imgur.com/PPLVhVUm.png) (http://imgur.com/PPLVhVU)
Searching a building near our landing site finds one last Muton, who is blasted repeatedly at point blank range by Bailey.
Result of Operation Pacific Pirate
Cmdr. Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: 2 kills
Victor Maleev: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Pierre Revenu: 1 kill, not promoted
Scott Taylor: 0 kills, not promoted
Masaharu Sato: 0 kills, not promoted
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills, not promoted
David Pearce: Killed in action
Claude Gaudin: Killed in action
Pierre Cuvelier: Killed in action
Christel Zander: Killed in action
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactors, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/8F5yON3m.png) (http://imgur.com/8F5yON3)
While we took some losses during this mission, the money we have gained from the salvaged weapons and components will allow us to maintain our current fleet and staff without falling into debt. While our timetable for assaulting the alien base is set back slightly, once we have a full team ready again we have plenty of new weapons and tools at our disposal.
We have identified two new types of alien here. The first is known as the Silacoid. It is a slow-moving lifeform with an extremely high body temperature; it can cause severe burns and thermal shock on physical contact and will ignite combustible materials in the vicinity. However, as long as our forces maintain distance from it, this species poses little threat. The other species is being called the Celatid; its capabilities are mostly unknown so far.
-
Welp. At least we can buy new door openers. >.<
-
(http://i.imgur.com/daslSuHm.png) (http://imgur.com/daslSuH)
We get more soldiers to replace our recent loss.
(http://i.imgur.com/jQGefudm.png) (http://imgur.com/jQGefud)
We reallocate our engineering team to start work on more power suits.
(http://i.imgur.com/jOXXlpdm.png) (http://imgur.com/jOXXlpd)
(http://i.imgur.com/5RjOBJMm.png) (http://imgur.com/5RjOBJM)
We use our funding to expand our facilities at our Asia and Africa bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/dmrvXqgm.png) (http://imgur.com/dmrvXqg)
We reallocate some of our scientists, cutting the teams on the Fusion Missile and Heavy Laser projects and putting some researchers to work on the Flying Armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/SbIkaqFm.png) (http://imgur.com/SbIkaqF)
We cut back on our research staff to reduce our costs and debts.
(http://i.imgur.com/yZgRWWTm.png) (http://imgur.com/yZgRWWT)
The battleship in the alien fleet has landed, but our Skyranger and squad can not respond to it at this time.
(http://i.imgur.com/E6AAwyBm.png) (http://imgur.com/E6AAwyB)
A scout ship makes its way within range of our decoders and confirms our fears; we are dealing with another infiltration fleet.
(http://i.imgur.com/wplxgfIm.png) (http://imgur.com/wplxgfI)
(http://i.imgur.com/IHb0SfLm.png) (http://imgur.com/IHb0SfL)
A scout searching for our bases is shot down over the Alps.
(http://i.imgur.com/0Qgxnr4m.png) (http://imgur.com/0Qgxnr4)
Our decoder picks up something more worrying; a Snakeman terror ship heading for South America.
(http://i.imgur.com/dfKZC4zm.png) (http://imgur.com/dfKZC4z)
Our interceptors attempt to pursue, but on the entire other side of the world, they can't catch up.
(http://i.imgur.com/NTxyRD2m.png) (http://imgur.com/NTxyRD2)
(http://i.imgur.com/HJBEVP9m.png) (http://imgur.com/HJBEVP9)
Rio de Janeiro falls under attack, leaving it up to our ground forces. We get the few battle-ready troops we have equipped and on board the Skyranger for Operation Jungle Storm.
(http://i.imgur.com/5PgjIzqm.png) (http://imgur.com/5PgjIzq)
(http://i.imgur.com/fy7aaGTm.png) (http://imgur.com/fy7aaGT)
Right off the bat we can see we're dealing with Chrysalids, which is a bad situation when panicking civilians are present. Fortunately, Bailey's able to get the first one we spot.
(http://i.imgur.com/n0351mem.png) (http://imgur.com/n0351me)
Unfortunately, we spot more down an alleyway. This requires an aggressive response, killing them before they get a chance to attack us.
(http://i.imgur.com/ScHMAhnm.png) (http://imgur.com/ScHMAhn)
(http://i.imgur.com/0Q5xKOMm.png) (http://imgur.com/0Q5xKOM)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ja29eqtm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ja29eqt)
(http://i.imgur.com/uoUeaPVm.png) (http://imgur.com/uoUeaPV)
(http://i.imgur.com/strvnixm.png) (http://imgur.com/strvnix)
Aggression is delivered in spades.
(http://i.imgur.com/X3qAh8Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/X3qAh8B)
(http://i.imgur.com/QRVEgUAm.png) (http://imgur.com/QRVEgUA)
Unfortunately, we are ambushed by a Snakeman coming through another alleyway... in a single shot, Bailey, our commander and our most seasoned veteran is down.
(http://i.imgur.com/V863w4sm.png) (http://imgur.com/V863w4s)
We start throwing some grenades into the alleyway.
(http://i.imgur.com/h0KiJlLm.png) (http://imgur.com/h0KiJlL)
(http://i.imgur.com/sVMm5Ecm.png) (http://imgur.com/sVMm5Ec)
We spot another Chrysalid ahead of our position, which gets taken out by Gennadi.
(http://i.imgur.com/NGVnA4am.png) (http://imgur.com/NGVnA4a)
(http://i.imgur.com/SH410yIm.png) (http://imgur.com/SH410yI)
Another Chrysalid runs toward us, ending up between two of our troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/OStLkivm.png) (http://imgur.com/OStLkiv)
(http://i.imgur.com/k0YuILFm.png) (http://imgur.com/k0YuILF)
Scouting further reveals more hostiles.
(http://i.imgur.com/6mFqNZ8m.png) (http://imgur.com/6mFqNZ8)
We're able to get one Snakeman.
(http://i.imgur.com/zZrykvRm.png) (http://imgur.com/zZrykvR)
(http://i.imgur.com/LksJAorm.png) (http://imgur.com/LksJAor)
However, as we pull back, another Snakeman ambushes us from behind.
(http://i.imgur.com/aSqD1mkm.png) (http://imgur.com/aSqD1mk)
We finally spot the first Snakeman that attacked us, with a perfect line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/odtgyMbm.png) (http://imgur.com/odtgyMb)
Another Chrysalid is coming up on us, but Wright's able to eliminate it.
(http://i.imgur.com/OewjKcDm.png) (http://imgur.com/OewjKcD)
(http://i.imgur.com/2tAL7W5m.png) (http://imgur.com/2tAL7W5)
One more of our squad is lost to enemy fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/yWUizzHm.png) (http://imgur.com/yWUizzH)
As we advance, we spot four hostiles simultaneously: three Snakemen and an infected are in front of us.
(http://i.imgur.com/9ZSfuuQm.png) (http://imgur.com/9ZSfuuQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/FKpqvdLm.png) (http://imgur.com/FKpqvdL)
(http://i.imgur.com/gidlCbqm.png) (http://imgur.com/gidlCbq)
And another Snakeman is off to the side, but we're able to eliminate this one.
(http://i.imgur.com/VvxnYbtm.png) (http://imgur.com/VvxnYbt)
We get a grenade ready to attack the enemy horde to the north.
(http://i.imgur.com/xUfpKzrm.png) (http://imgur.com/xUfpKzr)
(http://i.imgur.com/yNn3YV7m.png) (http://imgur.com/yNn3YV7)
(http://i.imgur.com/MZvKAmxm.png) (http://imgur.com/MZvKAmx)
However, one of our squad members is hit by fire through a narrow gap, dropping their grenade. The teammate beside them is taken out in the ensuing detonation.
(http://i.imgur.com/popUUyGm.png) (http://imgur.com/popUUyG)
(http://i.imgur.com/OrPjdxhm.png) (http://imgur.com/OrPjdxh)
With the squad massively outgunned and this mission having gone completely to hell, we have no other choice but to retreat.
Result of Operation Jungle Storm
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills, promoted to Captain
Gennadi Maleev: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Michael Wright: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Cmdr. Jane ?Holepunch? Bailey: Killed in action
Masaharu Sato: Killed in action
Pierre Revenu: Killed in action
Scott Taylor: Killed in action
Helga Brehme: Killed in action
11 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
7 civilians killed by aliens
No civilian survivors
This mission was a massive disaster. We lost many of our most decorated and capable troops during this operation, and failed to make any gains to compensate. While we will be able to recover from this loss, it will be a difficult endeavor to replace our fallen elites.
-
HOLEPUNCH NOOOO ;;
-
Well shit.
I think our plans just got deep sixed.
-
Ugh fuck.
We might be doing Mars with rookies.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/UjmZoaQm.png) (http://imgur.com/UjmZoaQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/9eBwWpXm.png) (http://imgur.com/9eBwWpX)
(http://i.imgur.com/TcBP1Z1m.png) (http://imgur.com/TcBP1Z1)
(http://i.imgur.com/3FYXucom.png) (http://imgur.com/3FYXuco)
(http://i.imgur.com/hSyTDulm.png) (http://imgur.com/hSyTDul)
(http://i.imgur.com/gFusab0m.png) (http://imgur.com/gFusab0)
(http://i.imgur.com/XYLv4Lfm.png) (http://imgur.com/XYLv4Lf)
(http://i.imgur.com/fzsx7fXm.png) (http://imgur.com/fzsx7fX)
(http://i.imgur.com/2XjZMtYm.png) (http://imgur.com/2XjZMtY)
(http://i.imgur.com/EWk7v1mm.png) (http://imgur.com/EWk7v1m)
(http://i.imgur.com/tBizxoOm.png) (http://imgur.com/tBizxoO)
(http://i.imgur.com/EFderYvm.png) (http://imgur.com/EFderYv)
(http://i.imgur.com/jhFUgAcm.png) (http://imgur.com/jhFUgAc)
(http://i.imgur.com/n8r61Kbm.png) (http://imgur.com/n8r61Kb)
(http://i.imgur.com/5TuVuSCm.png) (http://imgur.com/5TuVuSC)
(http://i.imgur.com/y0UwHPPm.png) (http://imgur.com/y0UwHPP)
(http://i.imgur.com/AoGuyLsm.png) (http://imgur.com/AoGuyLs)
(http://i.imgur.com/4oDcW7am.png) (http://imgur.com/4oDcW7a)
We evaluate our new batch of replacement troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/cNzVUn1m.png) (http://imgur.com/cNzVUn1)
(http://i.imgur.com/LOyuWUrm.png) (http://imgur.com/LOyuWUr)
We get our monthly evaluation. Most of the nations are pleased with our progress. However, Brazil has reduced its support following the Rio disaster, and Canada has been infiltrated. However, we are coming out ahead financially.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z8tsyM6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Z8tsyM6)
(http://i.imgur.com/4e45HChm.png) (http://imgur.com/4e45HCh)
(http://i.imgur.com/NEWTqaCm.png) (http://imgur.com/NEWTqaC)
(http://i.imgur.com/uQ78mWRm.png) (http://imgur.com/uQ78mWR)
Radar spots a Muton scout ship moving over the Arctic. Our Firestorm moves in to take it down over the northern shores of Russia.
(http://i.imgur.com/a2D68eUm.png) (http://imgur.com/a2D68eU)
(http://i.imgur.com/A3KmF3Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/A3KmF3G)
(http://i.imgur.com/Zs2Hiszm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zs2Hisz)
Another scout ship hunting for our bases is quickly vaporized by a single Avalanche.
We are ready to move in on the crash site in Russia; it only has a small crew, so this will make good combat training for our rookies.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/gZVCtLVm.png) (http://imgur.com/gZVCtLV)
(http://i.imgur.com/b9aNsbKm.png) (http://imgur.com/b9aNsbK)
(http://i.imgur.com/zqU7Jkym.png) (http://imgur.com/zqU7Jky)
(http://i.imgur.com/AaNpzANm.png) (http://imgur.com/AaNpzAN)
(http://i.imgur.com/dLXvDs2m.png) (http://imgur.com/dLXvDs2)
(http://i.imgur.com/NvbV17sm.png) (http://imgur.com/NvbV17s)
(http://i.imgur.com/WtjuMjkm.png) (http://imgur.com/WtjuMjk)
(http://i.imgur.com/0Rr6iVrm.png) (http://imgur.com/0Rr6iVr)
(http://i.imgur.com/LCDwOkgm.png) (http://imgur.com/LCDwOkg)
(http://i.imgur.com/gccfitim.png) (http://imgur.com/gccfiti)
We gear up for Operation Clean Slate.
(http://i.imgur.com/YzZDXLgm.png) (http://imgur.com/YzZDXLg)
The tundra is different from our usual battlefields; it is almost completely flat, with little if any cover. Our best option will be to move slowly and carefully.
(http://i.imgur.com/NbdG7dFm.png) (http://imgur.com/NbdG7dF)
We spot a single Muton on the ice.
(http://i.imgur.com/E8Ph5cFm.png) (http://imgur.com/E8Ph5cF)
(http://i.imgur.com/deidm5Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/deidm5D)
It is quickly taken care of with some long-range shooting.
(http://i.imgur.com/GumBV9Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/GumBV9J)
With the outside clear, we're able to quickly move in on the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/XmEr8Klm.png) (http://imgur.com/XmEr8Kl)
Kicking open the door, we find the ship is in good condition ? and unfortunately, so is the crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/IFccUO0m.png) (http://imgur.com/IFccUO0)
(http://i.imgur.com/4bjzhSEm.png) (http://imgur.com/4bjzhSE)
(http://i.imgur.com/qk9b87cm.png) (http://imgur.com/qk9b87c)
One of the Mutons gets taken down before the rookie pulls back.
(http://i.imgur.com/OwbSQLpm.png) (http://imgur.com/OwbSQLp)
(http://i.imgur.com/FVzgQpsm.png) (http://imgur.com/FVzgQps)
We send another rookie in, but get too aggressive and run out of time to pull him back.
(http://i.imgur.com/dEavTe6m.png) (http://imgur.com/dEavTe6)
Unfortunately, at this point the mistake is doubled down on by sending someone else in to try and back the rookie up in a firefight that's already been lost.
(http://i.imgur.com/g69t4t7m.png) (http://imgur.com/g69t4t7)
(http://i.imgur.com/DnN6tifm.png) (http://imgur.com/DnN6tif)
This tactical error costs us two rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/uEG0fGLm.png) (http://imgur.com/uEG0fGL)
We start moving more carefully now; one person at a time through the door, a quick burst of automatic fire, then pull back.
(http://i.imgur.com/HkWxh78m.png) (http://imgur.com/HkWxh78)
Martin gets struck by reaction fire while pulling back, but is unharmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/THHlyJTm.png) (http://imgur.com/THHlyJT)
(http://i.imgur.com/hU1IHuOm.png) (http://imgur.com/hU1IHuO)
(http://i.imgur.com/qKxz3Afm.png) (http://imgur.com/qKxz3Af)
(http://i.imgur.com/l08GMVLm.png) (http://imgur.com/l08GMVL)
(http://i.imgur.com/XYDsbC9m.png) (http://imgur.com/XYDsbC9)
(http://i.imgur.com/oMKOOonm.png) (http://imgur.com/oMKOOon)
Between Maria and Nikolai, the ship quickly gets cleaned up.
Result of Operation Clean Slate:
Maria Martin: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Nikolai Ragulin: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills, promoted to Colonel
Gennadi Maleev: 0 kills, promoted to Captain
Michael Wright: 0 kills, promoted to Captain
Wolfgang Siedler: 0 kills, not promoted
Paul Jones: 0 kills, not promoted
Shuji Koyama: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Ulbricht: Killed in action
James Taylor: Killed in action
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/Su0yCghm.png) (http://imgur.com/Su0yCgh)
Paul Reynolds is our new field commander. Hopefully he can live up to the example set by his immediate predecessor.
(http://i.imgur.com/NzplWikm.png) (http://imgur.com/NzplWik)
(http://i.imgur.com/CKWMyIgm.png) (http://imgur.com/CKWMyIg)
(http://i.imgur.com/H3zz1lim.png) (http://imgur.com/H3zz1li)
We intercept and shoot down a Floater craft, getting ready for an additional sortie.
-
James Taylor: Killed in action
I've seen fire and I've seen rain.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/yiBX6wPm.png) (http://imgur.com/yiBX6wP)
(http://i.imgur.com/xtkpasPm.png) (http://imgur.com/xtkpasP)
(http://i.imgur.com/vY1Fg3em.png) (http://imgur.com/vY1Fg3e)
(http://i.imgur.com/pxWE2QJm.png) (http://imgur.com/pxWE2QJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/5o7KCrUm.png) (http://imgur.com/5o7KCrU)
(http://i.imgur.com/k86ek7jm.png) (http://imgur.com/k86ek7j)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZHrpJMdm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZHrpJMd)
(http://i.imgur.com/6duPL6km.png) (http://imgur.com/6duPL6k)
(http://i.imgur.com/BbAhorhm.png) (http://imgur.com/BbAhorh)
(http://i.imgur.com/YfCBywBm.png) (http://imgur.com/YfCBywB)
We prepare for Operation Counter Harvest.
(http://i.imgur.com/ciH2mYWm.png) (http://imgur.com/ciH2mYW)
We've landed fairly close to the crash site.
(http://i.imgur.com/rxLsNqOm.png) (http://imgur.com/rxLsNqO)
(http://i.imgur.com/j22uZvIm.png) (http://imgur.com/j22uZvI)
(http://i.imgur.com/M9MX044m.png) (http://imgur.com/M9MX044)
We set down some smoke to prepare our advance into the field.
(http://i.imgur.com/qhcyvHSm.png) (http://imgur.com/qhcyvHS)
(http://i.imgur.com/IQ9j7k4m.png) (http://imgur.com/IQ9j7k4)
We spot a Floater in the nearby fields, which is quickly taken care of.
(http://i.imgur.com/CsDASu9m.png) (http://imgur.com/CsDASu9)
(http://i.imgur.com/vR10Ec5m.png) (http://imgur.com/vR10Ec5)
(http://i.imgur.com/iZOFwG7m.png) (http://imgur.com/iZOFwG7)
We spot another Floater to the west, with Davies taking it out with a flurry of plasma fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/8UhKjn5m.png) (http://imgur.com/8UhKjn5)
(http://i.imgur.com/woTrBnGm.png) (http://imgur.com/woTrBnG)
One of the rookies spots and eliminates another Floater close to where the first one was found.
(http://i.imgur.com/VrFwSuum.png) (http://imgur.com/VrFwSuu)
(http://i.imgur.com/4NDUvQkm.png) (http://imgur.com/4NDUvQk)
As we clear out the landing zone, a Floater attempting to come out of the ship is struck down by reaction fire from our forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/aapfkeHm.png) (http://imgur.com/aapfkeH)
(http://i.imgur.com/HqfFEdKm.png) (http://imgur.com/HqfFEdK)
Our troops fan out through the smoke. It proves to be sufficient enough cover that shots taken in the squad's direction miss entirely.
(http://i.imgur.com/NKwSDbcm.png) (http://imgur.com/NKwSDbc)
Another Floater trying to come at us from the ship is hit by reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/LJ4b3Ykm.png) (http://imgur.com/LJ4b3Yk)
(http://i.imgur.com/tWHt6mMm.png) (http://imgur.com/tWHt6mM)
Additional Floaters emerge, but we aren't able to get a good shot at either of them.
(http://i.imgur.com/zeDmcgXm.png) (http://imgur.com/zeDmcgX)
Eventually, one of the Floaters is able to fire at us through the smoke, hitting one of our rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/YO4pWSem.png) (http://imgur.com/YO4pWSe)
(http://i.imgur.com/gAGvoi4m.png) (http://imgur.com/gAGvoi4)
We're able to get a Floater to the west, but there's more that we have to deal with before we can move in on the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/HdbCEpPm.png) (http://imgur.com/HdbCEpP)
(http://i.imgur.com/NsI3Rlwm.png) (http://imgur.com/NsI3Rlw)
(http://i.imgur.com/coe7Xr6m.png) (http://imgur.com/coe7Xr6)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vp6JzS9m.png) (http://imgur.com/Vp6JzS9)
Fighting the one to the south leads to an exchange of fire that costs us another rookie before one of our veterans can take it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/VizZf1Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/VizZf1Y)
(http://i.imgur.com/wM41qbJm.png) (http://imgur.com/wM41qbJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/f8YYkNxm.png) (http://imgur.com/f8YYkNx)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZHNd17Am.png) (http://imgur.com/ZHNd17A)
A shot from the west takes out another rookie, and we find ourselves facing another Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/CCbbaPam.png) (http://imgur.com/CCbbaPa)
With the outside finally clear, we get ready to move in on the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/fia6yCum.png) (http://imgur.com/fia6yCu)
(http://i.imgur.com/c6uULGym.png) (http://imgur.com/c6uULGy)
A Floater in a building attempts to ambush us, but only succeeds at killing itself with a grenade.
(http://i.imgur.com/dwHnUbSm.png) (http://imgur.com/dwHnUbS)
This ship has two entrances, so we send troops to the far end to breach the other door as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/7cOj9Svm.png) (http://imgur.com/7cOj9Sv)
(http://i.imgur.com/l4wuspMm.png) (http://imgur.com/l4wuspM)
Inside the ship, we find damage that's probably the result of a reactor explosion. There's also a lot of unfamiliar equipment here. We use the remaining wall as cover until more of the team can move in.
(http://i.imgur.com/dj5W1pum.png) (http://imgur.com/dj5W1pu)
(http://i.imgur.com/PvkDFfEm.png) (http://imgur.com/PvkDFfE)
(http://i.imgur.com/KJCRGy5m.png) (http://imgur.com/KJCRGy5)
We rush the other entrance and take the Floater out, getting ready to move up to the other parts of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/0jrBqD4m.png) (http://imgur.com/0jrBqD4)
(http://i.imgur.com/ajCj3eXm.png) (http://imgur.com/ajCj3eX)
(http://i.imgur.com/rOd7bAMm.png) (http://imgur.com/rOd7bAM)
We have to clear a Floater out of the path up, but the squad makes its way up to the second level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/qIJu5C9m.png) (http://imgur.com/qIJu5C9)
(http://i.imgur.com/paAlQRTm.png) (http://imgur.com/paAlQRT)
A Floater is just outside of the doorway, and quickly gets taken out at point blank range.
(http://i.imgur.com/XfnXOTdm.png) (http://imgur.com/XfnXOTd)
(http://i.imgur.com/Et1jiwRm.png) (http://imgur.com/Et1jiwR)
Another is just around the corner, and also rapidly falls to our advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/uq91rfLm.png) (http://imgur.com/uq91rfL)
(http://i.imgur.com/OqGLMLGm.png) (http://imgur.com/OqGLMLG)
(http://i.imgur.com/FqyEzwWm.png) (http://imgur.com/FqyEzwW)
One of the Floaters gets up, but winds up walking in between three troops. Surrounded, it doesn't have a chance.
(http://i.imgur.com/EOaM7mfm.png) (http://imgur.com/EOaM7mf)
(http://i.imgur.com/sghN1Gbm.png) (http://imgur.com/sghN1Gb)
(http://i.imgur.com/yBmDEfFm.png) (http://imgur.com/yBmDEfF)
We deal with one more Floater on this level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/4mQ0WHVm.png) (http://imgur.com/4mQ0WHV)
(http://i.imgur.com/f62oHnim.png) (http://imgur.com/f62oHni)
(http://i.imgur.com/vDzCVZXm.png) (http://imgur.com/vDzCVZX)
(http://i.imgur.com/2FdDXi0m.png) (http://imgur.com/2FdDXi0)
On the top level, there is only a single Floater leader. The first few shots at it miss, blowing up the nearby navigation console; however, with troops pouring in from both sides and the alien panicking too severely to put up a fight, it's a short-lived battle.
Result of Operation Counter Harvest
Wolfgang Siedler: 3 kills, not promoted
Maria Martin: 3 kills, not promoted
Maria Davies: 4 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Yataka Okabe: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Samuel Thompson: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Shuji Koyama: 0 kills, not promoted
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills, not promoted
Christel Richter: Killed in action
Tatyana Zhdanovich: Killed in action
Paul Jones: Killed in action
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, surgical equipment, and food storage recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/M2VS92Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/M2VS92V)
We're in a good financial position right now, so rather than sell off the surplus plasma weapons we've picked up, we transfer them to our other bases to make them more prepared for potential incursion.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/QmKUv4Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/QmKUv4G)
We start development on even more power suits. Any that aren't assigned to our forces at our main base will be sent to our other bases for our defensive squads there.
(http://i.imgur.com/GeSKAGQm.png) (http://imgur.com/GeSKAGQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/zLWztavm.png) (http://imgur.com/zLWztav)
We cancel production of the Firestorm to free up space for more of our engineers to work on the armor. We will start on aircraft again when manufacturing facilities are available at our base in Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/xfS5WACm.png) (http://imgur.com/xfS5WAC)
(http://i.imgur.com/KuEFQhmm.png) (http://imgur.com/KuEFQhm)
With our recent surplus in funds, we start on those facilities.
(http://i.imgur.com/iH3Xf5zm.png) (http://imgur.com/iH3Xf5z)
Another hangar is finished at the Asia base, giving us more space to assemble new aircraft when the time arrives.
(http://i.imgur.com/EMZXsVZm.png) (http://imgur.com/EMZXsVZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/jOilE1Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/jOilE1P)
The researchers have finished their work on the heavy laser. In retrospect, this research should have done a long time ago; this weapon is completely outmoded by the plasma guns we are currently using.
(http://i.imgur.com/z87NhQEm.png) (http://imgur.com/z87NhQE)
(http://i.imgur.com/GVCTnCvm.png) (http://imgur.com/GVCTnCv)
For nothing better to do, the scientists start looking at the vehicle-scale laser cannon. It might not perform as well as our current plasma beams, but it might have a use somewhere in our fleet.
(http://i.imgur.com/8I4UM3nm.png) (http://imgur.com/8I4UM3n)
We get our squad rotated and armored up. Rotating our troops around isn't absolutely necessary, but it allows us to give combat experience to more rookies and improve their capabilities. This also means that a bad mission doesn't completely wipe out our reserve of skilled troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/w1CPWOkm.png) (http://imgur.com/w1CPWOk)
(http://i.imgur.com/0ffuyUom.png) (http://imgur.com/0ffuyUo)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZkkZnIvm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZkkZnIv)
A small scout passing over the Indian Ocean gets obliterated by our interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/1av3w4rm.png) (http://imgur.com/1av3w4r)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nio0NCUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nio0NCU)
(http://i.imgur.com/TMMeZWIm.png) (http://imgur.com/TMMeZWI)
(http://i.imgur.com/4LTt4Dqm.png) (http://imgur.com/4LTt4Dq)
(http://i.imgur.com/wHl2CYKm.png) (http://imgur.com/wHl2CYK)
Another ship comes hunting for our European command. It's quickly intercepted and shot down.
We can move in to salvage the crash at any time, although it is best we wait until night to pass for optimal results.
-
It's nice of them to keep sending ships into the grinder around our main base. Very sporting.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/eGqszR7m.png) (http://imgur.com/eGqszR7)
We get ready to commence Operation Green Field.
(http://i.imgur.com/zlRaq8lm.png) (http://imgur.com/zlRaq8l)
(http://i.imgur.com/01vNtAXm.png) (http://imgur.com/01vNtAX)
(http://i.imgur.com/wsDVfVmm.png) (http://imgur.com/wsDVfVm)
(http://i.imgur.com/bG4dPb6m.png) (http://imgur.com/bG4dPb6)
(http://i.imgur.com/jnCtUNQm.png) (http://imgur.com/jnCtUNQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/BtZ5whSm.png) (http://imgur.com/BtZ5whS)
(http://i.imgur.com/eyYLQEJm.png) (http://imgur.com/eyYLQEJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/i0A5hLKm.png) (http://imgur.com/i0A5hLK)
(http://i.imgur.com/aYTp77zm.png) (http://imgur.com/aYTp77z)
(http://i.imgur.com/mg40csBm.png) (http://imgur.com/mg40csB)
The squad is armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/CBk6JDAm.png) (http://imgur.com/CBk6JDA)
(http://i.imgur.com/jptlwJFm.png) (http://imgur.com/jptlwJF)
(http://i.imgur.com/13BLJoBm.png) (http://imgur.com/13BLJoB)
(http://i.imgur.com/Fhy0SNOm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fhy0SNO)
We set down smoke and get ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/NQGLnE5m.png) (http://imgur.com/NQGLnE5)
(http://i.imgur.com/y2deTv5m.png) (http://imgur.com/y2deTv5)
(http://i.imgur.com/w67yTMQm.png) (http://imgur.com/w67yTMQ)
A pair of Mutons comes at us from the southwest, but the smoke protects us from hostile fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/VoPz6TRm.png) (http://imgur.com/VoPz6TR)
A flurry of plasma from the squad takes one of them down.
(http://i.imgur.com/nghISNYm.png) (http://imgur.com/nghISNY)
Despite constant attempts, the team can't quite hit the other one, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/WWyMvekm.png) (http://imgur.com/WWyMvek)
(http://i.imgur.com/JgdtpmQm.png) (http://imgur.com/JgdtpmQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/giPdksSm.png) (http://imgur.com/giPdksS)
During the exchange of fire, one of the rookies is hit. It's only a minor wound, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/fzHsNxvm.png) (http://imgur.com/fzHsNxv)
(http://i.imgur.com/b2Ufnvom.png) (http://imgur.com/b2Ufnvo)
(http://i.imgur.com/OlBlsiRm.png) (http://imgur.com/OlBlsiR)
And that wound is quickly fixed up.
(http://i.imgur.com/DNUEeg9m.png) (http://imgur.com/DNUEeg9)
A second burst of fire takes the other Muton down.
(http://i.imgur.com/1EjaVk2m.png) (http://imgur.com/1EjaVk2)
We start fanning out through the fields to approach the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/NaXoGCYm.png) (http://imgur.com/NaXoGCY)
(http://i.imgur.com/6UXeXuZm.png) (http://imgur.com/6UXeXuZ)
We set down more smoke to cover our forward advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/UHG70Vem.png) (http://imgur.com/UHG70Ve)
One of the Mutons survived the initial skirmish, but it's dropped its weapon and is ripe for capture.
(http://i.imgur.com/whW2Icam.png) (http://imgur.com/whW2Ica)
There's another armed Muton next to it we have to deal with, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/BV852p8m.png) (http://imgur.com/BV852p8)
(http://i.imgur.com/nkV4l33m.png) (http://imgur.com/nkV4l33)
Some tricky shooting takes care of things, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/4NaupFHm.png) (http://imgur.com/4NaupFH)
We have someone pick up the stun launcher that Davies set down due to being overburdened.
(http://i.imgur.com/NxqylkIm.png) (http://imgur.com/NxqylkI)
(http://i.imgur.com/cx3lLfLm.png) (http://imgur.com/cx3lLfL)
(http://i.imgur.com/8D1hZgLm.png) (http://imgur.com/8D1hZgL)
(http://i.imgur.com/1CNCsF2m.png) (http://imgur.com/1CNCsF2)
A Muton steps out of the UFO door and is immediately greeted by reaction fire. The resulting firefight hits nothing despite several shots being fired by both sides.
(http://i.imgur.com/5IsqSBmm.png) (http://imgur.com/5IsqSBm)
(http://i.imgur.com/2y6Lh61m.png) (http://imgur.com/2y6Lh61)
Firing the stun launcher on the unarmed Muton knocks it down again and keeps it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/DhR1UTfm.png) (http://imgur.com/DhR1UTf)
(http://i.imgur.com/6dkIXCYm.png) (http://imgur.com/6dkIXCY)
(http://i.imgur.com/sWeE5lLm.png) (http://imgur.com/sWeE5lL)
After more shots miss their mark, the squad finally takes down the Muton in front of the crashed ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/m835NXrm.png) (http://imgur.com/m835NXr)
We get into position to storm the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/Dv6NKUrm.png) (http://imgur.com/Dv6NKUr)
(http://i.imgur.com/IQKFZMWm.png) (http://imgur.com/IQKFZMW)
(http://i.imgur.com/mgDJ7xym.png) (http://imgur.com/mgDJ7xy)
The initial rush results in a downed rookie; some pistol fire through the door takes out the first Muton we see in the wreckage.
(http://i.imgur.com/lNsAEQrm.png) (http://imgur.com/lNsAEQr)
Another rookie is sent in and has a short-lived exchange of fire with the crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/JeWXDqom.png) (http://imgur.com/JeWXDqo)
We get the other Muton at the controls taken down before pulling back.
(http://i.imgur.com/YmDPbHZm.png) (http://imgur.com/YmDPbHZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/7QCkDyem.png) (http://imgur.com/7QCkDye)
(http://i.imgur.com/cSpJhP6m.png) (http://imgur.com/cSpJhP6)
Yutaka Okabe spots two more Mutons and the next approach. Automatic fire takes out both of them
in one attack, clearing out the ship.
Results of Operation Green Field:
Rene Gautier: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Dwight Kemp: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Sigourney Kemp: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Sumie Okamoto: 1 kill, not promoted
Yataka Okabe: 3 kills, not promoted
Samuel Thompson: 0 kills, not promoted
Maria Davies: 0 kills, not promoted
Clarence McNeil: 0 kills, promoted to Squaddie; wounded, will recover in 2 days
Shuji Koyama: Killed in action
Virgil Bradley: Killed in action
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
3 aliens captured
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/m51EsDVm.png) (http://imgur.com/m51EsDV)
(http://i.imgur.com/L6q0x2hm.png) (http://imgur.com/L6q0x2h)
(http://i.imgur.com/QyAwURom.png) (http://imgur.com/QyAwURo)
(http://i.imgur.com/6ezqotbm.png) (http://imgur.com/6ezqotb)
A new batch of rookies arrives.
(http://i.imgur.com/6SiU9MPm.png) (http://imgur.com/6SiU9MP)
A shipment of equipment and parts is sent to our Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/u5ohkQwm.png) (http://imgur.com/u5ohkQw)
(http://i.imgur.com/mfsUgImm.png) (http://imgur.com/mfsUgIm)
A small alien scout gets chased by our interceptors across the Atlantic before getting blasted to pieces by an Avalanche.
(http://i.imgur.com/n08p1WOm.png) (http://imgur.com/n08p1WO)
During our flight over the US, we spot another alien facility near the Gulf of Mexico.
(http://i.imgur.com/rnqunbym.png) (http://imgur.com/rnqunby)
(http://i.imgur.com/nvjRu48m.png) (http://imgur.com/nvjRu48)
(http://i.imgur.com/AQ8PecZm.png) (http://imgur.com/AQ8PecZ)
A ship heading southeast from the Arctic towards the Pacific gets shot down and sunk off the Siberian coast.
(http://i.imgur.com/TaLF8Zum.png) (http://imgur.com/TaLF8Zu)
The decoder at our Asia base is online and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/yNfJb2nm.png) (http://imgur.com/yNfJb2n)
(http://i.imgur.com/flxAdxLm.png) (http://imgur.com/flxAdxL)
(http://i.imgur.com/2unzoPDm.png) (http://imgur.com/2unzoPD)
An alien scout hunting for our base gets vaporized by our Firestorm.
(http://i.imgur.com/3P3DFMum.png) (http://imgur.com/3P3DFMu)
(http://i.imgur.com/UWyGF40m.png) (http://imgur.com/UWyGF40)
(http://i.imgur.com/b5DMuOqm.png) (http://imgur.com/b5DMuOq)
The flying suit is now ready for production. In addition to its flight capabilities, it also has slightly more armor than our current power suits. It requires more time and resources to produce, so we will use these for our veterans rather than build them for every single soldier in our squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/01gJfP4m.png) (http://imgur.com/01gJfP4)
(http://i.imgur.com/zVM71cim.png) (http://imgur.com/zVM71ci)
(http://i.imgur.com/W5eif2Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/W5eif2L)
(http://i.imgur.com/XAi4A6Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/XAi4A6Q)
The scientists start interrogating a number of the aliens that are currently in containment.
(http://i.imgur.com/2Tyvu4Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/2Tyvu4X)
(http://i.imgur.com/ThOG4F0m.png) (http://imgur.com/ThOG4F0)
(http://i.imgur.com/zz9t1zPm.png) (http://imgur.com/zz9t1zP)
Another scout hunting for our bases gets shot down and sent into the Indian Ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/Lp05Tm4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Lp05Tm4)
(http://i.imgur.com/dTViehlm.png) (http://imgur.com/dTViehl)
(http://i.imgur.com/vDlRgMhm.png) (http://imgur.com/vDlRgMh)
(http://i.imgur.com/hsQhhDJm.png) (http://imgur.com/hsQhhDJ)
Our decoder network finds a harvester-class ship approaching Europe. It's intercepted and crashes in Scandinavia; we're ready to salvage it once daylight arrives.
-
The lifespan of a rookie is short and painful it seems
-
(http://i.imgur.com/RwySThBm.png) (http://imgur.com/RwySThB)
(http://i.imgur.com/TDRk53tm.png) (http://imgur.com/TDRk53t)
As we prepare to strike the Harvester crash site, another ship shows up on our radar. A few plasma blasts knock it right out of the sky.
(http://i.imgur.com/aJ6G2DBm.png) (http://imgur.com/aJ6G2DB)
We move in on the forests of Scandinavia for Operation August Crop.
(http://i.imgur.com/v82AhiGm.png) (http://imgur.com/v82AhiG)
(http://i.imgur.com/sq47ZyOm.png) (http://imgur.com/sq47ZyO)
(http://i.imgur.com/Sd4IsCWm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sd4IsCW)
(http://i.imgur.com/p5ZCWlsm.png) (http://imgur.com/p5ZCWls)
(http://i.imgur.com/3aQow4tm.png) (http://imgur.com/3aQow4t)
(http://i.imgur.com/QxckAyWm.png) (http://imgur.com/QxckAyW)
(http://i.imgur.com/TNtt1LGm.png) (http://imgur.com/TNtt1LG)
(http://i.imgur.com/k7k7YdOm.png) (http://imgur.com/k7k7YdO)
(http://i.imgur.com/fJ2wV6wm.png) (http://imgur.com/fJ2wV6w)
(http://i.imgur.com/0ztNw2vm.png) (http://imgur.com/0ztNw2v)
The squad gets armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/4qleRBAm.png) (http://imgur.com/4qleRBA)
(http://i.imgur.com/smvMot3m.png) (http://imgur.com/smvMot3)
Smoke gets set down at the landing zone.
(http://i.imgur.com/ot84vftm.png) (http://imgur.com/ot84vft)
(http://i.imgur.com/69rTWcGm.png) (http://imgur.com/69rTWcG)
(http://i.imgur.com/b1enLkCm.png) (http://imgur.com/b1enLkC)
Before anyone can even move from the Skyranger, a Floater fires into the ship, fatally hitting one of the rookies. The rest of the team is able to take it down with counter fire, but losing someone before the mission has even really begun is not a good sign.
(http://i.imgur.com/Mh8uqiXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mh8uqiX)
(http://i.imgur.com/FpE36eBm.png) (http://imgur.com/FpE36eB)
Actually going out into the smoke of the landing zone doesn't bode much better.
(http://i.imgur.com/2OHBXSqm.png) (http://imgur.com/2OHBXSq)
(http://i.imgur.com/3dDqWfvm.png) (http://imgur.com/3dDqWfv)
(http://i.imgur.com/aX4OQ2im.png) (http://imgur.com/aX4OQ2i)
(http://i.imgur.com/yIX1Qbzm.png) (http://imgur.com/yIX1Qbz)
(http://i.imgur.com/8z2IJzBm.png) (http://imgur.com/8z2IJzB)
We get the nearest Floater taken out, and some supporting fire from more of the team gets the other two.
(http://i.imgur.com/ABdTHssm.png) (http://imgur.com/ABdTHss)
(http://i.imgur.com/fxnwiQDm.png) (http://imgur.com/fxnwiQD)
(http://i.imgur.com/roh96f6m.png) (http://imgur.com/roh96f6)
(http://i.imgur.com/xTsrwjPm.png) (http://imgur.com/xTsrwjP)
More smoke is set down to cover a forward advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z8zZCj6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Z8zZCj6)
Using the trees, we're able to get some more cover as we approach the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/g6cIncVm.png) (http://imgur.com/g6cIncV)
(http://i.imgur.com/OImOzWbm.png) (http://imgur.com/OImOzWb)
A Floater comes out of the ship and fires at the squad, inevitably getting mowed down by counter fire from a half-dozen troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/aqHiLFOm.png) (http://imgur.com/aqHiLFO)
One squad member is hit and passes out from injuries.
(http://i.imgur.com/nKQPFlRm.png) (http://imgur.com/nKQPFlR)
(http://i.imgur.com/az8jT6jm.png) (http://imgur.com/az8jT6j)
(http://i.imgur.com/RHr5pv9m.png) (http://imgur.com/RHr5pv9)
In a rare case, he doesn't instantly bleed out, and a medic is able to treat him.
(http://i.imgur.com/lWSR7HDm.png) (http://imgur.com/lWSR7HD)
We get a look into the ship, and it's a total mess.
(http://i.imgur.com/LYb5iUPm.png) (http://imgur.com/LYb5iUP)
The injured squad member recovers, but is in no shape to fight. He is pulled back.
(http://i.imgur.com/YvJwTvdm.png) (http://imgur.com/YvJwTvd)
(http://i.imgur.com/2JVhgv8m.png) (http://imgur.com/2JVhgv8)
We find one more Floater near our landing zone. It is taken down, unable to find any targets in the thick smoke.
(http://i.imgur.com/JUptygFm.png) (http://imgur.com/JUptygF)
(http://i.imgur.com/LF8FgnGm.png) (http://imgur.com/LF8FgnG)
With the first level of the ship clear, we breach and quickly move up and fan out.
(http://i.imgur.com/Q0gb4RHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q0gb4RH)
Spotting a Floater around the corner, it's better to pull back slightly and wait for a chance for the whole squad to attack at once.
(http://i.imgur.com/GMuNNtnm.png) (http://imgur.com/GMuNNtn)
(http://i.imgur.com/SxZXut9m.png) (http://imgur.com/SxZXut9)
(http://i.imgur.com/NlyEfeVm.png) (http://imgur.com/NlyEfeV)
Another Floater comes from the doorway, firing at our squad. Another rookie is hit, but manages to just barely hold on.
(http://i.imgur.com/Gmz2MkGm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gmz2MkG)
(http://i.imgur.com/2Zi4b4um.png) (http://imgur.com/2Zi4b4u)
The squad takes out the Floater down the hall.
(http://i.imgur.com/aybLlnjm.png) (http://imgur.com/aybLlnj)
(http://i.imgur.com/dOmddXMm.png) (http://imgur.com/dOmddXM)
(http://i.imgur.com/k04XPEQm.png) (http://imgur.com/k04XPEQ)
We treat the injured rookie and get her the hell out of the line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/VBK7neFm.png) (http://imgur.com/VBK7neF)
(http://i.imgur.com/4zBykzDm.png) (http://imgur.com/4zBykzD)
The squad gets into position to take down the other Floater. It wanders through the doorway, completely failing to notice the person hiding to the side and the squad members behind the food capsules.
(http://i.imgur.com/DvToUj8m.png) (http://imgur.com/DvToUj8)
(http://i.imgur.com/w2THNl3m.png) (http://imgur.com/w2THNl3)
This provides the perfect opportunity to strike.
(http://i.imgur.com/VfndPRAm.png) (http://imgur.com/VfndPRA)
(http://i.imgur.com/AzkSsaVm.png) (http://imgur.com/AzkSsaV)
(http://i.imgur.com/BfY2B84m.png) (http://imgur.com/BfY2B84)
Another Floater fails to notice our forces while coming down from the highest level of the ship, giving another perfect opening.
(http://i.imgur.com/8EmvYUym.png) (http://imgur.com/8EmvYUy)
(http://i.imgur.com/p1RmQ6Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/p1RmQ6P)
We rush the control room, finding one Floater remaining. It gets taken out at close range, clearing out the ship.
Results of Operation August Crop
Robert Robinson: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Otto Krause: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Yataka Okabe: 1 kill, not promoted
Sigourney Kemp: 1 kill, not promoted
Rene Gautier: 1 kills, not promoted
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills, not promoted
Michael Wright: 0 kills, not promoted
Maria Jones: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie; wounded, will recover in 29 days
Samuel Thompson: 2 kills, not promoted; wounded, will recover in 12 days
Stefan Zander: Killed in action
10 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, navigation systems, surgical equipment, and food capsules recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/nO5qEGvm.png) (http://imgur.com/nO5qEGv)
Using the funds from the UFO's surplus and scrap, we can afford to hire more staff. We can go back to a full staff of scientists, and hire more engineers for armor production.
(http://i.imgur.com/e4gdxrWm.png) (http://imgur.com/e4gdxrW)
We get our team rotated and get ready to sortie to the next crash site.
-
Busy busy busy. At least we only lost one rookie...
-
(http://i.imgur.com/dJTtE3Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/dJTtE3H)
We land and prepare for Operation Fractured Beryl.
(http://i.imgur.com/u1ESF81m.png) (http://imgur.com/u1ESF81)
(http://i.imgur.com/1u8XtU6m.png) (http://imgur.com/1u8XtU6)
(http://i.imgur.com/lY08r4Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/lY08r4N)
(http://i.imgur.com/1CIngWWm.png) (http://imgur.com/1CIngWW)
(http://i.imgur.com/atVm5Xxm.png) (http://imgur.com/atVm5Xx)
(http://i.imgur.com/6GTMj1fm.png) (http://imgur.com/6GTMj1f)
(http://i.imgur.com/Tep3Lyem.png) (http://imgur.com/Tep3Lye)
(http://i.imgur.com/QlInSVIm.png) (http://imgur.com/QlInSVI)
(http://i.imgur.com/o92gCtZm.png) (http://imgur.com/o92gCtZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/FAYgm2km.png) (http://imgur.com/FAYgm2k)
The squad is armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/etJ3dvTm.png) (http://imgur.com/etJ3dvT)
(http://i.imgur.com/KujnVnBm.png) (http://imgur.com/KujnVnB)
Smoke gets set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/Bcn4ufbm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bcn4ufb)
The team is able to quickly move up on the alien ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/QvLHr75m.png) (http://imgur.com/QvLHr75)
(http://i.imgur.com/darBojxm.png) (http://imgur.com/darBojx)
A single Muton is spotted in one of the farm buildings. We prepare to blow up the wall.
(http://i.imgur.com/AZVqC36m.png) (http://imgur.com/AZVqC36)
(http://i.imgur.com/BSwKhpcm.png) (http://imgur.com/BSwKhpc)
(http://i.imgur.com/fGKmCXnm.png) (http://imgur.com/fGKmCXn)
With the side of the building gone, the Muton runs for the door and tries firing at us. However, it's unable to hit, and it gets taken down.
(http://i.imgur.com/km9uFrOm.png) (http://imgur.com/km9uFrO)
We get in position to rush the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/BJEneZ3m.png) (http://imgur.com/BJEneZ3)
Poking through, we spot two Mutons at the controls and one lying dead next to what's left of the reactor.
(http://i.imgur.com/1uHhyIOm.png) (http://imgur.com/1uHhyIO)
(http://i.imgur.com/xjncEKHm.png) (http://imgur.com/xjncEKH)
(http://i.imgur.com/OpohyvNm.png) (http://imgur.com/OpohyvN)
(http://i.imgur.com/4kdocEDm.png) (http://imgur.com/4kdocED)
We have the initial breacher pull back and start firing into the ship. The exchange takes down one Muton, but we lose one of our own as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/k2sppqam.png) (http://imgur.com/k2sppqa)
A constant burst of plasma fire into the ship takes down the other Muton, and the team backs off for a moment.
(http://i.imgur.com/0EbrmTRm.png) (http://imgur.com/0EbrmTR)
(http://i.imgur.com/DuGR7Yum.png) (http://imgur.com/DuGR7Yu)
A third Muton is spotted, and it too gets brought down.
Results of Operation Fractured Beryl:
Yataka Okabe: 1 kill, not promoted
Maria Martin: 0 kills, not promoted
Otto Krause: 0 kills, not promoted
Sigourney Kemp: 0 kills, not promoted
Rene Gautier: 0 kills, not promoted
Clarence McNeil: 0 kills, not promoted
Sumie Okamoto: 0 kills, not promoted
Michael Okamoto: 0 kills, not promoted
Dwight Kemp: 0 kills, not promoted
Robert Robinson: Killed in action
2 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
2 aliens captured
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/iPAOJkdm.png) (http://imgur.com/iPAOJkd)
Using the funds from the scrap, an additional hangar is constructed at the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/qSXVOCum.png) (http://imgur.com/qSXVOCu)
(http://i.imgur.com/m0AVVJkm.png) (http://imgur.com/m0AVVJk)
(http://i.imgur.com/YjKS0acm.png) (http://imgur.com/YjKS0ac)
Radar detects several supply ships heading somewhere to the Pacific. However, with their speed, they're too fast for the regular interceptors and the Firestorm's fuel reserves don't give it enough range to catch up.
(http://i.imgur.com/WU9XO1mm.png) (http://imgur.com/WU9XO1m)
(http://i.imgur.com/midbnJkm.png) (http://imgur.com/midbnJk)
(http://i.imgur.com/pEAWWyTm.png) (http://imgur.com/pEAWWyT)
We find a scout ship searching or our Asian base. It gets intercepted and shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/MSAH9fqm.png) (http://imgur.com/MSAH9fq)
(http://i.imgur.com/hDH1vVgm.png) (http://imgur.com/hDH1vVg)
We get another shot at one of the supply ships as it passes back over us heading west.
The Firestorm misses the narrow window for shooting it down over land, and the alien barge plunges into the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZPWE2pOm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZPWE2pO)
A patrol by the Skyranger finds a new alien base in Hawaii.
(http://i.imgur.com/7eqyLd1m.png) (http://imgur.com/7eqyLd1)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wgk1iwNm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wgk1iwN)
(http://i.imgur.com/T684UCbm.png) (http://imgur.com/T684UCb)
(http://i.imgur.com/iiAb1TRm.png) (http://imgur.com/iiAb1TR)
(http://i.imgur.com/83WalaKm.png) (http://imgur.com/83WalaK)
A new batch of soldiers and staff arrives.
(http://i.imgur.com/QQsC0qqm.png) (http://imgur.com/QQsC0qq)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vx2nknFm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vx2nknF)
(http://i.imgur.com/4Q5nFrxm.png) (http://imgur.com/4Q5nFrx)
(http://i.imgur.com/p2oYXslm.png) (http://imgur.com/p2oYXsl)
(http://i.imgur.com/DpNNGBjm.png) (http://imgur.com/DpNNGBj)
The scientists are put to work on alien autopsies.
(http://i.imgur.com/wmg0eEnm.png) (http://imgur.com/wmg0eEn)
The new engineers are put to work on assembling more armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/oMrMfCwm.png) (http://imgur.com/oMrMfCw)
We get ready to go after the crashed alien scout. The information from the decoder tells us we're dealing with a species known as ?Ethereals?. We have not encountered these lifeforms before; our forces must be on their guard.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Os6EJdom.png) (http://imgur.com/Os6EJdo)
We land near the crashed Ethereal scout ship and commence Operation Unknown Hunt.
(http://i.imgur.com/buogEuIm.png) (http://imgur.com/buogEuI)
(http://i.imgur.com/R3NMWA3m.png) (http://imgur.com/R3NMWA3)
(http://i.imgur.com/kCFY9t0m.png) (http://imgur.com/kCFY9t0)
(http://i.imgur.com/Aia2WDgm.png) (http://imgur.com/Aia2WDg)
(http://i.imgur.com/EUHy0wlm.png) (http://imgur.com/EUHy0wl)
(http://i.imgur.com/nebs8Ddm.png) (http://imgur.com/nebs8Dd)
(http://i.imgur.com/TRKfZjSm.png) (http://imgur.com/TRKfZjS)
(http://i.imgur.com/hsxJC1Em.png) (http://imgur.com/hsxJC1E)
(http://i.imgur.com/ltox3LTm.png) (http://imgur.com/ltox3LT)
(http://i.imgur.com/MTAyRVtm.png) (http://imgur.com/MTAyRVt)
We don't know what we're dealing with in facing Ethereals; we could very well be facing mental attacks again. The squad are keeping their weapons unloaded unless specifically firing; this will reduce the chance of panic fire, or worse.
(http://i.imgur.com/317by5Em.png) (http://imgur.com/317by5E)
(http://i.imgur.com/BbEYzXNm.png) (http://imgur.com/BbEYzXN)
As usual, the mission starts with setting down smoke.
(http://i.imgur.com/SIVsKqBm.png) (http://imgur.com/SIVsKqB)
We spot one of the presumed Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/SW7hHiLm.png) (http://imgur.com/SW7hHiL)
(http://i.imgur.com/DpEZ2i6m.png) (http://imgur.com/DpEZ2i6)
One of the rookies loads their weapon, fires, takes out the alien, then unloads the weapon once finished.
(http://i.imgur.com/3pda8eum.png) (http://imgur.com/3pda8eu)
Unfortunately, now that the enemy knows we're here, we come under massive psychic attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/b9APBxCm.png) (http://imgur.com/b9APBxC)
(http://i.imgur.com/qBWkoPPm.png) (http://imgur.com/qBWkoPP)
One of the team at the front comes under enemy control, shooting one of the other squad members.
(http://i.imgur.com/zvgGIYsm.png) (http://imgur.com/zvgGIYs)
With the rest of the team in danger, and no way to reach stun weaponry, we have no choice but to fire on our own forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/HXWYh2im.png) (http://imgur.com/HXWYh2i)
We manage to get someone out of the Skyranger to scout around.
(http://i.imgur.com/vQciBCXm.png) (http://imgur.com/vQciBCX)
(http://i.imgur.com/CUfsC1mm.png) (http://imgur.com/CUfsC1m)
(http://i.imgur.com/lzqNvNPm.png) (http://imgur.com/lzqNvNP)
Another member of our squad falls under enemy control and attacks their teammates.
(http://i.imgur.com/Y7pcY1Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y7pcY1Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/WhNKXlim.png) (http://imgur.com/WhNKXli)
(http://i.imgur.com/dFvTzotm.png) (http://imgur.com/dFvTzot)
Things start going further south as a grenade explosion destroys equipment in the hold, one of the squad members begins panicking, and our forces continue to turn on each other.
(http://i.imgur.com/GiZveEOm.png) (http://imgur.com/GiZveEO)
The one team member that had managed to get out of the skirmish and scout around is hit by fire from an alien out of his sight.
(http://i.imgur.com/H91E5nkm.png) (http://imgur.com/H91E5nk)
(http://i.imgur.com/bKjuBLYm.png) (http://imgur.com/bKjuBLY)
(http://i.imgur.com/YE8pLcTm.png) (http://imgur.com/YE8pLcT)
With everything falling apart, we have to cancel the operation.
Results of Operation Unknown Hunt
Tatyana Torban: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Gennadi Maleev: 0 kills, not promoted
Frank Evans: Killed in action
Maria Martin: Killed in action
Paul Jonlan: Killed in action
Rene Gautier: Killed in action
Yataka Okabe: Killed in action
Sumie Okamoto: Killed in action
Michael Wright: Unknown
1 alien killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO not recovered
The capabilities of the Ethereals were vastly underestimated. What was likely only a small handful almost completely obliterated an entire squad; the countermeasures that were implemented to minimize the effect of mental attack proved to be completely useless. If our forces are to have a chance against the Ethereals, we need to massively re-evaluate our tactics.
(http://i.imgur.com/qwTmSAOm.png) (http://imgur.com/qwTmSAO)
(http://i.imgur.com/90rYwGxm.png) (http://imgur.com/90rYwGx)
(http://i.imgur.com/14cZeTsm.png) (http://imgur.com/14cZeTs)
(http://i.imgur.com/7TdKARqm.png) (http://imgur.com/7TdKARq)
(http://i.imgur.com/xa6Jergm.png) (http://imgur.com/xa6Jerg)
We get some new rookies to add to our force.
(http://i.imgur.com/dSxSSl2m.png) (http://imgur.com/dSxSSl2)
(http://i.imgur.com/MTEjLaNm.png) (http://imgur.com/MTEjLaN)
Given what just happened, we are going to need the capabilities of the unpiloted next-generation HWPs to get the edge against Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/rplswBYm.png) (http://imgur.com/rplswBY)
We detect transmissions from a large ship on our decoder network. However, when it lands on the ground it's at night, and our forces are weakened from the battle with the Ethereals. We're going to have to let this one pass.
(http://i.imgur.com/yN85IVSm.png) (http://imgur.com/yN85IVS)
(http://i.imgur.com/Jph34zCm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jph34zC)
A Muton scout gets shot down by the interceptor from our European base.
(http://i.imgur.com/o8zCULTm.png) (http://imgur.com/o8zCULT)
(http://i.imgur.com/SXhLE0Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/SXhLE0L)
Another scout gets blasted to pieces by one of the Asian base's craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/kcxAAO6m.png) (http://imgur.com/kcxAAO6)
Our next-generation HWP is ready. It gets loaded on the Skyranger with the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/Da223qrm.png) (http://imgur.com/Da223qr)
We go after the crashed Muton scout ship. We have enough troops left to mount a recovery operation, and the funds from salvage will let us build more HWPs and armor to aid the survival of our troops.
-
Wow. Never reached this part. How is it even possible to defend against that?
Wait, some Sectoids can do that as well. Maybe we should ignore Red Robes for now and hunt us some little grey men. If that's even possible at this point, that is. Dealing with just a few psikers is way better than a whole crew of them, at least until we know just what the hell's going on.
-
Wow. Never reached this part. How is it even possible to defend against that?
Trial and error. Tactics keep getting changed and adapted until we find a method where we don't wind up with a large pile of dead troops, and if we're lucky we find out who in our squad is resistant to psychic attacks.
(http://i.imgur.com/VE0k2A8m.png) (http://imgur.com/VE0k2A8)
We commence Operation Emerald Relic.
(http://i.imgur.com/XlIUtl0m.png) (http://imgur.com/XlIUtl0)
(http://i.imgur.com/PeWiu60m.png) (http://imgur.com/PeWiu60)
(http://i.imgur.com/cDviKghm.png) (http://imgur.com/cDviKgh)
(http://i.imgur.com/VxBY3c9m.png) (http://imgur.com/VxBY3c9)
(http://i.imgur.com/76jk4m1m.png) (http://imgur.com/76jk4m1)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gxjx0edm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gxjx0ed)
(http://i.imgur.com/ddCnX1dm.png) (http://imgur.com/ddCnX1d)
(http://i.imgur.com/nEvI2ham.png) (http://imgur.com/nEvI2ha)
Smaller team than usual right now, but we have HWP support now.
(http://i.imgur.com/vA9apTEm.png) (http://imgur.com/vA9apTE)
From the start, we see a Muton in a stable near the crash site.
(http://i.imgur.com/sp8AZqTm.png) (http://imgur.com/sp8AZqT)
(http://i.imgur.com/o7F9r14m.png) (http://imgur.com/o7F9r14)
As the HWP moves forward, it draws fire from the side, which fails to hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/0J9zBvDm.png) (http://imgur.com/0J9zBvD)
Two more Mutons are spotted.
(http://i.imgur.com/m9nv6gFm.png) (http://imgur.com/m9nv6gF)
Time to set down smoke, although it's going to be hard to advance even with that.
(http://i.imgur.com/0ScCFQUm.png) (http://imgur.com/0ScCFQU)
(http://i.imgur.com/9s5Dzcxm.png) (http://imgur.com/9s5Dzcx)
(http://i.imgur.com/RyGeHGum.png) (http://imgur.com/RyGeHGu)
One of the squad gets in a gunfight with a Muton, which ends badly.
(http://i.imgur.com/HIGQkcom.png) (http://imgur.com/HIGQkco)
(http://i.imgur.com/atVZEkam.png) (http://imgur.com/atVZEka)
Some follow-up fire takes care of the problem.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZIuOx46m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZIuOx46)
(http://i.imgur.com/XOENrCRm.png) (http://imgur.com/XOENrCR)
The HWP gets to take advantage of the smoke, and takes a few shots at the nearby Muton with no retaliation.
(http://i.imgur.com/90XZtSZm.png) (http://imgur.com/90XZtSZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/CmGzBpcm.png) (http://imgur.com/CmGzBpc)
One of the squad heads down to attack, but they get hit by a blast from a stun launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/lvhtguIm.png) (http://imgur.com/lvhtguI)
Another of the team spots a Muton hiding in the grass near the Skyranger's landing gear, but can't get an accurate shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/QUoCHYkm.png) (http://imgur.com/QUoCHYk)
(http://i.imgur.com/HSM4B7jm.png) (http://imgur.com/HSM4B7j)
One of the rookies is able to deal with another Muton, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/sQHgmaAm.png) (http://imgur.com/sQHgmaA)
Yet another Muton emerges from the nearby building.
(http://i.imgur.com/nlt6Uadm.png) (http://imgur.com/nlt6Uad)
Another of the team gets knocked out by a stun blast.
(http://i.imgur.com/1xj2IShm.png) (http://imgur.com/1xj2ISh)
(http://i.imgur.com/XPsQSwam.png) (http://imgur.com/XPsQSwa)
The offending Muton is mowed down, giving us leeway to move on.
(http://i.imgur.com/PkC9BHcm.png) (http://imgur.com/PkC9BHc)
(http://i.imgur.com/1ra2AWzm.png) (http://imgur.com/1ra2AWz)
The HWP takes care of the other visible Muton as it tries to escape back into the building.
(http://i.imgur.com/cxd6xD1m.png) (http://imgur.com/cxd6xD1)
A medi-kit and its stimulants are used to revive the two unconscious team members.
(http://i.imgur.com/oKZ4a9bm.png) (http://imgur.com/oKZ4a9b)
(http://i.imgur.com/awZp3rFm.png) (http://imgur.com/awZp3rF)
(http://i.imgur.com/mNI5Rlqm.png) (http://imgur.com/mNI5Rlq)
(http://i.imgur.com/gmhcaTMm.png) (http://imgur.com/gmhcaTM)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hj5qiakm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hj5qiak)
We see another Muton in the building the previous one was taken out in. Rather than try and chase it down, the wall is taken out with a grenade to pave the way for a clear shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/IscdRwGm.png) (http://imgur.com/IscdRwG)
(http://i.imgur.com/F3X82P6m.png) (http://imgur.com/F3X82P6)
There's a hole in the top of the UFO from the reactor explosion. Rather than go for a direct breach, the squad tosses a few grenades in through the hole to try and take out anyone inside. This tactic pays off, and the one surviving crew member is eliminated.
Results of Operation Emerald Relic
HWP: 1 kill
Nikolai Ragulin: 2 kills, not promoted
Sigourney Kemp: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Evelyn Crossett: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Shuji Iwasaki: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Otto Krause: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Kenji Okabe: 0 kills, not promoted
Claude Buchard: 0 kills, not promoted
Wolfgang Seidler: Killed in action
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/8AcxsGUm.png) (http://imgur.com/8AcxsGU)
(http://i.imgur.com/SufJc4Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/SufJc4Y)
As the squad recovers and the Skyranger is refuelled, we pick up another supply ship on radar. The Firestorm's able to catch this one over land. Salvaging this one will be worth a lot.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/YWxuGEWm.png) (http://imgur.com/YWxuGEW)
The squad heads to the crashed supply ship, and Operation Magenta Raider begins
(http://i.imgur.com/ejzXE3rm.png) (http://imgur.com/ejzXE3r)
(http://i.imgur.com/lr1FPg6m.png) (http://imgur.com/lr1FPg6)
(http://i.imgur.com/YblA8tnm.png) (http://imgur.com/YblA8tn)
(http://i.imgur.com/TM3SwYVm.png) (http://imgur.com/TM3SwYV)
(http://i.imgur.com/ou36glVm.png) (http://imgur.com/ou36glV)
(http://i.imgur.com/W0gg9Sdm.png) (http://imgur.com/W0gg9Sd)
(http://i.imgur.com/EGxhwRDm.png) (http://imgur.com/EGxhwRD)
(http://i.imgur.com/vPjhxBNm.png) (http://imgur.com/vPjhxBN)
(http://i.imgur.com/cGiJlbhm.png) (http://imgur.com/cGiJlbh)
With the way clear and the wreck right in front of us, the HWP goes forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/23Pu8zLm.png) (http://imgur.com/23Pu8zL)
(http://i.imgur.com/evdBYCmm.png) (http://imgur.com/evdBYCm)
Smoke is still set down as a precaution, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/e008lHLm.png) (http://imgur.com/e008lHL)
(http://i.imgur.com/a1lSPI7m.png) (http://imgur.com/a1lSPI7)
The HWP flies on top of the crashed UFO to scope out the field, and the squad advances.
(http://i.imgur.com/UzNM7WJm.png) (http://imgur.com/UzNM7WJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/vEIfRKHm.png) (http://imgur.com/vEIfRKH)
(http://i.imgur.com/ffiwOWqm.png) (http://imgur.com/ffiwOWq)
A Floater is spotted during the team's move towards the ship's entrances, and gets taken out by plasma fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/LU5lmucm.png) (http://imgur.com/LU5lmuc)
(http://i.imgur.com/NL2LYkim.png) (http://imgur.com/NL2LYki)
It's completely trivial to surround the doors and prepare for a breach.
(http://i.imgur.com/m2YDItLm.png) (http://imgur.com/m2YDItL)
(http://i.imgur.com/wa9oV4Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/wa9oV4G)
Pushing in, the squad finds both engines have been obliterated.
(http://i.imgur.com/RXwH1Bxm.png) (http://imgur.com/RXwH1Bx)
As the squad slowly progresses, Floaters come down from the upper parts of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/v3Zy7Fjm.png) (http://imgur.com/v3Zy7Fj)
(http://i.imgur.com/APggVaKm.png) (http://imgur.com/APggVaK)
One of the team outside the ship takes the shot; this reduces the chance of triggering enemy reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/4TBW4ALm.png) (http://imgur.com/4TBW4AL)
(http://i.imgur.com/W4GvPA0m.png) (http://imgur.com/W4GvPA0)
Another Floater is taken down among the smoke and flames.
(http://i.imgur.com/9YxNEgAm.png) (http://imgur.com/9YxNEgA)
(http://i.imgur.com/jhwN8iGm.png) (http://imgur.com/jhwN8iG)
(http://i.imgur.com/1BLfbFWm.png) (http://imgur.com/1BLfbFW)
Yet another Floater arrives, and tries to take a shot at our forces. It misses, and finds itself surrounded by the teams that have breached through both sides.
(http://i.imgur.com/wkZOlbRm.png) (http://imgur.com/wkZOlbR)
(http://i.imgur.com/zAJUFTwm.png) (http://imgur.com/zAJUFTw)
While searching, the HWP finds a Floater hiding in a building. One plasma shot takes it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/bUgN3WYm.png) (http://imgur.com/bUgN3WY)
(http://i.imgur.com/yaVGilnm.png) (http://imgur.com/yaVGiln)
The squad gets ready to move in on the upper levels of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/ObhyWFSm.png) (http://imgur.com/ObhyWFS)
(http://i.imgur.com/669HMLlm.png) (http://imgur.com/669HMLl)
A Floater's blocking the way up, but gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/yYh1YsMm.png) (http://imgur.com/yYh1YsM)
Our forces move in on the right side, which takes them to the third and top level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/2JH79Wdm.png) (http://imgur.com/2JH79Wd)
(http://i.imgur.com/s4fVqpVm.png) (http://imgur.com/s4fVqpV)
Going into the second level, another Floater is encountered, which is promptly mowed down at point-blank range.
(http://i.imgur.com/BW1a7Qnm.png) (http://imgur.com/BW1a7Qn)
(http://i.imgur.com/XlJL3JKm.png) (http://imgur.com/XlJL3JK)
One of the Floaters survived and attempts to sneak the remaining team on the first floor, which is short-lived.
(http://i.imgur.com/BbjKRdEm.png) (http://imgur.com/BbjKRdE)
(http://i.imgur.com/OurSTWzm.png) (http://imgur.com/OurSTWz)
(http://i.imgur.com/H5rdkmhm.png) (http://imgur.com/H5rdkmh)
Another tries making its way to the access shaft, only to wind up between two troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/cqndTx3m.png) (http://imgur.com/cqndTx3)
With the way to the third level clear, the squad starts searching.
(http://i.imgur.com/xQ6Mrlem.png) (http://imgur.com/xQ6Mrle)
(http://i.imgur.com/7xwheFUm.png) (http://imgur.com/7xwheFU)
Forces start pouring into the second level to search there. They mostly find a lot of food canisters, but no hostiles.
(http://i.imgur.com/v3J784nm.png) (http://imgur.com/v3J784n)
(http://i.imgur.com/gtGqJ46m.png) (http://imgur.com/gtGqJ46)
The HWP patrolling outside the ship finds another Floater and starts chasing it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/EJwJobOm.png) (http://imgur.com/EJwJobO)
While continuing to search the second level, the team comes across some surgical equipment.
(http://i.imgur.com/o7gs8dYm.png) (http://imgur.com/o7gs8dY)
(http://i.imgur.com/GMu9Dyom.png) (http://imgur.com/GMu9Dyo)
The HWP takes out the Floater it's pursuing.
(http://i.imgur.com/FKKmsDYm.png) (http://imgur.com/FKKmsDY)
In making their way to the far end of the ship, one of the squad members is hit by enemy fire from around the corner. He survives, but is moderately wounded.
(http://i.imgur.com/L97TMPNm.png) (http://imgur.com/L97TMPN)
(http://i.imgur.com/c3iF8ggm.png) (http://imgur.com/c3iF8gg)
A Floater is spotted, and taken down before it can fire any more shots at our forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/C67yM8om.png) (http://imgur.com/C67yM8o)
(http://i.imgur.com/3Oy78Sqm.png) (http://imgur.com/3Oy78Sq)
(http://i.imgur.com/JXWyIm4m.png) (http://imgur.com/JXWyIm4)
The injured Krause tosses his medi-kit to the nearest person and has them treat him.
(http://i.imgur.com/mXDHdXNm.png) (http://imgur.com/mXDHdXN)
It's time to breach the control room.
(http://i.imgur.com/fi1UCqLm.png) (http://imgur.com/fi1UCqL)
(http://i.imgur.com/KHeTJNNm.png) (http://imgur.com/KHeTJNN)
(http://i.imgur.com/YUIKXA8m.png) (http://imgur.com/YUIKXA8)
One last Floater is spotted in the corner, behind a navigation console. Stray shots wind up destroying the computers.
(http://i.imgur.com/cnlOB0Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/cnlOB0H)
(http://i.imgur.com/MjqI5onm.png) (http://imgur.com/MjqI5on)
More shots into the control room finish off the Floater leader, and the crew of the ship.
Results of Operation Magenta Raider:
HWP: 2 kills
Clarence McNeil: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Otto Krause: 3 kills, not promoted; wounded, will recover in 5 days
Nikolai Ragulin: 2 kills, not promoted
Sigourney Kemp: 1 kill, not promoted
Evelyn Crossett: 1 kill, not promoted
Tatyana Torban: 1 kill, not promoted
Shuji Iwasaki: 0 kills, not promoted
Maria Davies: 0 kills, not promoted
11 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/eY4QgsMm.png) (http://imgur.com/eY4QgsM)
(http://i.imgur.com/uOHMGd1m.png) (http://imgur.com/uOHMGd1)
Another supply ship heading to another base appears, but it just barely escapes from our Firestorm.
(http://i.imgur.com/2FCo6gcm.png) (http://imgur.com/2FCo6gc)
(http://i.imgur.com/NMcCWgem.png) (http://imgur.com/NMcCWge)
(http://i.imgur.com/GSYUA6pm.png) (http://imgur.com/GSYUA6p)
(http://i.imgur.com/vs0NrDZm.png) (http://imgur.com/vs0NrDZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/fRBYwfMm.png) (http://imgur.com/fRBYwfM)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ntdj8sQm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ntdj8sQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/qHjitk0m.png) (http://imgur.com/qHjitk0)
(http://i.imgur.com/JPEds16m.png) (http://imgur.com/JPEds16)
We get a new batch of recruits. Ivan Romanov is cut from the roster after screening shows his stats to be lacking.
(http://i.imgur.com/bgWEJdum.png) (http://imgur.com/bgWEJdu)
(http://i.imgur.com/wSmSB35m.png) (http://imgur.com/wSmSB35)
(http://i.imgur.com/n3O5pXNm.png) (http://imgur.com/n3O5pXN)
We shoot down a scout ship over the Indian Ocean. Recovery is not a concern; even a medium Ethereal scout was too difficult for us to take on.
(http://i.imgur.com/JTIFbjgm.png) (http://imgur.com/JTIFbjg)
(http://i.imgur.com/zJbqhdmm.png) (http://imgur.com/zJbqhdm)
Our third hyper-wave decoder is online. The defunct small radar is removed, solidifying the defenses at the Africa base.
(http://i.imgur.com/XuaZJ53m.png) (http://imgur.com/XuaZJ53)
(http://i.imgur.com/JQdEHgom.png) (http://imgur.com/JQdEHgo)
Using our massive surplus of funds, we start on another next-gen HWP, this time with the fusion ball launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/OMHiIVkm.png) (http://imgur.com/OMHiIVk)
A batch of power suits is shipped off to the Africa base; we now have enough armor for our main combat forces and the defensive squads at our other bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/DteJXF6m.png) (http://imgur.com/DteJXF6)
(http://i.imgur.com/MTLLDbum.png) (http://imgur.com/MTLLDbu)
Engineering finishes production on the new HWP. Unfortunately, there isn't enough Elerium to produce ammunition.
(http://i.imgur.com/B4ZttVxm.png) (http://imgur.com/B4ZttVx)
(http://i.imgur.com/T3Geckim.png) (http://imgur.com/T3Gecki)
(http://i.imgur.com/D65sJvqm.png) (http://imgur.com/D65sJvq)
(http://i.imgur.com/IDUGNLzm.png) (http://imgur.com/IDUGNLz)
Our air force manages to bring down a Muton ship heading for a city in Siberia. With it neutralized, we have another opportunity to salvage a large wreck. However, with our current surplus of funds, it's not an urgent operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/fQuVTiim.png) (http://imgur.com/fQuVTii)
There's a far more interesting prize we can go for right now. The base in Hawaii is most likely operated by Floaters, judging by transmissions. This base would likely be an easy target, with the proper preparation and tactics. On the other hand, if the base remains operational, more supply shuttles will deliver to it, giving us plenty of opportunities to seize valuable cargo like weapons, UFO parts, and Elerium.
-
The only thing I'm concerned about is how you'll be able to take the supplies from the supply ships in the first place should you leave it active. Hawaii isn't exactly close to any other landmass, so getting ships downed over land is going to be a problem.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/F8WgIpDm.png) (http://imgur.com/F8WgIpD)
Operation Oahu Storm is commencing. While leaving the facility online would give us the chance to intercept supply shuttles, this base is too far away from land for shooting them down effectively and too far from our radar range for effective ground assaults. Better luck would be had in intercepting Muton cargo heading to the base in the Northwest Territories.
Briefing: X-COM's current best operatives are being sent into an alien facility in Hawaii. Large concentrations of Floater forces are expected; Reapers may also be present. All alien forces must be eliminated or incapacitated so that the base can be shut down. If possible, X-COM forces are to capture high-ranking alien officers.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZN06M1em.png) (http://imgur.com/ZN06M1e)
(http://i.imgur.com/sL0Gnpfm.png) (http://imgur.com/sL0Gnpf)
(http://i.imgur.com/a8mvcaAm.png) (http://imgur.com/a8mvcaA)
(http://i.imgur.com/DFjRnJYm.png) (http://imgur.com/DFjRnJY)
(http://i.imgur.com/iJHAfoQm.png) (http://imgur.com/iJHAfoQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/f4285Cqm.png) (http://imgur.com/f4285Cq)
(http://i.imgur.com/bVlIsBOm.png) (http://imgur.com/bVlIsBO)
(http://i.imgur.com/2jZx7CBm.png) (http://imgur.com/2jZx7CB)
(http://i.imgur.com/nsKWEKcm.png) (http://imgur.com/nsKWEKc)
(http://i.imgur.com/votbuCRm.png) (http://imgur.com/votbuCR)
The squad gets armed for battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/stZe3jXm.png) (http://imgur.com/stZe3jX)
(http://i.imgur.com/sTnKovEm.png) (http://imgur.com/sTnKovE)
(http://i.imgur.com/CUBizUjm.png) (http://imgur.com/CUBizUj)
(http://i.imgur.com/9oGlTc2m.png) (http://imgur.com/9oGlTc2)
The squad is split between two entry points to the base. This makes things more difficult for our forces; having them divided like this makes them more vulnerable to attack from multiple directions. The best chance for success is for the two teams to fight their way through until they can converge.
(http://i.imgur.com/dIDhOg9m.png) (http://imgur.com/dIDhOg9)
Unfortunately, from the start things aren't looking to good. Trying to move across a room gets one of the units fired on and hit from a hostile lurking in a hallway.
(http://i.imgur.com/7qdqAzNm.png) (http://imgur.com/7qdqAzN)
(http://i.imgur.com/cjziTHkm.png) (http://imgur.com/cjziTHk)
(http://i.imgur.com/VwHMFFUm.png) (http://imgur.com/VwHMFFU)
Attempting to send the HWP after it leads to it taking two reaction shots that get through its armor by chance.
(http://i.imgur.com/iujZMfgm.png) (http://imgur.com/iujZMfg)
The next plan is just to wait against the wall and hope whatever's there comes into their field of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/84F8PJfm.png) (http://imgur.com/84F8PJf)
The team on the other end of the base has a far better time of moving out, and manages to safely advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/LCbJSTjm.png) (http://imgur.com/LCbJSTj)
(http://i.imgur.com/OlQTgVlm.png) (http://imgur.com/OlQTgVl)
(http://i.imgur.com/W5TNGtam.png) (http://imgur.com/W5TNGta)
A proximity mine is set down to cut off the hallway, and the far team starts going around through another route.
(http://i.imgur.com/1eiDYPGm.png) (http://imgur.com/1eiDYPG)
(http://i.imgur.com/RrURjZDm.png) (http://imgur.com/RrURjZD)
(http://i.imgur.com/qbSpGYWm.png) (http://imgur.com/qbSpGYW)
As the team to the east advances, a Floater is encountered around a corner and taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/VwfHe3Am.png) (http://imgur.com/VwfHe3A)
This clears the way for a continued advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/odIuJAam.png) (http://imgur.com/odIuJAa)
Searching briefly on the upper floor finds some strange containers.
(http://i.imgur.com/I4hrjvlm.png) (http://imgur.com/I4hrjvl)
The far team continues to carefully move forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/SKg2tvNm.png) (http://imgur.com/SKg2tvN)
(http://i.imgur.com/G9b8p8Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/G9b8p8Q)
The main squad continues searching around through the twists and turns of the alien base.
(http://i.imgur.com/s2rJSUBm.png) (http://imgur.com/s2rJSUB)
(http://i.imgur.com/bHyIbD4m.png) (http://imgur.com/bHyIbD4)
Another mine gets set down to block off a potential ambush.
(http://i.imgur.com/3BuLMmHm.png) (http://imgur.com/3BuLMmH)
(http://i.imgur.com/x7LF6PWm.png) (http://imgur.com/x7LF6PW)
The far team continues pushing up to rejoin the main squad, which is also slowly pressing forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/oD55WVkm.png) (http://imgur.com/oD55WVk)
(http://i.imgur.com/zXcmn7pm.png) (http://imgur.com/zXcmn7p)
One of the far team gets hit by a Floater. She's alive, but unconscious.
(http://i.imgur.com/JsWyGH6m.png) (http://imgur.com/JsWyGH6)
(http://i.imgur.com/mjShh1um.png) (http://imgur.com/mjShh1u)
(http://i.imgur.com/FnhX9fym.png) (http://imgur.com/FnhX9fy)
(http://i.imgur.com/57sFvJQm.png) (http://imgur.com/57sFvJQ)
One of the other squadmates grabs a medi-kit and applies treatment.
(http://i.imgur.com/alt1xk1m.png) (http://imgur.com/alt1xk1)
(http://i.imgur.com/nTARMnqm.png) (http://imgur.com/nTARMnq)
The other squadmate takes down the Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/noa2Y7pm.png) (http://imgur.com/noa2Y7p)
The same squad member that was knocked out earlier gets hit again, this time fatally.
(http://i.imgur.com/Gql0i35m.png) (http://imgur.com/Gql0i35)
The best option here is to move forward and take cover behind the walls to get out of the line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/tkleX9um.png) (http://imgur.com/tkleX9u)
(http://i.imgur.com/SqFEx0Em.png) (http://imgur.com/SqFEx0E)
More hostiles are encountered down the halls as the main squad advances.
(http://i.imgur.com/AXn8bG3m.png) (http://imgur.com/AXn8bG3)
Checking around the corner, it's confirmed the proximity mine took out a Floater trying to go around.
(http://i.imgur.com/zZRqL4lm.png) (http://imgur.com/zZRqL4l)
Looking above the enclosed space, the far squad fines more odd storage containers.
(http://i.imgur.com/NA7jmBlm.png) (http://imgur.com/NA7jmBl)
(http://i.imgur.com/0d3kW6vm.png) (http://imgur.com/0d3kW6v)
(http://i.imgur.com/YNPsA5lm.png) (http://imgur.com/YNPsA5l)
Another Floater is spotted, but there's no way to get a line of fire from here.
(http://i.imgur.com/pKNfMRAm.png) (http://imgur.com/pKNfMRA)
A bunch of aliens are spotted coming for the main squad. Most of them are Reapers and thus a minimal threat, but the Floater could pose a problem.
(http://i.imgur.com/EnhlxREm.png) (http://imgur.com/EnhlxRE)
It is quickly eliminated, fortunately.
(http://i.imgur.com/KCWffoSm.png) (http://imgur.com/KCWffoS)
More hostiles are visible down the other way, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/HKJEIcvm.png) (http://imgur.com/HKJEIcv)
(http://i.imgur.com/6zAHGNhm.png) (http://imgur.com/6zAHGNh)
(http://i.imgur.com/iLoVFTem.png) (http://imgur.com/iLoVFTe)
With more Reapers and Floaters coming at the squad, a grenade gets thrown down the hall, thinning out the herd.
(http://i.imgur.com/ueiPbMPm.png) (http://imgur.com/ueiPbMP)
(http://i.imgur.com/y091JCem.png) (http://imgur.com/y091JCe)
(http://i.imgur.com/PmjdhY5m.png) (http://imgur.com/PmjdhY5)
Another Floater gets taken down, and the way is almost clear for the far team to meet back up with the main unit.
(http://i.imgur.com/tUVW3i8m.png) (http://imgur.com/tUVW3i8)
Taking out the Reaper makes the path between the two forces pretty much clear.
(http://i.imgur.com/fj5Fne6m.png) (http://imgur.com/fj5Fne6)
(http://i.imgur.com/fwbaPqBm.png) (http://imgur.com/fwbaPqB)
Unfortunately, standing next to windows leaves one of the far team vulnerable to an unexpected shot from a Floater. Someone else manages to get this one, but we've lost another of our officers.
(http://i.imgur.com/rPOVaCJm.png) (http://imgur.com/rPOVaCJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/y9iFKBnm.png) (http://imgur.com/y9iFKBn)
Another Reaper gets mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/gTO2Pxfm.png) (http://imgur.com/gTO2Pxf)
One of the colonels pushes into the entryway to a large room. This looks big enough to be the command center for the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/pMU4OsJm.png) (http://imgur.com/pMU4OsJ)
Another squad member gets ambushed by a lucky shot from a blind corner.
(http://i.imgur.com/qUQFVoDm.png) (http://imgur.com/qUQFVoD)
(http://i.imgur.com/NFjpt5qm.png) (http://imgur.com/NFjpt5q)
(http://i.imgur.com/dChuqp8m.png) (http://imgur.com/dChuqp8)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bq5sdysm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bq5sdys)
A Floater comes down from the accessway to the large room. It's heavily armed, so no punches are pulled.
(http://i.imgur.com/Txy25oSm.png) (http://imgur.com/Txy25oS)
The Floater that ambushed our scout is taken out by a distant shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/9rHpVoAm.png) (http://imgur.com/9rHpVoA)
(http://i.imgur.com/vQrfh3Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/vQrfh3W)
(http://i.imgur.com/V9Wbqqjm.png) (http://imgur.com/V9Wbqqj)
One of the other team members is hit by a Floater coming out of another room, but is lucky enough to shrug it off entirely and immediately retaliates.
(http://i.imgur.com/getTIHTm.png) (http://imgur.com/getTIHT)
(http://i.imgur.com/bCFWOMZm.png) (http://imgur.com/bCFWOMZ)
The large room that Thompson has been going after looks to only be a storage facility; the command center must be elsewhere.
(http://i.imgur.com/BINX1pBm.png) (http://imgur.com/BINX1pB)
The storage area has some reactors; it's hard to tell if they're powering the base or just being kept here. Either way, succeeding in this raid means we'll be able to obtain some UFO parts and Elerium.
(http://i.imgur.com/HUjOqkNm.png) (http://imgur.com/HUjOqkN)
Going through some large hallways and strangely lit passages locates a massive doorway. This must be the base's command center.
(http://i.imgur.com/PSmlJcSm.png) (http://imgur.com/PSmlJcS)
(http://i.imgur.com/W0HfamAm.png) (http://imgur.com/W0HfamA)
One of the squad charges in, and is hit by enemy reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/Wky8fOKm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wky8fOK)
(http://i.imgur.com/xB44D8hm.png) (http://imgur.com/xB44D8h)
The remaining team is able to take out one of the heavily armed aliens from the lower floor.
(http://i.imgur.com/cZl08tWm.png) (http://imgur.com/cZl08tW)
We see another alien in the command room, but the team isn't able to hit it. It looks to be armed with a Blaster Launcher; what happens next is going to be ugly.
(http://i.imgur.com/iKzDvdmm.png) (http://imgur.com/iKzDvdm)
Fortunately, only one squad member is lost to the massive blasts; unfortunately, this is one less squad member we have to take on the remaining aliens in the command center.
(http://i.imgur.com/bKCKvPwm.png) (http://imgur.com/bKCKvPw)
(http://i.imgur.com/gYDFQ8Em.png) (http://imgur.com/gYDFQ8E)
One narrowly avoids a flurry of attacks while heading up to the smoke-filled chamber and taking out the Floater with the plasma gun.
(http://i.imgur.com/PVOkvFnm.png) (http://imgur.com/PVOkvFn)
(http://i.imgur.com/S8dirP5m.png) (http://imgur.com/S8dirP5)
An injured captain attempts a risky maneuver and charges right at the last Floater; if it wants to fire off another bomb, it will consume itself in the blast as well. However, it's either smart enough to not attack, or is out of ammunition.
(http://i.imgur.com/ihmwWrZm.png) (http://imgur.com/ihmwWrZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/AEuRtBgm.png) (http://imgur.com/AEuRtBg)
The other team member in the command room picks up a dropped stun launcher off the floor and knocks out both ally and enemy, finally clearing out the base.
Results of Operation Oahu Storm:
Samuel Thompson: 2 kills, not promoted
Dwight Kemp: 4 kills, not promoted; wounded, will recover in 7 days
Nikolai Ragulin: 3 kills, not promoted; wounded, will recover in 14 days
Otto Krause: Killed in action
Maria Davies: Killed in action
Sigourney Kemp: Killed in action
Clarence McNeil: Killed in action
Tatyana Torban: Killed in action
Gennadi Maleev: Killed in action
Shuji Iwasaki: Killed in action
HWP: Destroyed
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
2 aliens captured
Alien command center destroyed
Alloys, reactors, Elerium, entertainment systems salvaged
Debriefing: Far more casualties were incurred during this mission than expected. Assaulting the command center was especially dangerous; squad tactics must be improved and adapted before an assault on the Muton base is considered. However, this victory is a massive political gain for us, and will reflect heavily on our performance review by the council of backing nations.
(http://i.imgur.com/Mvn5vSBm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mvn5vSB)
(http://i.imgur.com/FvaevOGm.png) (http://imgur.com/FvaevOG)
(http://i.imgur.com/5lnzIaOm.png) (http://imgur.com/5lnzIaO)
Using our new materials and surplus funds, we start on more HWPs.
-
Ouch. That stings.
Still the base is cleaned out. Wonder if that base was what led to the US pact.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/wpcPKRPm.png) (http://imgur.com/wpcPKRP)
(http://i.imgur.com/oGhhCxAm.png) (http://imgur.com/oGhhCxA)
(http://i.imgur.com/e1Gcw1Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/e1Gcw1G)
(http://i.imgur.com/OVUxhcxm.png) (http://imgur.com/OVUxhcx)
With the funds obtained from recent operations, a new base is constructed in the Arctic Circle. As it comes online, this will let us expand our decoder network and interception range ever further.
(http://i.imgur.com/vIs3XNom.png) (http://imgur.com/vIs3XNo)
(http://i.imgur.com/h4URVqqm.png) (http://imgur.com/h4URVqq)
A battleship comes hunting for our base, but finds nothing and leaves after a few hours.
(http://i.imgur.com/dBNieCMm.png) (http://imgur.com/dBNieCM)
One of the workshops at our Asia base is now online. This will let us start work on new aircraft in due time.
(http://i.imgur.com/dNfDInqm.png) (http://imgur.com/dNfDInq)
(http://i.imgur.com/uFKtllNm.png) (http://imgur.com/uFKtllN)
(http://i.imgur.com/2vCHe06m.png) (http://imgur.com/2vCHe06)
(http://i.imgur.com/kp1n5CDm.png) (http://imgur.com/kp1n5CD)
(http://i.imgur.com/8a8YeA4m.png) (http://imgur.com/8a8YeA4)
(http://i.imgur.com/3f5pZwwm.png) (http://imgur.com/3f5pZww)
(http://i.imgur.com/2FtH75Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/2FtH75Z)
The research team makes some progress on various aircraft weapons. Effort is then diverted to various autopsies and minor projects.
(http://i.imgur.com/ymKyst7m.png) (http://imgur.com/ymKyst7)
(http://i.imgur.com/NKmq43Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/NKmq43G)
Engineering finishes the pair of new HWPs, and starts on another batch of armor to replace our recent losses.
(http://i.imgur.com/nofnPN5m.png) (http://imgur.com/nofnPN5)
(http://i.imgur.com/mbYwezLm.png) (http://imgur.com/mbYwezL)
(http://i.imgur.com/HlYVrC6m.png) (http://imgur.com/HlYVrC6)
A scout ship attempts to outrun one of our Interceptors, and just gets to meet the Firestorm instead for its effort.
(http://i.imgur.com/V5leWHMm.png) (http://imgur.com/V5leWHM)
Another ship comes hunting for our bases. If we're lucky, this one will also pass us by.
(http://i.imgur.com/93CSgz2m.png) (http://imgur.com/93CSgz2)
So much for luck.
-
On the flip side, remember everyone you lost while breaching doors? It's payback time.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/IG5nVKIm.png) (http://imgur.com/IG5nVKI)
Most of the time, we get to choose our battles. Even alien terror attacks could be ignored, if we were willing to deal with the political ramifications of doing so. However, a direct attack on one of our bases is something we can not ignore. Operation Noble Stand commences, whether we're ready or not.
Briefing: Muton forces have found X-COM One and breached the outer defenses. If they are not eliminated, the base and all of its functions will be lost. All injured personnel, scientists, engineers, and aircraft have been withdrawn from the base. This battle will be between X-COM combat forces and Mutons accompanied by Celatids and Silacoids.
(http://i.imgur.com/wcx4Orum.png) (http://imgur.com/wcx4Oru)
(http://i.imgur.com/0uARRIkm.png) (http://imgur.com/0uARRIk)
(http://i.imgur.com/kGSdOv0m.png) (http://imgur.com/kGSdOv0)
(http://i.imgur.com/K9GXk6um.png) (http://imgur.com/K9GXk6u)
(http://i.imgur.com/NvjU4Drm.png) (http://imgur.com/NvjU4Dr)
(http://i.imgur.com/b5cGDdtm.png) (http://imgur.com/b5cGDdt)
(http://i.imgur.com/uKSdoiym.png) (http://imgur.com/uKSdoiy)
(http://i.imgur.com/MDL2haGm.png) (http://imgur.com/MDL2haG)
(http://i.imgur.com/eQhfNSqm.png) (http://imgur.com/eQhfNSq)
(http://i.imgur.com/hJl5wrSm.png) (http://imgur.com/hJl5wrS)
(http://i.imgur.com/1PjFdOkm.png) (http://imgur.com/1PjFdOk)
(http://i.imgur.com/YeQBpYum.png) (http://imgur.com/YeQBpYu)
(http://i.imgur.com/6pmH9aom.png) (http://imgur.com/6pmH9ao)
(http://i.imgur.com/DjmFqoam.png) (http://imgur.com/DjmFqoa)
(http://i.imgur.com/H5HhMVPm.png) (http://imgur.com/H5HhMVP)
It's here that one of the issues of the original game gets in the way. In the loadout screen a maximum of 80 items will be made available, pulling from a list. This is usually not an issue as most of the time the list is taken from equipment loaded on the Skyranger. However, during base defense missions, items are taken from the list of every item stored at the base. Unfortunately, plasma guns are fairly low in the list, and there's a lot of sifting through smoke grenades and stun rods to find useful weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/cUcqKbnm.png) (http://imgur.com/cUcqKbn)
Even more unfortunately, while the squad got some plasma guns, they didn't get any ammo.
(http://i.imgur.com/EoWQcsVm.png) (http://imgur.com/EoWQcsV)
And another glitch rears its head. Usually, if a HWP has no ammo of its type available, it can't be deployed because it's not allowed to be loaded on to the Skyranger. However, if it's deployed to a base defense mission, it gets fully armed whether or not there's ammo available. As a result, we have a fully loaded Fusion Launcher HWP available. While under normal circumstances I'd consider it ?cheating? to take advantage of a glitch like this, we're already getting shortchanged by another glitch, and not using this under these circumstances makes the mission go from ?difficult? to ?impossible?.
(http://i.imgur.com/JIS1yBTm.png) (http://imgur.com/JIS1yBT)
And that launcher gets put to use immediately.
(http://i.imgur.com/fqZPB8em.png) (http://imgur.com/fqZPB8e)
(http://i.imgur.com/M7f87Oim.png) (http://imgur.com/M7f87Oi)
(http://i.imgur.com/CeP3SSRm.png) (http://imgur.com/CeP3SSR)
A course for the missile is set around the access lift, hitting the back side.
(http://i.imgur.com/sgfwDTlm.png) (http://imgur.com/sgfwDTl)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z7GcCwEm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z7GcCwE)
(http://i.imgur.com/UQwrD3lm.png) (http://imgur.com/UQwrD3l)
Another shot is routed into the hangar.
(http://i.imgur.com/WfXDukJm.png) (http://imgur.com/WfXDukJ)
The other two HWPs move up to cover the chokepoint.
(http://i.imgur.com/lGI0iCMm.png) (http://imgur.com/lGI0iCM)
(http://i.imgur.com/HjkOJ2bm.png) (http://imgur.com/HjkOJ2b)
Another shot is routed to the back of the hangar, causing a chain reaction that sets off numerous containers of fuel and pieces of equipment.
(http://i.imgur.com/zisiKDTm.png) (http://imgur.com/zisiKDT)
One of the rookies has some ammo after all, and is sent to spot for the HWPs.
(http://i.imgur.com/DH5Arepm.png) (http://imgur.com/DH5Arep)
The HWPs close in.
(http://i.imgur.com/IsweMl1m.png) (http://imgur.com/IsweMl1)
(http://i.imgur.com/Snv3Lcbm.png) (http://imgur.com/Snv3Lcb)
(http://i.imgur.com/1ynskV2m.png) (http://imgur.com/1ynskV2)
A proximity mine gets set down in the chokepoint.
(http://i.imgur.com/x7Om7vCm.png) (http://imgur.com/x7Om7vC)
(http://i.imgur.com/Pe9kGrqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Pe9kGrq)
A Muton sets it off, triggering a firefight with a rookie and two HWPs that ends in it being mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/3HNpQn9m.png) (http://imgur.com/3HNpQn9)
(http://i.imgur.com/M7XqJQfm.png) (http://imgur.com/M7XqJQf)
The rookie is wounded a bit, but someone's close by with a Medi-kit.
(http://i.imgur.com/caVnjUBm.png) (http://imgur.com/caVnjUB)
The HWPs continue advancing on the access lift.
(http://i.imgur.com/UGu7Kwzm.png) (http://imgur.com/UGu7Kwz)
(http://i.imgur.com/1383GYum.png) (http://imgur.com/1383GYu)
(http://i.imgur.com/Aq9qnX8m.png) (http://imgur.com/Aq9qnX8)
Two Mutons are spotted in the hallway, and are taken down by the HWPs
(http://i.imgur.com/K3OHlJkm.png) (http://imgur.com/K3OHlJk)
(http://i.imgur.com/KqXMZgnm.png) (http://imgur.com/KqXMZgn)
Another missile gets sent out to clear out the area around the access lift.
(http://i.imgur.com/p49iHSum.png) (http://imgur.com/p49iHSu)
(http://i.imgur.com/0FSXSw4m.png) (http://imgur.com/0FSXSw4)
Another Muton gets blasted.
(http://i.imgur.com/Njnj9Gem.png) (http://imgur.com/Njnj9Ge)
More Mutons come through the chokepoint.
(http://i.imgur.com/9gyM24cm.png) (http://imgur.com/9gyM24c)
Another missile is sent down the way.
(http://i.imgur.com/EVF1XDwm.png) (http://imgur.com/EVF1XDw)
(http://i.imgur.com/iWMnfTKm.png) (http://imgur.com/iWMnfTK)
(http://i.imgur.com/cKFlxlQm.png) (http://imgur.com/cKFlxlQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/R9hKn8qm.png) (http://imgur.com/R9hKn8q)
Another Muton manages to take out one of the HWPs, but is taken out in turn by the other one.
(http://i.imgur.com/fOt15SLm.png) (http://imgur.com/fOt15SL)
The enemy continues to charge.
(http://i.imgur.com/c2aaK1rm.png) (http://imgur.com/c2aaK1r)
(http://i.imgur.com/A8sxlffm.png) (http://imgur.com/A8sxlff)
The last shot from the launcher HWP is carefully weaved around to avoid hitting the other remaining tank, shooting into the elevator one more time.
(http://i.imgur.com/hdgSpnqm.png) (http://imgur.com/hdgSpnq)
(http://i.imgur.com/9RAD2Wam.png) (http://imgur.com/9RAD2Wa)
The other HWP starts cleaning things up.
(http://i.imgur.com/BQZxiJkm.png) (http://imgur.com/BQZxiJk)
(http://i.imgur.com/gTcc8n9m.png) (http://imgur.com/gTcc8n9)
A Celatid also quickly falls to the plasma fire from the HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/qYr3awfm.png) (http://imgur.com/qYr3awf)
(http://i.imgur.com/s8mbsU7m.png) (http://imgur.com/s8mbsU7)
(http://i.imgur.com/4yTvkksm.png) (http://imgur.com/4yTvkks)
A cornered Muton is taken down as well.
(http://i.imgur.com/QYv5J33m.png) (http://imgur.com/QYv5J33)
(http://i.imgur.com/kAYdkQgm.png) (http://imgur.com/kAYdkQg)
One of the squad members grabs a working plasma gun off the fallen Mutons, and moves in to support.
(http://i.imgur.com/KSKa1ttm.png) (http://imgur.com/KSKa1tt)
(http://i.imgur.com/f8Tckhvm.png) (http://imgur.com/f8Tckhv)
The squad member backs up the HWP, finishing off the last Muton trying to enter the base.
Result of Operation Noble Stand:
HWPs: 9 kills, 1 destroyed
Evelyn Crossett: 1 kill, not promoted
Gerard Bouton: 0 kills, promoted to Squaddie; wounded
Other combat personnel: 0 kills, no promotions
10 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
Base secured
Debriefing: This mission went better than expected, all things considered. Only one wounded, only one HWP lost, and no deaths on our side. For some reason, there seemed to be less hostiles than I was expecting; there should have been fifteen or sixteen coming at the base, not eleven.
-
:toot:
Voting to dub the base "Minas Tirith".
-
(http://i.imgur.com/2hQaKX6m.png) (http://imgur.com/2hQaKX6)
(http://i.imgur.com/3AiLRKzm.png) (http://imgur.com/3AiLRKz)
(http://i.imgur.com/JkfLigSm.png) (http://imgur.com/JkfLigS)
(http://i.imgur.com/kUiyr7mm.png) (http://imgur.com/kUiyr7m)
Some more scouts hunting for X-COM bases get taken down.
(http://i.imgur.com/ajtTyIUm.png) (http://imgur.com/ajtTyIU)
We get a new batch of recruits. After a routine screening, only six out of the eight are kept.
(http://i.imgur.com/Oe9B4Lqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Oe9B4Lq)
(http://i.imgur.com/LSbp3gom.png) (http://imgur.com/LSbp3go)
(http://i.imgur.com/wgsFZw1m.png) (http://imgur.com/wgsFZw1)
The decoder network finds some supply ships heading for North America. One gets shot down over the United States,
(http://i.imgur.com/T4Ve13im.png) (http://imgur.com/T4Ve13i)
(http://i.imgur.com/mPHkpCdm.png) (http://imgur.com/mPHkpCd)
Another ship, presumably a scout, is spotted in Cuba by a passing interceptor.
(http://i.imgur.com/kBiMVyvm.png) (http://imgur.com/kBiMVyv)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZeIol5Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZeIol5D)
(http://i.imgur.com/eDtLzTVm.png) (http://imgur.com/eDtLzTV)
Attempting to intercept the other supply ship doesn't go too well; fighting it with Stingrays is ineffective, and the interceptor has to break off before it's destroyed by return fire from the alien craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/BSltpU6m.png) (http://imgur.com/BSltpU6)
Engineering finishes a new batch of power armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/yEMNuGam.png) (http://imgur.com/yEMNuGa)
(http://i.imgur.com/wzMYGtam.png) (http://imgur.com/wzMYGta)
The decoder network finds some Ethereal ships heading for an infiltration mission. Unfortunately, the interceptor isn't able to catch up before the craft disappears off radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/ehAKUfPm.png) (http://imgur.com/ehAKUfP)
A battleship is soon picked up, which is too fast and too powerful to be intercepted by our forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/CEH1tIrm.png) (http://imgur.com/CEH1tIr)
(http://i.imgur.com/nAShyHxm.png) (http://imgur.com/nAShyHx)
The monthly report comes in. Australia has been infiltrated by the aliens. Fortunately, selling alien salvage is greatly assisting in funding our operations. As long as we can maintain the support of key backers like France, Germany, and Japan, we should do fine.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Sis0kjXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sis0kjX)
Interceptor patrols find another alien base, in Papua New Guinea. This is likely the Ethereal base linked to the recent infiltration of Australia's government.
(http://i.imgur.com/CV1aQBAm.png) (http://imgur.com/CV1aQBA)
(http://i.imgur.com/nNvhWDWm.png) (http://imgur.com/nNvhWDW)
(http://i.imgur.com/BfuKgLEm.png) (http://imgur.com/BfuKgLE)
Ships are spotted on the Australian coast, presumably part of continuing alien operations there.
(http://i.imgur.com/tpzYs4Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/tpzYs4Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/jwyd1Dim.png) (http://imgur.com/jwyd1Di)
(http://i.imgur.com/i5ZfVhBm.png) (http://imgur.com/i5ZfVhB)
(http://i.imgur.com/Rj4UH9pm.png) (http://imgur.com/Rj4UH9p)
A pair of scout ships on separate missions get destroyed by our air force.
(http://i.imgur.com/2YvEUJGm.png) (http://imgur.com/2YvEUJG)
Engineering facilities are fully on-line at the Asia base. Staff and materials will be transferred there as soon as reasonably possible.
(http://i.imgur.com/87BDSm6m.png) (http://imgur.com/87BDSm6)
Construction at the new polar base is starting to show results.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZDzTcy7m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZDzTcy7)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ra7dDCUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ra7dDCU)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nu48Q2Im.png) (http://imgur.com/Nu48Q2I)
(http://i.imgur.com/FZm7ZzEm.png) (http://imgur.com/FZm7ZzE)
The research team gets some results from the Snakeman autopsy and the analysis of the Muton; interrogating the Muton also gives some information on one of the types of alien scout craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/ayN04wdm.png) (http://imgur.com/ayN04wd)
(http://i.imgur.com/v6aqwEnm.png) (http://imgur.com/v6aqwEn)
Research is put into working on new aircraft.
(http://i.imgur.com/UQZo7Bum.png) (http://imgur.com/UQZo7Bu)
(http://i.imgur.com/fpuWrwVm.png) (http://imgur.com/fpuWrwV)
A Muton ship going after our base again is shot down near the German border. Operation Fading Green commences.
(http://i.imgur.com/JTqrk4bm.png) (http://imgur.com/JTqrk4b)
Briefing: A Muton scout UFO has been shot down by an X-COM interceptor, crashing in Germany. A ground team has been sent in to neutralize the remaining crew so the wreckage can be salvaged. Given the size of the ship and the damage inflicted, the number of survivors among the alien crew should be low; expect minimal resistance.
(http://i.imgur.com/4PxIpj2m.png) (http://imgur.com/4PxIpj2)
(http://i.imgur.com/PXYDTfom.png) (http://imgur.com/PXYDTfo)
(http://i.imgur.com/aoXVkUKm.png) (http://imgur.com/aoXVkUK)
(http://i.imgur.com/d3S3VZqm.png) (http://imgur.com/d3S3VZq)
(http://i.imgur.com/uim44gDm.png) (http://imgur.com/uim44gD)
(http://i.imgur.com/vmeRhAMm.png) (http://imgur.com/vmeRhAM)
(http://i.imgur.com/t061lStm.png) (http://imgur.com/t061lSt)
(http://i.imgur.com/keR09fOm.png) (http://imgur.com/keR09fO)
(http://i.imgur.com/qMuugLDm.png) (http://imgur.com/qMuugLD)
(http://i.imgur.com/7QK3BRUm.png) (http://imgur.com/7QK3BRU)
The squad is equipped for battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/St2sydWm.png) (http://imgur.com/St2sydW)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z8UfGFsm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z8UfGFs)
Initial recon by the HWP finds a Muton off to the left of the landing site. A few bursts of plasma quickly eliminates it.
(http://i.imgur.com/gSkt9GRm.png) (http://imgur.com/gSkt9GR)
(http://i.imgur.com/q5K3EBDm.png) (http://imgur.com/q5K3EBD)
As it moves on, however, it's hit by another Muton out of sight, punching through the armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/8YYMnT0m.png) (http://imgur.com/8YYMnT0)
(http://i.imgur.com/M2QNSX6m.png) (http://imgur.com/M2QNSX6)
(http://i.imgur.com/66xs3cEm.png) (http://imgur.com/66xs3cE)
Smoke gets set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/lbLnIr8m.png) (http://imgur.com/lbLnIr8)
(http://i.imgur.com/eeFD3jam.png) (http://imgur.com/eeFD3ja)
Another Muton gets spotted and sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z4E3OwEm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z4E3OwE)
(http://i.imgur.com/iKgjRhim.png) (http://imgur.com/iKgjRhi)
One more Muton gets shot by a rookie from the deck of the Skyranger, clearing the field. The ground team never comes across the UFO during the battle; however, it turns out the ship was almost completely destroyed, leaving nothing to recover.
Results of Operation Fading Green
HWP: 1 kill, destroyed
Yoko Iwahara: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Donald King: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Barbara Stephens: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
3 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO damaged beyond recovery
This operation does some good for our budget, but what's really needed right now is some still-functioning ships with engines and Elerium.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/YIKz70im.png) (http://imgur.com/YIKz70i)
Part of the engineering team is transferred to the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/rX2i5zQm.png) (http://imgur.com/rX2i5zQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZrZ64Ham.png) (http://imgur.com/ZrZ64Ha)
An Ethereal scout is blasted out of the air over Central Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/fcPh7Cnm.png) (http://imgur.com/fcPh7Cn)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bp8M7vkm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bp8M7vk)
(http://i.imgur.com/LzOCIcAm.png) (http://imgur.com/LzOCIcA)
(http://i.imgur.com/1tr7Itnm.png) (http://imgur.com/1tr7Itn)
(http://i.imgur.com/nserZO0m.png) (http://imgur.com/nserZO0)
A Muton attack ship is brought down over Russia's eastern coast. The Skyranger moves in for Operation Green Shore.
(http://i.imgur.com/dsjEQCcm.png) (http://imgur.com/dsjEQCc)
(http://i.imgur.com/MwMJWvFm.png) (http://imgur.com/MwMJWvF)
On the way to the operation, a small Ethereal Scout far off its mark gets blown to pieces by the Firestorm's plasma beam.
(http://i.imgur.com/cH3B8zwm.png) (http://imgur.com/cH3B8zw)
(http://i.imgur.com/UhoCOYdm.png) (http://imgur.com/UhoCOYd)
(http://i.imgur.com/RbFeQXDm.png) (http://imgur.com/RbFeQXD)
(http://i.imgur.com/NAQkU4Im.png) (http://imgur.com/NAQkU4I)
(http://i.imgur.com/falaFKIm.png) (http://imgur.com/falaFKI)
(http://i.imgur.com/SCaPuhHm.png) (http://imgur.com/SCaPuhH)
(http://i.imgur.com/dfrV68km.png) (http://imgur.com/dfrV68k)
(http://i.imgur.com/tDst8gfm.png) (http://imgur.com/tDst8gf)
(http://i.imgur.com/1l5O37Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/1l5O37Z)
(http://i.imgur.com/1LAmOalm.png) (http://imgur.com/1LAmOal)
The squad gets armed and ready to move out.
Briefing: A Muton assault transport has crashed down in the forests of eastern Siberia. Enemy forces will consist of Mutons, Celatids, and Silacoids. Eliminate or incapacitate all forces in order to recover the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/HzFEZtAm.png) (http://imgur.com/HzFEZtA)
(http://i.imgur.com/EP86Su5m.png) (http://imgur.com/EP86Su5)
(http://i.imgur.com/235B1rbm.png) (http://imgur.com/235B1rb)
The ship is right next to the squad's landing site. Smoke is set out.
(http://i.imgur.com/ISWYRrSm.png) (http://imgur.com/ISWYRrS)
(http://i.imgur.com/fvvyc4Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/fvvyc4J)
(http://i.imgur.com/5a7NbgEm.png) (http://imgur.com/5a7NbgE)
A Muton is off to the left. It takes four shots, but it's taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/tw4ez25m.png) (http://imgur.com/tw4ez25)
(http://i.imgur.com/5pq5nWJm.png) (http://imgur.com/5pq5nWJ)
A Silacoid is off to the right, getting brought down by plasma fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/2lmqpRWm.png) (http://imgur.com/2lmqpRW)
Another Muton is around the corner of the ship. The squad moves around to get out of its line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/RplcehJm.png) (http://imgur.com/RplcehJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/koMFEHQm.png) (http://imgur.com/koMFEHQ)
A Celatid is near the other door to the ship. It doesn't last long.
(http://i.imgur.com/9fNLtPbm.png) (http://imgur.com/9fNLtPb)
(http://i.imgur.com/DN39xfkm.png) (http://imgur.com/DN39xfk)
A proximity mine is set down around the corner to catch the Muton around the side of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/xYIPgnOm.png) (http://imgur.com/xYIPgnO)
(http://i.imgur.com/CV5MoUim.png) (http://imgur.com/CV5MoUi)
(http://i.imgur.com/iJip5UAm.png) (http://imgur.com/iJip5UA)
(http://i.imgur.com/57fUik1m.png) (http://imgur.com/57fUik1)
A pair of Mutons is found and eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/F7JFoiDm.png) (http://imgur.com/F7JFoiD)
The mine gets set off by the Muton, while a Silacoid creeps out the left door of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/UNBb55lm.png) (http://imgur.com/UNBb55l)
(http://i.imgur.com/TvKb8k5m.png) (http://imgur.com/TvKb8k5)
The Silacoid proves to be a difficult opponent, surviving round after round from a plasma pistol before finally going down.
(http://i.imgur.com/tcapgj9m.png) (http://imgur.com/tcapgj9)
The Muton survived the proximity grenade, but it's in a weakened state, leaving it wide open for some plasma shots.
(http://i.imgur.com/cQe6wJDm.png) (http://imgur.com/cQe6wJD)
(http://i.imgur.com/IjosG2Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/IjosG2G)
And another Silacoid is right behind it. Another mine gets set down to block its advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/S7WdsJcm.png) (http://imgur.com/S7WdsJc)
The ship gets breached, and we have a clear entrance.
(http://i.imgur.com/d9qwlYRm.png) (http://imgur.com/d9qwlYR)
The mine proves to be redundant, as the Silacoid gets shot down before it can even get that far.
(http://i.imgur.com/MPIxLhNm.png) (http://imgur.com/MPIxLhN)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ti5mCaSm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ti5mCaS)
(http://i.imgur.com/1gIzgUvm.png) (http://imgur.com/1gIzgUv)
A Muton is in the center part of the ship. The firefight ends in our favor, with not a scratch on any of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/5SDvM33m.png) (http://imgur.com/5SDvM33)
A Celatid is around the corner, but it doesn't have a line of attack to anybody.
(http://i.imgur.com/EpwXivHm.png) (http://imgur.com/EpwXivH)
The squad gets ready to breach the other side.
(http://i.imgur.com/gC1fYoxm.png) (http://imgur.com/gC1fYox)
(http://i.imgur.com/5s8O6rMm.png) (http://imgur.com/5s8O6rM)
A Muton around the corner gets quickly eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/8RDbDWMm.png) (http://imgur.com/8RDbDWM)
(http://i.imgur.com/DhUA7rpm.png) (http://imgur.com/DhUA7rp)
The Celatid is handled, clearing the way forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZclMNiUm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZclMNiU)
A Muton is spotted on the upper level of the ship. Rather than risk getting shot at trying to get a line of fire on it, it's time for a more creative approach.
(http://i.imgur.com/XdV6j3fm.png) (http://imgur.com/XdV6j3f)
Commander Reynolds has been given the Blaster Launcher to use for this mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/GeNL8nSm.png) (http://imgur.com/GeNL8nS)
(http://i.imgur.com/M48Wtv1m.png) (http://imgur.com/M48Wtv1)
The door to the ship is opened and a course is set for the bomb, directly to the top of the ship. It's distinctly overkill, but it eliminates the Muton with minimal risk to our forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/ezVyerTm.png) (http://imgur.com/ezVyerT)
The reactors of the ship are gone from the encounter with the Firestorm, unfortunately.
(http://i.imgur.com/J2DD0irm.png) (http://imgur.com/J2DD0ir)
(http://i.imgur.com/g6ANk2dm.png) (http://imgur.com/g6ANk2d)
A Silacoid tried to sneak past the squad, but it's pinned between two troops at close range.
(http://i.imgur.com/5AeFYRPm.png) (http://imgur.com/5AeFYRP)
With resistance on the lower level eliminated, the squad moves up to the top of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/M2S5wQFm.png) (http://imgur.com/M2S5wQF)
Another Muton is spotted in a shaft similar to the last one that was encountered.
(http://i.imgur.com/XIdY7lIm.png) (http://imgur.com/XIdY7lI)
(http://i.imgur.com/1Qlj7zgm.png) (http://imgur.com/1Qlj7zg)
A wounded Muton gets up, but is quickly taken back down by automatic fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZoGKdy0m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZoGKdy0)
(http://i.imgur.com/v2ZqhWPm.png) (http://imgur.com/v2ZqhWP)
(http://i.imgur.com/IDujCZ0m.png) (http://imgur.com/IDujCZ0)
The door on the right side of the ship is opened, and the Blaster Launcher designates a course for the upper level again.
(http://i.imgur.com/joCtJAEm.png) (http://imgur.com/joCtJAE)
A Silacoid lurks around outside, far from posing a threat but still needing to be eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/BOWDeSzm.png) (http://imgur.com/BOWDeSz)
(http://i.imgur.com/WaZXUFnm.png) (http://imgur.com/WaZXUFn)
In the control room, we have a Celatid and a Muton that haven't spotted us yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/uwJIepOm.png) (http://imgur.com/uwJIepO)
(http://i.imgur.com/ofYUERVm.png) (http://imgur.com/ofYUERV)
The Celatid is taken out without much trouble.
(http://i.imgur.com/m3DVMchm.png) (http://imgur.com/m3DVMch)
(http://i.imgur.com/eVczVJ6m.png) (http://imgur.com/eVczVJ6)
The Muton is pursued through a doorway and taken down in a point-blank confrontation.
(http://i.imgur.com/6g3DvLzm.png) (http://imgur.com/6g3DvLz)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZhY0c7Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZhY0c7R)
One last Muton is found in the entertainment area, getting brought down from behind.
Results of Operation Green Shore
Barbara Stephens: 4 kills
Cpt. Dwight Kemp: 3 kills
Col. Samuel Thompson: 2 kills
Cmdr. Paul Reynolds: 2 kills
Yoko Iwahara: 2 kills
Igor Korkia: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Evelyn Bradley: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Evelyn Crossett: 1 kill
Cpt. Victor Maleev: 1 kill
No X-COM casualties
18 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, and entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: This was a very well-executed operation, with zero casualties on our side. It's unfortunate no Elerium could be recovered, but the amount of weapons and parts recovered will greatly bolster our funds.
(http://i.imgur.com/DkKMM9im.png) (http://imgur.com/DkKMM9i)
Selling all the surplus from this operation gives us a very good amount of funds to work with.
(http://i.imgur.com/dMMv0WSm.png) (http://imgur.com/dMMv0WS)
(http://i.imgur.com/X0K2RpVm.png) (http://imgur.com/X0K2RpV)
(http://i.imgur.com/S0LMzcAm.png) (http://imgur.com/S0LMzcA)
(http://i.imgur.com/tuj39Avm.png) (http://imgur.com/tuj39Av)
Some of that money gets put into expanding the capabilities of the Arctic base.
(http://i.imgur.com/gsMmz3Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/gsMmz3G)
(http://i.imgur.com/U1Xj2uFm.png) (http://imgur.com/U1Xj2uF)
(http://i.imgur.com/u8DvqKYm.png) (http://imgur.com/u8DvqKY)
Some funds and materials are put into a new Firestorm.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/oQhv2opm.png) (http://imgur.com/oQhv2op)
The crashed Ethereal scout is still on the ground. However, with the threat of psionics and the no HWPs available for use, it's better to pass on this mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/ejJjNzEm.png) (http://imgur.com/ejJjNzE)
(http://i.imgur.com/DR6zWEMm.png) (http://imgur.com/DR6zWEM)
Tracking a supply ship finds another alien base in Canada's northwest.
(http://i.imgur.com/OowXOmjm.png) (http://imgur.com/OowXOmj)
(http://i.imgur.com/kXCeoFBm.png) (http://imgur.com/kXCeoFB)
(http://i.imgur.com/AM7tJRHm.png) (http://imgur.com/AM7tJRH)
A Muton scout is shot down near the site of the previous crash. This is more within the capacity of our ground forces to recover.
(http://i.imgur.com/re7VeVzm.png) (http://imgur.com/re7VeVz)
Operation Jade Forest commences.
Briefing: A Muton scout ship has been shot down in Central Asia, just outside of Russian territory. X-COM ground forces have been sent in to salvage the ship. Once all enemy ground forces have been eliminated or incapacitated, recovery can begin.
(http://i.imgur.com/zoSNDRzm.png) (http://imgur.com/zoSNDRz)
(http://i.imgur.com/haprCIUm.png) (http://imgur.com/haprCIU)
(http://i.imgur.com/lDBhUhom.png) (http://imgur.com/lDBhUho)
(http://i.imgur.com/8qbi3uVm.png) (http://imgur.com/8qbi3uV)
(http://i.imgur.com/j7sUMCtm.png) (http://imgur.com/j7sUMCt)
(http://i.imgur.com/ehFhi2Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/ehFhi2R)
(http://i.imgur.com/UJPxSyZm.png) (http://imgur.com/UJPxSyZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/ufSSTlhm.png) (http://imgur.com/ufSSTlh)
(http://i.imgur.com/a4VYlL7m.png) (http://imgur.com/a4VYlL7)
(http://i.imgur.com/gO2Yvivm.png) (http://imgur.com/gO2Yviv)
The team gets armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/dw971o3m.png) (http://imgur.com/dw971o3)
(http://i.imgur.com/okPtYr8m.png) (http://imgur.com/okPtYr8)
Smoke is set down and the team moves out.
(http://i.imgur.com/U1lXfH6m.png) (http://imgur.com/U1lXfH6)
(http://i.imgur.com/ES8AtJxm.png) (http://imgur.com/ES8AtJx)
A Muton tries to blend into the grass, but is quickly picked out and mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/g3Ickysm.png) (http://imgur.com/g3Ickys)
(http://i.imgur.com/3MWOS45m.png) (http://imgur.com/3MWOS45)
Another Muton is found and taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/LTwnLqfm.png) (http://imgur.com/LTwnLqf)
A third Muton is spotted and shot, by the same person who dealt with the other two.
(http://i.imgur.com/bOPhtnrm.png) (http://imgur.com/bOPhtnr)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZXugJwQm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZXugJwQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/hkdJyc9m.png) (http://imgur.com/hkdJyc9)
(http://i.imgur.com/hhiyCZUm.png) (http://imgur.com/hhiyCZU)
Yet another Muton is softened up by reaction fire before becoming fourth in an ongoing streak.
(http://i.imgur.com/NHUZGdUm.png) (http://imgur.com/NHUZGdU)
The ship has been heavily damaged by the interception and crash. With no Elerium to recover, there's no worry of collateral damage.
(http://i.imgur.com/LvDZZyom.png) (http://imgur.com/LvDZZyo)
(http://i.imgur.com/JZY02EQm.png) (http://imgur.com/JZY02EQ)
The Blaster Launcher is aimed into the crashed ship in order to soften up any forces inside.
(http://i.imgur.com/xte8QBfm.png) (http://imgur.com/xte8QBf)
One of the team scouting around is hit by a Muton just narrowly out of sight.
(http://i.imgur.com/GgQ3PbBm.png) (http://imgur.com/GgQ3PbB)
(http://i.imgur.com/KqwQXrgm.png) (http://imgur.com/KqwQXrg)
(http://i.imgur.com/rZKpRJ3m.png) (http://imgur.com/rZKpRJ3)
The Muton responsible emerges from the ship, rounding towards the other side and right into the line of fire of a sergeant who's on a roll.
Result of Operation Jade Forest:
Sgt. Yoko Iwahara: 5 kills
Cmdr. Paul Reynolds: 1 kill
Donald King: Killed in action
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull recovered
Debriefing The one casualty incurred during this mission was unfortunate, especially after a flawless operation previously.
(http://i.imgur.com/SFuMvWvm.png) (http://imgur.com/SFuMvWv)
Commander Reynolds has earned the name ?Bomber? for his proficiency with the Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/3U65TOHm.png) (http://imgur.com/3U65TOH)
Sgt. Iwahara has gotten the nickname ?Eliminator? for her relentlessness in recent operations. She shows potential on par with the late former Commander Bailey.
(http://i.imgur.com/c6odRDHm.png) (http://imgur.com/c6odRDH)
Evelyn Crossett has been nicknamed ?Arms? for her superhuman strength and her proficiency with heavy weapons.
Our operations have been going fairly well recently, but there's a larger strategic concern. Elerium reserves at our bases are getting very low. With alien craft interceptions generally ending in the complete destruction of reactors, there has been little chance to obtain more. If our supplies run out, we will not be able to operate our Firestorm craft or manufacture more advanced weapons and armor.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Zt2smGXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zt2smGX)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q9dT6Xam.png) (http://imgur.com/Q9dT6Xa)
Interrogating an alien medic has given us information about a species called the Sectopod.
(http://i.imgur.com/9Cj1lVhm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Cj1lVh)
(http://i.imgur.com/O4jqGPSm.png) (http://imgur.com/O4jqGPS)
(http://i.imgur.com/l1Axw3tm.png) (http://imgur.com/l1Axw3t)
Scouts are picked up at various points on the decoder network.
(http://i.imgur.com/QLPgf5Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/QLPgf5Q)
The medium Muton scout is shot down over Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/PKuaYsRm.png) (http://imgur.com/PKuaYsR)
The Ethereal scout ship is shot down over central Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/RJPghJcm.png) (http://imgur.com/RJPghJc)
The last scout is destroyed over eastern Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/GSSjUrvm.png) (http://imgur.com/GSSjUrv)
The squad is being sent to the crash site in Africa. A medium scout should have few enough Ethereals that our forces can reasonably deal with it.
(http://i.imgur.com/6mYpJkwm.png) (http://imgur.com/6mYpJkw)
Operation Crimson Blood commences.
Briefing: An Ethereal scout ship has been shot down over the forests of central Africa. Ground forces are moving in to recover the wreckage. Once all enemy forces are eliminated or incapacitated, the mission will be complete. Despite the small crews, forces must be on guard due to the presence of psychic powers. Attempts should be made to capture at least one Ethereal alive so that these powers can be analyzed.
(http://i.imgur.com/fsthzEMm.png) (http://imgur.com/fsthzEM)
(http://i.imgur.com/EWF7ZSWm.png) (http://imgur.com/EWF7ZSW)
(http://i.imgur.com/HnjC85Um.png) (http://imgur.com/HnjC85U)
(http://i.imgur.com/6N7M0vzm.png) (http://imgur.com/6N7M0vz)
(http://i.imgur.com/bnLDH4Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/bnLDH4Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/iv86ocAm.png) (http://imgur.com/iv86ocA)
(http://i.imgur.com/CQ3DVr8m.png) (http://imgur.com/CQ3DVr8)
(http://i.imgur.com/XJGtssjm.png) (http://imgur.com/XJGtssj)
(http://i.imgur.com/VWuy7x8m.png) (http://imgur.com/VWuy7x8)
A careful strategy is being implemented for this mission. The team is being given non-lethal weapons such as stun launchers to minimize risk in the event of mind control being used.
(http://i.imgur.com/hdyqSUqm.png) (http://imgur.com/hdyqSUq)
(http://i.imgur.com/0GE4s8xm.png) (http://imgur.com/0GE4s8x)
Smoke gets set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/sZgtKLOm.png) (http://imgur.com/sZgtKLO)
Two Ethereals are right next to the Skyranger, right next to each other. This is a perfect opportunity for the stun launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/qXQOtSbm.png) (http://imgur.com/qXQOtSb)
One of them gets knocked out by the blast, but the other's still standing.
(http://i.imgur.com/YddgJWQm.png) (http://imgur.com/YddgJWQ)
More attempts are made to stun the second Ethereal, at which point an actual weapon has to be brought in before the alien can fire on the team.
(http://i.imgur.com/CMlp1akm.png) (http://imgur.com/CMlp1ak)
Ironically, the shots from the plasma gun wind up merely knocking the second Ethereal unconscious.
(http://i.imgur.com/5c5FYPlm.png) (http://imgur.com/5c5FYPl)
The plasma gun is quickly set down on the ground before any remaining Ethereals can act.
(http://i.imgur.com/ue0X101m.png) (http://imgur.com/ue0X101)
The Ethereals are carried back to the Skyranger. If they do manage to get up, they're unarmed and there's half a squad with stun rods waiting for them.
(http://i.imgur.com/iW2mo9fm.png) (http://imgur.com/iW2mo9f)
Iwahara's shown promise, so she takes point and starts searching for more hostiles in the forest.
(http://i.imgur.com/IIc6r55m.png) (http://imgur.com/IIc6r55)
One of the rookies picks up a dropped alien gun off the ground to back her up.
(http://i.imgur.com/A7FODRpm.png) (http://imgur.com/A7FODRp)
(http://i.imgur.com/5DowFkcm.png) (http://imgur.com/5DowFkc)
The team spots an Ethereal just on the edge of their sight, in the thick foliage where it's difficult to hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/sQXJeGZm.png) (http://imgur.com/sQXJeGZ)
Commander Reynolds picks up a Blaster Launcher round off the ground and prepares to load it.
(http://i.imgur.com/zErzkirm.png) (http://imgur.com/zErzkir)
Unfortunately, the Ethereal attacks the mind of the approaching rookie. Fortunately, their panicked firing is away from the direction of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/xLgX04Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/xLgX04Y)
(http://i.imgur.com/x2L0gaqm.png) (http://imgur.com/x2L0gaq)
The Blaster Launcher is aimed into the jungle. It destroys the ground cover, but there's no sign that we took out the hiding Ethereal.
(http://i.imgur.com/if6qn1Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/if6qn1P)
A slight advance forward shows that it just barely avoided the blast.
(http://i.imgur.com/A30XFEEm.png) (http://imgur.com/A30XFEE)
(http://i.imgur.com/bVpqQy9m.png) (http://imgur.com/bVpqQy9)
Attempts to shoot it go nowhere.
(http://i.imgur.com/ubtapFBm.png) (http://imgur.com/ubtapFB)
Unfortunately, the one rookie that picked up a weapon is the one that gets mind controlled.
(http://i.imgur.com/9fFbMgKm.png) (http://imgur.com/9fFbMgK)
(http://i.imgur.com/zZg7H3gm.png) (http://imgur.com/zZg7H3g)
The alien-controlled rookie proceeds to shoot Crossett before attempting to fire at Iwahara. Iwahara is hit, but all the shots do is annoy here.
(http://i.imgur.com/LSe2Merm.png) (http://imgur.com/LSe2Mer)
(http://i.imgur.com/a71VyfNm.png) (http://imgur.com/a71VyfN)
Attempting to poke the mind-controlled rookie with the stun rod isn't effective with the armor in place.
(http://i.imgur.com/Hw17Tgtm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hw17Tgt)
(http://i.imgur.com/pLs1AEFm.png) (http://imgur.com/pLs1AEF)
An attempt is made to hit the Ethereal with the Blaster Launcher, but the round ends up colliding with a tree instead.
(http://i.imgur.com/AR7s4osm.png) (http://imgur.com/AR7s4os)
The aliens get into Reynolds's head. He's not carrying any ammunition, so the worst is averted; however, this means the squad isn't going to be able to use the Blaster Launcher when it needs to.
(http://i.imgur.com/RQHDf5Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/RQHDf5Z)
(http://i.imgur.com/UaGJtIkm.png) (http://imgur.com/UaGJtIk)
A grenade attack wounds two of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZTQgzkAm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZTQgzkA)
(http://i.imgur.com/UsFPlG4m.png) (http://imgur.com/UsFPlG4)
(http://i.imgur.com/VkZ21mNm.png) (http://imgur.com/VkZ21mN)
After countless attempts to hit the Ethereal, it's brought down by Bouton, the rookie who was previously under mind control. He immediately drops his weapon before any more mental attacks happen.
(http://i.imgur.com/l2di7ovm.png) (http://imgur.com/l2di7ov)
(http://i.imgur.com/NqxYWqem.png) (http://imgur.com/NqxYWqe)
Iwahara has a medi-kit, so she gets to work on treating wounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/sxwM5uHm.png) (http://imgur.com/sxwM5uH)
A fourth Ethereal is off to the northeast.
(http://i.imgur.com/b8zzcBUm.png) (http://imgur.com/b8zzcBU)
(http://i.imgur.com/uCZIAUgm.png) (http://imgur.com/uCZIAUg)
Attempting to move toward it to get a better line of sight winds up with a colonel getting hit. He bleeds out before Iwahara can assist him.
(http://i.imgur.com/K4y7sSmm.png) (http://imgur.com/K4y7sSm)
(http://i.imgur.com/kTCUfwRm.png) (http://imgur.com/kTCUfwR)
One of the team spots, while Iwahara tries to get a shot in.
(http://i.imgur.com/kVLbaFlm.png) (http://imgur.com/kVLbaFl)
(http://i.imgur.com/wlNrIE5m.png) (http://imgur.com/wlNrIE5)
As the squad's minds continue to be attacked, Iwahara stands firm.
(http://i.imgur.com/O1V18t6m.png) (http://imgur.com/O1V18t6)
(http://i.imgur.com/WCcrzf0m.png) (http://imgur.com/WCcrzf0)
The Ethereal gets taken down in one hit, clearing the site.
Results of Operation Crimson Blood
Sgt. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 1 kill, promoted to Captain
Gerard Bouton: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant; Wounded, will recover in 17 days
Emille Marcelle: Promoted to Sergeant; wounded, will recover in 13 days
Sgt. Evelyn ?Arms? Crossett: Killed in action
Col. Samuel ?Eagle Eye? Thompson: Killed in action
2 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
2 aliens captured
UFO hull recovered
Debriefing: Successfully capturing an Ethereal is a massive gain. Studying them and their powers will allow a way to develop a countermeasure to their psychic attacks. Hopefully this research will prevent major casualties during Ethereal operations in the future.
(http://i.imgur.com/yQNzLpym.png) (http://imgur.com/yQNzLpy)
(http://i.imgur.com/wNbDgy0m.png) (http://imgur.com/wNbDgy0)
All autopsies and interrogations are put on hold to study the captured Ethereals.
-
We need mind bullets, STAT.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/6uAg7Qxm.png) (http://imgur.com/6uAg7Qx)
(http://i.imgur.com/m9lZcBXm.png) (http://imgur.com/m9lZcBX)\
(http://i.imgur.com/sP3u0l7m.png) (http://imgur.com/sP3u0l7)
A scout flies over North America, hunting for a base that doesn't exist. It gets vaporized by interceptors regardless.
(http://i.imgur.com/Bo3b1gGm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bo3b1gG)
However, our Asia base is also being hunted for. Luckily, the alien fleet doesn't find the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/OgdQyoHm.png) (http://imgur.com/OgdQyoH)
(http://i.imgur.com/FeDrHVkm.png) (http://imgur.com/FeDrHVk)
A squad of rookies is sent to the UK to recover the crashed Muton scout. This mission is being dubbed Operation British Green.
Briefing: A medium Muton scout ship has crashed in the UK, just outside of London. A ground team consisting of trainees has been sent to mop up the site. Once all enemy forces are neutralized or incapacitated, recovery of the wreckage can begin.
(http://i.imgur.com/XXqUQ9Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/XXqUQ9W)
(http://i.imgur.com/gm1azWMm.png) (http://imgur.com/gm1azWM)
(http://i.imgur.com/xyFalC6m.png) (http://imgur.com/xyFalC6)
(http://i.imgur.com/p0anj75m.png) (http://imgur.com/p0anj75)
(http://i.imgur.com/tx1JD42m.png) (http://imgur.com/tx1JD42)
(http://i.imgur.com/GneHEIKm.png) (http://imgur.com/GneHEIK)
(http://i.imgur.com/kbP5Ij1m.png) (http://imgur.com/kbP5Ij1)
(http://i.imgur.com/4CRkqpRm.png) (http://imgur.com/4CRkqpR)
The eight-person team is being armed with basic equipment for this mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/WhiCC3lm.png) (http://imgur.com/WhiCC3l)
The ship is right next to the landing site. The rookies go forth...
(http://i.imgur.com/3GVqYkam.png) (http://imgur.com/3GVqYka)
...and are immediately greeted with reaction fire. Not bringing smoke grenades quickly shows itself to be a mistake.
(http://i.imgur.com/f8MKpe9m.png) (http://imgur.com/f8MKpe9)
(http://i.imgur.com/YnDZwhJm.png) (http://imgur.com/YnDZwhJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/25UP8dkm.png) (http://imgur.com/25UP8dk)
Another rookie narrowly avoids enemy attack and spots a Muton hiding in a grain field. A single blast of plasma takes it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/DZsjfmBm.png) (http://imgur.com/DZsjfmB)
Another Muton is spotted in a building, but this one is much harder to hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/RPevMEUm.png) (http://imgur.com/RPevMEU)
A lucky shot through the windows manages to hit it, but a death cry isn't heard; it's likely just stunned for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/Eemjfn0m.png) (http://imgur.com/Eemjfn0)
The team gets lined up around the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/BnUcVqtm.png) (http://imgur.com/BnUcVqt)
The ship is breached, and everything is found in working condition alongside a single Muton crew member. There aren't any bodies, so the others must have fanned out.
(http://i.imgur.com/gqCxCm2m.png) (http://imgur.com/gqCxCm2)
Correction: there aren't any bodies as a result of the crash.
(http://i.imgur.com/IJYHxqAm.png) (http://imgur.com/IJYHxqA)
(http://i.imgur.com/KoOcqkmm.png) (http://imgur.com/KoOcqkm)
The stunned Muton has gotten up and made its way downstairs, at which point it's finished off for good.
(http://i.imgur.com/OZxHzZKm.png) (http://imgur.com/OZxHzZK)
(http://i.imgur.com/96oZat4m.png) (http://imgur.com/96oZat4)
A Muton fires from the forest, wounding a rookie and starting a gunfight.
(http://i.imgur.com/1f7AxTbm.png) (http://imgur.com/1f7AxTb)
The squad finds two Mutons side by side.
(http://i.imgur.com/3RiPuspm.png) (http://imgur.com/3RiPusp)
A grenade is used to try and deal with both of them at once.
(http://i.imgur.com/ytS0ao1m.png) (http://imgur.com/ytS0ao1)
(http://i.imgur.com/tkdy6TNm.png) (http://imgur.com/tkdy6TN)
Throwing the grenade means no time to evade incoming fire, and the wounded rookie can't take another hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ud5ZJpsm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ud5ZJps)
Some shooting gets rid of one of the Mutons, but there's still another one further back that has to be dealt with.
(http://i.imgur.com/cCV3YdSm.png) (http://imgur.com/cCV3YdS)
(http://i.imgur.com/jDYy6DAm.png) (http://imgur.com/jDYy6DA)
Trying to walk around the opposite side of the UFO just ends up going into the Muton's line of sight and triggering reaction fire. Two rookies attempt attacking from this direction, and both of them fall as a result.
(http://i.imgur.com/My70kD6m.png) (http://imgur.com/My70kD6)
Eventually, keeping the pressure on works to the team's advantage, and four humans against one Muton means an inevitable ? but costly - victory.
Results of Operation British Green
Claude Gaudin: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Kenji Okabe: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Sumie Matsumara: promoted to Squaddie
Claude Buchard: promoted to Squaddie
Shigeo Koyama: killed in action
Samuel King: killed in action
Kevin Bryant: killed in action
Helga Esser: killed in action
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: While losing a lot of rookies on this operation was unfortunate, this is the first time in a while that ground forces have been able to secure Elerium.
(http://i.imgur.com/UxbAT2bm.png) (http://imgur.com/UxbAT2b)
(http://i.imgur.com/OIRmQjkm.png) (http://imgur.com/OIRmQjk)
That Elerium is put to use in assembling a new HWP and some more armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/ssDb96Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/ssDb96C)
Another Battleship comes hunting for the Asia base, turning up nothing.
(http://i.imgur.com/v2Gxzwkm.png) (http://imgur.com/v2Gxzwk)
(http://i.imgur.com/5kNflsum.png) (http://imgur.com/5kNflsu)
Research finishes analyzing the alien probe, but isn't the biggest accomplishment they've made today.
(http://i.imgur.com/kqLzhk4m.png) (http://imgur.com/kqLzhk4)
(http://i.imgur.com/XrRgB3im.png) (http://imgur.com/XrRgB3i)
Analysis of the captured Ethereal is complete. This presents a unique opportunity; by understanding how these powers are used, it might be possible to analyze X-COM's own troops for psychic potential.
(http://i.imgur.com/VGEud59m.png) (http://imgur.com/VGEud59)
(http://i.imgur.com/yDNCap0m.png) (http://imgur.com/yDNCap0)
Every scientist on hand is put into studying this.
(http://i.imgur.com/6RyWWFhm.png) (http://imgur.com/6RyWWFh)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y4CgCPbm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y4CgCPb)
(http://i.imgur.com/W4s5bmZm.png) (http://imgur.com/W4s5bmZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/RpeT4EEm.png) (http://imgur.com/RpeT4EE)
(http://i.imgur.com/ooJqh7Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/ooJqh7S)
(http://i.imgur.com/wBoix11m.png) (http://imgur.com/wBoix11)
(http://i.imgur.com/JD2zd8ym.png) (http://imgur.com/JD2zd8y)
(http://i.imgur.com/F5GzJQPm.png) (http://imgur.com/F5GzJQP)
(http://i.imgur.com/Dj4v094m.png) (http://imgur.com/Dj4v094)
(http://i.imgur.com/NXddsjgm.png) (http://imgur.com/NXddsjg)
(http://i.imgur.com/lz6a6Pim.png) (http://imgur.com/lz6a6Pi)
Some new recruits are brought on board.
(http://i.imgur.com/RTknssDm.png) (http://imgur.com/RTknssD)
(http://i.imgur.com/ARUxFR5m.png) (http://imgur.com/ARUxFR5)
An Ethereal supply ship is shot down, but it's too risky to recover at this point.
(http://i.imgur.com/BHe2iXUm.png) (http://imgur.com/BHe2iXU)
We finally have a functional HWP again.
(http://i.imgur.com/aFGIr7Im.png) (http://imgur.com/aFGIr7I)
(http://i.imgur.com/N8348dvm.png) (http://imgur.com/N8348dv)
A scout ship gets obliterated over the Middle East.
(http://i.imgur.com/F3jWCwpm.png) (http://imgur.com/F3jWCwp)
(http://i.imgur.com/cvnchXIm.png) (http://imgur.com/cvnchXI)
Another Ethereal scout is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/mXJY1xPm.png) (http://imgur.com/mXJY1xP)
(http://i.imgur.com/xtmkCwXm.png) (http://imgur.com/xtmkCwX)
(http://i.imgur.com/624BeY1m.png) (http://imgur.com/624BeY1)
A second Firestorm is ready. It gets armed and ready to launch, while Firestorm-1 is shipped off to the European base.
(http://i.imgur.com/49pzmWDm.png) (http://imgur.com/49pzmWD)
(http://i.imgur.com/YKDx768m.png) (http://imgur.com/YKDx768)
Another Ethereal scout gets eradicated.
(http://i.imgur.com/HBaWutjm.png) (http://imgur.com/HBaWutj)
(http://i.imgur.com/JiyOOO5m.png) (http://imgur.com/JiyOOO5)
One ship escapes radar, but it's hunting for a base that likely doesn't exist.
(http://i.imgur.com/cVHZYK4m.png) (http://imgur.com/cVHZYK4)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ugo0jzNm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ugo0jzN)
The Arctic base now has a hangar ready. An interceptor is purchased and is on its way.
(http://i.imgur.com/xgdbT7zm.png) (http://imgur.com/xgdbT7z)
(http://i.imgur.com/2yESUe1m.png) (http://imgur.com/2yESUe1)
Engineering in Asia prepares a Plasma Beam to ship off and arm it once it arrives.
(http://i.imgur.com/2g7hFI0m.png) (http://imgur.com/2g7hFI0)
(http://i.imgur.com/B9l2A9dm.png) (http://imgur.com/B9l2A9d)
A Muton ship gets shot down in the Arctic, just a few miles from the nearest coast.
(http://i.imgur.com/zkZoICom.png) (http://imgur.com/zkZoICo)
Armor at the main base is finished, making the ground forces once again fully equipped and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZsE1qLMm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZsE1qLM)
(http://i.imgur.com/m6zSnSdm.png) (http://imgur.com/m6zSnSd)
A Muton ship is splashed down in the mid-Atlantic.
(http://i.imgur.com/BraS2fem.png) (http://imgur.com/BraS2fe)
Another scout is shot down in Asia, giving the ground team a good target to go after for the first time in days.
-
Quite a lot of Ethereals lately all of a sudden.
-
Quite a lot of Ethereals lately all of a sudden.
If the research report is correct and the Ethereals generally send other species to carry out missions for them, this means one of two things. Either the invasion is nearing its endgame, or the Ethereals consider X-COM's resistance to be such a threat that the alien forces are using the full extent of their powers.
(http://i.imgur.com/7bjbJAOm.png) (http://imgur.com/7bjbJAO)
(http://i.imgur.com/o8aA3ltm.png) (http://imgur.com/o8aA3lt)
Another Ethereal scout ship is shot down over Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/TUlA6rPm.png) (http://imgur.com/TUlA6rP)
(http://i.imgur.com/9OTD1Zxm.png) (http://imgur.com/9OTD1Zx)
A Snakeman scout gets shot down near the crashed Muton ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/MToqmeNm.png) (http://imgur.com/MToqmeN)
There are several crash sites on the map right now, but the Snakeman and Muton sites in central Asia are the biggest priority right now.
(http://i.imgur.com/6QLTm7Om.png) (http://imgur.com/6QLTm7O)
(http://i.imgur.com/sp0QLDnm.png) (http://imgur.com/sp0QLDn)
The science team finishes the initial stages of psionic research. Facilities can now be constructed for the testing of our troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/jeGAhBUm.png) (http://imgur.com/jeGAhBU)
(http://i.imgur.com/V5Xxaeqm.png) (http://imgur.com/V5Xxaeq)
Research continues, beginning work on an amplifier.
(http://i.imgur.com/qRAQgzIm.png) (http://imgur.com/qRAQgzI)
(http://i.imgur.com/ftDv9hHm.png) (http://imgur.com/ftDv9hH)
(http://i.imgur.com/1zXjllNm.png) (http://imgur.com/1zXjllN)
Work starts on one of the psionic laboratories.
(http://i.imgur.com/GgVLaIbm.png) (http://imgur.com/GgVLaIb)
With that milestone reached, it's time to attack the Muton crash site, commencing Operation Verdant Sliver.
Briefing: A Muton ship scout ship has been crash-landed in a rural area of central Asia for about a day. X-COM ground forces, including an HWP, have been sent to recover the wreckage. Once all enemy forces have been eliminated or incapacitated, salvage can begin. Hostiles are expected to consist of a moderately-sized crew of Mutons.
(http://i.imgur.com/F6gOBOSm.png) (http://imgur.com/F6gOBOS)
(http://i.imgur.com/NUsb7jxm.png) (http://imgur.com/NUsb7jx)
(http://i.imgur.com/O85PAnnm.png) (http://imgur.com/O85PAnn)
(http://i.imgur.com/XqNpPVym.png) (http://imgur.com/XqNpPVy)
(http://i.imgur.com/L2X4m85m.png) (http://imgur.com/L2X4m85)
(http://i.imgur.com/kWe78oxm.png) (http://imgur.com/kWe78ox)
(http://i.imgur.com/6wbHcJMm.png) (http://imgur.com/6wbHcJM)
(http://i.imgur.com/eYvvdbEm.png) (http://imgur.com/eYvvdbE)
(http://i.imgur.com/MYwXBTTm.png) (http://imgur.com/MYwXBTT)
(http://i.imgur.com/PY6kswMm.png) (http://imgur.com/PY6kswM)
The team gets armed and ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/xis6rTPm.png) (http://imgur.com/xis6rTP)
The HWP moves out, spotting a Muton on a rooftop.
(http://i.imgur.com/eDCfwXBm.png) (http://imgur.com/eDCfwXB)
Some smoke gets set down, and the HWP is pulled back while the rest of the team sits and waits.
(http://i.imgur.com/I6BLchFm.png) (http://imgur.com/I6BLchF)
A Muton fires from inside the nearby farmhouse, but a hit to the front of the HWP is easy to shrug off.
(http://i.imgur.com/OULYYxmm.png) (http://imgur.com/OULYYxm)
The tank moves further back into the smoke, and a rookie positions behind one of the landing gear and gets a grenade ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/NEx0q2hm.png) (http://imgur.com/NEx0q2h)
(http://i.imgur.com/UcKmSvGm.png) (http://imgur.com/UcKmSvG)
(http://i.imgur.com/qExyAC3m.png) (http://imgur.com/qExyAC3)
The wall gets blown open.
(http://i.imgur.com/rFXlullm.png) (http://imgur.com/rFXlull)
(http://i.imgur.com/fQwMMxwm.png) (http://imgur.com/fQwMMxw)
The Muton attempts to hide behind the remaining bit of wall, but it's still vulnerable to the rookie.
(http://i.imgur.com/IfTXYK6m.png) (http://imgur.com/IfTXYK6)
With the Muton on the rooftop, the Blaster Launcher is the best choice here.
(http://i.imgur.com/NjE8GbGm.png) (http://imgur.com/NjE8GbG)
The HWP raises elevation to spot the precise location of the target, and we find two Mutons. This makes the opportunity only more perfect.
(http://i.imgur.com/xEv4sT3m.png) (http://imgur.com/xEv4sT3)
A course for the warhead is set, aiming out of the Skyranger, upward, then curving straight down into the rooftop.
(http://i.imgur.com/KdyGS9Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/KdyGS9R)
(http://i.imgur.com/vWvqUWCm.png) (http://imgur.com/vWvqUWC)
The explosion is so massive it tears off part of the adjacent rooftop.
(http://i.imgur.com/uKOKQyVm.png) (http://imgur.com/uKOKQyV)
(http://i.imgur.com/b7tCnLvm.png) (http://imgur.com/b7tCnLv)
(http://i.imgur.com/3TQxsirm.png) (http://imgur.com/3TQxsir)
The crashed ship is close to the landing zone, and it's in good condition. Part of the team moves in and gets ready to assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/L6tAjqHm.png) (http://imgur.com/L6tAjqH)
(http://i.imgur.com/XGU2XUAm.png) (http://imgur.com/XGU2XUA)
(http://i.imgur.com/j0mzmACm.png) (http://imgur.com/j0mzmAC)
(http://i.imgur.com/wYKpi3Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/wYKpi3Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/K1OflkNm.png) (http://imgur.com/K1OflkN)
Another Muton tries to come in through the first floor of the blasted-out barn. Both human and alien appear completely unharmed by the exchange of fire, but Iwahara comes in and takes the enemy out.
(http://i.imgur.com/GHWHmn2m.png) (http://imgur.com/GHWHmn2)
(http://i.imgur.com/rDR7QTJm.png) (http://imgur.com/rDR7QTJ)
It's time to breach the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/ml1TIjHm.png) (http://imgur.com/ml1TIjH)
(http://i.imgur.com/wr3urfom.png) (http://imgur.com/wr3urfo)
Searching around spots a Muton near the left side. Rather than get into a risky firefight, the team inside the ship pushes towards one side so if the alien moves forward, it will be entering the field of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/JveAHxRm.png) (http://imgur.com/JveAHxR)
(http://i.imgur.com/g1BkvTZm.png) (http://imgur.com/g1BkvTZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/6IEHNCim.png) (http://imgur.com/6IEHNCi)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q13K8lUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q13K8lU)
A sergeant edges up, getting the Muton in one shot and clearing the way to move forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/fsy1J0Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/fsy1J0B)
Iwahara keeps an eye on the other door as the team slowly edges in.
(http://i.imgur.com/xMFjkj8m.png) (http://imgur.com/xMFjkj8)
(http://i.imgur.com/VWy2197m.png) (http://imgur.com/VWy2197)
A Muton comes through, attempting to attack Iwahara with a stun bomb before retreating back through the doorway.
(http://i.imgur.com/yGZJEFWm.png) (http://imgur.com/yGZJEFW)
(http://i.imgur.com/WViO5Ncm.png) (http://imgur.com/WViO5Nc)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q4sPGmqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q4sPGmq)
She gives pursuit; there are at least two Mutons in the cockpit area. The one with the stun launcher is a sure kill at this range, and the one facing the other way won't have time to turn around and shoot before she gets back behind the doorway.
(http://i.imgur.com/5KpddOBm.png) (http://imgur.com/5KpddOB)
Three more of the squad watch the other door.
(http://i.imgur.com/fiWk9Ozm.png) (http://imgur.com/fiWk9Oz)
(http://i.imgur.com/fTGaim2m.png) (http://imgur.com/fTGaim2)
A single Muton comes through the door and gets blasted before having a chance to attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/ehP6JwMm.png) (http://imgur.com/ehP6JwM)
Iwahara continues to attack, advancing on another Muton near the navigation.
(http://i.imgur.com/PnQLAJ8m.png) (http://imgur.com/PnQLAJ8)
(http://i.imgur.com/muBWjuEm.png) (http://imgur.com/muBWjuE)
(http://i.imgur.com/QJCjPQgm.png) (http://imgur.com/QJCjPQg)
It attempts to counterattack with a stun bomb. Iwahara is knocked out, but uninjured otherwise, pride notwithstanding.
(http://i.imgur.com/caogJpym.png) (http://imgur.com/caogJpy)
On the other hand, the Muton also knocked itself out in the process. The team is done here.
Results of Operation Verdant Sliver
Cmdr. Paul “Bomber” Reynolds: 2 kills
Cpt. Yoko “Eliminator” Iwahara: 2 kills, promoted to Colonel
Gaston Gressier: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Sgt. Maria Jones: 1 kill
Sgt. Igor Korkia: Promoted to Captain
Isao Okamoto: Promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
7 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: This is pretty much the perfect outcome to a mission. No dead or wounded for our side, the UFO in pristine condition, and plenty of weapons to use or sell as needed.
(http://i.imgur.com/1b95bmTm.png) (http://imgur.com/1b95bmT)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZwOJQ9Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZwOJQ9V)
Some of the parts and weapons salvaged from the operation are sent to other bases.
As soon as the Skyranger is refuelled and re-equipped, it's time to make a run for the Snakeman ship.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/5XgxEUhm.png) (http://imgur.com/5XgxEUh)
The squad descends on the crashed Snakeman scout for Operation Jagged Fang.
Briefing: A Snakeman scout ship has crashed in a forested area of central Asia, close to the location of the previous operation. A ground team and HWP has been sent to recover the wreckage. A moderately large crew is expected; once all enemies are eliminated or neutralized, salvage work can begin.
(http://i.imgur.com/NbTo7JJm.png) (http://imgur.com/NbTo7JJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/BF4Ar8Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/BF4Ar8L)
(http://i.imgur.com/554nQBVm.png) (http://imgur.com/554nQBV)
(http://i.imgur.com/tVFr6Cpm.png) (http://imgur.com/tVFr6Cp)
(http://i.imgur.com/sA0OabYm.png) (http://imgur.com/sA0OabY)
(http://i.imgur.com/OoRBI6vm.png) (http://imgur.com/OoRBI6v)
(http://i.imgur.com/E55tvvEm.png) (http://imgur.com/E55tvvE)
(http://i.imgur.com/rYsEzWAm.png) (http://imgur.com/rYsEzWA)
(http://i.imgur.com/FyZCl7Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/FyZCl7W)
(http://i.imgur.com/0oiJ3fPm.png) (http://imgur.com/0oiJ3fP)
(http://i.imgur.com/CTTFO6Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/CTTFO6M)
(http://i.imgur.com/XNbqcnzm.png) (http://imgur.com/XNbqcnz)
The HWP moves forward, spotting a Snakeman. However, it gets destroyed trying to pull back.
(http://i.imgur.com/EBbjbxxm.png) (http://imgur.com/EBbjbxx)
(http://i.imgur.com/rlbxqbMm.png) (http://imgur.com/rlbxqbM)
Smoke gives the actual troops better luck, and the Snakeman gets quickly taken down.
(http://i.imgur.com/KjBQHeEm.png) (http://imgur.com/KjBQHeE)
More of the squad filters out onto the field.
(http://i.imgur.com/WmeXozkm.png) (http://imgur.com/WmeXozk)
The squad advances, moving towards the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/BgUJqWxm.png) (http://imgur.com/BgUJqWx)
(http://i.imgur.com/A0j0Buwm.png) (http://imgur.com/A0j0Buw)
With a Snakeman in the hills, the squad uses the trees for cover, where neither side can get a clear shot at each other.
(http://i.imgur.com/KjAY8F9m.png) (http://imgur.com/KjAY8F9)
The squad has two Snakemen to deal with, and neither are going to be easy to get a shot at with this terrain.
(http://i.imgur.com/ToDbAsdm.png) (http://imgur.com/ToDbAsd)
With the terrain being a massive pain here, it's decided to use the Blaster Launcher to sort things out.
(http://i.imgur.com/oQla940m.png) (http://imgur.com/oQla940)
(http://i.imgur.com/PE4AzdHm.png) (http://imgur.com/PE4AzdH)
The warhead only gets one Snakeman, but that's one less trying to shoot us.
(http://i.imgur.com/LsMeTtgm.png) (http://imgur.com/LsMeTtg)
(http://i.imgur.com/kdl8kMDm.png) (http://imgur.com/kdl8kMD)
There's finally an opportunity to shoot the other one, and that opportunity is taken with gusto.
(http://i.imgur.com/R2SC29qm.png) (http://imgur.com/R2SC29q)
Another Snakeman pops out of the entrance of the ship momentarily before going back inside.
(http://i.imgur.com/aU4scdCm.png) (http://imgur.com/aU4scdC)
A team gets ready to move in.
(http://i.imgur.com/mdXKY48m.png) (http://imgur.com/mdXKY48)
(http://i.imgur.com/76ZS3x4m.png) (http://imgur.com/76ZS3x4)
The door is pulled open and the Snakeman waiting just beside it is taken down.
(http://i.imgur.com/kBozTFdm.png) (http://imgur.com/kBozTFd)
(http://i.imgur.com/TeSEAgfm.png) (http://imgur.com/TeSEAgf)
A firefight with another Snakeman actually winds up blowing out part of the interior wall of the craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/pjohsB8m.png) (http://imgur.com/pjohsB8)
(http://i.imgur.com/VH6OHZPm.png) (http://imgur.com/VH6OHZP)
An additional Snakeman falls to the volleys of plasma fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/pHBmbE2m.png) (http://imgur.com/pHBmbE2)
The team that's breached the ship moves ahead and prepares to advance on the cockpit.
(http://i.imgur.com/kDHWtJAm.png) (http://imgur.com/kDHWtJA)
(http://i.imgur.com/CstLfuQm.png) (http://imgur.com/CstLfuQ)
One Snakeman is spotted in the control area and promptly dealt with.
(http://i.imgur.com/kT2JrBEm.png) (http://imgur.com/kT2JrBE)(http://i.imgur.com/bNOEaSQm.png) (http://imgur.com/bNOEaSQ)
However, there's another right behind it and it immediately fires back.
(http://i.imgur.com/Piz5SnJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Piz5SnJ)
Attempting to go in from the other side just winds up getting someone else shot by an unseen alien.
(http://i.imgur.com/34zOU2im.png) (http://imgur.com/34zOU2i)
(http://i.imgur.com/hfFA9rBm.png) (http://imgur.com/hfFA9rB)
One more charge ends in failure, and the offensive runs out of steam.
(http://i.imgur.com/eyepzeam.png) (http://imgur.com/eyepzea)
A dropped smoke grenade goes off.
(http://i.imgur.com/q6C7Eccm.png) (http://imgur.com/q6C7Ecc)
(http://i.imgur.com/V7CFyhNm.png) (http://imgur.com/V7CFyhN)
Iwahara's left sorting things out herself.
(http://i.imgur.com/KWNlmr1m.png) (http://imgur.com/KWNlmr1)
(http://i.imgur.com/sI5Git8m.png) (http://imgur.com/sI5Git8)
Another Snakeman in the cockpit is taken down.
(http://i.imgur.com/NCILTtZm.png) (http://imgur.com/NCILTtZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/9iG4IpHm.png) (http://imgur.com/9iG4IpH)
(http://i.imgur.com/njEytP1m.png) (http://imgur.com/njEytP1)
(http://i.imgur.com/auDV3XTm.png) (http://imgur.com/auDV3XT)
Attempts to attack Iwahara with stun launchers end in failure, and soon she's even cleaned out the engine room as well.
Results of Operation Jagged Fang
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 4 kills
Cmdr. ?Bomber? Reynolds:
HWP: destroyed
Isao Okamoto: Killed in action
Gaston Gressier: Killed in action
Igor Korkia: killed in action
10 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: This mission's casualties are a disappointment after the sheer success of the previous operation, but retrieving more Elerium is a victory in itself. Tactical doctrine regarding the use of HWPs needs to be greatly reconsidered; due to the constant cost of replacing them, they should be considered only for base defense operations and missions where the threat of psionics is present.
(http://i.imgur.com/YpNIGglm.png) (http://imgur.com/YpNIGgl)
(http://i.imgur.com/OJXJa6Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/OJXJa6D)
With the newly-acquired Elerium, engineering finally gets a chance to build some of the flying armor that we've had plans for. Another HWP is also assembled.
(http://i.imgur.com/jBRNCMqm.png) (http://imgur.com/jBRNCMq)
(http://i.imgur.com/qNPIg6zm.png) (http://imgur.com/qNPIg6z)
An Ethereal scout gets shot down over Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/83IIUGjm.png) (http://imgur.com/83IIUGj)
Speaking of Africa, the power suits there are shipped back to other bases for use by our troops. We've managed to avoid an attack on the base in this region so far, hopefully our luck will keep up until more armor can be manufactured.
(http://i.imgur.com/RTDYT8qm.png) (http://imgur.com/RTDYT8q)
(http://i.imgur.com/AwM1MMVm.png) (http://imgur.com/AwM1MMV)
Some new troops and a Skyranger arrive at the Asia base. This gives us a second squad to deploy; while it's all rookies, they're sufficiently equipped to handle mopping up scout ships and weaker species.
(http://i.imgur.com/kCMtE1Km.png) (http://imgur.com/kCMtE1K)
(http://i.imgur.com/6wPFL2sm.png) (http://imgur.com/6wPFL2s)
(http://i.imgur.com/7gS2960m.png) (http://imgur.com/7gS2960)
An Ethereal supply ship heading to the US gets sunk in the mid-Atlantic. It's not like we were going to recover it anyway.
(http://i.imgur.com/xG3fdTOm.png) (http://imgur.com/xG3fdTO)
(http://i.imgur.com/Jm1eHyjm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jm1eHyj)
(http://i.imgur.com/vKCPi1um.png) (http://imgur.com/vKCPi1u)
The research team has finished developing a psionic amplifier. This will be very useful when we find out the psychic capabilities of our forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/tQGKHY8m.png) (http://imgur.com/tQGKHY8)
(http://i.imgur.com/8pdTAUIm.png) (http://imgur.com/8pdTAUI)
A Muton ship gets shot down over Europe; either squad is ready to move in and handle the situation.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/b53ERpPm.png) (http://imgur.com/b53ERpP)
(http://i.imgur.com/mx17bHwm.png) (http://imgur.com/mx17bHw)
The main squad from Europe gets ready to deploy to the crash site in France for Operation Harvest Field.
Briefing: A large Muton scout craft has been shot down over a rural area of central France. Ground forces have been sent to recover the wreckage. Hostiles are expected to consist of a medium-sized crew. Once all enemy forces are dealt with, retrieval can commence.
(http://i.imgur.com/DAagzjOm.png) (http://imgur.com/DAagzjO)
(http://i.imgur.com/DWfpkpum.png) (http://imgur.com/DWfpkpu)
(http://i.imgur.com/l6ElG7Um.png) (http://imgur.com/l6ElG7U)
(http://i.imgur.com/8yVFCzlm.png) (http://imgur.com/8yVFCzl)
(http://i.imgur.com/TNgpc8vm.png) (http://imgur.com/TNgpc8v)
(http://i.imgur.com/tAoloPwm.png) (http://imgur.com/tAoloPw)
(http://i.imgur.com/LGWz1DRm.png) (http://imgur.com/LGWz1DR)
(http://i.imgur.com/7LTRttUm.png) (http://imgur.com/7LTRttU)
(http://i.imgur.com/h61Smjcm.png) (http://imgur.com/h61Smjc)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZWxpILGm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZWxpILG)
The team gets armed and ready. One of the rookies in the back is given the mind probe to test out.
(http://i.imgur.com/TmymRlkm.png) (http://imgur.com/TmymRlk)
Smoke gets set down, and the mission commences.
(http://i.imgur.com/RCGjxm4m.png) (http://imgur.com/RCGjxm4)
(http://i.imgur.com/BUIOn34m.png) (http://imgur.com/BUIOn34)
A Muton is spotted north of the landing zone, and the squad opens fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/cPHigaSm.png) (http://imgur.com/cPHigaS)
(http://i.imgur.com/3Ju1z3Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/3Ju1z3T)
(http://i.imgur.com/6hXdWyxm.png) (http://imgur.com/6hXdWyx)
The probe is used for the first time, giving some info on the Muton the team is fighting. No wonder they're so difficult to take down; even a standard Muton is approximately three times as durable as an X-COM operative. Their armor is much weaker than the power suits used by our forces, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/paL7HCxm.png) (http://imgur.com/paL7HCx)
(http://i.imgur.com/w9Cqzz9m.png) (http://imgur.com/w9Cqzz9)
(http://i.imgur.com/WXbhUELm.png) (http://imgur.com/WXbhUEL)
It takes a few shots, but the Muton falls.
(http://i.imgur.com/yguvGa9m.png) (http://imgur.com/yguvGa9)
(http://i.imgur.com/QuIj1Yrm.png) (http://imgur.com/QuIj1Yr)
(http://i.imgur.com/nHMyKEHm.png) (http://imgur.com/nHMyKEH)
Another Muton is much closer to the team, on the edge of the smoke. Iwahara comes down from the Skyranger and takes it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/kG9oqhom.png) (http://imgur.com/kG9oqho)
(http://i.imgur.com/OkiqrUVm.png) (http://imgur.com/OkiqrUV)
(http://i.imgur.com/ebWc0AWm.png) (http://imgur.com/ebWc0AW)
Another Muton is behind the building. Rather than try and hit it through the narrow window, it's safer to move up to the wall and get out of its line of sight. A grenade is thrown to try and get rid of some of the alien's cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/LgH8zeCm.png) (http://imgur.com/LgH8zeC)
(http://i.imgur.com/lw2Quoxm.png) (http://imgur.com/lw2Quox)
(http://i.imgur.com/15UysJbm.png) (http://imgur.com/15UysJb)
The blast only lightly injures the alien, if at all, but getting rid of the wall is enough of an advantage to win the fight.
(http://i.imgur.com/mQtXES9m.png) (http://imgur.com/mQtXES9)
(http://i.imgur.com/apWp83vm.png) (http://imgur.com/apWp83v)
In advancing towards the crashed ship, a Muton in a field is encountered. It doesn't last long.
(http://i.imgur.com/QPtwEcEm.png) (http://imgur.com/QPtwEcE)
The team gets ready to breach the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/7vt5xipm.png) (http://imgur.com/7vt5xip)
(http://i.imgur.com/6mFc9QNm.png) (http://imgur.com/6mFc9QN)
(http://i.imgur.com/2OPwUyem.png) (http://imgur.com/2OPwUye)
Iwahara takes out one more Muton, clearing the area.
Results of Operation Harvest Field
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 3 kills
Cpt. Evelyn Bradley: 1 kill
Shigeo Iwasaki: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
Debriefing: This mission went relatively well. No casualties and some valuable items retrieved, not much to say here.
(http://i.imgur.com/fbk1n0ym.png) (http://imgur.com/fbk1n0y)
The engineering team has plenty of alloys to work with, but not much elerium. With this in mind, some early-generation alloy armor is assembled; it's not as good as the power suits, but it should be enough for rookies and security teams.
(http://i.imgur.com/nFIZuCJm.png) (http://imgur.com/nFIZuCJ)
Speaking of which, personnel have arrived at the Arctic base.
(http://i.imgur.com/PPDtoZzm.png) (http://imgur.com/PPDtoZz)
(http://i.imgur.com/nyqFpwGm.png) (http://imgur.com/nyqFpwG)
An Ethereal scout gets shot down over the Middle East.
(http://i.imgur.com/43dqqVhm.png) (http://imgur.com/43dqqVh)
A new HWP is ready for use. It's not being assigned to the squad right now.
(http://i.imgur.com/Mco43gFm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mco43gF)
(http://i.imgur.com/N8FOIvom.png) (http://imgur.com/N8FOIvo)
(http://i.imgur.com/dYq1HqEm.png) (http://imgur.com/dYq1HqE)
An Ethereal supply ship is crashed over the edge of the Gobi Desert while en route to the Ethereal base in the south Pacific.
(http://i.imgur.com/FZypZH7m.png) (http://imgur.com/FZypZH7)
An old-generation HWP is delivered to the Asia base; it's not meant for fighting the Mutons and Ethereals we currently face, but for mopping up any Sectoids and Floaters that may be encountered again.
(http://i.imgur.com/xoiw33Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/xoiw33Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/X0ETSN8m.png) (http://imgur.com/X0ETSN8)
(http://i.imgur.com/p4hh79Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/p4hh79R)
(http://i.imgur.com/e5h5ItPm.png) (http://imgur.com/e5h5ItP)
A Snakeman assault transport gets shot down in the Middle East, close to the site of the crashed Ethereal scout. This one might be worth attempting to recover if the reactors survived the interception; with our current grade of equipment, the threat of Chryssalids to our forces is greatly reduced.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/JT27TNjm.png) (http://imgur.com/JT27TNj)
As this mission will be the first use of the Flying Suit, it is being designated Operation Noble Ascent.
Briefing: A Snakeman assault transport has crashed in Central Asia. Ground forces, including an HWP, have been sent to clear the area for recovery. Use extreme caution, as Chryssalids are in the area and likely in large numbers. Yoko Iwahara and another colonel have been granted the use of the Flying Suit for combat; that and other X-COM technology should greatly mitigate the threat posed by hostile aliens.
(http://i.imgur.com/Vz3Ful1m.png) (http://imgur.com/Vz3Ful1)
(http://i.imgur.com/vzNGKuOm.png) (http://imgur.com/vzNGKuO)
(http://i.imgur.com/OGhc1kgm.png) (http://imgur.com/OGhc1kg)
(http://i.imgur.com/xqNpyFmm.png) (http://imgur.com/xqNpyFm)
(http://i.imgur.com/GF2orerm.png) (http://imgur.com/GF2orer)
(http://i.imgur.com/AviNeTbm.png) (http://imgur.com/AviNeTb)
(http://i.imgur.com/znflDj2m.png) (http://imgur.com/znflDj2)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZtgXYNjm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZtgXYNj)
(http://i.imgur.com/AWFOD0Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/AWFOD0W)
(http://i.imgur.com/UMstmLZm.png) (http://imgur.com/UMstmLZ)
The squad gets armed and ready. Yoko Iwahara and Nikolai Ragulin get flying suits.
(http://i.imgur.com/UbRK5m8m.png) (http://imgur.com/UbRK5m8)
Off the bat, there's a Snakeman and a Chryssalid lurking in a field.
(http://i.imgur.com/g6lTXHhm.png) (http://imgur.com/g6lTXHh)
(http://i.imgur.com/HAEV6whm.png) (http://imgur.com/HAEV6wh)
The HWP takes them both out without having to move even an inch forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/rRRPRlAm.png) (http://imgur.com/rRRPRlA)
(http://i.imgur.com/TZO1SRmm.png) (http://imgur.com/TZO1SRm)
(http://i.imgur.com/f3U2RJDm.png) (http://imgur.com/f3U2RJD)
The HWP scouts around a bit, finding more hostiles before reducing altitude and entering cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/1xlrqk3m.png) (http://imgur.com/1xlrqk3)
(http://i.imgur.com/MIzARZsm.png) (http://imgur.com/MIzARZs)
A Snakeman emerging from a building is the next to get struck down by the HWP's plasma cannon.
(http://i.imgur.com/XXkNfYim.png) (http://imgur.com/XXkNfYi)
(http://i.imgur.com/o2Io8rnm.png) (http://imgur.com/o2Io8rn)
(http://i.imgur.com/zaupOqRm.png) (http://imgur.com/zaupOqR)
Ragulin demonstrates the capability of the Flying Suit for the first time. Hovering in midair means the buildings are no obstacle for getting a line of fire, and the Snakemen are sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/q3lAhPDm.png) (http://imgur.com/q3lAhPD)
While the Chryssalids are usually dangerous foes, they can only attack and infect what they can reach. With the HWP hovering in the air, it can attack the horde without any fear of retribution.
(http://i.imgur.com/jlviay9m.png) (http://imgur.com/jlviay9)
(http://i.imgur.com/pHkZI7om.png) (http://imgur.com/pHkZI7o)
Iwahara attempts to fire on the crowd of aliens from a rooftop from the rocket launcher. The shot is a bit off course, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/JomIse1m.png) (http://imgur.com/JomIse1)
(http://i.imgur.com/FAR0muqm.png) (http://imgur.com/FAR0muq)
However, the HWP is able to slowly mop them up with no problem.
(http://i.imgur.com/jOyjt7Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/jOyjt7B)
(http://i.imgur.com/QBquv7Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/QBquv7J)
Rather than try having the squad fight through the ship, a different plan of attack is considered. Reynolds arms the Blaster Launcher and aims a course for the roof of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/bqzV0O7m.png) (http://imgur.com/bqzV0O7)
(http://i.imgur.com/uiO39Bom.png) (http://imgur.com/uiO39Bo)
The explosion is just enough to barely punch through the hull.
(http://i.imgur.com/Gy0ASx9m.png) (http://imgur.com/Gy0ASx9)
(http://i.imgur.com/aTzsL84m.png) (http://imgur.com/aTzsL84)
A shot is aimed into the ship to help clear a way to the cockpit and soften up the crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/Wf2kzJCm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wf2kzJC)
Iwahara and Ragulin get ready to descend into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/uHiAJRBm.png) (http://imgur.com/uHiAJRB)
The remaining Snakemen the cockpit have either been stunned by the blast or have dropped their weapons in fear.
(http://i.imgur.com/Lze3Kr0m.png) (http://imgur.com/Lze3Kr0)
(http://i.imgur.com/7k9ek76m.png) (http://imgur.com/7k9ek76)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cx8tLsJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Cx8tLsJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/tz5djium.png) (http://imgur.com/tz5djiu)
(http://i.imgur.com/tLwK6GIm.png) (http://imgur.com/tLwK6GI)
The two colonels are relentless are clearing out the ship.
Results of Operation Noble Ascent
HWP: 7 kills
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 4 kills
Col. Nikolai Ragulin: 4 kills
No X-COM casualties
15 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: This battle went so far in our favor that it was almost unfair; an entire alien attack force was solidly defeated by two colonels, an HWP, and artillery support. The use of the Flying Suit and other hover technology completely negated any threat posed by the Chryssalids, and any challenge of breaching the ship was undone by using the Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/z80xFa7m.png) (http://imgur.com/z80xFa7)
Using additional funds obtained from the success of the operation, work on another Psi Lab begins. Screening of troops for psychic capabilities can begin at the start of November.
(http://i.imgur.com/FIllS8lm.png) (http://imgur.com/FIllS8l)
An alien battleship starts scouring North America for the source of attacks on its scouts and supply ships there. It's not going to find anything.
(http://i.imgur.com/vBzul3Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/vBzul3S)
(http://i.imgur.com/qd41tILm.png) (http://imgur.com/qd41tIL)
A scout in Africa might, however, so it is promptly shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/neoVJ5Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/neoVJ5J)
(http://i.imgur.com/D4uZ6FOm.png) (http://imgur.com/D4uZ6FO)
A Muton harvest ship is shot down near the Chinese border.
(http://i.imgur.com/R6SFGGem.png) (http://imgur.com/R6SFGGe)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gn18syEm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gn18syE)
Another troublesome Ethereal scout is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/rIrnWaPm.png) (http://imgur.com/rIrnWaP)
At the end of the month, we get some good news thrown our way. The remaining nations backing the project are satisfied with our performance overall, giving us a small funding boost. It's not necessarily needed with how much is being pulled in from salvage, but it's still useful.
(http://i.imgur.com/6vqMEaHm.png) (http://imgur.com/6vqMEaH)
More good news: the decoder at the Arctic base is completed, extending our detection coverage over the globe.
(http://i.imgur.com/eJZmXeom.png) (http://imgur.com/eJZmXeo)
(http://i.imgur.com/7GuGarSm.png) (http://imgur.com/7GuGarS)
(http://i.imgur.com/4WYkvZHm.png) (http://imgur.com/4WYkvZH)
Yet more good news; the research team has finished developing a new craft, a hybrid fighter-transport. This craft's main advantage is its multi-role function, able to both intercept UFOs and move out to crash sites and other deployment zones. However, there are several disadvantages; it is slower than the Firestorm, it only has one weapon hardpoint, and it can not transport HWPs.
(http://i.imgur.com/YelGR3mm.png) (http://imgur.com/YelGR3m)
(http://i.imgur.com/RTEzu8vm.png) (http://imgur.com/RTEzu8v)
The scientists have a much better understanding of how the alien technology works, and may be able to develop something on par with the larger alien transports. Their progress is eagerly awaited.
(http://i.imgur.com/jiSgQHam.png) (http://imgur.com/jiSgQHa)
The Muton crash site awaits. Hopefully this remains continues the ongoing chain of victories.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/AWqXXjmm.png) (http://imgur.com/AWqXXjm)
(http://i.imgur.com/yCsAdhZm.png) (http://imgur.com/yCsAdhZ)
Two scouts are picked up on the decoder network.
(http://i.imgur.com/gxNfx7mm.png) (http://imgur.com/gxNfx7m)
(http://i.imgur.com/0LUl3vpm.png) (http://imgur.com/0LUl3vp)
One ship gets destroyed some distance away from the polar base.
(http://i.imgur.com/nlnqZE5m.png) (http://imgur.com/nlnqZE5)
(http://i.imgur.com/RldcStIm.png) (http://imgur.com/RldcStI)
Another gets sunk off the coast of Madagascar.
(http://i.imgur.com/tvzcAuzm.png) (http://imgur.com/tvzcAuz)
The Skyranger arrives at the crashed Muton ship. Operation Gobi Sunrise commences.
Briefing: A Muton harvest ship has crashed in the Gobi Desert, near the Chinese border. Ground forces have been sent to sweep the area so the wreckage can be recovered. Enemy forces are expected to consist of a medium to large force of Mutons. All hostiles are to be eliminated or incapacitated.
(http://i.imgur.com/TEipWU7m.png) (http://imgur.com/TEipWU7)
(http://i.imgur.com/Myt3PIpm.png) (http://imgur.com/Myt3PIp)
(http://i.imgur.com/VBTD5Vpm.png) (http://imgur.com/VBTD5Vp)
(http://i.imgur.com/pSX6dbSm.png) (http://imgur.com/pSX6dbS)
(http://i.imgur.com/xYYBTMKm.png) (http://imgur.com/xYYBTMK)
(http://i.imgur.com/1cxWRAam.png) (http://imgur.com/1cxWRAa)
(http://i.imgur.com/zM3bFhDm.png) (http://imgur.com/zM3bFhD)
(http://i.imgur.com/GofG0Lym.png) (http://imgur.com/GofG0Ly)
(http://i.imgur.com/DEbwPYfm.png) (http://imgur.com/DEbwPYf)
(http://i.imgur.com/VHkj4Tbm.png) (http://imgur.com/VHkj4Tb)
The team is armed and ready to go. Colonels Iwahara and Ragulin get Flying Suits again.
(http://i.imgur.com/q9E0NYHm.png) (http://imgur.com/q9E0NYH)
Smoke gets set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/32jaSyam.png) (http://imgur.com/32jaSya)
(http://i.imgur.com/dowdZAum.png) (http://imgur.com/dowdZAu)
(http://i.imgur.com/NXubkIqm.png) (http://imgur.com/NXubkIq)A Muton is close to the landing zone. With no way to spot the team firing on it from the smoke, it gets dealt with quickly.
(http://i.imgur.com/M8gEHYem.png) (http://imgur.com/M8gEHYe)
(http://i.imgur.com/KQ5F279m.png) (http://imgur.com/KQ5F279)
Another Muton is on one of the dunes. This one doesn't last long either.
(http://i.imgur.com/X2FtMukm.png) (http://imgur.com/X2FtMuk)
(http://i.imgur.com/YdP2LOfm.png) (http://imgur.com/YdP2LOf)
More smoke gets set down to cover the advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/UTnvVgym.png) (http://imgur.com/UTnvVgy)
(http://i.imgur.com/27YE3n4m.png) (http://imgur.com/27YE3n4)
A Muton attempts to take cover in the smoke, but it also falls to the ground force.
(http://i.imgur.com/1cMbccRm.png) (http://imgur.com/1cMbccR)
(http://i.imgur.com/s3hieljm.png) (http://imgur.com/s3hielj)
Another Muton is brought down.
(http://i.imgur.com/NksdDRym.png) (http://imgur.com/NksdDRy)
A grenade is flung in the direction of the squad, but winds up falling short and blowing up a group of fallen Mutons instead.
(http://i.imgur.com/ff6HalVm.png) (http://imgur.com/ff6HalV)
(http://i.imgur.com/G6AB5U3m.png) (http://imgur.com/G6AB5U3)
(http://i.imgur.com/adcM9lBm.png) (http://imgur.com/adcM9lB)
(http://i.imgur.com/TYqXD8mm.png) (http://imgur.com/TYqXD8m)
(http://i.imgur.com/fn97AoEm.png) (http://imgur.com/fn97AoE)
(http://i.imgur.com/4CXmDsGm.png) (http://imgur.com/4CXmDsG)
(http://i.imgur.com/7RcJKXkm.png) (http://imgur.com/7RcJKXk)
(http://i.imgur.com/1sAZ1wVm.png) (http://imgur.com/1sAZ1wV)
(http://i.imgur.com/KiQF33wm.png) (http://imgur.com/KiQF33w)
(http://i.imgur.com/DQFw5I4m.png) (http://imgur.com/DQFw5I4)
(http://i.imgur.com/seWnb7nm.png) (http://imgur.com/seWnb7n)
More Mutons fall to the advancing squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/seWnb7nm.png) (http://imgur.com/seWnb7n)
Iwasaki is hit and falls in battle as the all-out firefight continues through the desert.
(http://i.imgur.com/seWnb7nm.png) (http://imgur.com/seWnb7n)
(http://i.imgur.com/LEx4ZTRm.png) (http://imgur.com/LEx4ZTR)
Another Muton is brought down; all enemy life signs disappear before the squad can even reach the ship.
Result of Operation Gobi Sunrise
Henry Dreyfus: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwasaki: 3 kills
Cpt. Victor Maleev: 4 kills
Shigeo Iwasaki: Killed in action
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
14 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces.
Debriefing: Having only one casualty is pretty good, given the sheer number of enemies that were faced and the lack of cover available.
(http://i.imgur.com/FsptT6um.png) (http://imgur.com/FsptT6u)
(http://i.imgur.com/Od3CTacm.png) (http://imgur.com/Od3CTac)
(http://i.imgur.com/IoumYWgm.png) (http://imgur.com/IoumYWg)
(http://i.imgur.com/MEWabKfm.png) (http://imgur.com/MEWabKf)
(http://i.imgur.com/8oURMtem.png) (http://imgur.com/8oURMte)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZSlDgK9m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZSlDgK9)
Some outmoded facilities at the main base in Europe are decommissioned.
(http://i.imgur.com/MzB15iSm.png) (http://imgur.com/MzB15iS)
(http://i.imgur.com/2GwIcRYm.png) (http://imgur.com/2GwIcRY)
(http://i.imgur.com/Sxgi0bfm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sxgi0bf)
(http://i.imgur.com/fu21kZMm.png) (http://imgur.com/fu21kZM)
Some alien autopsies are completed by the research team.
(http://i.imgur.com/mZ2lMKvm.png) (http://imgur.com/mZ2lMKv)
(http://i.imgur.com/S6hjQaRm.png) (http://imgur.com/S6hjQaR)
One of the interceptors brings down an Ethereal scout ship in Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/Mn1daL3m.png) (http://imgur.com/Mn1daL3)
(http://i.imgur.com/hI9zYyOm.png) (http://imgur.com/hI9zYyO)
Two interceptors manage to catch a scout ship at once, and it is promptly obliterated.
(http://i.imgur.com/wQ0NdbWm.png) (http://imgur.com/wQ0NdbW)
(http://i.imgur.com/5ySf9jPm.png) (http://imgur.com/5ySf9jP)
(http://i.imgur.com/ABtzhLhm.png) (http://imgur.com/ABtzhLh)
(http://i.imgur.com/BNwSv1xm.png) (http://imgur.com/BNwSv1x)
A Muton scout ship is shot down over Spain, adding to the lengthy list of alien craft that have crashed in the Iberian Peninsula. Recovery will commence as soon as possible.
-
Mindtaking might be a bit away, but it's nice knowing our air defense can pretty much just destroy anything they choose to fly here.
-
Mindtaking might be a bit away, but it's nice knowing our air defense can pretty much just destroy anything they choose to fly here.
Our air defense is not completely perfect; battleships are still too fast for even the Firestorm to catch, and their weapons and range are superior to any of the currently available fleet. We will probably not be able to go head-to-head with alien capital ships until the so-called "ultimate craft" is available.
(http://i.imgur.com/WPM73JHm.png) (http://imgur.com/WPM73JH)
(http://i.imgur.com/J3QmCyUm.png) (http://imgur.com/J3QmCyU)
A squad is being deployed to the crash site in Spain for Operation Iberian Sunset. This is being left to the secondary squad from the Asia base.
Briefing: A Muton scout ship has been shot down over the Iberian Peninsula and has crashed in Spain. A ground force from X-COM Two in Asia has been sent to recover the wreckage. Enemy forces will consist of a small to medium crew of Mutons.
(http://i.imgur.com/7kzwbUrm.png) (http://imgur.com/7kzwbUr)
(http://i.imgur.com/kWQDdA3m.png) (http://imgur.com/kWQDdA3)
(http://i.imgur.com/VcVwRgOm.png) (http://imgur.com/VcVwRgO)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z7pd2lFm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z7pd2lF)
(http://i.imgur.com/e94kwLAm.png) (http://imgur.com/e94kwLA)
(http://i.imgur.com/qzhxL9rm.png) (http://imgur.com/qzhxL9r)
(http://i.imgur.com/sZf6d0Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/sZf6d0L)
(http://i.imgur.com/1bCtHVnm.png) (http://imgur.com/1bCtHVn)
(http://i.imgur.com/KyCQPXKm.png) (http://imgur.com/KyCQPXK)
(http://i.imgur.com/qUOR30Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/qUOR30Z)
The team gets armed and ready for battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/LUurGyrm.png) (http://imgur.com/LUurGyr)
(http://i.imgur.com/wS3g6Hsm.png) (http://imgur.com/wS3g6Hs)
(http://i.imgur.com/rKwGhUbm.png) (http://imgur.com/rKwGhUb)
Smoke gets set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/HPK7GwSm.png) (http://imgur.com/HPK7GwS)
(http://i.imgur.com/CRzJl48m.png) (http://imgur.com/CRzJl48)
(http://i.imgur.com/HKqjEcrm.png) (http://imgur.com/HKqjEcr)
A Muton is on the ground near the ramp. It gets quickly brought down by the first soldier out of the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/IC8MdWKm.png) (http://imgur.com/IC8MdWK)
(http://i.imgur.com/JTGgeoxm.png) (http://imgur.com/JTGgeox)
Another Muton in a field doesn't last too long either.
(http://i.imgur.com/xR8199Am.png) (http://imgur.com/xR8199A)
The squad disembarks, getting ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/BoVYSLMm.png) (http://imgur.com/BoVYSLM)
(http://i.imgur.com/VgdjskSm.png) (http://imgur.com/VgdjskS)
Another Muton goes down as the team fans out and searches.
(http://i.imgur.com/jf5U8ixm.png) (http://imgur.com/jf5U8ix)
(http://i.imgur.com/MpF2AHSm.png) (http://imgur.com/MpF2AHS)
A Muton near the crashed ship gets steamrolled by the advancing forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/glOin59m.png) (http://imgur.com/glOin59)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z2Oxm0cm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z2Oxm0c)
Another Muton is taken out; one of the rookies is already distinguishing himself.
(http://i.imgur.com/iEEgwBrm.png) (http://imgur.com/iEEgwBr)
(http://i.imgur.com/W6LcSXIm.png) (http://imgur.com/W6LcSXI)
(http://i.imgur.com/883UtLlm.png) (http://imgur.com/883UtLl)
Another Muton comes at the squad, walking right into everyone's line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZGWlhkom.png) (http://imgur.com/ZGWlhko)
(http://i.imgur.com/BN2Cp5hm.png) (http://imgur.com/BN2Cp5h)
(http://i.imgur.com/IVbRuy4m.png) (http://imgur.com/IVbRuy4)
More smoke gets set down so the team has an easier time of moving towards the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/RvCbhXpm.png) (http://imgur.com/RvCbhXp)
In no time, it's time to breach.
(http://i.imgur.com/fKdQJTfm.png) (http://imgur.com/fKdQJTf)
(http://i.imgur.com/jWj9SpDm.png) (http://imgur.com/jWj9SpD)
(http://i.imgur.com/UOg0R0tm.png) (http://imgur.com/UOg0R0t)
The door gets pulled open. The closest Muton survives the initial burst of fire, but isn't able to wound or even hit anybody outside.
(http://i.imgur.com/VaWuFh4m.png) (http://imgur.com/VaWuFh4)
At least one more Muton is in the ship. This is going to be a risky fight.
(http://i.imgur.com/XEt5tRTm.png) (http://imgur.com/XEt5tRT)
(http://i.imgur.com/oVBqUJdm.png) (http://imgur.com/oVBqUJd)
A grenade gets thrown towards the center of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/xZNsRE5m.png) (http://imgur.com/xZNsRE5)
The blast stuns one Muton and causes it to drop its weapon, and softens up another one.
(http://i.imgur.com/XO7y2lOm.png) (http://imgur.com/XO7y2lO)
(http://i.imgur.com/NtDQzf7m.png) (http://imgur.com/NtDQzf7)
The remaining Mutons are quickly dealt with.
Results of Operation Iberian Sunset
Jungo Fujimoto: 4 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Isao Tanida: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Shigeo Tanida: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Tatsuo Koyama: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Kevin Crossett: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Dwight King: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Leon Gressier: Promoted to Squaddie
Bernard Revenu: Promoted to Squaddie
No X-COM casualties
9 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
Debriefing: This was a good first deployment for the forces from Asia. Their potential is very impressive.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/CgFHdRlm.png) (http://imgur.com/CgFHdRl)
(http://i.imgur.com/qQGMogsm.png) (http://imgur.com/qQGMogs)
(http://i.imgur.com/40oWWXGm.png) (http://imgur.com/40oWWXG)
A Muton scout exits the atmosphere over Siberia.
(http://i.imgur.com/B3zwLEpm.png) (http://imgur.com/B3zwLEp)
(http://i.imgur.com/yawohLRm.png) (http://imgur.com/yawohLR)
Ethereal forces continue hunting for our bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/V312Tkkm.png) (http://imgur.com/V312Tkk)
One is on the complete wrong side of the continent, and flies off.
(http://i.imgur.com/xvg5R0rm.png) (http://imgur.com/xvg5R0r)
(http://i.imgur.com/He82WD5m.png) (http://imgur.com/He82WD5)
A scout ship preparing to establish a new base is blown up over the Indian Ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/LxGoLtGm.png) (http://imgur.com/LxGoLtG)
(http://i.imgur.com/FsXK4n7m.png) (http://imgur.com/FsXK4n7)
More battleships continue the search for X-COM facilities. The Europe base evades detection even though Muton forces should already know its location. The Africa base isn't as lucky.
Briefing: Ethereal forces have located X-COM Three in Africa and breached its outer defenses. Security personnel must attempt to protect the base and repel the enemy assault. If these forces are defeated, the base ? and our ability to monitor and defend the African continent ? will be lost.
(http://i.imgur.com/nwnu5Aim.png) (http://imgur.com/nwnu5Ai)
(http://i.imgur.com/fXfVmjlm.png) (http://imgur.com/fXfVmjl)
(http://i.imgur.com/oQF8Moam.png) (http://imgur.com/oQF8Moa)
(http://i.imgur.com/QvIbMUJm.png) (http://imgur.com/QvIbMUJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/wUWgWemm.png) (http://imgur.com/wUWgWem)
(http://i.imgur.com/KnR8gt4m.png) (http://imgur.com/KnR8gt4)
(http://i.imgur.com/cxVKpikm.png) (http://imgur.com/cxVKpik)
(http://i.imgur.com/toZiDh3m.png) (http://imgur.com/toZiDh3)
The squad at the base is under-equipped for a battle with an enemy as strong as Ethereals, but there's no choice but to try.
(http://i.imgur.com/ExbcKZem.png) (http://imgur.com/ExbcKZe)
At least one thing works in favor of the defenders; the enemy must come through a single choke point to enter the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/clSicpqm.png) (http://imgur.com/clSicpq)
One Ethereal is taken down already.
(http://i.imgur.com/7u9KnDBm.png) (http://imgur.com/7u9KnDB)
Taking advantage of these storage rooms gives the team two advantages: it allows for ambushes against hostiles passing through, and if one of them gets mind controlled or panics, it reduces the chance for them to attack the rest of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/M7SKQs9m.png) (http://imgur.com/M7SKQs9)
(http://i.imgur.com/7fnSKW2m.png) (http://imgur.com/7fnSKW2)
(http://i.imgur.com/X8RsuqRm.png) (http://imgur.com/X8RsuqR)
One of the rookies manages to miss at close range against an Ethereal, and without armor, the return fire is lethally painful.
(http://i.imgur.com/ov8ZtuVm.png) (http://imgur.com/ov8ZtuV)
(http://i.imgur.com/JUIE8jbm.png) (http://imgur.com/JUIE8jb)
(http://i.imgur.com/sCuP76zm.png) (http://imgur.com/sCuP76z)
A second attempt has better results.
(http://i.imgur.com/JWtOK8hm.png) (http://imgur.com/JWtOK8h)
And, of course, the Ethereals begin to deliver their specialty.
(http://i.imgur.com/AFd1Ydim.png) (http://imgur.com/AFd1Ydi)
(http://i.imgur.com/qnNzVhNm.png) (http://imgur.com/qnNzVhN)
With a mind-controlled rookie walking into the clutches of the enemy force, he might as well be written off as dead now.
(http://i.imgur.com/cfOYsqDm.png) (http://imgur.com/cfOYsqD)
(http://i.imgur.com/VpB9Mpjm.png) (http://imgur.com/VpB9Mpj)
One more Ethereal is brought down during the continuing assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/1SKI5kjm.png) (http://imgur.com/1SKI5kj)
(http://i.imgur.com/k2L543Am.png) (http://imgur.com/k2L543A)
With Revenu prone to mental attack, he puts down his weapons. He's like a lightning rod to the Ethereals right now.
(http://i.imgur.com/uY5SP2Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/uY5SP2Z)
Another of the squad picks up the Blaster Launcher off of a fallen alien; although given the smoke in the hallways, it seems like the aliens don't need much help blowing themselves up.
(http://i.imgur.com/z2UHDpfm.png) (http://imgur.com/z2UHDpf)
Aaaaaaaaaaaaand of course the one person who can turn the tide of this battle gets mind controlled.
(http://i.imgur.com/T5E6VM3m.png) (http://imgur.com/T5E6VM3)
(http://i.imgur.com/DoFhK1bm.png) (http://imgur.com/DoFhK1b)
With almost all of the squad dead or mind-controlled, all that can be done is an exchange of plasma fire with the Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/E4Dmjvtm.png) (http://imgur.com/E4Dmjvt)
The two members of the squad still standing fall under the thrall of the aliens, leaving nobody left to defend the base.
Result of Operation Just Guardian
Sylvie Gaudin: Killed in action
Emile Guerin: Killed in action
Henri Gressier: Killed in action
Sylvie Marcelle: Killed in action
Rene Revenu: Killed in action
Tom Hudson: Killed in action
Shigeo Morita: Unknown
Sigourney Johnson: Unknown
7 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
X-COM Three lost
Debriefing: [incoherent enraged screaming]
(http://i.imgur.com/17xAmfQm.png) (http://imgur.com/17xAmfQ)
X-COM Three has fallen. One of the interceptors is able to relocate to a free hangar at Asia, but the other one is lost.
-
Well crap.
Nuke the place from orbit?
-
Whelp, they're real angry now. About time to invest into base defense facilities (optional, potential effectiveness unknown) as well as visit an alien base to invite their commander for a tea party (STAT).
-
(http://i.imgur.com/NTQbqDJm.png) (http://imgur.com/NTQbqDJ)
Using some of the laser cannons that have been built by the engineering divisions, at least one interceptor is re-armed. Extra lasers are sold off for a vast surplus; millions could be made just by manufacturing and selling those alone.
(http://i.imgur.com/QuFhUN6m.png) (http://imgur.com/QuFhUN6)
(http://i.imgur.com/1FxchnJm.png) (http://imgur.com/1FxchnJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/IYmHndJm.png) (http://imgur.com/IYmHndJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/L6wdP27m.png) (http://imgur.com/L6wdP27)
(http://i.imgur.com/mHnXdRZm.png) (http://imgur.com/mHnXdRZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/wL7zPRim.png) (http://imgur.com/wL7zPRi)
(http://i.imgur.com/7Crpyjhm.png) (http://imgur.com/7Crpyjh)
New bases are set up in Africa to replace the one that was recently destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/zGw0MEZm.png) (http://imgur.com/zGw0MEZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/6VHczHkm.png) (http://imgur.com/6VHczHk)
A scout ship gets vaporized before it can find the new bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/SIaxkpWm.png) (http://imgur.com/SIaxkpW)
Speaking of bases, it's time to retaliate and take out the weakest of the alien bases. While this base has been left intact for an attempt to intercept any supply shipments heading to it, we simply haven't had any luck finding them. It's better to just take the base out now. Operation Cold Vengeance begins.
Briefing: The alien base in Nunavut has been targeted for destruction. X-COM forces have been deployed to eliminate all enemy forces. Hostiles will consist mainly of Mutons, with a small number of Celatids and Silacoids. Once the base is cleared out, any useful material will be salvaged, and what remains of the facility will be collapsed. If it is possible to find and locate the base's commander alive, attempt to do so; otherwise, completely eradicate all alien forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/fi9qNirm.png) (http://imgur.com/fi9qNir)
(http://i.imgur.com/mxnY90rm.png) (http://imgur.com/mxnY90r)
(http://i.imgur.com/9UTbTX8m.png) (http://imgur.com/9UTbTX8)
(http://i.imgur.com/XHF2RLom.png) (http://imgur.com/XHF2RLo)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZvVFBY6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZvVFBY6)
(http://i.imgur.com/D2hBWzwm.png) (http://imgur.com/D2hBWzw)
(http://i.imgur.com/oKqyNZRm.png) (http://imgur.com/oKqyNZR)
(http://i.imgur.com/EMYN88bm.png) (http://imgur.com/EMYN88b)
(http://i.imgur.com/NYjirJym.png) (http://imgur.com/NYjirJy)
(http://i.imgur.com/2eNWG3Um.png) (http://imgur.com/2eNWG3U)
Taking no chances here. Two Blaster Launchers have brought in for this assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/IJBabvcm.png) (http://imgur.com/IJBabvc)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZGyln9dm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZGyln9d)
Again, the squad it divided in two. Commander Reynolds and three rookies are at one entrance, with everybody else at the other.
(http://i.imgur.com/WGoiVGXm.png) (http://imgur.com/WGoiVGX)
(http://i.imgur.com/jCh6iafm.png) (http://imgur.com/jCh6iaf)
Right off the bat, a Muton is taken down by one of the rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/PmjI0fRm.png) (http://imgur.com/PmjI0fR)
(http://i.imgur.com/39xhf6wm.png) (http://imgur.com/39xhf6w)
While trying to spot a target, the HWP gets hit by heavy plasma fire. The two team members behind it try stalling the Muton's advance by setting down a proximity mine.
(http://i.imgur.com/SKyI1e0m.png) (http://imgur.com/SKyI1e0)
That proves to be the least of their problems, as a Blaster Launcher shot comes down the corridors.
(http://i.imgur.com/lmWlNNxm.png) (http://imgur.com/lmWlNNx)
(http://i.imgur.com/NmsQQBBm.png) (http://imgur.com/NmsQQBB)
(http://i.imgur.com/IARKCWHm.png) (http://imgur.com/IARKCWH)
The rookie at the other entrance spots some hostiles waiting around. He survives the firefight with some major wounds, taking out the Muton before it's time to pull out and retreat upstairs.
(http://i.imgur.com/7lRrhMXm.png) (http://imgur.com/7lRrhMX)
Another rookie bursts the Celatid open.
(http://i.imgur.com/BwH4Lt4m.png) (http://imgur.com/BwH4Lt4)
The wounded rookie is given prompt treatment by Commander Reynolds.
(http://i.imgur.com/gkLSqbem.png) (http://imgur.com/gkLSqbe)
(http://i.imgur.com/H6x8bbsm.png) (http://imgur.com/H6x8bbs)
Another Muton lurking around the entryways gets blasted by the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/HUHWPTPm.png) (http://imgur.com/HUHWPTP)
(http://i.imgur.com/eTjGnQCm.png) (http://imgur.com/eTjGnQC)
(http://i.imgur.com/tC7zckPm.png) (http://imgur.com/tC7zckP)
A Silacoid creeping around gets a taste of some reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/7AoHYwxm.png) (http://imgur.com/7AoHYwx)
(http://i.imgur.com/G8DQJUMm.png) (http://imgur.com/G8DQJUM)
Another Muton roaming the halls gets mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/DQjD5H0m.png) (http://imgur.com/DQjD5H0)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ba7iI9Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ba7iI9C)
(http://i.imgur.com/HI264L1m.png) (http://imgur.com/HI264L1)
Two Mutons standing together is a perfect target for the Blaster Launcher. A course is set directly for the one in the middle of the hallway.
(http://i.imgur.com/uDWXKc7m.png) (http://imgur.com/uDWXKc7)
For unfathomable reasons, one of the Mutons is still standing after the blast.
(http://i.imgur.com/K35Hgvbm.png) (http://imgur.com/K35Hgvb)
(http://i.imgur.com/mwLngwRm.png) (http://imgur.com/mwLngwR)
This one isn't, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZojSyg1m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZojSyg1)
(http://i.imgur.com/MD4SxeIm.png) (http://imgur.com/MD4SxeI)
Wounded and attempting to escape, a Muton enters the line of fire of the second team.
(http://i.imgur.com/hsVc5u5m.png) (http://imgur.com/hsVc5u5)
A shot heads straight for one of the captains, but they are completely unfazed by it.
(http://i.imgur.com/0LeyyZVm.png) (http://imgur.com/0LeyyZV)
(http://i.imgur.com/5brRYPrm.png) (http://imgur.com/5brRYPr)
Another Muton soldier gets blasted in the back by one of the rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/sJcxQfhm.png) (http://imgur.com/sJcxQfh)
(http://i.imgur.com/RL4x8Qlm.png) (http://imgur.com/RL4x8Ql)
A Silacoid lurking around one of the entryways gets quickly mowed down by the other captain.
(http://i.imgur.com/9Om4FwUm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Om4FwU)
(http://i.imgur.com/BJIkycem.png) (http://imgur.com/BJIkyce)
(http://i.imgur.com/HxAGXKsm.png) (http://imgur.com/HxAGXKs)
The rookies, even with their lack of experience, are proving to be too much for the Mutons.
(http://i.imgur.com/PQ22R6Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/PQ22R6Z)
The control room can be seen close to the main group. After what happened during Oahu Storm, it's important that this area be approached carefully.
(http://i.imgur.com/4bVHnIZm.png) (http://imgur.com/4bVHnIZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/7BY7xtgm.png) (http://imgur.com/7BY7xtg)
The colonels switch to plasma weapons until they're in a clear position to fire on the command center.
(http://i.imgur.com/zUPy3l9m.png) (http://imgur.com/zUPy3l9)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bfa6ixgm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bfa6ixg)
While scouting the situation ahead, one of the captains is struck down by the acid spit of a Celatid.
(http://i.imgur.com/NjScRmkm.png) (http://imgur.com/NjScRmk)
The other captain spots two Mutons near the door. It's probably a good idea to start backing up.
(http://i.imgur.com/V710Nv4m.png) (http://imgur.com/V710Nv4)
(http://i.imgur.com/tQyTzx2m.png) (http://imgur.com/tQyTzx2)
A course is set into the outer door of the control room.
(http://i.imgur.com/mmzN0LEm.png) (http://imgur.com/mmzN0LE)
The blast takes out everything in the vicinity EXCEPT for the door.
(http://i.imgur.com/D39UVEDm.png) (http://imgur.com/D39UVED)
(http://i.imgur.com/m82kTjRm.png) (http://imgur.com/m82kTjR)
Time to make our own door into the inner part.
(http://i.imgur.com/iPAX9G0m.png) (http://imgur.com/iPAX9G0)
One of the rookies picks up a launcher dropped by a Muton trooper.
(http://i.imgur.com/HPH5DyLm.png) (http://imgur.com/HPH5DyL)
A course is directed into the control room itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/IDxbpQAm.png) (http://imgur.com/IDxbpQA)
(http://i.imgur.com/q9ii6LLm.png) (http://imgur.com/q9ii6LL)
The hunt for Mutons in the hallways continues.
(http://i.imgur.com/p5Zingsm.png) (http://imgur.com/p5Zings)
(http://i.imgur.com/vm7aRDLm.png) (http://imgur.com/vm7aRDL)
A roving Celatid is taken out by Nikolai's sniping.
(http://i.imgur.com/vm7aRDLm.png) (http://imgur.com/vm7aRDL)
Part of the team gets ready to sweep the control room. Or what's left of it, anyway.
(http://i.imgur.com/4mG2EEbm.png) (http://imgur.com/4mG2EEb)
Iwahara checks the room out, and there's nothing left in there. Any aliens that were here have been blown up twice over, the computers have been rendered inoperable, and even the floors of the room have been torn apart by repeated explosions. The hunt for any remaining life signs in the base begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/m8WmjuSm.png) (http://imgur.com/m8WmjuS)
After a lengthy search, Iwahara is notified to the location of a final remaining Muton by a stun bomb fired in her direction.
(http://i.imgur.com/7Ne75cAm.png) (http://imgur.com/7Ne75cA)
She's able to sneak up on it, and with a few shots, there is no one left defending the alien base.
Results of Operation Cold Vengeance
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 2 kills
Col. Nikolai Ragulin: 2 kills
Cpt. Evelyn Bradley: 2 kills
Oscar Bradley: 4 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Gaston Dreyfus: 4 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Dwight McNeil: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie; wounded, will recover in 31 days
Cpt. Victor Maleev: Killed in action
Henri Dreyfus: Killed in action
Tom Crossett: Killed in action
HWP: destroyed
17 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
Alloys, reactors, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
Alien base destroyed
Debriefing: Taking out this Muton base is a major win. Considering how much trouble the Hawaii base assault was, the number of casualties taken here is surprisingly low. Hopefully the time comes soon where it's possible to safely go after the Ethereal bases.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Ku6H7wmm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ku6H7wm)
Colonel Ragulin has obtained the nickname ?Annihilator? to be in line with ?Eliminator? Iwahara.
(http://i.imgur.com/d1ha507m.png) (http://imgur.com/d1ha507)
Some of the recently acquired Elerium is used to build new HWPs.
(http://i.imgur.com/HtvIcaHm.png) (http://imgur.com/HtvIcaH)
(http://i.imgur.com/jQWRxSGm.png) (http://imgur.com/jQWRxSG)
A scout ship is knocked out of the air over Siberia.
(http://i.imgur.com/tj5bGamm.png) (http://imgur.com/tj5bGam)
(http://i.imgur.com/7ZuchKcm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ZuchKc)
(http://i.imgur.com/PPRhFCDm.png) (http://imgur.com/PPRhFCD)
A Muton ship is brought down over Central Asia. It's time to move in for Operation Solid Counterattack.
Briefing: A Muton harvest operation has been shot down over an agricultural region of northern Iraq. Ground forces have been deployed to the crash site to clear the area for recovery. Enemy forces will consist of a medium to large force of Mutons. Once all enemy forces are eliminated or incapacitated, salvage will commence.
(http://i.imgur.com/e61H0yXm.png) (http://imgur.com/e61H0yX)
(http://i.imgur.com/ILTf8k0m.png) (http://imgur.com/ILTf8k0)
(http://i.imgur.com/FcoBUTfm.png) (http://imgur.com/FcoBUTf)
(http://i.imgur.com/gQGERyKm.png) (http://imgur.com/gQGERyK)
(http://i.imgur.com/VG8EPnMm.png) (http://imgur.com/VG8EPnM)
(http://i.imgur.com/EkVPEkgm.png) (http://imgur.com/EkVPEkg)
(http://i.imgur.com/YAmYPKIm.png) (http://imgur.com/YAmYPKI)
(http://i.imgur.com/jyTilHsm.png) (http://imgur.com/jyTilHs)
(http://i.imgur.com/B0ch3Bqm.png) (http://imgur.com/B0ch3Bq)
(http://i.imgur.com/N0CtJw3m.png) (http://imgur.com/N0CtJw3)
(http://i.imgur.com/1Wn2ZLQm.png) (http://imgur.com/1Wn2ZLQ)
From the start, the squad is under fire, even with smoke in place. Iwahara manages to avoid damage despite multiple shots in her direction.
(http://i.imgur.com/7FCyvtMm.png) (http://imgur.com/7FCyvtM)
(http://i.imgur.com/IzhPS8vm.png) (http://imgur.com/IzhPS8v)
The Muton outside the landing zone is taken out, clearing the way for the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/D3sMudIm.png) (http://imgur.com/D3sMudI)
(http://i.imgur.com/nyNtz5ym.png) (http://imgur.com/nyNtz5y)
(http://i.imgur.com/HVtIK6tm.png) (http://imgur.com/HVtIK6t)
Another Muton is brought down as the team fans out.
(http://i.imgur.com/gs1NeAVm.png) (http://imgur.com/gs1NeAV)
(http://i.imgur.com/KMXpOOXm.png) (http://imgur.com/KMXpOOX)
(http://i.imgur.com/iZzf905m.png) (http://imgur.com/iZzf905)
(http://i.imgur.com/H9mAH5xm.png) (http://imgur.com/H9mAH5x)
(http://i.imgur.com/cXRHkM0m.png) (http://imgur.com/cXRHkM0)
The crash site is nearby; it's time to clear a path. A trio of Mutons quickly fall.
(http://i.imgur.com/8Nk8oVUm.png) (http://imgur.com/8Nk8oVU)
The squad starts pushing toward the wreckage.
(http://i.imgur.com/Obwcdxvm.png) (http://imgur.com/Obwcdxv)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ij5nZPxm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ij5nZPx)
A Muton lurking in a hay field is the next to go down.
(http://i.imgur.com/ltQv5v6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ltQv5v6)
A Muton grenade falls short of hitting the squad, instead putting a crater in a field. The smoke from the blast will provide some decent cover for the advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z8q7Qgwm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z8q7Qgw)
(http://i.imgur.com/qFvcqlXm.png) (http://imgur.com/qFvcqlX)
Another Muton near the ship falls to the continuing assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/UDaWTHPm.png) (http://imgur.com/UDaWTHP)
(http://i.imgur.com/zDobTbXm.png) (http://imgur.com/zDobTbX)
(http://i.imgur.com/6fUrsVUm.png) (http://imgur.com/6fUrsVU)
The ship is breached, and the assault on the crew begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/CgP9PHPm.png) (http://imgur.com/CgP9PHP)
(http://i.imgur.com/KS2lPPym.png) (http://imgur.com/KS2lPPy)
(http://i.imgur.com/u7LFkBYm.png) (http://imgur.com/u7LFkBY)
(http://i.imgur.com/eyLDHBgm.png) (http://imgur.com/eyLDHBg)
More Mutons invite themselves to the slaughter.
(http://i.imgur.com/fZXuL7Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/fZXuL7W)
Some of the team has moved in to assault the other entrance of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/xowL732m.png) (http://imgur.com/xowL732)
(http://i.imgur.com/eFDl5pFm.png) (http://imgur.com/eFDl5pF)
(http://i.imgur.com/69eqyRlm.png) (http://imgur.com/69eqyRl)
And another entrance is made at the top of the ship, using the Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/DL6KPqem.png) (http://imgur.com/DL6KPqe)
The colonels fly up on top and get ready to assault the upper level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/8PnQx8Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/8PnQx8Y)
(http://i.imgur.com/FfHc5Ygm.png) (http://imgur.com/FfHc5Yg)
A Muton tries to sneak up on one of the squaddies. It doesn't succeed.
(http://i.imgur.com/86JuZ1dm.png) (http://imgur.com/86JuZ1d)
Some grenades are dropped through the hole in the hull to clear out anybody waiting in the cockpit.
(http://i.imgur.com/xY27fICm.png) (http://imgur.com/xY27fIC)
That proved to be an unnecessary move, but in this case, better safe than sorry.
(http://i.imgur.com/Xf8dUwSm.png) (http://imgur.com/Xf8dUwS)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZCHXUzCm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZCHXUzC)
Another Muton emerging from the ship gets blasted.
(http://i.imgur.com/h7cVXmem.png) (http://imgur.com/h7cVXme)
A Muton emerges from a gravlift and attempts to attack Iwahara. She comes out of the fight with some minor injuries, but no severe wounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/AYkUBr4m.png) (http://imgur.com/AYkUBr4)
The Muton isn't so fortunate.
(http://i.imgur.com/2TnrI1jm.png) (http://imgur.com/2TnrI1j)
(http://i.imgur.com/a2ZbCBYm.png) (http://imgur.com/a2ZbCBY)
One last Muton is running about outside the ship, right into the path of one of the squaddies.
Results of Operation Solid Counterattack
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 3 kills; wounded, will recover in 8 days
Col. Nikolai ?Annihilator? Ragulin: 3 kills
Cpt. Evelyn Bradley: 3 kills
Sgt. Emile Marcelle: 1 kill
Oscar Bradley: 3 kills
13 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: This operation went well. Iwahara's wounds are almost superficial and will recover quickly, and now that there is a second colonel with her level of capability, her being temporarily incapacitated is only a minor hurdle. Rather than being sold off, the plasma weapons obtained here will be sent off to the new Africa bases once their storage facilities are ready.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Qw1GVjfm.png) (http://imgur.com/Qw1GVjf)
(http://i.imgur.com/9wBX7cgm.png) (http://imgur.com/9wBX7cg)
Another Ethereal scout gets shot down over the southern tip of India.
(http://i.imgur.com/EjkucqMm.png) (http://imgur.com/EjkucqM)
(http://i.imgur.com/WJWgSQ7m.png) (http://imgur.com/WJWgSQ7)
One of the new HWPs is finished. It gets shipped off to the European base for use by the main squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/mR24SwHm.png) (http://imgur.com/mR24SwH)
The reactors and computers recovered from the Muton base have been shipped to the Asia base to be used by engineering.
(http://i.imgur.com/eLPHNx1m.png) (http://imgur.com/eLPHNx1)
A new hangar at the Arctic base is ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/2uLGotvm.png) (http://imgur.com/2uLGotv)
(http://i.imgur.com/AUzDe2em.png) (http://imgur.com/AUzDe2e)
Research has managed to finish drawing up the plans for the so-called ?ultimate craft?. The Avenger is the apex of X-COM's reverse-engineering efforts. Its speed outclasses all known alien ships, and as a transport it has almost double the capacity of the Skyranger. Most importantly, the Avenger is capable of interplanetary travel; once the coordinates of the alien stronghold are locked down, we will be ready to commence the assault at any time.
(http://i.imgur.com/rEQhYIHm.png) (http://imgur.com/rEQhYIH)
(http://i.imgur.com/v7jOcqlm.png) (http://imgur.com/v7jOcql)
(http://i.imgur.com/dniwPIRm.png) (http://imgur.com/dniwPIR)
(http://i.imgur.com/kPRlFjom.png) (http://imgur.com/kPRlFjo)
The parts and materials needed to construct one are available, so engineering begins work right away. A large amount of work is required; the ship won't be ready for approximately a month.
(http://i.imgur.com/obSPw5nm.png) (http://imgur.com/obSPw5n)
Another HWP is ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/IoogDF4m.png) (http://imgur.com/IoogDF4)
(http://i.imgur.com/A4mixFLm.png) (http://imgur.com/A4mixFL)
Another Ethereal scout ship gets sunk off the coast of Portugal.
(http://i.imgur.com/4bYzTpam.png) (http://imgur.com/4bYzTpa)
A Psi-Lab is ready, but due to paperwork and bureaucracy and other reasons testing won't begin until the start of November.
(http://i.imgur.com/Q64uerVm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q64uerV)
(http://i.imgur.com/t438DYsm.png) (http://imgur.com/t438DYs)
Research gets some more information from studying the aliens. The data includes a Celatid autopsy, plus intelligence about alien abduction missions. Slowly, the scientists are starting to piece together the goals of the invasion.
(http://i.imgur.com/kYvKvAQm.png) (http://imgur.com/kYvKvAQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/aYKxGjTm.png) (http://imgur.com/aYKxGjT)
A Snakeman terror ship is shot down in the Thar Desert near the border of India. While Iwahara's still out of commission, there's another colonel who can fill in for her, two HWPs, and plenty of capable troops. The assault is ready to begin.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/dW7Gwyam.png) (http://imgur.com/dW7Gwya)
Operation Wild Tortoise commences.
Briefing: A Muton capital ship has landed in Asia to commence a harvesting operation. There is a narrow window of opportunity to attack the ship, eliminate the crew, and prepare the ship for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a large Muton crew, with some Celatids and Silacoids also present. Forces are to avoid damaging the engines of the ship, and if possible, locate and capture the enemy commander; otherwise, all enemy forces are expendable.
(http://i.imgur.com/C7lMXCCm.png) (http://imgur.com/C7lMXCC)
(http://i.imgur.com/qkj1Ig2m.png) (http://imgur.com/qkj1Ig2)
(http://i.imgur.com/RevpMUIm.png) (http://imgur.com/RevpMUI)
(http://i.imgur.com/4PJQ1Flm.png) (http://imgur.com/4PJQ1Fl)
(http://i.imgur.com/xCVFFAqm.png) (http://imgur.com/xCVFFAq)
(http://i.imgur.com/yz2Zbl9m.png) (http://imgur.com/yz2Zbl9)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZkZmTfYm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZkZmTfY)
(http://i.imgur.com/j8xowfOm.png) (http://imgur.com/j8xowfO)
(http://i.imgur.com/IcVcbR9m.png) (http://imgur.com/IcVcbR9)
(http://i.imgur.com/OVIEkbam.png) (http://imgur.com/OVIEkba)
Everyone gets equipped for battle. As Reynolds and Tanida aren't actually leaving the Skyranger, they're being given just Personal Armor.
(http://i.imgur.com/ynyhrNum.png) (http://imgur.com/ynyhrNu)
Smoke is set down and the squad prepares for battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/hsUjwEom.png) (http://imgur.com/hsUjwEo)
(http://i.imgur.com/N58yxvdm.png) (http://imgur.com/N58yxvd)
A Celatid is hiding behind behind the hedge, in the grove. A grenade is used to clear the cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/ewLbaBNm.png) (http://imgur.com/ewLbaBN)
Destroying the orchard exposes a Muton, which takes out one of the rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/4FqYyFlm.png) (http://imgur.com/4FqYyFl)
(http://i.imgur.com/Zp3NIPVm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zp3NIPV)
(http://i.imgur.com/yHvylGum.png) (http://imgur.com/yHvylGu)
The Celatid is eliminated, but the Muton is still nearby.
(http://i.imgur.com/DJoJGiHm.png) (http://imgur.com/DJoJGiH)
Grenades are thrown at the squad, but fall a bit a bit short.
(http://i.imgur.com/mRrHDJXm.png) (http://imgur.com/mRrHDJX)
A sergeant is wounded by a Muton shot, but is treated by a rookie with a Medi-Kit.
(http://i.imgur.com/3NVftA6m.png) (http://imgur.com/3NVftA6)
(http://i.imgur.com/r639b3hm.png) (http://imgur.com/r639b3h)
The Muton attacking the squad from the south has been dealt with.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jr3RtoWm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jr3RtoW)
(http://i.imgur.com/8TFOqVem.png) (http://imgur.com/8TFOqVe)
There are two other Mutons to the west. They are outnumbered and outgunned, and quickly fall.
(http://i.imgur.com/V7hFsGgm.png) (http://imgur.com/V7hFsGg)
Yet another Muton attempts to shoot at the squad with a Blaster Launcher, but merely explodes one of its allies with a miscalculated course.
(http://i.imgur.com/sqhgPmOm.png) (http://imgur.com/sqhgPmO)
(http://i.imgur.com/6x3cjytm.png) (http://imgur.com/6x3cjyt)
It's hard to see Mutons in the thick grass, but even still they can't escape from the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/4lwCnlMm.png) (http://imgur.com/4lwCnlM)
(http://i.imgur.com/LXm3oS0m.png) (http://imgur.com/LXm3oS0)
A rookie's wounds have gone somehow gone unnoticed up to this point. Fortunately, they are treated before they become fatal.
(http://i.imgur.com/lR9ijNpm.png) (http://imgur.com/lR9ijNp)
(http://i.imgur.com/qipYVojm.png) (http://imgur.com/qipYVoj)
A Silacoid that's been ineffectively lurking is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/loWzIqMm.png) (http://imgur.com/loWzIqM)
(http://i.imgur.com/G1jVi6fm.png) (http://imgur.com/G1jVi6f)
A Muton on the edge of the squad's vision is located and eliminated by a captain.
(http://i.imgur.com/HfNz1xGm.png) (http://imgur.com/HfNz1xG)
If the squad goes in through the main entrance, they will be surrounded not only by the four main hallways of the ship, but the upper level as well. Anyone in the center of the ship is vulnerable to being ambushed from four to six directions at once. A far safer course of action is to punch through one side of the ship with the Blaster Launcher, and proceed down one hall to the center.
(http://i.imgur.com/GZya3Abm.png) (http://imgur.com/GZya3Ab)
(http://i.imgur.com/AfrFg8xm.png) (http://imgur.com/AfrFg8x)
The blast puts a hole in the hull, and a Muton can be heard screaming as the warhead explodes.
(http://i.imgur.com/MEPqFDim.png) (http://imgur.com/MEPqFDi)
(http://i.imgur.com/HRj3suxm.png) (http://imgur.com/HRj3sux)
A Silacoid is creeping around the main entrance to the ship. It's a short-lived nuisance.
(http://i.imgur.com/75xIYOvm.png) (http://imgur.com/75xIYOv)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bgtz0t7m.png) (http://imgur.com/Bgtz0t7)
(http://i.imgur.com/FEUnruDm.png) (http://imgur.com/FEUnruD)
One of the captains gets in a firefight with a Muton. He survives with light wounds. The Muton doesn't.
(http://i.imgur.com/iTRFaD5m.png) (http://imgur.com/iTRFaD5)
(http://i.imgur.com/0BjZRyhm.png) (http://imgur.com/0BjZRyh)
The leg wound is patched up, leaving the captain to fly up and assault the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/ioywnkTm.png) (http://imgur.com/ioywnkT)
(http://i.imgur.com/t8XXg5xm.png) (http://imgur.com/t8XXg5x)
(http://i.imgur.com/Da4qrClm.png) (http://imgur.com/Da4qrCl)
The HWP takes out another Muton soldier emerging from the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/FpeDr2am.png) (http://imgur.com/FpeDr2a)
(http://i.imgur.com/OyaoC7Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/OyaoC7J)
(http://i.imgur.com/HwCWdikm.png) (http://imgur.com/HwCWdik)
The two captains get ready to assault the battleship through the breached hull. The one Muton at the entry point doesn't put up much resistance.
(http://i.imgur.com/1wSBGkZm.png) (http://imgur.com/1wSBGkZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Tkmq5nSm.png) (http://imgur.com/Tkmq5nS)
Another Muton makes a futile charge out of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/bi5T0lMm.png) (http://imgur.com/bi5T0lM)
(http://i.imgur.com/omvvdWum.png) (http://imgur.com/omvvdWu)
(http://i.imgur.com/gLuppJTm.png) (http://imgur.com/gLuppJT)
A few more Mutons get taken out, clearing the area. An entire battleship, almost fully intact, is now ready for capture and salvage.
Results of Operation Wild Tortoise:
HWP: 1 kill
Cmdr. Paul ?Bomber? Reynolds: 1 kill
Alan Wright: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Cpt. Claude Gaudin: 4 kills, promoted to Colonel, wounded
Sgt. Oscar Bradley: 2 kills, promoted to Captain, wounded
Gaston Dreyfus: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Spencer Miller: Promoted to Sergeant
Helen Jones: Wounded
James Davies: Killed in action
14 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactors, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered.
Debriefing: Losing one rookie is an acceptable loss, given the sheer amount of Elerium and valuable components that have been recovered.
(http://i.imgur.com/pWZp9hGm.png) (http://imgur.com/pWZp9hG)
(http://i.imgur.com/xc1xDGXm.png) (http://imgur.com/xc1xDGX)
(http://i.imgur.com/nh4rhg7m.png) (http://imgur.com/nh4rhg7)
(http://i.imgur.com/213PChum.png) (http://imgur.com/213PChu)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZgopS7Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZgopS7B)
(http://i.imgur.com/br2H9Tkm.png) (http://imgur.com/br2H9Tk)
More rookies get screened.
(http://i.imgur.com/3HPPmPhm.png) (http://imgur.com/3HPPmPh)
With the newly obtained Elerium, some more power suits are manufactured.
(http://i.imgur.com/1L5oeCcm.png) (http://imgur.com/1L5oeCc)
(http://i.imgur.com/natZahMm.png) (http://imgur.com/natZahM)
(http://i.imgur.com/WobYMigm.png) (http://imgur.com/WobYMig)
(http://i.imgur.com/FOH1lDcm.png) (http://imgur.com/FOH1lDc)
Construction continues on the new Africa bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/J0SjIstm.png) (http://imgur.com/J0SjIst)
(http://i.imgur.com/7jIqlnqm.png) (http://imgur.com/7jIqlnq)
A scout ship gets shot down over Greenland.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZCTyCAfm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZCTyCAf)
(http://i.imgur.com/rauVTalm.png) (http://imgur.com/rauVTal)
A scout ship gets detected on the radar of the North Africa base. With no interceptors ready there, a craft from Europe scrambles and shoots it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/8TJQ4bYm.png) (http://imgur.com/8TJQ4bY)
(http://i.imgur.com/tUD2PeRm.png) (http://imgur.com/tUD2PeR)
More scouts in Africa are detected and neutralized. It's impossible to tell what type of aliens the crew are, so forces are not being deployed in case it's Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/U56RfdPm.png) (http://imgur.com/U56RfdP)
Another Ethereal scout goes down in the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/7tvVDmCm.png) (http://imgur.com/7tvVDmC)
Research has finished an autopsy of the Silacoid.
(http://i.imgur.com/qlChD1om.png) (http://imgur.com/qlChD1o)
The second Psi-Lab is ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/If7EbOIm.png) (http://imgur.com/If7EbOI)
(http://i.imgur.com/WEDKObom.png) (http://imgur.com/WEDKObo)
An Ethereal supply ship is prevented from reaching its destination in the South Pacific.
(http://i.imgur.com/GWMSnutm.png) (http://imgur.com/GWMSnut)
(http://i.imgur.com/IlZ9Jmvm.png) (http://imgur.com/IlZ9Jmv)
(http://i.imgur.com/WhxlQvYm.png) (http://imgur.com/WhxlQvY)
(http://i.imgur.com/rEwlG4Om.png) (http://imgur.com/rEwlG4O)
More ships get shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/wE6yzhSm.png) (http://imgur.com/wE6yzhS)
(http://i.imgur.com/vWTXCTwm.png) (http://imgur.com/vWTXCTw)
Interrogations provide some information on the alien craft. The difference between the smallest scouts and their largest capital ship is staggering.
(http://i.imgur.com/nPGAm5nm.png) (http://imgur.com/nPGAm5n)
(http://i.imgur.com/jCqxdb0m.png) (http://imgur.com/jCqxdb0)
(http://i.imgur.com/23N8etam.png) (http://imgur.com/23N8eta)
(http://i.imgur.com/FmbA50Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/FmbA50B)
The scout in the Arctic gets shot down, but we just have to wait out the battleships. They leave without finding the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/l5BiRPYm.png) (http://imgur.com/l5BiRPY)
Interrogation provides some information about the Snakemen.
(http://i.imgur.com/dRAlvKLm.png) (http://imgur.com/dRAlvKL)
(http://i.imgur.com/eEJwghpm.png) (http://imgur.com/eEJwghp)
With the Power Suits done, some more Flying Suits are requisitioned.
(http://i.imgur.com/CafI32Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/CafI32V)
(http://i.imgur.com/hmGPhShm.png) (http://imgur.com/hmGPhSh)
Another Ethereal scout is shot down. These are like irritating flies that won't go away.
(http://i.imgur.com/Hre7uQam.png) (http://imgur.com/Hre7uQa)
(http://i.imgur.com/kQ5cof2m.png) (http://imgur.com/kQ5cof2)
A Muton supply ship is spotted on radar. Pursuing it leads us to the alien base in the southern United States. This was previously assumed to be an Ethereal base, but if the information is incorrect, that means there is another alien base that is open to being raided. In the meantime, ground forces will be attacking the supply ship that is on the surface.
-
I certainly like how "punch a hole in the hull" proves to be a both flashy and effective breaching tactic.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/WPVGtpvm.png) (http://imgur.com/WPVGtpv)
The Muton supply ship slips away before the Skyranger can arrive.
(http://i.imgur.com/tziQGMHm.png) (http://imgur.com/tziQGMH)
Col. Claude Gaudin has been granted the nickname ?Eraser?.
(http://i.imgur.com/AaRGbMIm.png) (http://imgur.com/AaRGbMI)
(http://i.imgur.com/o57APZQm.png) (http://imgur.com/o57APZQ)
An Ethereal scout gets brought down over the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/7DljNe9m.png) (http://imgur.com/7DljNe9)
(http://i.imgur.com/AediAzVm.png) (http://imgur.com/AediAzV)
The month ends. Almost all of the funding nations are impressed by our performance.
(http://i.imgur.com/3LxFntcm.png) (http://imgur.com/3LxFntc)
(http://i.imgur.com/M7nvfHhm.png) (http://imgur.com/M7nvfHh)
(http://i.imgur.com/AlKm4fOm.png) (http://imgur.com/AlKm4fO)
Psionic training commences. Anybody who's not on active combat duty gets put through screening for psychic capability.
(http://i.imgur.com/0YSK7zsm.png) (http://imgur.com/0YSK7zs)
(http://i.imgur.com/mqm8oa3m.png) (http://imgur.com/mqm8oa3)
(http://i.imgur.com/SWgwGULm.png) (http://imgur.com/SWgwGUL)
(http://i.imgur.com/Pq2zOAHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Pq2zOAH)
(http://i.imgur.com/UfwxToEm.png) (http://imgur.com/UfwxToE)
(http://i.imgur.com/A8WwWxam.png) (http://imgur.com/A8WwWxa)
(http://i.imgur.com/4lDOsvYm.png) (http://imgur.com/4lDOsvY)
(http://i.imgur.com/4eiyOA0m.png) (http://imgur.com/4eiyOA0)
(http://i.imgur.com/b4i7CRUm.png) (http://imgur.com/b4i7CRU)
(http://i.imgur.com/0rkZwPgm.png) (http://imgur.com/0rkZwPg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nio7R2Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nio7R2R)
Alien ships line up to be shot down by the X-COM air force, leaving wreckage all over the Eastern Hemisphere. However, a Snakeman scout manages to slip past the radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/fQHjPnXm.png) (http://imgur.com/fQHjPnX)
Hangars are ready at the new Africa bases. Interceptors have been ordered and will be delivered shortly.
(http://i.imgur.com/6KTJphkm.png) (http://imgur.com/6KTJphk)
(http://i.imgur.com/C4XZbRMm.png) (http://imgur.com/C4XZbRM)
A Sectoid scout gets shot down over Europe; we haven't seen these in a while.
(http://i.imgur.com/LvigOXum.png) (http://imgur.com/LvigOXu)
(http://i.imgur.com/JFOX0TFm.png) (http://imgur.com/JFOX0TF)
(http://i.imgur.com/c3qpFGVm.png) (http://imgur.com/c3qpFGV)
The research division manages to develop a ?mind shield?, which will defend X-COM bases against detection and attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/JUy6i3wm.png) (http://imgur.com/JUy6i3w)
There is also some information obtained about a live Silacoid specimen.
(http://i.imgur.com/1Zgucu6m.png) (http://imgur.com/1Zgucu6)
Interrogating a captured navigator gives some information about the nature of alien terror operations.
(http://i.imgur.com/TQbOj3gm.png) (http://imgur.com/TQbOj3g)
Speaking of which. There's no time to wait for daylight; the squad has to get over there right away.
-
Welp. That's a bummer. We were doing so good shooting everything down too.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Cg2zOPMm.png) (http://imgur.com/Cg2zOPM)
Briefing: Cape Town, South Africa is under attack by aliens. The composition of this force is unknown, but recent hyper-wave transmissions suggest that the enemy will be composed of Snakemen and Chryssalids. Ground forces are to eliminate all hostiles and protect as many civilians as possible.
(http://i.imgur.com/iYbSpz4m.png) (http://imgur.com/iYbSpz4)
(http://i.imgur.com/L6k0t2Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/L6k0t2H)
(http://i.imgur.com/jNZW6a6m.png) (http://imgur.com/jNZW6a6)
(http://i.imgur.com/8FuZe7Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/8FuZe7W)
(http://i.imgur.com/7gEQb9Km.png) (http://imgur.com/7gEQb9K)
(http://i.imgur.com/hUOAcVgm.png) (http://imgur.com/hUOAcVg)
(http://i.imgur.com/OngoM2Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/OngoM2M)
(http://i.imgur.com/0uvj95Im.png) (http://imgur.com/0uvj95I)
(http://i.imgur.com/h6UVQLdm.png) (http://imgur.com/h6UVQLd)
(http://i.imgur.com/zZhOmmMm.png) (http://imgur.com/zZhOmmM)
The squad gets armed for Operation Midnight Savior.
(http://i.imgur.com/chJs3Fhm.png) (http://imgur.com/chJs3Fh)
Arriving at night makes things much more difficult. Regular night battles are difficult enough, but the threat of Chryssalid ambushes at nighttime is a dangerous proposition.
(http://i.imgur.com/5A7xT6sm.png) (http://imgur.com/5A7xT6s)
The hunt begins with the HWP encountering a Snakeman up against a warehouse entrance.
(http://i.imgur.com/NUIh5E9m.png) (http://imgur.com/NUIh5E9)
(http://i.imgur.com/DmrnFcim.png) (http://imgur.com/DmrnFci)
The tank takes some minor damage, but the Snakeman takes the worst of it.
(http://i.imgur.com/Q58kfZUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q58kfZU)
(http://i.imgur.com/hRr9MwVm.png) (http://imgur.com/hRr9MwV)
(http://i.imgur.com/EDtzK5Om.png) (http://imgur.com/EDtzK5O)
Another Snakeman around the corner gets blasted by the tank.
(http://i.imgur.com/P8vfuLnm.png) (http://imgur.com/P8vfuLn)
(http://i.imgur.com/4OffeAYm.png) (http://imgur.com/4OffeAY)
A Chryssalid is camoflauged by the darkness, but the vehicle's still able to find it and target it. Although it's hard to tell, the target goes down after a few bursts of plasma.
(http://i.imgur.com/5yeOCYQm.png) (http://imgur.com/5yeOCYQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/uGsnHjcm.png) (http://imgur.com/uGsnHjc)
(http://i.imgur.com/BLVCs0cm.png) (http://imgur.com/BLVCs0c)
(http://i.imgur.com/a9afprsm.png) (http://imgur.com/a9afprs)
More Chryssalids lurk the streets, under the cover of night. The HWP has to clear them all out before any troops can proceed.
(http://i.imgur.com/A6ExlISm.png) (http://imgur.com/A6ExlIS)
(http://i.imgur.com/6tJEzPdm.png) (http://imgur.com/6tJEzPd)
(http://i.imgur.com/aqRrHtVm.png) (http://imgur.com/aqRrHtV)
A grenade is thrown from the Skyranger to clear away a wall, exposing a Snakeman. The resulting exchange of plasma fire severely damages the HWP, but it holds on long enough to take out the hostile.
(http://i.imgur.com/2Pu0OdCm.png) (http://imgur.com/2Pu0OdC)
(http://i.imgur.com/B2cYRTEm.png) (http://imgur.com/B2cYRTE)
(http://i.imgur.com/Edx7eWNm.png) (http://imgur.com/Edx7eWN)
A civilian survivor is spotted; a massive unlikelihood given the threat of the Chryssalids. The squad keeps a bead on this noncombatant, determined to keep them protected.
(http://i.imgur.com/dHudiI0m.png) (http://imgur.com/dHudiI0)
Advancing down an alleyway, the HWP gets hit by a shot from a lurking Snakeman; the damaged armor just can't take another hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/A6kpIYmm.png) (http://imgur.com/A6kpIYm)
A proximity grenade is set to block off the passage.
(http://i.imgur.com/BflLGywm.png) (http://imgur.com/BflLGyw)
Another Snakeman shoots a rookie before creeping out of the hole in the warehouse wall.
(http://i.imgur.com/StnxfJPm.png) (http://imgur.com/StnxfJP)
Another grenade gets thrown in the warehouse.
(http://i.imgur.com/OM25rjkm.png) (http://imgur.com/OM25rjk)
(http://i.imgur.com/v5e6Jtim.png) (http://imgur.com/v5e6Jti)
(http://i.imgur.com/1m0blckm.png) (http://imgur.com/1m0blck)
Colonel Iwahara blasts a Snakeman trying to sneak up on her, then uses the walls of the warehouse to hunt down whichever Snakemen remain.
(http://i.imgur.com/J9K8K50m.png) (http://imgur.com/J9K8K50)
(http://i.imgur.com/DUACQzmm.png) (http://imgur.com/DUACQzm)
A Snakeman threatens the lives of two survivors. Fortunately, it's bought down before it can have a chance to attack the remaining civilians.
(http://i.imgur.com/6vg9Iojm.png) (http://imgur.com/6vg9Ioj)
(http://i.imgur.com/qfRaKvFm.png) (http://imgur.com/qfRaKvF)
Iwahara comes across multiple Snakemen in her advance. Surrounded, the best she can do is stay out of sight until the opportunity comes to strike.
(http://i.imgur.com/G5ZxbkJm.png) (http://imgur.com/G5ZxbkJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/UlXNd1qm.png) (http://imgur.com/UlXNd1q)
(http://i.imgur.com/ptvvGoDm.png) (http://imgur.com/ptvvGoD)
(http://i.imgur.com/1QmrioHm.png) (http://imgur.com/1QmrioH)
When the chance comes, she strikes hard, taking out two hostiles.
(http://i.imgur.com/xaBCHKtm.png) (http://imgur.com/xaBCHKt)(http://i.imgur.com/03noSqrm.png) (http://imgur.com/03noSqr)
(http://i.imgur.com/rRm3Uukm.png) (http://imgur.com/rRm3Uuk)
A second salvo takes out a lurking Chryssalid, although she barely has time to get back into cover before the Snakemen counterattack.
(http://i.imgur.com/6P1UlkGm.png) (http://imgur.com/6P1UlkG)
(http://i.imgur.com/ydrYIMkm.png) (http://imgur.com/ydrYIMk)
(http://i.imgur.com/Jipk3lwm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jipk3lw)
(http://i.imgur.com/r0gH0UGm.png) (http://imgur.com/r0gH0UG)
Iwahara is wounded, narrowly surviving. She charges down the remaining Snakemen before retreating.
(http://i.imgur.com/WgEWchZm.png) (http://imgur.com/WgEWchZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/17xTPKKm.png) (http://imgur.com/17xTPKK)
One more alien is taken out, clearing the district out.
Result of Operation Midnight Savior
Cmdr. Paul ?Bomber? Reynolds: 2 kils
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 5 kills; wounded, will recover in 33 days
Col. Claude ?Eraser? Gaudin: 4 kills
Alan Wright: 1 kill
Naohiro Noguchi: Promoted to Squaddie; wounded, will recover in 4 days
Scott Jones: Killed in action
HWP: Destroyed
14 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
9 civilians killed by aliens
2 civilians rescued
Debriefing: We lost another HWP, lost a rookie, and Iwahara's out for another month. On the other hand, it's amazing that any civilians survived this disaster.
-
Could be worse I guess. I was expecting a pile of bodies.
-
Could be worse I guess. I was expecting a pile of bodies.
So was I, really.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZbZwQmcm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZbZwQmc)
Interceptors are now ready at the new Africa bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/lTGbnFIm.png) (http://imgur.com/lTGbnFI)
(http://i.imgur.com/ArEpTBNm.png) (http://imgur.com/ArEpTBN)
The secondary squad from the Asia base is going after the crashed Sectoid scout. Operation Border Break commences.
Briefing: A small craft has been shot down near the German-Dutch border. A small ground team has been sent to recover the wreckage. Hostiles will consist of a small Sectoid crew. High-ranking Sectoids and psionics are unlikely to be present. Once all enemy forces have been eliminated or neutralized, salvage can begin.
(http://i.imgur.com/jBSlz17m.png) (http://imgur.com/jBSlz17)
(http://i.imgur.com/9lNsq6Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/9lNsq6W)
(http://i.imgur.com/nNieJKzm.png) (http://imgur.com/nNieJKz)
(http://i.imgur.com/e90DHK9m.png) (http://imgur.com/e90DHK9)
(http://i.imgur.com/uPW5co6m.png) (http://imgur.com/uPW5co6)
(http://i.imgur.com/TNXn4Jrm.png) (http://imgur.com/TNXn4Jr)
(http://i.imgur.com/530psL7m.png) (http://imgur.com/530psL7)
(http://i.imgur.com/SQj4i0lm.png) (http://imgur.com/SQj4i0l)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nil0MmJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nil0MmJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/xVSj73Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/xVSj73T)
The secondary squad gets armed and ready. They're not as heavily armed as the main squad, lacking things like the Blaster Launcher, but against mere Sectoids the squad could have come with laser weapons and it would have been overkill.
(http://i.imgur.com/tcqFAsSm.png) (http://imgur.com/tcqFAsS)
Smoke gets set down...
(http://i.imgur.com/Msqs1WXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Msqs1WX)
...but a Sectoid has a line of fire directly to the door of the Skyranger from a nearby building.
(http://i.imgur.com/HwLZ29ym.png) (http://imgur.com/HwLZ29y)
Nobody in the squad has even taken a step yet and already somebody's dead. Not a good start.
(http://i.imgur.com/zQc1hzvm.png) (http://imgur.com/zQc1hzv)
(http://i.imgur.com/ngf3e8Km.png) (http://imgur.com/ngf3e8K)
A Sectoid on the roof of the building is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/08wcjsUm.png) (http://imgur.com/08wcjsU)
The rocket launcher is used to blast away the wall of the second floor in case there's anybody still inside.
(http://i.imgur.com/tALDC19m.png) (http://imgur.com/tALDC19)
(http://i.imgur.com/pNltpGQm.png) (http://imgur.com/pNltpGQ)
Another Sectoid is spotted inside a barn, and falls to the advancing squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/dGY0VCcm.png) (http://imgur.com/dGY0VCc)
(http://i.imgur.com/RdKZZ4Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/RdKZZ4V)
Another Sectoid is spotted in a building. The scout gets into cover, and a grenade is used to blow away the wall.
(http://i.imgur.com/I5oR2OEm.png) (http://imgur.com/I5oR2OE)
Unfortunately, the Sectoid survives the grenade, and the blast has opened up a line of fire between it and multiple troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/y8YQIJYm.png) (http://imgur.com/y8YQIJY)
It doesn't survive the resulting firefight, but one squad member is seriously wounded, having taken three shots to the chest.
(http://i.imgur.com/r81bJ3Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/r81bJ3Z)
Another troop is ambushed by a hidden Sectoid while continuing to search the area.
(http://i.imgur.com/1lJecYGm.png) (http://imgur.com/1lJecYG)
(http://i.imgur.com/ukKTAwGm.png) (http://imgur.com/ukKTAwG)
It's spotted through a hole in a wall it made while trying to shoot another squad member; giving a captain a line of fire proves to be its last mistake.
Results of Operation Border Break
Cpt. Isao Tanida: 2 kills
Shigeo Tanida: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Dwight King: 1 kill
Tatsuo Koyama: 1 kill
Leon Gressier: Wounded, will recover in 13 days
Sgt. Jungo Fujimoto: Killed in action
Kevin Crossett: Killed in action
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull fragments recovered
DebriefingThis mission went below expections.
(http://i.imgur.com/WUgJbr9m.png) (http://imgur.com/WUgJbr9)
(http://i.imgur.com/asjuprKm.png) (http://imgur.com/asjuprK)
(http://i.imgur.com/oAadIg6m.png) (http://imgur.com/oAadIg6)
An Ethereal ship deposits some supplies at a base, outrunning any available interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/1Pitpsqm.png) (http://imgur.com/1Pitpsq)
(http://i.imgur.com/3c6QW66m.png) (http://imgur.com/3c6QW66)
(http://i.imgur.com/5RtQL5gm.png) (http://imgur.com/5RtQL5g)
(http://i.imgur.com/AVLVVyVm.png) (http://imgur.com/AVLVVyV)
(http://i.imgur.com/zx10awzm.png) (http://imgur.com/zx10awz)
(http://i.imgur.com/Os5JP0Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/Os5JP0S)
The science team has finished some new defensive tech; an anti-air platform based on the Blaster Launcher technology, and a system that can repel attacking ships and allow any base defenses to fire again. With this done, there isn't much else for the researchers to do; just a few obsolete weapons projects, some assorted alien interrogations, and looking at a few redundant UFO components. We would lose nothing by trimming the research division back down to 50 scientists and scrapping one of the laboratories; it would cut down on costs, and create some space to re-expand engineering at the Europe base.
(http://i.imgur.com/3pUryMZm.png) (http://imgur.com/3pUryMZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/d7NCdTYm.png) (http://imgur.com/d7NCdTY)
With production of additional armor finished at the Europe base, some new weapons are produced for the interceptors at the Africa bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/yAbllZNm.png) (http://imgur.com/yAbllZN)
(http://i.imgur.com/WziAGt4m.png) (http://imgur.com/WziAGt4)
With the Avenger completed, some of the fusion missiles are constructed for it.
(http://i.imgur.com/2TwxKzKm.png) (http://imgur.com/2TwxKzK)
(http://i.imgur.com/gajjBRDm.png) (http://imgur.com/gajjBRD)
(http://i.imgur.com/8LgRWX9m.png) (http://imgur.com/8LgRWX9)
(http://i.imgur.com/7udGhD7m.png) (http://imgur.com/7udGhD7)
(http://i.imgur.com/vJqJSG7m.png) (http://imgur.com/vJqJSG7)
The Plasma Beams are quickly finished, and they're shipped off and equipped.
(http://i.imgur.com/h82BUIcm.png) (http://imgur.com/h82BUIc)
(http://i.imgur.com/4urIhuhm.png) (http://imgur.com/4urIhuh)
(http://i.imgur.com/gICmJO9m.png) (http://imgur.com/gICmJO9)
An Ethereal supply ship is shot down over Russia.
(http://i.imgur.com/j5gpkS3m.png) (http://imgur.com/j5gpkS3)
(http://i.imgur.com/I5vNy8Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/I5vNy8V)
(http://i.imgur.com/YenQ1zom.png) (http://imgur.com/YenQ1zo)
(http://i.imgur.com/vaGvK51m.png) (http://imgur.com/vaGvK51)
(http://i.imgur.com/54TUrbOm.png) (http://imgur.com/54TUrbO)
(http://i.imgur.com/B6EXVvDm.png) (http://imgur.com/B6EXVvD)
More scout ships are hunted down and neutralized.
(http://i.imgur.com/vg4CdNIm.png) (http://imgur.com/vg4CdNI)
(http://i.imgur.com/ihpeoRAm.png) (http://imgur.com/ihpeoRA)
(http://i.imgur.com/b8aCjGfm.png) (http://imgur.com/b8aCjGf)
A trio of battleships appears on radar. This... isn't good news.
(http://i.imgur.com/pfDVD0Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/pfDVD0S)
The decoders are ready at the Africa bases, expanding X-COM's communications network to cover almost all of the eastern hemisphere once again.
(http://i.imgur.com/W21yagFm.png) (http://imgur.com/W21yagF)
The Avenger goes after one of the battleships, but even a few fusion missiles isn't enough to shoot one down. The counterattack leaves the X-COM craft slightly damaged, forcing it to pull back.
(http://i.imgur.com/N5FNUVdm.png) (http://imgur.com/N5FNUVd)
One of the battleships lands. Taking on an entire battleship's worth of Ethereals is a terrible idea; we're likely losing a country here. If we're facing Ethereal infiltration fleets, it means the aliens might be going all-out.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/3tf0kI7m.png) (http://imgur.com/3tf0kI7)
Redundant facilities at the new Africa bases are removed, solidifying the chokepoints at their entrances. Troops and HWPs are being requisitioned to act as security forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/8ERprN1m.png) (http://imgur.com/8ERprN1)
Alien forces have manged to establish a base on Sri Lanka.
(http://i.imgur.com/hea9gARm.png) (http://imgur.com/hea9gAR)
(http://i.imgur.com/4w3rDM1m.png) (http://imgur.com/4w3rDM1)
A load of Ethereal supplies is dumped into the ocean before it can arrive at its destination.
(http://i.imgur.com/1e22cf2m.png) (http://imgur.com/1e22cf2)
(http://i.imgur.com/l0W220hm.png) (http://imgur.com/l0W220h)
A pair of Snakeman ships appears on the communications network.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZdPRIXhm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZdPRIXh)
(http://i.imgur.com/A25KSXem.png) (http://imgur.com/A25KSXe)
(http://i.imgur.com/qyzTrZHm.png) (http://imgur.com/qyzTrZH)
Letting the scout for the terror operation get away is something that can not be allowed to happen; the pursuit is relentless.
(http://i.imgur.com/f33NbJgm.png) (http://imgur.com/f33NbJg)
(http://i.imgur.com/MUymqWcm.png) (http://imgur.com/MUymqWc)
(http://i.imgur.com/TwyZEGgm.png) (http://imgur.com/TwyZEGg)
The other scout goes down in roughly the same location.
(http://i.imgur.com/WxQ1hCNm.png) (http://imgur.com/WxQ1hCN)
Forces are mobilized for Operation Outback Rattler.
Briefing: A large Snakeman scout has been shot down over the Australian Outback. Ground forces from the X-COM Two base in Asia have been deployed to clear the area for recovery. Enemy forces will consist of a small crew; resistance should be minimal.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jtn9gVDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jtn9gVD)
(http://i.imgur.com/AQTIGPnm.png) (http://imgur.com/AQTIGPn)
(http://i.imgur.com/Jn8ilLjm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jn8ilLj)
(http://i.imgur.com/eM6Qszpm.png) (http://imgur.com/eM6Qszp)
(http://i.imgur.com/1zZi6u0m.png) (http://imgur.com/1zZi6u0)
(http://i.imgur.com/Lu0XiMtm.png) (http://imgur.com/Lu0XiMt)
(http://i.imgur.com/MhI5HHpm.png) (http://imgur.com/MhI5HHp)
(http://i.imgur.com/JqXbOpLm.png) (http://imgur.com/JqXbOpL)
(http://i.imgur.com/UgOIycOm.png) (http://imgur.com/UgOIycO)
(http://i.imgur.com/SQqzdwKm.png) (http://imgur.com/SQqzdwK)
The team gets armed and ready. Rocket launcher is ready to go if needed, although an HWP has been brought for recon and can also cover that role.
(http://i.imgur.com/XH9yqB6m.png) (http://imgur.com/XH9yqB6)
Smoke gets set down and the squad starts to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/jNfvfG5m.png) (http://imgur.com/jNfvfG5)
The UFO is visible from the landing site, although the sight of smoke means that there's likely some major damage.
(http://i.imgur.com/orXVZn2m.png) (http://imgur.com/orXVZn2)
(http://i.imgur.com/u40YP0qm.png) (http://imgur.com/u40YP0q)
A Snakeman near the entrance of the ship doesn't last particularly long.
(http://i.imgur.com/seAicuZm.png) (http://imgur.com/seAicuZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/8Zw9YFCm.png) (http://imgur.com/8Zw9YFC)
Another lurking Snakeman to the south gets brought down by the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/axhks8Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/axhks8S)
(http://i.imgur.com/9dyFLNCm.png) (http://imgur.com/9dyFLNC)
An alien spotted off in the distance by the HWP is sniped by one of the team.
(http://i.imgur.com/VE20qacm.png) (http://imgur.com/VE20qac)
(http://i.imgur.com/hY3Bphqm.png) (http://imgur.com/hY3Bphq)
The squad moves in on the entrance of the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/LYTB1Rcm.png) (http://imgur.com/LYTB1Rc)
(http://i.imgur.com/EjYmtcwm.png) (http://imgur.com/EjYmtcw)
One last Snakeman and a navigation console get blasted by a squaddie, clearing the area out.
Results of Operation Outback Rattler
Bernard Revenu: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Isao Fujimoto: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Tatsuo Koyama: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Dwight King: Promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation computer recovered
Debriefing: A well-executed, straightforward operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/Feo7pRQm.png) (http://imgur.com/Feo7pRQ)
The promotions aren't just for the troops who were involved in the mission; the growing ranks mean a few veterans in Europe get some new titles as well.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Z8ZRMPDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z8ZRMPD)(http://i.imgur.com/C8EuraYm.png) (http://imgur.com/C8EuraY)
With no objections, the research division is cut in half. The reduction in science staff will significantly reduce X-COM's monthly costs, mitigating the effect of any financial loss from alien infiltration in Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/E6e8kCKm.png) (http://imgur.com/E6e8kCK)
(http://i.imgur.com/bAnU1lCm.png) (http://imgur.com/bAnU1lC)
A scout ship is shot down over the US. It's too small to be worth attempting to recover, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/CbofxGim.png) (http://imgur.com/CbofxGi)
(http://i.imgur.com/nbwA1n1m.png) (http://imgur.com/nbwA1n1)
Another Ethereal supply ship is dumped in the South Pacific. At least it's highly unlikely that the alien forces will come crawling out of the oceans searching for revenge.
(http://i.imgur.com/JsdethFm.png) (http://imgur.com/JsdethF)
(http://i.imgur.com/fpH8VHSm.png) (http://imgur.com/fpH8VHS)
(http://i.imgur.com/uJyqXHZm.png) (http://imgur.com/uJyqXHZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/glAqDt0m.png) (http://imgur.com/glAqDt0)
Security staff and HWPs arrive at the Africa bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/EXqiqbfm.png) (http://imgur.com/EXqiqbf)
(http://i.imgur.com/p0DIbARm.png) (http://imgur.com/p0DIbAR)
This is like a sign. A new recruit shares the name of one of X-COM's first decorated officers. She is brought to Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/irs27qPm.png) (http://imgur.com/irs27qP)
(http://i.imgur.com/D8ptkhqm.png) (http://imgur.com/D8ptkhq)
Pursuing a supply ship locates an Ethereal base in Nigeria.
(http://i.imgur.com/eGkrRvXm.png) (http://imgur.com/eGkrRvX)
(http://i.imgur.com/oBE4nDDm.png) (http://imgur.com/oBE4nDD)
Another scout is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/fnuOCWbm.png) (http://imgur.com/fnuOCWb)
(http://i.imgur.com/9ggaBBam.png) (http://imgur.com/9ggaBBa)
(http://i.imgur.com/oRStZMym.png) (http://imgur.com/oRStZMy)
A Sectoid scout ship is spotted over Europe. The close range of the laser cannons leads to some slight damage to the attacking interceptor, but the alien craft goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/oCBW4jbm.png) (http://imgur.com/oCBW4jb)
Operation Grey Skies commences at dawn.
Briefing: A scout craft has crashed on the coastline of France. Forces from X-COM One are being deployed to clear the site for recovery. Enemy forces will consist of a small to medium crew of Sectoids. High-ranking Sectoids and psionics will not be present.
(http://i.imgur.com/NMR7W9km.png) (http://imgur.com/NMR7W9k)
(http://i.imgur.com/8tTXT3lm.png) (http://imgur.com/8tTXT3l)
(http://i.imgur.com/87p9f3Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/87p9f3H)
(http://i.imgur.com/APOOOWdm.png) (http://imgur.com/APOOOWd)
(http://i.imgur.com/hsez9iAm.png) (http://imgur.com/hsez9iA)
(http://i.imgur.com/fv7Gcoam.png) (http://imgur.com/fv7Gcoa)
(http://i.imgur.com/yGksJhvm.png) (http://imgur.com/yGksJhv)
(http://i.imgur.com/HlEWgrTm.png) (http://imgur.com/HlEWgrT)
(http://i.imgur.com/lTcnC6fm.png) (http://imgur.com/lTcnC6f)
(http://i.imgur.com/CM9Um9Em.png) (http://imgur.com/CM9Um9E)
The squad gets equipped for battle. More Flying Suits are available for the elites.
(http://i.imgur.com/8GaYESmm.png) (http://imgur.com/8GaYESm)
The HWP scouts the immediate vicinity; things look clear from here.
(http://i.imgur.com/H1dvpt6m.png) (http://imgur.com/H1dvpt6)
A few rookies move out; unfortunately, supplies of smoke grenades ran out, but the area is clear and the buildings provide plenty of cover against hostile fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/JTpQMMRm.png) (http://imgur.com/JTpQMMR)
(http://i.imgur.com/Zh6Tc1wm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zh6Tc1w)
The first Sectoid that's encountered doesn't last long.
(http://i.imgur.com/BUPGIaym.png) (http://imgur.com/BUPGIay)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ej0CfGPm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ej0CfGP)
A Sectoid emerging from a barn gets sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/9DZQKWjm.png) (http://imgur.com/9DZQKWj)
(http://i.imgur.com/EKGzimwm.png) (http://imgur.com/EKGzimw)
Another alien is lurking inside, but it also quickly falls.
(http://i.imgur.com/maG5r54m.png) (http://imgur.com/maG5r54)
An attempt by a Sectoid to attack with a grenade just creates some defensive smoke.
(http://i.imgur.com/2KCNErdm.png) (http://imgur.com/2KCNErd)
(http://i.imgur.com/t4irFg4m.png) (http://imgur.com/t4irFg4)
(http://i.imgur.com/eAJ66Kwm.png) (http://imgur.com/eAJ66Kw)
Another Sectoid gets spotted and shot from afar.
(http://i.imgur.com/vRjbLmXm.png) (http://imgur.com/vRjbLmX)
(http://i.imgur.com/oep8Uwzm.png) (http://imgur.com/oep8Uwz)
Some rookies breach the entrance of the ship, taking out a lone Sectoid.
(http://i.imgur.com/DmbCQOem.png) (http://imgur.com/DmbCQOe)
The HWP spots one last Sectoid hiding in the shadows, blasting it with plasma.
Results of Operation Grey Skies
HWP: 1 kill
James Wright: 3 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Helen Wright: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Andrea Sharpe: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
No X-COM casualties
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
Debriefing: Sending a fully armed, fully armored squad against Sectoids was probably complete overkill. Even so, it's good to have a mission go off without a hitch.
-
At least it's highly unlikely that the alien forces will come crawling out of the oceans searching for revenge.
:colbert:
Anyway I imagine it's fun stomping the aliens like they used to stomp us. Too bad we can't do that to Ethereals.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/UNXIRN5m.png) (http://imgur.com/UNXIRN5)
New hangars are ordered for the outlying bases in Africa and the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/ihWmxQcm.png) (http://imgur.com/ihWmxQc)
(http://i.imgur.com/2QMs4xem.png) (http://imgur.com/2QMs4xe)
An obsolete radar system is decommissioned at the Asia base to make room for some more storage.
(http://i.imgur.com/tihFZN3m.png) (http://imgur.com/tihFZN3)
(http://i.imgur.com/GchcxsNm.png) (http://imgur.com/GchcxsN)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y5fmuqdm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y5fmuqd)
(http://i.imgur.com/pssqf1Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/pssqf1Z)
More Ethereal ships go down.
(http://i.imgur.com/3yldINFm.png) (http://imgur.com/3yldINF)
An Ethereal supply ship is briefly pursued, but lands at its destination before it can be intercepted.
(http://i.imgur.com/QZjf31Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/QZjf31D)
The Avenger's repairs are finished, and it's stationed at the Arctic base, with a supply of fuel and ammunition.
(http://i.imgur.com/4g7eBzMm.png) (http://imgur.com/4g7eBzM)
(http://i.imgur.com/egvCOqMm.png) (http://imgur.com/egvCOqM)
Another Ethereal supply ship is caught, and is shot down near the Chinese border.
(http://i.imgur.com/AawxCmPm.png) (http://imgur.com/AawxCmP)
(http://i.imgur.com/KFlcyz6m.png) (http://imgur.com/KFlcyz6)
A small scout ship is pursued and obliterated.
(http://i.imgur.com/tQ60jkom.png) (http://imgur.com/tQ60jko)
(http://i.imgur.com/HJdfoUCm.png) (http://imgur.com/HJdfoUC)
(http://i.imgur.com/y8HUPFkm.png) (http://imgur.com/y8HUPFk)
(http://i.imgur.com/pJ56YNAm.png) (http://imgur.com/pJ56YNA)
(http://i.imgur.com/t2Fx6Uem.png) (http://imgur.com/t2Fx6Ue)
Analysis of the miscellaneous UFO components is finished, as well as interrogation of a navigator.
(http://i.imgur.com/pteKuvzm.png) (http://imgur.com/pteKuvz)
Another Ethereal supply run is terminated over the Indian Ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/jc0UlB5m.png) (http://imgur.com/jc0UlB5)
(http://i.imgur.com/qBd96bWm.png) (http://imgur.com/qBd96bW)
More Ethereal scouts are neutralized.
(http://i.imgur.com/Dc2qwjpm.png) (http://imgur.com/Dc2qwjp)
(http://i.imgur.com/y2fTRy1m.png) (http://imgur.com/y2fTRy1)
A Floater scout is let go in the hopes of luring some soft targets.
(http://i.imgur.com/iAkw6mWm.png) (http://imgur.com/iAkw6mW)
(http://i.imgur.com/nUiRxg0m.png) (http://imgur.com/nUiRxg0)
More alien supplies are dumped in the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/hLhbevtm.png) (http://imgur.com/hLhbevt)
(http://i.imgur.com/PuhAQv9m.png) (http://imgur.com/PuhAQv9)
A lucky shot completely obliterates a scout craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/Js2vPuqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Js2vPuq)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wz0AGr1m.png) (http://imgur.com/Wz0AGr1)
A Snakeman fleet on route to Oceania is spotted. The Skyranger at the Asia base is sent after it to try and hijack the supplies; we are critically short on Elerium.
(http://i.imgur.com/4YvmbMzm.png) (http://imgur.com/4YvmbMz)
Operation Night Viper begins.
Briefing: X-COM forces have pursued an alien supply ship to the Australian Outback. The goal of this mission is to recover as much of the resources on board the craft as possible. Hostiles will consist of a medium to large crew of Snakemen. As this is a night mission, caution is recommended.
(http://i.imgur.com/Agciwdem.png) (http://imgur.com/Agciwde)
(http://i.imgur.com/d8GzZaXm.png) (http://imgur.com/d8GzZaX)
(http://i.imgur.com/s2tXkK4m.png) (http://imgur.com/s2tXkK4)
(http://i.imgur.com/GEQNyqYm.png) (http://imgur.com/GEQNyqY)
(http://i.imgur.com/ch0Dtegm.png) (http://imgur.com/ch0Dteg)
(http://i.imgur.com/YzF3uLCm.png) (http://imgur.com/YzF3uLC)
(http://i.imgur.com/CKPBxpEm.png) (http://imgur.com/CKPBxpE)
(http://i.imgur.com/8yWD5SHm.png) (http://imgur.com/8yWD5SH)
(http://i.imgur.com/y60v5Zrm.png) (http://imgur.com/y60v5Zr)
(http://i.imgur.com/JBEIWotm.png) (http://imgur.com/JBEIWot)
Unfortunately, the squad doesn't have any equipment to handle a night mission; a lack of flares or incendiary ammo means tactics have to be adjusted to compensate.
(http://i.imgur.com/1mv9Fd5m.png) (http://imgur.com/1mv9Fd5)
(http://i.imgur.com/txEVUxLm.png) (http://imgur.com/txEVUxL)
The HWP fires ahead; desert sand doesn't ignite, but the smoke will support the squad in getting to the door of the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/6dz36exm.png) (http://imgur.com/6dz36ex)
Unfortunately, shots from the darkness quickly destroy the tank.
(http://i.imgur.com/ds62RGOm.png) (http://imgur.com/ds62RGO)
More smoke is set down so the squad can deploy; in the process, one of the team at the front takes light injuries.
(http://i.imgur.com/QMLC4gwm.png) (http://imgur.com/QMLC4gw)
(http://i.imgur.com/TDNAyrjm.png) (http://imgur.com/TDNAyrj)
(http://i.imgur.com/pK6k6ilm.png) (http://imgur.com/pK6k6il)
(http://i.imgur.com/cX2nONjm.png) (http://imgur.com/cX2nONj)
(http://i.imgur.com/aNWtoMem.png) (http://imgur.com/aNWtoMe)
(http://i.imgur.com/ngucIajm.png) (http://imgur.com/ngucIaj)
Even in the darkness of night, Snakemen around the landing site are clearly visible. The night has negligible effect on the squad's aim.
(http://i.imgur.com/N4PyJwym.png) (http://imgur.com/N4PyJwy)
Another Snakeman tries to move in from the north, but is brought down by reaction fire from the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/0UVtAI0m.png) (http://imgur.com/0UVtAI0)
In no time at all, the ship is breached.
(http://i.imgur.com/oCJpruHm.png) (http://imgur.com/oCJpruH)
(http://i.imgur.com/woClMOBm.png) (http://imgur.com/woClMOB)
A Snakeman is spotted hiding around the far corner of the ship. A grenade is used to take it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/8qeFuFtm.png) (http://imgur.com/8qeFuFt)
(http://i.imgur.com/JbyXTBym.png) (http://imgur.com/JbyXTBy)
(http://i.imgur.com/5QyIa41m.png) (http://imgur.com/5QyIa41)
(http://i.imgur.com/DkTivdpm.png) (http://imgur.com/DkTivdp)
A pair of Snakemen around a corner gets blown away by a sergeant.
(http://i.imgur.com/yAEFyrJm.png) (http://imgur.com/yAEFyrJ)
The main prize of this operation is found; three functional reactors, all with Elerium fuel.
(http://i.imgur.com/6KbmNcym.png) (http://imgur.com/6KbmNcy)
(http://i.imgur.com/aJjDi4km.png) (http://imgur.com/aJjDi4k)
A charge begins towards the back of the ship, where the path to the upper levels is.
(http://i.imgur.com/sf2Zs48m.png) (http://imgur.com/sf2Zs48)
(http://i.imgur.com/M3NgQi7m.png) (http://imgur.com/M3NgQi7)
A Snakeman comes out of the right lift, promptly getting mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/0S6UxCvm.png) (http://imgur.com/0S6UxCv)
The team then commandeers the lift, moving up to the top level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/JUX9xyVm.png) (http://imgur.com/JUX9xyV)
(http://i.imgur.com/CwxOSyWm.png) (http://imgur.com/CwxOSyW)
(http://i.imgur.com/S40wgIwm.png) (http://imgur.com/S40wgIw)
A Snakeman fails to spot the troops as it passes through the hallway, getting hit from a flank at close range.
(http://i.imgur.com/cVO7sdkm.png) (http://imgur.com/cVO7sdk)
(http://i.imgur.com/2zxkFEwm.png) (http://imgur.com/2zxkFEw)
A Snakeman near the control room is quickly taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/4hFyf76m.png) (http://imgur.com/4hFyf76)
A rookie on the first level is ambushed by a Snakeman that escaped a search of the middle storage level.
(http://i.imgur.com/ODJciI3m.png) (http://imgur.com/ODJciI3)
(http://i.imgur.com/AkdXHtSm.png) (http://imgur.com/AkdXHtS)
The leader in charge of the ship tries to exit the control room, but is caught between two Sergeants and is quickly blasted.
(http://i.imgur.com/GygRMpfm.png) (http://imgur.com/GygRMpf)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q4u6pYnm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q4u6pYn)
One last Snakeman is spotted and dealt with, clearing out the ship and allowing X-COM to recover the cargo.
Result of Operation Night Viper
HWP: Destroyed
Sgt. Shigeo Tanida: 5 kills; wounded, will recover in 3 days
Sgt. Dwight King: 3 kills
Cpt. Isao Tanida: 2 kills
Sgt. Isao Fujimoto: 1 kill
Sgt. Bernard Revenu: 1 kill
Clarence King: Killed in action
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactors, navigation systems, fuel, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Given that this was a night mission the squad was not properly equipped for, only losing one soldier and a cheap HWP is a good outcome. Recovering the Elerium is a massive gain.
(http://i.imgur.com/HwNWWzdm.png) (http://imgur.com/HwNWWzd)
Using the funds from the salvaged materials, it's time to start constructing some defenses at the outlying bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/2Lw6jstm.png) (http://imgur.com/2Lw6jst)
A Snakeman scout that's part of the base construction fleet is taken out by an interceptor.
(http://i.imgur.com/5z2JIhSm.png) (http://imgur.com/5z2JIhS)
The month ends; Nigeria has been lost to infiltration, but the other backing nations are more than picking up the slack.
(http://i.imgur.com/xaOGwtYm.png) (http://imgur.com/xaOGwtY)
The first round of psionic testing is completed. Now that we know the psychic strength (and weakness) of some of our troops, fighting the Ethereals is much less of a risky proposition. With how many Ethereal supply ships are flying around, hopefully we won't have to worry about an Elerium bottleneck ever again.
(http://i.imgur.com/PF9d4Z3m.png) (http://imgur.com/PF9d4Z3)
(http://i.imgur.com/EqmsZJrm.png) (http://imgur.com/EqmsZJr)
The Snakeman base has been located, close to the site of an Ethereal base in Papua New Guinea. It's honestly hard to tell which is which.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/VPSmvQNm.png) (http://imgur.com/VPSmvQN)
The engineering team in Europe starts constructing some amplifiers to take advantage of the troops' new capabilities.
(http://i.imgur.com/WvPxtqhm.png) (http://imgur.com/WvPxtqh)
(http://i.imgur.com/rGF8IFEm.png) (http://imgur.com/rGF8IFE)
(http://i.imgur.com/9mXlYyxm.png) (http://imgur.com/9mXlYyx)
(http://i.imgur.com/PfNS53tm.png) (http://imgur.com/PfNS53t)
Some scouts get taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/vJkItEWm.png) (http://imgur.com/vJkItEW)
(http://i.imgur.com/0DReA3am.png) (http://imgur.com/0DReA3a)
A Floater ship gets brought down in China.
(http://i.imgur.com/nnfaOmAm.png) (http://imgur.com/nnfaOmA)
(http://i.imgur.com/F9X0eT6m.png) (http://imgur.com/F9X0eT6)
A Snakeman supply ship slips past air defenses.
(http://i.imgur.com/HAKe1utm.png) (http://imgur.com/HAKe1ut)
A Snakeman terror ship appears. Interceptors aren't able to shoot it down, but the air patrol repels it from its destination and prevents an attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/UPczVIMm.png) (http://imgur.com/UPczVIM)
The storage expansion at the Asia base is done.
(http://i.imgur.com/QCrWbKXm.png) (http://imgur.com/QCrWbKX)
(http://i.imgur.com/KKvkR0am.png) (http://imgur.com/KKvkR0a)
A small scout is the next to be destroyed by air patrols.
(http://i.imgur.com/JrlExFWm.png) (http://imgur.com/JrlExFW)
(http://i.imgur.com/wWuzJdrm.png) (http://imgur.com/wWuzJdr)
Another scout goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/JPLTZVVm.png) (http://imgur.com/JPLTZVV)
While preparations are made for the Europe team to deal with Ethereals, the team in Asia goes after the crashed Floater ship. Operation Soft Shell commences.
Briefing: A Floater scout craft was recently shot down in a rural area of China. Forces from X-COM Two have been deployed to clear the site for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a small to medium crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/NPjedu1m.png) (http://imgur.com/NPjedu1)
(http://i.imgur.com/MA9U5Yhm.png) (http://imgur.com/MA9U5Yh)
(http://i.imgur.com/wzV45CKm.png) (http://imgur.com/wzV45CK)
(http://i.imgur.com/1hUVZXvm.png) (http://imgur.com/1hUVZXv)
(http://i.imgur.com/4FWPecfm.png) (http://imgur.com/4FWPecf)
(http://i.imgur.com/tKV9JPvm.png) (http://imgur.com/tKV9JPv)
(http://i.imgur.com/2BTCBNum.png) (http://imgur.com/2BTCBNu)
Due to not having quite enough armor for a 10-person squad, only eight are being deployed here. If eight soldiers in power suits with heavy plasma guns can't deal with Floaters, though. we have bigger problems.
(http://i.imgur.com/TRk0fzum.png) (http://imgur.com/TRk0fzu)
Smoke gets set out and everybody gets moving.
(http://i.imgur.com/pgpiCcjm.png) (http://imgur.com/pgpiCcj)
(http://i.imgur.com/xYmx3uzm.png) (http://imgur.com/xYmx3uz)
The first Floater encountered goes down without any trouble.
(http://i.imgur.com/tAPO4iDm.png) (http://imgur.com/tAPO4iD)
Another quickly goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/LolUIr6m.png) (http://imgur.com/LolUIr6)
(http://i.imgur.com/rx4hP4hm.png) (http://imgur.com/rx4hP4h)
A third Floater is taken out by the squad as it fans out.
(http://i.imgur.com/0rMWJ8fm.png) (http://imgur.com/0rMWJ8f)
An alien grenade fails to reach the squad, instead kicking up some smoke that can be used for cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/BO4FEvum.png) (http://imgur.com/BO4FEvu)
(http://i.imgur.com/HoI8HhQm.png) (http://imgur.com/HoI8HhQ)
Unfortunately, it doesn't help against an ambush, and the smoke rapidly clears.
(http://i.imgur.com/DpMwegim.png) (http://imgur.com/DpMwegi)
(http://i.imgur.com/DNdyBfJm.png) (http://imgur.com/DNdyBfJ)
Another Floater to the west goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/DNdyBfJm.png) (http://imgur.com/DNdyBfJ)
Unfortunately a Floater emerging from the ship ambushes the captain running point on this operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/k2gT4lLm.png) (http://imgur.com/k2gT4lL)
This alien goes down as well, but not planning for hostiles coming out of the ship was a bad mistake.
(http://i.imgur.com/rIG21wum.png) (http://imgur.com/rIG21wu)
(http://i.imgur.com/C7BEwxqm.png) (http://imgur.com/C7BEwxq)
Breaking into the ship finds one more Floater, which is swiftly taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/Kwi19vlm.png) (http://imgur.com/Kwi19vl)
Yet another is spotted hiding in the crops.
(http://i.imgur.com/LXc8EGxm.png) (http://imgur.com/LXc8EGx)
(http://i.imgur.com/UoPRLslm.png) (http://imgur.com/UoPRLsl)
An initial burst of fire misses, and the Floater retaliates, taking out the attacking sergeant.
(http://i.imgur.com/nnnfrkCm.png) (http://imgur.com/nnnfrkC)
(http://i.imgur.com/u6qwAMem.png) (http://imgur.com/u6qwAMe)
Someone from further away manages to get it.
(http://i.imgur.com/wo5jLUcm.png) (http://imgur.com/wo5jLUc)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZoCXOKHm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZoCXOKH)
Another Floater tries to sneak up on part of the team around the ship's door. Nobody has patience for that kind of trick at this point.
Results of Operation Soft Shell:
Sgt. Dwight King: 1 kill
Sgt. Tatsuo Koyama: 1 kill
Rene Buchard: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Louis Dujardin: 2 kills, promoted to Squaddie
Cpt. Isao Tanida: Killed in action
Sgt. Bernard Revenu: Killed in action
8 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
Debriefing: No easy way to say it, the execution of this mission was sloppy. Losing three troops in engaging mere Floaters is a disappointing outcome. We still come out ahead here, though.
(http://i.imgur.com/DIpMhbLm.png) (http://imgur.com/DIpMhbL)
(http://i.imgur.com/5iKTzWLm.png) (http://imgur.com/5iKTzWL)
Construction starts on defenses at the Europe base.
(http://i.imgur.com/BDnoyw8m.png) (http://imgur.com/BDnoyw8)
(http://i.imgur.com/49tUxVVm.png) (http://imgur.com/49tUxVV)
Another Ethereal scout is eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/UBFU9svm.png) (http://imgur.com/UBFU9sv)
(http://i.imgur.com/xfEMh71m.png) (http://imgur.com/xfEMh71)
The science team doesn't really have much else to do until we can capture a commander.
(http://i.imgur.com/OeV2GHfm.png) (http://imgur.com/OeV2GHf)
A new batch of recruits is brought in.
(http://i.imgur.com/nJXLyFmm.png) (http://imgur.com/nJXLyFm)
(http://i.imgur.com/NfGyHYcm.png) (http://imgur.com/NfGyHYc)
Blaster ammo for one of the HWPs is finally available and brought to X-COM One. With a squad carefully hand-picked based on psionic capability and two HWPs ready for battle, it's finally time to start taking the offensive against the mysterious aliens that have had us on the defensive for months.
(http://i.imgur.com/1UuK2x3m.png) (http://imgur.com/1UuK2x3)
(http://i.imgur.com/m8Slm4xm.png) (http://imgur.com/m8Slm4x)
And it appears we might have some volunteers.
-
It's time to crush the aliens with our minds. And by that I mean heavy weapons platforms.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/zkXs70Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/zkXs70S)
(http://i.imgur.com/qpaXi4Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/qpaXi4L)
A Snakeman terror ship appears on radar. It evades pursuit, leaving interceptors to patrol cities around Australia in case it shows up again.
(http://i.imgur.com/y3xHvizm.png) (http://imgur.com/y3xHviz)
Unfortunately, the ship attacks New Zealand instead.
(http://i.imgur.com/n685sKBm.png) (http://imgur.com/n685sKB)
(http://i.imgur.com/51jUsyWm.png) (http://imgur.com/51jUsyW)
Forces are assembled, but the attack ends before the Skyranger can arrive in Wellington. New Zealand is not a backing nation, and Australia is already under alien control, so the political impact from this will be minor as long as long as the offensive is kept up against alien forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/y7DZWxem.png) (http://imgur.com/y7DZWxe)
(http://i.imgur.com/CZwRSBim.png) (http://imgur.com/CZwRSBi)
A Snakeman scout ship hunts the South Pacific for a base that doesn't exist.
(http://i.imgur.com/Eensnjvm.png) (http://imgur.com/Eensnjv)
(http://i.imgur.com/DvniOjMm.png) (http://imgur.com/DvniOjM)
(http://i.imgur.com/qi5nFJQm.png) (http://imgur.com/qi5nFJQ)
Another Ethereal scout goes down. Forces are mobilized for Operation Think Tank.
Briefing: An Ethereal scout ship has crashed in a rural region in Central Asia. Selected troops and a pair of HWPs have been deployed to clear the site for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a small to medium crew. Psionic powers will be used by the enemy; the troops being deployed have been specifically chosen to counter this threat.
(http://i.imgur.com/GI3hvklm.png) (http://imgur.com/GI3hvkl)
(http://i.imgur.com/y6zImakm.png) (http://imgur.com/y6zImak)
(http://i.imgur.com/nEHvoFum.png) (http://imgur.com/nEHvoFu)
(http://i.imgur.com/PoJeg0Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/PoJeg0L)
(http://i.imgur.com/3qwBadqm.png) (http://imgur.com/3qwBadq)
(http://i.imgur.com/vGA0Jkam.png) (http://imgur.com/vGA0Jka)
The two troops with the weakest psionic power have been left unarmed to act as decoys for the Ethereals. Helen Wright, with the strongest power, has been given a Psi-Amp.
(http://i.imgur.com/YGwafInm.png) (http://imgur.com/YGwafIn)
An Ethereal is spotted on a rooftop near the landing site. Mentally, its raw mental power is actually weaker than a few of the troops, but it's far more trained and refined; it's effectively a psionic stalemate, where neither side can really use its powers against the other.
(http://i.imgur.com/jZxVvxHm.png) (http://imgur.com/jZxVvxH)
(http://i.imgur.com/gw6Old4m.png) (http://imgur.com/gw6Old4)
(http://i.imgur.com/Qiwr85hm.png) (http://imgur.com/Qiwr85h)
The Ethereal manages to evade attacks from the first HWP's plasma cannon and take it out with counter fire. However, the second tank's fusion launcher is far more difficult to avoid.
(http://i.imgur.com/jppB1AZm.png) (http://imgur.com/jppB1AZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Po0nz76m.png) (http://imgur.com/Po0nz76)
(http://i.imgur.com/nggoI5wm.png) (http://imgur.com/nggoI5w)
With little resistance outside, it's easy to breach into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/EMgB5Hdm.png) (http://imgur.com/EMgB5Hd)
(http://i.imgur.com/n344cKCm.png) (http://imgur.com/n344cKC)
Unfortunately, a close-quarters firefight doesn't go in the team's favor.
(http://i.imgur.com/WyefoQem.png) (http://imgur.com/WyefoQe)
(http://i.imgur.com/bMyZoZim.png) (http://imgur.com/bMyZoZi)
Another Ethereal is quickly
(http://i.imgur.com/leagqaYm.png) (http://imgur.com/leagqaY)
(http://i.imgur.com/fgwfh6Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/fgwfh6M)
As expected, the Ethereals direct their attacks straight to the two who have been brought along to be distractions for the rest of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/9Jug5vkm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Jug5vk)
This wasn't part of the plan. Fortunately, Unger's far from everybody else.
(http://i.imgur.com/bi8cBX1m.png) (http://imgur.com/bi8cBX1)
Unfortunately, his morale is vulnerable, and even when not under mind control he's still dead weight.
(http://i.imgur.com/mbcxI1Im.png) (http://imgur.com/mbcxI1I)
(http://i.imgur.com/bGO4sz3m.png) (http://imgur.com/bGO4sz3)
When Unger's back to functional, he searches through the door and finds an Ethereal... unfortunately he dropped his weapon earlier. While pulling back, he receives some wounds.
(http://i.imgur.com/iFKqMshm.png) (http://imgur.com/iFKqMsh)
Treating them is a difficult proposition, with Klaus panicking again and unable to pass his Medi-Kit to the nearest squadmate.
(http://i.imgur.com/LU5nvXHm.png) (http://imgur.com/LU5nvXH)
Eventually, he pulls himself together long enough to toss it over to Helen, who quickly starts patching him up.
(http://i.imgur.com/rNCo36dm.png) (http://imgur.com/rNCo36d)
(http://i.imgur.com/wtqgdcPm.png) (http://imgur.com/wtqgdcP)
Going through to the cockpit discovers some more Ethereals. One goes down after a burst of plasma fire; the other only has a stun launcher and isn't much of a threat.
(http://i.imgur.com/NWmvIZsm.png) (http://imgur.com/NWmvIZs)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y70rVJ6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Y70rVJ6)
(http://i.imgur.com/iySYxZvm.png) (http://imgur.com/iySYxZv)
(http://i.imgur.com/K9w2gbBm.png) (http://imgur.com/K9w2gbB)
The worn-out Unger manages to get the Ethereal that attacked him on the other end of the ship. Unfortunately, there's another Ethereal around the corner that wasn't expected.
(http://i.imgur.com/ICS8baJm.png) (http://imgur.com/ICS8baJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/HzSi3Lim.png) (http://imgur.com/HzSi3Li)
The Ethereal technician at the controls goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/obw5DkTm.png) (http://imgur.com/obw5DkT)
Attempting to pursue the other Ethereal just leads to Helen getting shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/22h86Ujm.png) (http://imgur.com/22h86Uj)
Sgt. Okabe goes down from the rampage of the last Ethereal.
(http://i.imgur.com/y1Ki6Arm.png) (http://imgur.com/y1Ki6Ar)
With one of the remaining soldiers under mind control and the other panicking and running away from the evac zone, retreating isn't possible at this point.
(http://i.imgur.com/XU3vjSFm.png) (http://imgur.com/XU3vjSF)
(http://i.imgur.com/TkXUYFwm.png) (http://imgur.com/TkXUYFw)
(http://i.imgur.com/jKxZhyFm.png) (http://imgur.com/jKxZhyF)
There's still a tank, though. Careful aim means being able to blow open the cockpit and take out the last Ethereal while avoiding damage to the reactor we want to recover.
Results of Operation Think Tank
Plasma HWP: Destroyed
Blaster HWP: 2 kills
Gerard Bouton: 0 kills
James Wright: 0 kills
Sgt. Helen Wright: Killed in action
Sgt. Dwight McNeil: Killed in action
Sgt. Kenji Okabe: Killed in action
Klaus Unger: Killed in action
7 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation system, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: This battle with the Ethereals went poorer than expected, although it was due to tactical deficiencies and overconfidence rather than being overwhelmed by psychic attacks. These powers must be refined in our remaining forces.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/gqS4XgFm.png) (http://imgur.com/gqS4XgF)
(http://i.imgur.com/qwXqss5m.png) (http://imgur.com/qwXqss5)
(http://i.imgur.com/R7sKT8Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/R7sKT8Y)
(http://i.imgur.com/wSvEhhjm.png) (http://imgur.com/wSvEhhj)
(http://i.imgur.com/gL2DRg3m.png) (http://imgur.com/gL2DRg3)
Some Sectoid ships are shot down over Europe and Africa. A medium-sized one is worth salvaging; the Europe team is sent in for Operation Brain Buster, with a recovered Iwahara leading the charge.
Briefing: A Sectoid abduction craft has been shot down over western Europe. Forces led by Col. Iwahara have been sent to clear the site for recover. Enemy forces will consist of a medium to large crew; high-ranking Sectoids with psionic capabilities may be present.
(http://i.imgur.com/qCNNS97m.png) (http://imgur.com/qCNNS97)
(http://i.imgur.com/eqdTyyAm.png) (http://imgur.com/eqdTyyA)
(http://i.imgur.com/nQLjYVnm.png) (http://imgur.com/nQLjYVn)
(http://i.imgur.com/p8qltWvm.png) (http://imgur.com/p8qltWv)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nk18SHHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nk18SHH)
(http://i.imgur.com/OWsc9CKm.png) (http://imgur.com/OWsc9CK)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cn3tjkym.png) (http://imgur.com/Cn3tjky)
Another rookie's here with a Psi-Amp and pistol but was accidentally glossed over.
(http://i.imgur.com/ypKBsV7m.png) (http://imgur.com/ypKBsV7)
Smoke is set down and the HWP gets moving to a nearby rooftop.
(http://i.imgur.com/zL6gsQ1m.png) (http://imgur.com/zL6gsQ1)
(http://i.imgur.com/4V2l6MGm.png) (http://imgur.com/4V2l6MG)
A Sectoid is hiding in a nearby farmhouse; rather than have the troops chase it down, a fusion bomb is launched inside, blowing everything up.
(http://i.imgur.com/HbrcUoZm.png) (http://imgur.com/HbrcUoZ)
The tank is heavily damaged by enemy fire from ground level, but it's still kicking for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/jX7Z5rKm.png) (http://imgur.com/jX7Z5rK)
(http://i.imgur.com/lk6gznwm.png) (http://imgur.com/lk6gznw)
An alien emerging from a hull breach is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/4iKzralm.png) (http://imgur.com/4iKzral)
(http://i.imgur.com/xFWsATim.png) (http://imgur.com/xFWsATi)
The HWP detects more Sectoids lurking in the shadows.
(http://i.imgur.com/1dTBN5gm.png) (http://imgur.com/1dTBN5g)
(http://i.imgur.com/Sv9BOKgm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sv9BOKg)
(http://i.imgur.com/MTIJ7aum.png) (http://imgur.com/MTIJ7au)
(http://i.imgur.com/uQtKzZ2m.png) (http://imgur.com/uQtKzZ2)
A Sectoid attempts to take cover in what's left of the nearby farmhouse. Somehow, it manages to not only survive a direct hit from a heavy plasma, but take out the attacking sergeant with a counterattack. It takes a shot from further away to finish the job.
(http://i.imgur.com/QuR6jRLm.png) (http://imgur.com/QuR6jRL)
(http://i.imgur.com/cnMcIZ9m.png) (http://imgur.com/cnMcIZ9)
(http://i.imgur.com/xaqClDgm.png) (http://imgur.com/xaqClDg)
Another shot from the tank takes out a small crowd of Sectoids.
(http://i.imgur.com/sOUx7Hlm.png) (http://imgur.com/sOUx7Hl)
(http://i.imgur.com/g4xH2wzm.png) (http://imgur.com/g4xH2wz)
One further away gets a blast all to itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/vswmbjom.png) (http://imgur.com/vswmbjo)
(http://i.imgur.com/JE9A8qSm.png) (http://imgur.com/JE9A8qS)
One shot from the distance breaks through the weakened armor of the HWP, putting it out of commission.
(http://i.imgur.com/Di0yVwqm.png) (http://imgur.com/Di0yVwq)
(http://i.imgur.com/534mxr6m.png) (http://imgur.com/534mxr6)
Another soldier goes down courtesy of Sectoids hiding in the broken ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/vEB4685m.png) (http://imgur.com/vEB4685)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mk3uQEcm.png) (http://imgur.com/Mk3uQEc)
(http://i.imgur.com/H65Qu4wm.png) (http://imgur.com/H65Qu4w)
Iwahara's wounded by a firefight with an alien on the opposite side. Joy.
(http://i.imgur.com/N7iOKFkm.png) (http://imgur.com/N7iOKFk)
(http://i.imgur.com/7yxfO8wm.png) (http://imgur.com/7yxfO8w)
She gets patched up quickly enough, but she's still going to be out of commission after this operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/yKUvnPum.png) (http://imgur.com/yKUvnPu)
(http://i.imgur.com/tePtVqKm.png) (http://imgur.com/tePtVqK)
With one arm injured and her aim off as a result, taking on two Sectoids at once is a bad idea. She gets out of the aliens' sight.
(http://i.imgur.com/bqCJAkom.png) (http://imgur.com/bqCJAko)
A proximity grenade is set down to block off the hull breach.
(http://i.imgur.com/sCDRy3Om.png) (http://imgur.com/sCDRy3O)
(http://i.imgur.com/TCPchtwm.png) (http://imgur.com/TCPchtw)
The grenade takes out one Sectoid, making it easy to just blast the other.
(http://i.imgur.com/0T86eMWm.png) (http://imgur.com/0T86eMW)
(http://i.imgur.com/DEHfQcUm.png) (http://imgur.com/DEHfQcU)
Another Sectoid is brought down by Iwahara.
(http://i.imgur.com/rLBsxq5m.png) (http://imgur.com/rLBsxq5)
Psychic attacks from the cockpit go for more than just the decoys, yet again.
(http://i.imgur.com/eUFEkeSm.png) (http://imgur.com/eUFEkeS)
With Noguchi stunned by panic, he's a sitting duck for a Sectoid.
(http://i.imgur.com/1nVb9prm.png) (http://imgur.com/1nVb9pr)
(http://i.imgur.com/RCa23bem.png) (http://imgur.com/RCa23be)
Iwahara takes out the stray Sectoid, and starts going for the control room of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/s2lC3pCm.png) (http://imgur.com/s2lC3pC)
(http://i.imgur.com/o7YEnoKm.png) (http://imgur.com/o7YEnoK)
All that remains is the alien leader; it doesn't take long to deal with.
Results of Operation Brain Buster
HWP: Destroyed
Col. Yoko ?Eliminator? Iwahara: 5 kills; wounded, will recover in 21 days
Sgt. Naohiro Noguchi: Killed in action
Sgt, Maria Jones: Killed in action
Helen Jones: Killed in action
14 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: And so, we lose multiple sergeants, the good HWP, and Iwahara's hospitalized again. On the other hand, a side effect of this battle is knowing she's mostly immune to psionics. Another month of psychic training and testing will be needed to get any use out of the Amplifiers.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/UBC4Vu8m.png) (http://imgur.com/UBC4Vu8)
(http://i.imgur.com/nW0V6lCm.png) (http://imgur.com/nW0V6lC)
An Ethereal scout is sent crashing down in Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/cJZHGFXm.png) (http://imgur.com/cJZHGFX)
The squad from the Asia base is sent to Africa to handle a small crash site. Operation Desert Remnant begins.
Briefing: A medium scout is crashed in the Kalahari desert of southern Africa, close to the location of New Three One. A ground team has been sent to clean up the wreckage and prepare the site for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a small crew of low-level Sectoids; opposition should be minimal.
(http://i.imgur.com/11SOpicm.png) (http://imgur.com/11SOpic)
(http://i.imgur.com/PfiO9Azm.png) (http://imgur.com/PfiO9Az)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZyI35pem.png) (http://imgur.com/ZyI35pe)
(http://i.imgur.com/kEpf6XHm.png) (http://imgur.com/kEpf6XH)(http://i.imgur.com/JLHUTIAm.png) (http://imgur.com/JLHUTIA)
(http://i.imgur.com/BVKuXiJm.png) (http://imgur.com/BVKuXiJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Qi7PI0fm.png) (http://imgur.com/Qi7PI0f)
(http://i.imgur.com/OTUfYpfm.png) (http://imgur.com/OTUfYpf)
(http://i.imgur.com/rujE4BKm.png) (http://imgur.com/rujE4BK)
(http://i.imgur.com/ymAyqIOm.png) (http://imgur.com/ymAyqIO)
Due to an oversight, not all of the troops on this operation have been equipped with armor. This mission will focus on trying to only use the squad members with power suits.
(http://i.imgur.com/YsW1Lomm.png) (http://imgur.com/YsW1Lom)
The mission starts with smoke being set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/nivbYiRm.png) (http://imgur.com/nivbYiR)
(http://i.imgur.com/3WfboSsm.png) (http://imgur.com/3WfboSs)
Sectoids don't do well against their own plasma weapons; a single shot is enough.
(http://i.imgur.com/BEeG1MMm.png) (http://imgur.com/BEeG1MM)
(http://i.imgur.com/A1IQ2RTm.png) (http://imgur.com/A1IQ2RT)
(http://i.imgur.com/rdDFJyIm.png) (http://imgur.com/rdDFJyI)
(http://i.imgur.com/XAjBauam.png) (http://imgur.com/XAjBaua)
Sectoids are lurking around the landing gear, but against armored troops in smoke they can't do much.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jfqf23nm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jfqf23n)
(http://i.imgur.com/beUySevm.png) (http://imgur.com/beUySev)
(http://i.imgur.com/BK31P3Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/BK31P3L)
(http://i.imgur.com/2m8G3GFm.png) (http://imgur.com/2m8G3GF)
The battle is fast and non-stop, but every Sectoid that arrives to the fight is one that gets mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/bEoDbbFm.png) (http://imgur.com/bEoDbbF)
(http://i.imgur.com/WOKZHsJm.png) (http://imgur.com/WOKZHsJ)
Rather than rush the ship, a proximity grenade is set in front of the door to await any remaining Sectoids while troops lie in ambush around the sides.
(http://i.imgur.com/pnC4Zqzm.png) (http://imgur.com/pnC4Zqz)
(http://i.imgur.com/dxVeMCRm.png) (http://imgur.com/dxVeMCR)
The first Sectoid to emerge from the ship triggers the blast, while a second runs into the squad's line of fire.
Results of Operation Desert Remnant
Cpt. Shigeo Tanida: 3 kills
Sgt. Dwight King: 2 kills
Louis Dujardin: Promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: This operation was fairly straightforward.
(http://i.imgur.com/sQQQMJEm.png) (http://imgur.com/sQQQMJE)
(http://i.imgur.com/NTC3Md3m.png) (http://imgur.com/NTC3Md3)
A Sectoid scout slips away from our interceptors, but it's of minimal concern.
(http://i.imgur.com/1MHXCbIm.png) (http://imgur.com/1MHXCbI)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nvlz88vm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nvlz88v)
Another supply ship is sent down into the ocean near Sri Lanka.
(http://i.imgur.com/UgXIq7fm.png) (http://imgur.com/UgXIq7f)
(http://i.imgur.com/qwIFteim.png) (http://imgur.com/qwIFtei)
(http://i.imgur.com/aCqLfm2m.png) (http://imgur.com/aCqLfm2)
It's overkill, but the Avenger is used to shoot down a Floater harvester when nothing else can keep up.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/wTvvCMVm.png) (http://imgur.com/wTvvCMV)
It's time to get going after the ship recently shot down in the United States. Operation Forest Ranger commences.
Briefing: A Floater harvester ship has been shot down in the Pacific Northwest. Ground forces from X-COM One have been deployed to clear the site for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a medium to large crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/B8EJzvmm.png) (http://imgur.com/B8EJzvm)
(http://i.imgur.com/p0x7flgm.png) (http://imgur.com/p0x7flg)
(http://i.imgur.com/JugEAc4m.png) (http://imgur.com/JugEAc4)
(http://i.imgur.com/Omzn4jBm.png) (http://imgur.com/Omzn4jB)
(http://i.imgur.com/5DI1O07m.png) (http://imgur.com/5DI1O07)
(http://i.imgur.com/HZMnsM7m.png) (http://imgur.com/HZMnsM7)
(http://i.imgur.com/LR9uOeIm.png) (http://imgur.com/LR9uOeI)
(http://i.imgur.com/6KRH0Hom.png) (http://imgur.com/6KRH0Ho)
(http://i.imgur.com/QkVO6fRm.png) (http://imgur.com/QkVO6fR)
(http://i.imgur.com/C38erHRm.png) (http://imgur.com/C38erHR)
Team is equipped and deploy. That Psi-amp probably isn't going to do anything, but somebody needs to get relegated to support regardless.
(http://i.imgur.com/D0OrBYmm.png) (http://imgur.com/D0OrBYm)
(http://i.imgur.com/IwYGQQ2m.png) (http://imgur.com/IwYGQQ2)
As usual, the mission starts with a smoke grenade out the door.
(http://i.imgur.com/W5b3x7um.png) (http://imgur.com/W5b3x7u)
(http://i.imgur.com/nyYWJLpm.png) (http://imgur.com/nyYWJLp)
(http://i.imgur.com/MwP9SI4m.png) (http://imgur.com/MwP9SI4)
(http://i.imgur.com/KmmGUDfm.png) (http://imgur.com/KmmGUDf)
(http://i.imgur.com/9rAVvVUm.png) (http://imgur.com/9rAVvVU)
Floaters in the forest make easy targets.
(http://i.imgur.com/Wwq9OQ4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Wwq9OQ4)
(http://i.imgur.com/Rm9wC2Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/Rm9wC2B)
A quick pass from Barbara to one of the sergeants on the ground gets another smoke grenade in the field, covering the advance forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/82178vqm.png) (http://imgur.com/82178vq)
(http://i.imgur.com/SBzu0fTm.png) (http://imgur.com/SBzu0fT)
A Floater emerging from the hills in the distance gets struck by reaction fire from the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/HOOMY0cm.png) (http://imgur.com/HOOMY0c)
Another Floater gets mowed down by the wall of troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/sHPiPEum.png) (http://imgur.com/sHPiPEu)
A Floater grenade not only completely fails to injure any of the squad, but manages to kill one of the aliens themselves.
(http://i.imgur.com/pgnihhWm.png) (http://imgur.com/pgnihhW)
(http://i.imgur.com/4uFL2k2m.png) (http://imgur.com/4uFL2k2)
A Floater on top of the ship gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/HHHK6Wtm.png) (http://imgur.com/HHHK6Wt)
(http://i.imgur.com/H3idtHMm.png) (http://imgur.com/H3idtHM)
Yet another Floater goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/refB493m.png) (http://imgur.com/refB493)
(http://i.imgur.com/7ZbGXDSm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ZbGXDS)
As a Floater emerges from the ship, it quickly falls.
(http://i.imgur.com/Bs1oEyym.png) (http://imgur.com/Bs1oEyy)
(http://i.imgur.com/MSsgcmdm.png) (http://imgur.com/MSsgcmd)
Unfortunately, another manages to get a lucky shot in on one of the squad. However, even this Floater is eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/SOWx1S9m.png) (http://imgur.com/SOWx1S9)
The squad moves in on the entrances to the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/cywsesLm.png) (http://imgur.com/cywsesL)
(http://i.imgur.com/dCqXASNm.png) (http://imgur.com/dCqXASN)
A Floater trying to come down from the upper levels of the ship is caught by two of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/cznFLW6m.png) (http://imgur.com/cznFLW6)
(http://i.imgur.com/9ZhRfjjm.png) (http://imgur.com/9ZhRfjj)
A floater technician armed with nothing but a stun launcher also doesn't last particularly long against the advance of the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/iaNYEtCm.png) (http://imgur.com/iaNYEtC)
With no resistance, it's easy to get to the top level of the ship and reach the control room.
(http://i.imgur.com/o2kVtqym.png) (http://imgur.com/o2kVtqy)
All that's left is a pair of Floaters; one has dropped its weapon and one is within easy range.
(http://i.imgur.com/wK3HCKom.png) (http://imgur.com/wK3HCKo)
(http://i.imgur.com/4vzsZWBm.png) (http://imgur.com/4vzsZWB)
The furthest Floater goes down, and the nearer one is brought down by the blast from an exploding control console. The squad is done here.
Result of Operation Forest Ranger
Cpt. Oscar Bradley: 1 kill
Sgt. Barbara Stephens: 1 kill
Sgt. Gerard Bouton: 3 kills
Sgt. James Wright: 4 kills, promoted to Captain
Sgt. Spencer Miller: 4 kills
Sgt. Gaston Dreyfus: Killed in action
13 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Considering the length of the battle and number of enemies involved, one loss is what can be considered ?acceptable casualties?.
(http://i.imgur.com/49FHSmxm.png) (http://imgur.com/49FHSmx)
(http://i.imgur.com/Au3xOl9m.png) (http://imgur.com/Au3xOl9)
(http://i.imgur.com/yurqb1gm.png) (http://imgur.com/yurqb1g)
(http://i.imgur.com/lnAqQ7Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/lnAqQ7H)
Using the recent infusion of funds from scrap and surplus, some additions are made to the various bases. It'll take a while, but soon X-COM bases will become much more fortified against assault.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/41W9puFm.png) (http://imgur.com/41W9puF)
(http://i.imgur.com/2bEKMVqm.png) (http://imgur.com/2bEKMVq)
(http://i.imgur.com/dXUZH1gm.png) (http://imgur.com/dXUZH1g)
A supply ship heading to the Snakeman complex in Oceania is shot down. With the Skyranger from the Europe base still out, forces from Asia are deployed for Operation Serpent's Cache.
Briefing: A large supply ship has crashed very close to Russia's border with Kazakhstan, in a rural area. Forces from X-COM Two in Asia have been sent to clear the site for recovery. Enemy forces will consist of a medium to large force of Snakemen.
(http://i.imgur.com/OCtsC8ym.png) (http://imgur.com/OCtsC8y)
(http://i.imgur.com/wTHA24Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/wTHA24M)
(http://i.imgur.com/2rNrKB5m.png) (http://imgur.com/2rNrKB5)
(http://i.imgur.com/cccv6xDm.png) (http://imgur.com/cccv6xD)
(http://i.imgur.com/fJKRgi1m.png) (http://imgur.com/fJKRgi1)
(http://i.imgur.com/pbzoqhFm.png) (http://imgur.com/pbzoqhF)
(http://i.imgur.com/dLPgPdAm.png) (http://imgur.com/dLPgPdA)
(http://i.imgur.com/rveCFT9m.png) (http://imgur.com/rveCFT9)
(http://i.imgur.com/MOhMcecm.png) (http://imgur.com/MOhMcec)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gvim9lIm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gvim9lI)
Apart from a rookie getting a medi-kit and pistol and a captain getting a rocket launcher, everybody's getting the heavy plasma guns.
(http://i.imgur.com/78Dujcim.png) (http://imgur.com/78Dujci)
The operation starts with smoke being set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/8FjlMeXm.png) (http://imgur.com/8FjlMeX)
The crashed supply ship is nearby; the squad can proceed once any nearby hostiles are cleared away.
(http://i.imgur.com/QM37iKRm.png) (http://imgur.com/QM37iKR)
Speaking of nearby hostiles, a Snakeman is hiding in a nearby farmhouse. It's best to stay away from any windows that would provide a line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/AUTYvc6m.png) (http://imgur.com/AUTYvc6)
(http://i.imgur.com/uMdZSUXm.png) (http://imgur.com/uMdZSUX)
(http://i.imgur.com/kKNtmlYm.png) (http://imgur.com/kKNtmlY)
As the Snakeman passes by the window, an attempt at reaction fire from the troops puts a hole in the wall. This provides a perfect opening for someone to go in and take out the alien.
(http://i.imgur.com/rgyZQZDm.png) (http://imgur.com/rgyZQZD)
(http://i.imgur.com/5OMSbrjm.png) (http://imgur.com/5OMSbrj)
A Snakeman in a nearby field gets sniped by advancing forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/TdrSR45m.png) (http://imgur.com/TdrSR45)
It survives and gets up again, only to get shot once more.
(http://i.imgur.com/mPTdEV7m.png) (http://imgur.com/mPTdEV7)
(http://i.imgur.com/faEk7s7m.png) (http://imgur.com/faEk7s7)
Snakemen are lurking in the vicinity of another farmhouse to the northwest.
(http://i.imgur.com/h7QkfD7m.png) (http://imgur.com/h7QkfD7)
The Snakeman at the door gets taken out, along with the door itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/MVwd8Wlm.png) (http://imgur.com/MVwd8Wl)
A rocket launcher is fired at the corner of the building to clear away cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/IDMPzQcm.png) (http://imgur.com/IDMPzQc)
(http://i.imgur.com/LnvnWHUm.png) (http://imgur.com/LnvnWHU)
The Snakeman moves away from the wreckage of the structure, giving a prime opportunity to fire at it.
(http://i.imgur.com/nYvuwQ1m.png) (http://imgur.com/nYvuwQ1)
(http://i.imgur.com/LaYXgvGm.png) (http://imgur.com/LaYXgvG)
A pair of troops make their way over to one of the entrances of the UFO, bringing down another alien.
(http://i.imgur.com/jTsEJRdm.png) (http://imgur.com/jTsEJRd)
A Snakeman around the other corner gets blasted.
(http://i.imgur.com/OWmABcMm.png) (http://imgur.com/OWmABcM)
(http://i.imgur.com/JZwZKbKm.png) (http://imgur.com/JZwZKbK)
(http://i.imgur.com/OYHA7GIm.png) (http://imgur.com/OYHA7GI)
Another Snakeman emerging from the entrance goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/LrIWFTcm.png) (http://imgur.com/LrIWFTc)
This clears the way to get into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/2d4x8ZLm.png) (http://imgur.com/2d4x8ZL)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nb44H7em.png) (http://imgur.com/Nb44H7e)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hjnckywm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hjnckyw)
Another Snakeman gets shot; the finisher comes from a surprise hit from the other side of the battlefield.
(http://i.imgur.com/UhVpuhfm.png) (http://imgur.com/UhVpuhf)
(http://i.imgur.com/txZP64Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/txZP64C)
Another Snakeman that survived its initial injuries tries to slink away, but again the retreat is cut short.
(http://i.imgur.com/w1THy8bm.png) (http://imgur.com/w1THy8b)
While two of the reactors were blown out by the intercepton, one still remains.
(http://i.imgur.com/t2NcZN4m.png) (http://imgur.com/t2NcZN4)
(http://i.imgur.com/CiuYWRwm.png) (http://imgur.com/CiuYWRw)
(http://i.imgur.com/QZacWCBm.png) (http://imgur.com/QZacWCB)
One of the breaching troops gets ambushed while going around a corner, quickly bleeding out.
(http://i.imgur.com/iDCrdr0m.png) (http://imgur.com/iDCrdr0)
Another gets caught by a Snakeman coming out from the upper portions of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/zQKIBE4m.png) (http://imgur.com/zQKIBE4)
(http://i.imgur.com/7QgwOvTm.png) (http://imgur.com/7QgwOvT)
(http://i.imgur.com/aS66L26m.png) (http://imgur.com/aS66L26)
(http://i.imgur.com/G9LItVJm.png) (http://imgur.com/G9LItVJ)
The brief shift in the tide of battle is quickly reversed, with the attacking aliens getting taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/Cftrpacm.png) (http://imgur.com/Cftrpac)
(http://i.imgur.com/Sf6TbsXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sf6TbsX)
A Snakeman blocking the lift is dealt with, clearing the way to the top level.
(http://i.imgur.com/KFMph3Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/KFMph3S)
(http://i.imgur.com/jduocEim.png) (http://imgur.com/jduocEi)
(http://i.imgur.com/RDqDziKm.png) (http://imgur.com/RDqDziK)
(http://i.imgur.com/mwdPkDWm.png) (http://imgur.com/mwdPkDW)
There's little stopping the attacking ground forces from rushing through the command level of the alien craft and taking out the last remaining Snakeman.
Results of Operation Serpent's Cache
Cpt. Shigeo Tanida: 4 kills
Sgt. Leon Gressier: 1 kill
Sgt. Rene Buchard: 1 kill
Clarence Miller: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Stefan Richter: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Andrea Martin: Promoted to Sergeant
Sgt. Dwight King: Killed in action
Sgt. Tatsuo Koyama: Killed in action
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, food capsules and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Things went very well up to a certain point, but we still came out ahead.
(http://i.imgur.com/G1En4qVm.png) (http://imgur.com/G1En4qV)
Some more personnel arrive at the European base.
(http://i.imgur.com/K4dZ5Xzm.png) (http://imgur.com/K4dZ5Xz)
(http://i.imgur.com/covRo6rm.png) (http://imgur.com/covRo6r)
(http://i.imgur.com/OIlNuecm.png) (http://imgur.com/OIlNuec)
(http://i.imgur.com/CToFwDpm.png) (http://imgur.com/CToFwDp)
(http://i.imgur.com/eM1csfVm.png) (http://imgur.com/eM1csfV)
(http://i.imgur.com/pDwQIrRm.png) (http://imgur.com/pDwQIrR)
Some scout ships of minor consequence slip away from the interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/CO8kE3Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/CO8kE3N)
The launcher HWP has been rebuilt. It will be a useful tool for future assaults.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/X5C95v9m.png) (http://imgur.com/X5C95v9)
(http://i.imgur.com/EJXV9q6m.png) (http://imgur.com/EJXV9q6)
Some Ethereal supplies are added to the growing pile under the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/8JOcM1Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/8JOcM1X)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hi9fSlem.png) (http://imgur.com/Hi9fSle)
A Snakeman scout goes down over Central Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/T1SVOyRm.png) (http://imgur.com/T1SVOyR)
(http://i.imgur.com/lliwWOnm.png) (http://imgur.com/lliwWOn)
An Ethereal scout gets knocked out in one shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/LjmsAUzm.png) (http://imgur.com/LjmsAUz)
Additional hangars at the Africa bases are ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/OoOkpJxm.png) (http://imgur.com/OoOkpJx)
(http://i.imgur.com/OoOkpJxm.png) (http://imgur.com/OoOkpJx)
More alien supplies get dumped into the sea.
(http://i.imgur.com/HjAQRiBm.png) (http://imgur.com/HjAQRiB)
An alien ship attempts hunting for the Asia base, but with patrolling scouts being constantly shot down, it has no luck finding its target.
(http://i.imgur.com/BDOrK61m.png) (http://imgur.com/BDOrK61)
(http://i.imgur.com/p4bUC4bm.png) (http://imgur.com/p4bUC4b)
(http://i.imgur.com/OUHwdrXm.png) (http://imgur.com/OUHwdrX)
(http://i.imgur.com/iXRrTI8m.png) (http://imgur.com/iXRrTI8)
(http://i.imgur.com/0DUSv9Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/0DUSv9W)
A pair of Sectoid ships have made their way into Western Europe, where they are promptly greeted with air-to-air plasma cannons. The Skyranger goes after the one that was shot down first for Operation Grey Eire.
Briefing: An alien abduction craft has been shot down over Ireland. Forces from X-COM One have been dispatched to clear the site. Hostiles will consist of a medium force of Sectoids. A high-ranking Sectoid with psionic capabilities is likely to be present; exercise caution.
(http://i.imgur.com/SrKQAfum.png) (http://imgur.com/SrKQAfu)
(http://i.imgur.com/oEqX9ism.png) (http://imgur.com/oEqX9is)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZODr2mUm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZODr2mU)
(http://i.imgur.com/gx911dLm.png) (http://imgur.com/gx911dL)
(http://i.imgur.com/uQuS88Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/uQuS88F)
(http://i.imgur.com/ONVqFAxm.png) (http://imgur.com/ONVqFAx)
(http://i.imgur.com/IiIXD0Im.png) (http://imgur.com/IiIXD0I)
(http://i.imgur.com/oozEo2am.png) (http://imgur.com/oozEo2a)
(http://i.imgur.com/j7i0LaWm.png) (http://imgur.com/j7i0LaW)
(http://i.imgur.com/JKSU8hhm.png) (http://imgur.com/JKSU8hh)
With psionics present, Bouton's here to be the bait for mental attacks, which is why it's reasonable to go light on armor with him.
(http://i.imgur.com/IVCNnhWm.png) (http://imgur.com/IVCNnhW)
Smoke is set down to start the operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/wU0dTCUm.png) (http://imgur.com/wU0dTCU)
The UFO is crashed nearby, with a rupture in the side providing an entry point.
(http://i.imgur.com/1d50FNMm.png) (http://imgur.com/1d50FNM)
A Sectoid hiding in a grove of trees tries to fire on the HWP, which merely provides an indication of where to aim.
(http://i.imgur.com/1FqWGHqm.png) (http://imgur.com/1FqWGHq)
(http://i.imgur.com/H7jwNwNm.png) (http://imgur.com/H7jwNwN)
One blast levels the field, and the Sectoid is flattened into the dirt.
(http://i.imgur.com/yfiTDiRm.png) (http://imgur.com/yfiTDiR)
(http://i.imgur.com/vpvpH9Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/vpvpH9F)
A Sectoid emerging from the wreckage is taken out by reaction fire from the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/B7zfHQim.png) (http://imgur.com/B7zfHQi)
A Sectoid lurking around the corner of the ship gets mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/aJTxuqqm.png) (http://imgur.com/aJTxuqq)
A Sectoid is visible inside the medical room of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Pw6CkrJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Pw6CkrJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/ccAX1t6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ccAX1t6)
An attempt to shoot it with the tank goes awry due to a tree in the missile's path.
(http://i.imgur.com/cCHOcGmm.png) (http://imgur.com/cCHOcGm)
(http://i.imgur.com/00w8tS2m.png) (http://imgur.com/00w8tS2)
Plan B is ?just snipe it? and goes much better.
(http://i.imgur.com/ihfPjsNm.png) (http://imgur.com/ihfPjsN)
(http://i.imgur.com/Eo6tUQHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Eo6tUQH)
Another alien in the chamber gets zapped by a colonel.
(http://i.imgur.com/2IM1JKom.png) (http://imgur.com/2IM1JKo)
Mental attacks start becoming present, and unfortunately, they aren't going for our decoy. Col. Gaudin sets his weapon aside.
(http://i.imgur.com/jNKLyCSm.png) (http://imgur.com/jNKLyCS)
(http://i.imgur.com/1jr2Rnnm.png) (http://imgur.com/1jr2Rnn)
Unfortunately, in the process of entering the hull breach, Barbara gets mowed down by a Sectoid firing through a hole in the upper level.
(http://i.imgur.com/1jr2Rnnm.png) (http://imgur.com/1jr2Rnn)
(http://i.imgur.com/jNKLyCSm.png) (http://imgur.com/jNKLyCS)
(http://i.imgur.com/UoIo46mm.png) (http://imgur.com/UoIo46m)
Another soldier manages to take out the alien and get to the command level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/KB1ffVnm.png) (http://imgur.com/KB1ffVn)
A Sectoid in the medical room gets back up, but goes back down.
(http://i.imgur.com/5JctFJUm.png) (http://imgur.com/5JctFJU)
(http://i.imgur.com/hPogmV8m.png) (http://imgur.com/hPogmV8)
Another Sectoid near the breach on the opposite side is sniped by a Captain still near the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/IfioNv9m.png) (http://imgur.com/IfioNv9)
Someone scouting around the ship gets ambushed and killed by an alien grenade.
(http://i.imgur.com/3gSsPYSm.png) (http://imgur.com/3gSsPYS)
A shot is made at the Sectoid that threw it, but it survives a direct hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/HQUlp06m.png) (http://imgur.com/HQUlp06)
Plan B: Fire a shot from the tank to take it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/oUuchqIm.png) (http://imgur.com/oUuchqI)
(http://i.imgur.com/luYf35km.png) (http://imgur.com/luYf35k)
The shot strays from its targeting waypoints, missing its intended target and hitting a nearby building instead. However, the blast wave reaches the Sectoid, killing it.
(http://i.imgur.com/bvqgfiOm.png) (http://imgur.com/bvqgfiO)
(http://i.imgur.com/E9WhR81m.png) (http://imgur.com/E9WhR81)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vlrtxevm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vlrtxev)
An advancing captain spots two Sectoids near the control room. They both have their backs turned; it's a perfect opportunity to get them both. Unfortunately, the alien in the control room comes out and finds him shortly after... The charge towards the control center of the ship has been disrupted and a captain has been mowed down. And things are about to go from bad to worse.
(http://i.imgur.com/3oEaEDcm.png) (http://imgur.com/3oEaEDc)
(http://i.imgur.com/tXNfhfHm.png) (http://imgur.com/tXNfhfH)
(http://i.imgur.com/VnZGG7am.png) (http://imgur.com/VnZGG7a)
The psionic assault begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/9BF5d1gm.png) (http://imgur.com/9BF5d1g)
Bouton's been equipped with the expectation that he will be mind controlled, so he won't be a threat...
(http://i.imgur.com/DqRbaSUm.png) (http://imgur.com/DqRbaSU)
(http://i.imgur.com/P2l71K9m.png) (http://imgur.com/P2l71K9)
...on the other hand, a commander being mind-controlled? That's bad. Fortunately, he dropped the Blaster Launcher during his earlier panic. Unfortunately, he still has a weapon on him, and one of the squad goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/TpExUGym.png) (http://imgur.com/TpExUGy)
Matsumara the sniper is the next to be mind-controlled. She still has a line of fire into the Skyranger, and Commander Reynolds goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/hAtVxTem.png) (http://imgur.com/hAtVxTe)
Another officer attempts to breach the command area of the ship, and gets shot six times as a result.
(http://i.imgur.com/W34XFHem.png) (http://imgur.com/W34XFHe)
The tank takes a shot at the hull near where the Sectoid is, but the smaller, weaker projectiles it uses aren't able to break through.
(http://i.imgur.com/NkO2T0rm.png) (http://imgur.com/NkO2T0r)
Plasma shots against a back wall of the bridge do manage to punch a hole, providing an opening to sneak up on the Sectoid in charge of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/6C1LdJxm.png) (http://imgur.com/6C1LdJx)
(http://i.imgur.com/6xVr2R6m.png) (http://imgur.com/6xVr2R6)
The Sectoid leader is gunned down, bringing an end to this dreadful battle.
Results of Operation Grey Eire
HWP: 2 kills
Cpt. Sumie Matsumara: 1 kill, promoted to Colonel
Sgt. Claude Buchard: 1 kill
Sgt. Gerard Bouton: Promoted to Captain
Cmdr. Paul ?Bomber? Reynolds: Killed in action
Col. Claude ?Eraser? Gaudin
Sgt. Barbara Stephens: Killed in action
Cpt. Oscar Bradley: Killed in action
Cpt. James Wright: Killed in action
Sgt. Spencer Miller: Killed in action
10 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: so there goes our commander, multiple officers, most of our remaining troops with verified psionic capabilities, and a ton of armor. Back to being on the defensive.
(http://i.imgur.com/0B3Qnjsm.png) (http://imgur.com/0B3Qnjs)
Yoko Iwahara has become the new field commander. She still needs two weeks to recover from her most recent combat injuries, but once she is back to the battlefield, there shall be a reckoning.
(http://i.imgur.com/0JCYW8Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/0JCYW8X)
(http://i.imgur.com/OldZ3num.png) (http://imgur.com/OldZ3nu)
With a need for more armor, manufacturing begins on new Flying Suits in Asia while the Power Suits are shipped over. This leaves the secondary squad without armor, but the immediate priority is getting the main squad as combat-ready as possible as fast as possible. Some of the veterans from Asia will also be sent to bolster the squad.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/UjDpsUTm.png) (http://imgur.com/UjDpsUT)
There's still another Sectoid abductor crash site, but after the previous disaster attempting to recover it would be a foolish venture.
(http://i.imgur.com/pkS1XBJm.png) (http://imgur.com/pkS1XBJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/ae5WrCim.png) (http://imgur.com/ae5WrCi)
(http://i.imgur.com/lYkh4b7m.png) (http://imgur.com/lYkh4b7)
As part of the shift in strategy, another base is established. With Russia and Japan as key contributors to the organization, the location of the new base will be on Sakhalin Island.
(http://i.imgur.com/mLgooiFm.png) (http://imgur.com/mLgooiF)
(http://i.imgur.com/WAjVxfPm.png) (http://imgur.com/WAjVxfP)
(http://i.imgur.com/wpWKB1Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/wpWKB1H)
(http://i.imgur.com/yUkxC25m.png) (http://imgur.com/yUkxC25)
(http://i.imgur.com/sULrnO3m.png) (http://imgur.com/sULrnO3)
Construction starts on the complex.
(http://i.imgur.com/bbqHvgUm.png) (http://imgur.com/bbqHvgU)
(http://i.imgur.com/yYR1USwm.png) (http://imgur.com/yYR1USw)
(http://i.imgur.com/u5E9Tjem.png) (http://imgur.com/u5E9Tje)
A Sectoid scout is engaged by an interceptor with lasers; some slight damage to the attacking craft, but the alien ship plummets into the sea.
(http://i.imgur.com/Uzcv8Oam.png) (http://imgur.com/Uzcv8Oa)
Some personnel and equipment arrive from the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/2LPnbU7m.png) (http://imgur.com/2LPnbU7)
(http://i.imgur.com/OTKcezUm.png) (http://imgur.com/OTKcezU)
A Sectoid scout ship gets blasted.
(http://i.imgur.com/jgUc17Um.png) (http://imgur.com/jgUc17U)
(http://i.imgur.com/iwWz2Urm.png) (http://imgur.com/iwWz2Ur)
The research team finishes some more ?keep busy? research. All that's left for projects is a piece of surgical equipment recovered from the abduction ships and interrogating low-level aliens for information.
(http://i.imgur.com/do6C2TLm.png) (http://imgur.com/do6C2TL)
(http://i.imgur.com/EAN08y9m.png) (http://imgur.com/EAN08y9)
(http://i.imgur.com/cIoA2Uim.png) (http://imgur.com/cIoA2Ui)
A trio of battleships hunts for bases, but with the scout ships constantly being shot down, they're unable to find what they're looking for.
(http://i.imgur.com/60dSqqam.png) (http://imgur.com/60dSqqa)
(http://i.imgur.com/FVI6jEJm.png) (http://imgur.com/FVI6jEJ)
An Ethereal supply ship is sent crashing down in Chinese territory.
(http://i.imgur.com/CYFEyyJm.png) (http://imgur.com/CYFEyyJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/n8mNtM3m.png) (http://imgur.com/n8mNtM3)
A Floater ship is pursued and shot down over Alaska. A recovery operation can be attempted, but the gains from such a mission may not be worth risking our troops for. The HWP is currently unavailable due to a shortage of ammunition, and our psionic advantage is not fully present yet.
-
Well, they're just Floaters, so no psionics wrecking the team, at least. Plus there's no such thing as "enough Elerium".
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Ei1W0PHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ei1W0PH)
The decision has been made; the wreckage of this Floater ship will be recovered. Forces arrive in Alaska at daybreak. Operation Winter Fall begins.
Briefing: A Floater harvester ship has been shot down over an arctic coastal region of Alaska. Troops from X-COM One have been sent to clear the site for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a medium to large crew; they are expendable.
(http://i.imgur.com/VF6QGvUm.png) (http://imgur.com/VF6QGvU)
(http://i.imgur.com/qJ2y464m.png) (http://imgur.com/qJ2y464)
(http://i.imgur.com/YqBOKeom.png) (http://imgur.com/YqBOKeo)
(http://i.imgur.com/nBrn3v8m.png) (http://imgur.com/nBrn3v8)
(http://i.imgur.com/HHHG8wsm.png) (http://imgur.com/HHHG8ws)
(http://i.imgur.com/JDTvWn7m.png) (http://imgur.com/JDTvWn7)
(http://i.imgur.com/cepiaysm.png) (http://imgur.com/cepiays)
(http://i.imgur.com/hX9z0l6m.png) (http://imgur.com/hX9z0l6)
(http://i.imgur.com/WuFPXoLm.png) (http://imgur.com/WuFPXoL)
(http://i.imgur.com/A95I5oBm.png) (http://imgur.com/A95I5oB)
Squad gets armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/KN71pDKm.png) (http://imgur.com/KN71pDK)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gca8SVWm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gca8SVW)
Smoke is set out; with very little terrain cover, smoke grenades are almost all the squad has to rely on for protection. The surrounding area consists of ice floes and narrow strips of land in water; with no hover HWPs ready for battle and only one flying suit available to the squad, the highly mobile Floaters have a huge advantage.
(http://i.imgur.com/SfPLfugm.png) (http://imgur.com/SfPLfug)
(http://i.imgur.com/hW5cq1mm.png) (http://imgur.com/hW5cq1m)
(http://i.imgur.com/NOeD3M0m.png) (http://imgur.com/NOeD3M0)
(http://i.imgur.com/tXm1To4m.png) (http://imgur.com/tXm1To4)
A Floater across the water attempts throwing a grenade at the squad, failing to hurt anyone but providing more smoke and cover. The squad then promptly returns the friendly gesture.
(http://i.imgur.com/dSWgqfXm.png) (http://imgur.com/dSWgqfX)
(http://i.imgur.com/tgZj91bm.png) (http://imgur.com/tgZj91b)
(http://i.imgur.com/4bHCLt4m.png) (http://imgur.com/4bHCLt4)
A pair of Floaters decide they don't want to be left out, and join the previous alien in being on the wrong end of a heavy plasma.
(http://i.imgur.com/JyslgbWm.png) (http://imgur.com/JyslgbW)
(http://i.imgur.com/j3y3M30m.png) (http://imgur.com/j3y3M30)
Another Floater across the ice gets blasted.
(http://i.imgur.com/VaYAq81m.png) (http://imgur.com/VaYAq81)
One of the rookies gets wounded during the firefight; requiring some patching up. An arm injury reduces firing accuracy, but that doesn't put this guy out of the fight yet.
(http://i.imgur.com/bzSDdgym.png) (http://imgur.com/bzSDdgy)
(http://i.imgur.com/ja1FH4tm.png) (http://imgur.com/ja1FH4t)
Yet another Floater gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/8KrpeWYm.png) (http://imgur.com/8KrpeWY)
(http://i.imgur.com/aC7dhO6m.png) (http://imgur.com/aC7dhO6)
(http://i.imgur.com/9DWl5Xqm.png) (http://imgur.com/9DWl5Xq)
(http://i.imgur.com/HXmaNXTm.png) (http://imgur.com/HXmaNXT)
A Floater hovering above the water gets sniped. The name continues to be apt, apparently.
(http://i.imgur.com/AYNiFzsm.png) (http://imgur.com/AYNiFzs)
(http://i.imgur.com/UYsukL2m.png) (http://imgur.com/UYsukL2)
And another gets hit; this narrow strip of land the Floaters have been fighting from is massively working against them.
(http://i.imgur.com/qDpZnnnm.png) (http://imgur.com/qDpZnnn)
Using the capability of the Flying Suit to scout ahead, another Floater is spotted and eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/eYJwUOQm.png) (http://imgur.com/eYJwUOQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/SWGTcdXm.png) (http://imgur.com/SWGTcdX)
This battle is working massively in our favor.
(http://i.imgur.com/PMYYq4nm.png) (http://imgur.com/PMYYq4n)
(http://i.imgur.com/MBidIoTm.png) (http://imgur.com/MBidIoT)
A Floater coming around the side of the wrecked ship gets hit by a scouting soldier.
(http://i.imgur.com/4BnkVdGm.png) (http://imgur.com/4BnkVdG)
Unfortunately, using the Flying Suit has overextended a colonel, and left them in the range of a still-living Floater with no cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/oDbU0F3m.png) (http://imgur.com/oDbU0F3)
(http://i.imgur.com/8TEueW6m.png) (http://imgur.com/8TEueW6)
Another Floater coming from the ship is taken out by an ambush.
(http://i.imgur.com/OUbYLhKm.png) (http://imgur.com/OUbYLhK)
(http://i.imgur.com/gFAYAmcm.png) (http://imgur.com/gFAYAmc)
The Floater that took out our colonel is dealt with.
(http://i.imgur.com/paHiDdmm.png) (http://imgur.com/paHiDdm)
(http://i.imgur.com/mcxQMiim.png) (http://imgur.com/mcxQMii)
(http://i.imgur.com/15gxcUsm.png) (http://imgur.com/15gxcUs)
(http://i.imgur.com/nkfv022m.png) (http://imgur.com/nkfv022)
(http://i.imgur.com/cUS9D7tm.png) (http://imgur.com/cUS9D7t)
The ship is breached. All that remains is some weakened and demoralized aliens that can't put up a fight.
Results of Operation Winter Fall
Cpt. Gerard Bouton: 2 kills, promoted to Colonel
Cpt. Dwight Kemp: 1 kill, promoted to Colonel
Sgt. Andrea Sharpe: 4 kills, promoted to Captain
Sgt. Alan Wright: 3 kills, Promoted to Captain
Sgt. Claude Buchard: Promoted to Captain
Clarence McNeil: 5 kills, promoted to Sergeant; wounded, will recover in 12 days
Gaston Marcelle: 1 kill, Promoted to Sergeant
Col. Shigeo Tanida: Killed in action
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing:Given the terrain disadvantage, losing only one soldier was fairly fortunate.
(http://i.imgur.com/W2jed0Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/W2jed0S)
A new batch of rookies arrives and goes through the screening process.
(http://i.imgur.com/0hM1PP2m.png) (http://imgur.com/0hM1PP2)
(http://i.imgur.com/7PgH3u9m.png) (http://imgur.com/7PgH3u9)
An Ethereal supply shipment is shot down over west Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/K8YfAJ8m.png) (http://imgur.com/K8YfAJ8)
(http://i.imgur.com/OR4lk8Am.png) (http://imgur.com/OR4lk8A)
An Ethereal force attacking a city is too severe of a threat to deal with, even now. The advance scout for the operation is taken out immediately.
(http://i.imgur.com/wVloBQkm.png) (http://imgur.com/wVloBQk)
A Floater scout is hunting for the Arctic base; it's being left alone for now. Last time I recall, a Floater attack on an X-COM base wound up with the alien force being completely annihilated. Some old-model HWPs are ordered and a Blaster Launcher is sent over to harden the Arctic base's defense.
(http://i.imgur.com/HTxXUk1m.png) (http://imgur.com/HTxXUk1)
Engineering in Europe starts on some laser pistols; ammo for the plasma pistols is low and is no longer being dropped by the aliens, who are solely using heavy guns now. To make more, engineering would have to use Elerium, which is being prioritized for armor production and aircraft fuel.
(http://i.imgur.com/1jlR8ntm.png) (http://imgur.com/1jlR8nt)
A Muton supply ship shows up on the radar. Rather than shoot this down, a Skyranger is sent as its exact destination is already known; capturing an intact supply ship would bolster our Elerium reserves.
(http://i.imgur.com/II5IkRdm.png) (http://imgur.com/II5IkRd)
(http://i.imgur.com/z7J9Fa8m.png) (http://imgur.com/z7J9Fa8)
An Ethereal ship can go, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/kLpNRJdm.png) (http://imgur.com/kLpNRJd)
A Floater scout is left to its own devices; if Floaters want to get themselves obliterated again, that's not a problem.
(http://i.imgur.com/38kwWQ8m.png) (http://imgur.com/38kwWQ8)
While pursuing the Muton supply craft, a more interesting tactical opportunity comes by. A Floater battleship is operating in North America; they're much easier targets than Mutons, and a battleship will provide far more resources than even a supply ship. The Skyranger is rerouted to a new destination.
-
December 24. Dawn on the eastern seaboard of the United States. Troops are ready to commence Operation Early Christmas.
Briefing: An alien battleship has landed in the eastern United States. The Skyranger has intercepted the craft and attacked the landing site; troops are ready to clear the site and prepare the ship for salvage and recovery. Enemy forces will consist of a large crew of Floaters, with some Reapers also present.
(http://i.imgur.com/r1qswQZm.png) (http://imgur.com/r1qswQZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/rzLI0vGm.png) (http://imgur.com/rzLI0vG)
(http://i.imgur.com/1TiyPA4m.png) (http://imgur.com/1TiyPA4)
(http://i.imgur.com/5KF3di4m.png) (http://imgur.com/5KF3di4)
(http://i.imgur.com/16lsbmWm.png) (http://imgur.com/16lsbmW)
(http://i.imgur.com/KG5Omogm.png) (http://imgur.com/KG5Omog)
(http://i.imgur.com/XO978zum.png) (http://imgur.com/XO978zu)
(http://i.imgur.com/daVZjxIm.png) (http://imgur.com/daVZjxI)
(http://i.imgur.com/QZGCsTIm.png) (http://imgur.com/QZGCsTI)
(http://i.imgur.com/h2fV4gRm.png) (http://imgur.com/h2fV4gR)
The squad gets geared up for a full assault, with a mix of heavy plasma guns, rifles, and the Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/xnqoAjWm.png) (http://imgur.com/xnqoAjW)
(http://i.imgur.com/lgUE7drm.png) (http://imgur.com/lgUE7dr)
(http://i.imgur.com/7ylIGgpm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ylIGgp)
Smoke is set out, and a Floater trying to lurk around the ramp is given a friendly hello from a rookie.
(http://i.imgur.com/baG8vGxm.png) (http://imgur.com/baG8vGx)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hr8EnD0m.png) (http://imgur.com/Hr8EnD0)
A Floater trying to hide in a farmhouse is sniped from the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/Qr6WmGmm.png) (http://imgur.com/Qr6WmGm)
Unfortunately, the first rookie out is ambushed and taken out by a Floater that was missed in the initial sweep.
(http://i.imgur.com/H8JQv1Em.png) (http://imgur.com/H8JQv1E)
(http://i.imgur.com/y1iYdoOm.png) (http://imgur.com/y1iYdoO)
To the southwest is a Reaper, which is quickly mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/LSJcoDTm.png) (http://imgur.com/LSJcoDT)
(http://i.imgur.com/k5eGyplm.png) (http://imgur.com/k5eGypl)
A Floater lurking by the landing gear is dealt with in a similarly speedy manner.
(http://i.imgur.com/eDv3aNnm.png) (http://imgur.com/eDv3aNn)
(http://i.imgur.com/fF13ONkm.png) (http://imgur.com/fF13ONk)
An alien coming out of the battleship's entrance doesn't even see the squad coming.
(http://i.imgur.com/kDQCTMum.png) (http://imgur.com/kDQCTMu)
(http://i.imgur.com/0fr3qUWm.png) (http://imgur.com/0fr3qUW)
The tactical risks of using the battleship's main entrance have not changed. Again the squad will be making its own more convenient door (and somehow setting air on fire while doing so)
(http://i.imgur.com/RDEPvmsm.png) (http://imgur.com/RDEPvms)
(http://i.imgur.com/YkX6in1m.png) (http://imgur.com/YkX6in1)
The squad just sits outside the entrance, waiting for anybody else that decides to come out. More smoke is set down to help press the advantage.
(http://i.imgur.com/7nAeWgZm.png) (http://imgur.com/7nAeWgZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/RSER60Om.png) (http://imgur.com/RSER60O)
(http://i.imgur.com/XASISRum.png) (http://imgur.com/XASISRu)
A Floater wielding a Blaster Launcher gets taken out from behind; another alien seems to have fallen, either from a stray shot or from the attack on the hull.
(http://i.imgur.com/7Y4iL8wm.png) (http://imgur.com/7Y4iL8w)
(http://i.imgur.com/zztYrYkm.png) (http://imgur.com/zztYrYk)
Another is put on top of the pile.
(http://i.imgur.com/02uf5X1m.png) (http://imgur.com/02uf5X1)
A proximity mine is used to lock down one of the ground exits of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/w8bZuYum.png) (http://imgur.com/w8bZuYu)
(http://i.imgur.com/dTGBJUrm.png) (http://imgur.com/dTGBJUr)
Another Floater goes for the elevator, but doesn't quite make it.
(http://i.imgur.com/PCJPgMtm.png) (http://imgur.com/PCJPgMt)
(http://i.imgur.com/FFopXw0m.png) (http://imgur.com/FFopXw0)
A Reaper provides some target practice for some rookies on the ground.
(http://i.imgur.com/piyZuSSm.png) (http://imgur.com/piyZuSS)
(http://i.imgur.com/NxGYKFAm.png) (http://imgur.com/NxGYKFA)
The veterans that have breached the ship make their way to the top level. Another heavily armed Floater is eliminated before it has a chance to attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/jMOAG4mm.png) (http://imgur.com/jMOAG4m)
A Blaster Launcher is shot from elsewhere, but the attacking alien isn't skilled with the waypoint system, and the shot hits a wall far short of the intended target.
(http://i.imgur.com/UfcVLRem.png) (http://imgur.com/UfcVLRe)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z7CzF6dm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z7CzF6d)
The failed strike gives Colonel Bouton a perfect opportunity to sneak up and take out the alien before it can fire again.
(http://i.imgur.com/NoQhw5hm.png) (http://imgur.com/NoQhw5h)
Another Floater is visible, but there isn't enough time to both fire and retreat. It's safer to just pull back and wait for a better opportunity.
(http://i.imgur.com/RXDN75Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/RXDN75F)
Unfortunately, Colonel Matsumara isn't as lucky as Bouton, and she's caught up in the explosion of a Blaster warhead.
(http://i.imgur.com/IyVD5ykm.png) (http://imgur.com/IyVD5yk)
Captain Sharpe uses a grenade to take out a Floater hiding behind cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/4iA1S5bm.png) (http://imgur.com/4iA1S5b)
The Floater that launched the warhead appears to have taken itself out, but another seems to be still wanting a fight. It gets a very one-sided one.
(http://i.imgur.com/pjFwWQOm.png) (http://imgur.com/pjFwWQO)
(http://i.imgur.com/djN1JY5m.png) (http://imgur.com/djN1JY5)
A Reaper and a demoralized Floater are wandering around outside the ship; they provide little opposition.
(http://i.imgur.com/lW8oaUSm.png) (http://imgur.com/lW8oaUS)
(http://i.imgur.com/2HK2lahm.png) (http://imgur.com/2HK2lah)
A lengthy search is carried out for the last hostile life signs. Eventually, one of the troops finds that a previously unconscious Floater has gotten back up. It takes little effort to put it down for good.
Results of Operation Early Christmas
Col. Gerard Bouton: 4 kills
Cpt. Andrea Sharpe: 6 kills
Yoko Shoji: Promoted to Sergeant
Franz Brehme: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Uta Mederow: Promoted to Sergeant
Gennadi Korkia: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Sylvie Dagallier: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Yasuaki Sato: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Col. Sumie Matsumara: Killed in action
Uta Schultz: Killed in action
18 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactors, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: While this operation cost us another colonel, we have a lot of skilled troops who have received promotions as a result of this mission. More importantly, we have obtained a vast cache of Elerium that will be crucial to manufacturing operations.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/67fvaiem.png) (http://imgur.com/67fvaie)
Using the excess of funds from recent victories, a new hangar is constructed at the Arctic base. The intended goal is to have at least one Avenger as an anti-ship craft, one as a heavy transport, and two other craft such as Firestorms or regular interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/fFzLuu5m.png) (http://imgur.com/fFzLuu5)
Speaking of Firestorms, assembly starts on another one at the Asia bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/gZOulK2m.png) (http://imgur.com/gZOulK2)
(http://i.imgur.com/87kzqeim.png) (http://imgur.com/87kzqei)
A Sectoid ship is shot down. The option exists to recover it, but the team in Asia doesn't have any armor available and the squad in Europe is still getting re-equipped.
(http://i.imgur.com/WptJwyfm.png) (http://imgur.com/WptJwyf)
Components from the scrapped battleship are brought to the Asia base; some of the elerium and alloys have been split up between the two main bases where manufacturing operations are occuring.
(http://i.imgur.com/9DNwkZSm.png) (http://imgur.com/9DNwkZS)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ja31ibDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ja31ibD)
A scout ship is shot down; it could be safely ignored, but knocking alien craft out of the air improves our performance rankings regardless of whether they're recovered or not.
(http://i.imgur.com/5ubBO3ym.png) (http://imgur.com/5ubBO3y)
(http://i.imgur.com/3XLjPQMm.png) (http://imgur.com/3XLjPQM)
Another Sectoid ship is taken out over Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/K43n6kwm.png) (http://imgur.com/K43n6kw)
(http://i.imgur.com/swJ5vPom.png) (http://imgur.com/swJ5vPo)
Storage at the Sakhalin base is ready; some weapons and equipment are shipped over.
(http://i.imgur.com/F7VZ6BZm.png) (http://imgur.com/F7VZ6BZ)
Engineering in Europe starts assembling some more power suits.
(http://i.imgur.com/7r07plXm.png) (http://imgur.com/7r07plX)
(http://i.imgur.com/AV0xiBJm.png) (http://imgur.com/AV0xiBJ)
An Ethereal supply ship is shot down over east Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/4WK43Zsm.png) (http://imgur.com/4WK43Zs)
Some HWPs arrive at the Arctic base.
(http://i.imgur.com/qHOVAgFm.png) (http://imgur.com/qHOVAgF)
(http://i.imgur.com/NLNygG8m.png) (http://imgur.com/NLNygG8)
An advance scout for an Ethereal infiltration operation is sent crashing into the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/B8owbXHm.png) (http://imgur.com/B8owbXH)
(http://i.imgur.com/qsFd3Q8m.png) (http://imgur.com/qsFd3Q8)
Radar at the Sakhalin base is ready, clearing the way to start on a new hyperwave decoder.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZrQUS7om.png) (http://imgur.com/ZrQUS7o)
(http://i.imgur.com/SUctO1Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/SUctO1H)
A Muton supply ship evades the pursuit of a Firestorm.
(http://i.imgur.com/4j6ueVgm.png) (http://imgur.com/4j6ueVg)
(http://i.imgur.com/RDDWeMdm.png) (http://imgur.com/RDDWeMd)
An Ethereal scout hunting for bases gets completely destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/c2TagGAm.png) (http://imgur.com/c2TagGA)
Some more rookies arrive at the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/g6flhuUm.png) (http://imgur.com/g6flhuU)
(http://i.imgur.com/E0veBnEm.png) (http://imgur.com/E0veBnE)
A Sectoid scout from the South Pacific escapes the atmosphere, but it's not a significant threat.
(http://i.imgur.com/noO4GMWm.png) (http://imgur.com/noO4GMW)
Tanks arrive at the Asia base, either to provide defense or be used by the squad there.
(http://i.imgur.com/xDIBzj4m.png) (http://imgur.com/xDIBzj4)
(http://i.imgur.com/AqJNXaLm.png) (http://imgur.com/AqJNXaL)
The month ? and the year of 1999 ? ends with a favorable assessment from the council of nations.
(http://i.imgur.com/BuSB4zWm.png) (http://imgur.com/BuSB4zW)
(http://i.imgur.com/XBRzan9m.png) (http://imgur.com/XBRzan9)
Psionic testing continues, and the results are very promising.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jm3r7BJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jm3r7BJ)
Commander Iwahara has fully recovered and combat-ready, but that's not the end of the good news. The results of her assessment show her having raw psionic power that's beyond anything we've ever witnessed, either from our own troops or from the aliens. She will become even more powerful than she is now with further training, but we now know that in addition to her incredible endurance she's immune to mental assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/V2EfxiLm.png) (http://imgur.com/V2EfxiL)
Iwahara has surpassed the level of just a field commander. She has become the very embodiment of humanity's battle against the alien invasion. She has become the avatar of war itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/FmwbqoFm.png) (http://imgur.com/FmwbqoF)
Captain Andrea Sharpe earns the title of ?Successor?, in honor of one of X-COM's original leading officers.
(http://i.imgur.com/tGTYMzZm.png) (http://imgur.com/tGTYMzZ)
Alan Wright has been granted the title ?Emergent?, due to his rapid rise in the ranks and due to the discovery of his immense psychic potential.
(http://i.imgur.com/A6STAFnm.png) (http://imgur.com/A6STAFn)
Gerard Bouton gets the name ?Beacon?.
(http://i.imgur.com/rVRvgVdm.png) (http://imgur.com/rVRvgVd)
(http://i.imgur.com/hdvY0BHm.png) (http://imgur.com/hdvY0BH)
(http://i.imgur.com/kkmy1uFm.png) (http://imgur.com/kkmy1uF)
(http://i.imgur.com/IuGhDbtm.png) (http://imgur.com/IuGhDbt)
Some more Ethereal incursions are neutralized.
(http://i.imgur.com/NjH7fe2m.png) (http://imgur.com/NjH7fe2)
(http://i.imgur.com/mLghZtVm.png) (http://imgur.com/mLghZtV)
Another scout ship is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/8SAtIvgm.png) (http://imgur.com/8SAtIvg)
(http://i.imgur.com/06yq6Ojm.png) (http://imgur.com/06yq6Oj)
Research is completed on the alien medical examinations is completed; the motives and methods of the aliens are starting to become clear.
(http://i.imgur.com/j6skObom.png) (http://imgur.com/j6skObo)
(http://i.imgur.com/N0YER2Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/N0YER2P)
A Snakeman supply ship is intercepted and shot down. It is time to unleash the full power of our forces.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/VBpKjFlm.png) (http://imgur.com/VBpKjFl)
Forces from X-COM One are sent to the crashed supply ship. Operation Avatar's Awakening commences.
Briefing: A supply craft has crashed in a rural region of Central Asia. Elite forces from Europe, led by Yoko Iwahara, have been sent to clear the area and recover the wreckage and materials. Hostiles will consist of a medium to large crew of Snakemen. Collateral damage is not a concern; forces have the authority to use all weapons and technology available at their disposal.
(http://i.imgur.com/LsIPDSYm.png) (http://imgur.com/LsIPDSY)
(http://i.imgur.com/VO96BPWm.png) (http://imgur.com/VO96BPW)
(http://i.imgur.com/IzUnGoqm.png) (http://imgur.com/IzUnGoq)
(http://i.imgur.com/MFJb97em.png) (http://imgur.com/MFJb97e)
(http://i.imgur.com/0owhoIOm.png) (http://imgur.com/0owhoIO)
(http://i.imgur.com/lHScfw2m.png) (http://imgur.com/lHScfw2)
(http://i.imgur.com/KAX6Xhgm.png) (http://imgur.com/KAX6Xhg)
(http://i.imgur.com/dqWjT57m.png) (http://imgur.com/dqWjT57)
(http://i.imgur.com/u5sX6qtm.png) (http://imgur.com/u5sX6qt)
(http://i.imgur.com/75uIXrVm.png) (http://imgur.com/75uIXrV)
(http://i.imgur.com/U2aXdlbm.png) (http://imgur.com/U2aXdlb)
Going all-out here. Iwahara gets a Blaster Launcher and almost the maximum amount of ammunition that can be physically carried by a single person. Who needs an HWP when you have a commander who's in a flying suit, is immune to psionics, and can carry an entire arsenal without any effort?
(http://i.imgur.com/GoCqxkkm.png) (http://imgur.com/GoCqxkk)
As usual, starting with smoke.
(http://i.imgur.com/VSBXYy1m.png) (http://imgur.com/VSBXYy1)
(http://i.imgur.com/4YOUglkm.png) (http://imgur.com/4YOUglk)
An entrance to the ship is close by, and so is a Snakeman. It provides little opposition to an elite.
(http://i.imgur.com/cUdnxenm.png) (http://imgur.com/cUdnxen)
(http://i.imgur.com/MGL8G2Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/MGL8G2F)
A Snakeman hiding in a field to the south also goes down fairly fast.
(http://i.imgur.com/G86Jc1Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/G86Jc1C)
One of the doors of the UFO is quickly locked down.
(http://i.imgur.com/c2xqykqm.png) (http://imgur.com/c2xqykq)
(http://i.imgur.com/1vuiv9wm.png) (http://imgur.com/1vuiv9w)
A Snakeman near the other side is taken out before it can sneak towards the force.
(http://i.imgur.com/lzmNAJbm.png) (http://imgur.com/lzmNAJb)
(http://i.imgur.com/RuoDt5Om.png) (http://imgur.com/RuoDt5O)
Another around a nearby corner goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/BoLM4Hpm.png) (http://imgur.com/BoLM4Hp)
(http://i.imgur.com/UhjVbrim.png) (http://imgur.com/UhjVbri)
Entering the ship leads to the discovery of a quickly removed alien, and the reactor room in complete ruins.
(http://i.imgur.com/X17mEGxm.png) (http://imgur.com/X17mEGx)
The advance continues, locking down the other door and holding down the entrance of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/MZAQFsMm.png) (http://imgur.com/MZAQFsM)
(http://i.imgur.com/XuUfs3Am.png) (http://imgur.com/XuUfs3A)
Some hostile fire indicates there's an enemy hiding in a grove up ahead; rather than try to flush it out, Iwahara sets up the Blaster Launcher and incinerates the whole area.
(http://i.imgur.com/uZ0NdMUm.png) (http://imgur.com/uZ0NdMU)
Another shot with the launcher is used to punch through the top part of the hull., right next to the bridge of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/m8Ek93sm.png) (http://imgur.com/m8Ek93s)
After the blast, two other troops get positioned to move through the gap.
(http://i.imgur.com/YprJ6KGm.png) (http://imgur.com/YprJ6KG)
(http://i.imgur.com/VVaGqqKm.png) (http://imgur.com/VVaGqqK)
An alien has been flattened by the explosion, leaving it clear to move ahead.
(http://i.imgur.com/xKXGABem.png) (http://imgur.com/xKXGABe)
When the opportunity arrives, Sharpe goes around one of the corners, finding one Snakeman in front of her and one further up ahead in the shadows.
(http://i.imgur.com/9ObVY9Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/9ObVY9G)
The closer one gets taken out; she then goes back into the cover of the control room until the other enemy is in a vulnerable position.
(http://i.imgur.com/fcl0xcQm.png) (http://imgur.com/fcl0xcQ)
A reaction shot on the ground takes out a Snakeman trying to hide in one of the farmhouses.
(http://i.imgur.com/ipnmYw6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ipnmYw6)
(http://i.imgur.com/J2XHGlsm.png) (http://imgur.com/J2XHGls)
Another Snakeman trying to sneak around the back of the ship gets brought down.
(http://i.imgur.com/X6gwhGkm.png) (http://imgur.com/X6gwhGk)
(http://i.imgur.com/XJIsJfzm.png) (http://imgur.com/XJIsJfz)
The other Snakeman in the top level's halls decides to try and come at Sharpe, which proves to be a poor decision for it.
(http://i.imgur.com/2vst2Kgm.png) (http://imgur.com/2vst2Kg)
(http://i.imgur.com/v7WsnEgm.png) (http://imgur.com/v7WsnEg)
(http://i.imgur.com/2sl2b1xm.png) (http://imgur.com/2sl2b1x)
Another Snakeman is hiding in the buildings, meaning another good opportunity for the Blaster Launcher. Plasma fire put a hole in the wall earlier, creating a perfect opening to guide the warhead through and blow the whole place up.
(http://i.imgur.com/WF7ooHBm.png) (http://imgur.com/WF7ooHB)
(http://i.imgur.com/KrPMoJ6m.png) (http://imgur.com/KrPMoJ6)
(http://i.imgur.com/GywnTjmm.png) (http://imgur.com/GywnTjm)
Another Snakeman reveals itself by firing through a hole made in the decks by the reactor explosion; the armor holds up exceptionally well for once, and an unharmed sergeant returns fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/tA1KePBm.png) (http://imgur.com/tA1KePB)
(http://i.imgur.com/xVnX8mim.png) (http://imgur.com/xVnX8mi)
(http://i.imgur.com/i2ATa5Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/i2ATa5V)
The loss of morale in the enemy ranks causes another Snakeman on the second level to panic and fire wildly, alerting the squad to its location. Obviously, it doesn't last long once its position is known..
(http://i.imgur.com/Vr9J6cmm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vr9J6cm)
(http://i.imgur.com/cwj18wxm.png) (http://imgur.com/cwj18wx)
All that remains is to deal with the Snakeman leader, which momentarily recovered after being knocked out by the blast to the hull.
Results of Operation Avatar's Awakening
Avatar of War, Yoko Iwahara: 4 kills
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 2 kills
Col. Gerard ?Beacon? Bouton: 2 kills
Cpt. Andrea ?Successor? Sharpe: 2 kills, promoted to Colonel
Sgt. Uta Mederow: 2 kills, promoted to Captain
Sgt. Franz Brehme: 1 kill
Sgt. Sylvie Dagallier: 2 kills
Sgt. Gennadi Korkia: 1 kill
Jacques Pecheux: Promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: This is what a good mission looks like. Expectations have been completely exceeded.
(http://i.imgur.com/bHkQP9om.png) (http://imgur.com/bHkQP9o)
(http://i.imgur.com/gCCcwakm.png) (http://imgur.com/gCCcwak)
Construction finishes on some of the base facilities that have been underway recently.
(http://i.imgur.com/POLiMyem.png) (http://imgur.com/POLiMye)
(http://i.imgur.com/DBqMkSem.png) (http://imgur.com/DBqMkSe)
An Ethereal terror ship gets taken out over western Russia. We do not want to fight these types of aliens except when we have no other choice or it's vastly in our favor.
(http://i.imgur.com/OkxfVKom.png) (http://imgur.com/OkxfVKo)
An Ethereal supply ship heading to North America is just out of reach, making it to its destination before an interceptor can catch it.
(http://i.imgur.com/CYHJI5fm.png) (http://imgur.com/CYHJI5f)
(http://i.imgur.com/0RnYMkGm.png) (http://imgur.com/0RnYMkG)
A Floater research scout also gets away, but it's a minimal threat.
(http://i.imgur.com/QjXdNAlm.png) (http://imgur.com/QjXdNAl)
(http://i.imgur.com/IVyj1Ctm.png) (http://imgur.com/IVyj1Ct)
Another Supply ship is on perfect course to get intercepted, though, and gets sent down in the ocean like too many others to count.
(http://i.imgur.com/7zCrQSom.png) (http://imgur.com/7zCrQSo)
(http://i.imgur.com/iyGcr3jm.png) (http://imgur.com/iyGcr3j)
(http://i.imgur.com/lTsMEhym.png) (http://imgur.com/lTsMEhy)
A Floater scout is shot down in the Arctic circle, crashing down on to ice floes.
(http://i.imgur.com/hbi943Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/hbi943V)
(http://i.imgur.com/iv7zaV7m.png) (http://imgur.com/iv7zaV7)
(http://i.imgur.com/2t0nZfIm.png) (http://imgur.com/2t0nZfI)
A new Firestorm is completed. Once an armament for it is prepared and equipped it'll be ready to be transferred to another base.
(http://i.imgur.com/2t0nZfIm.png) (http://imgur.com/2t0nZfI)
Some new power suits are sent to Asia, and the troops there are once again combat-capable.
(http://i.imgur.com/G8Wk3fhm.png) (http://imgur.com/G8Wk3fh)
(http://i.imgur.com/pZaattjm.png) (http://imgur.com/pZaattj)
With a plasma beam ready to go, the Firestorm is armed and shipped off to one of the Africa bases.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/K9LObYPm.png) (http://imgur.com/K9LObYP)
An assault begins on the alien ship crashed in the Arctic. Operation Ice Breaker begins.
Briefing: A Floater scout ship has been shot down near the North Pole. Ground forces from X-COM Two in Asia have been sent to salvage the wreckage. Hostile forces will consist of a small to medium crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/iVTR5ZHm.png) (http://imgur.com/iVTR5ZH)
(http://i.imgur.com/9ideXPbm.png) (http://imgur.com/9ideXPb)
(http://i.imgur.com/jBCL6Jjm.png) (http://imgur.com/jBCL6Jj)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bl3DDQnm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bl3DDQn)
(http://i.imgur.com/jBCL6Jjm.png) (http://imgur.com/jBCL6Jj)
(http://i.imgur.com/D1u2G3jm.png) (http://imgur.com/D1u2G3j)
(http://i.imgur.com/WYULZNIm.png) (http://imgur.com/WYULZNI)
(http://i.imgur.com/KjWssPfm.png) (http://imgur.com/KjWssPf)
(http://i.imgur.com/pwGIW4Am.png) (http://imgur.com/pwGIW4A)
(http://i.imgur.com/fvNhb5Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/fvNhb5J)
The team gets equipped and ready. Heavy plasma guns are the primary weapon here, with an old-model rocket tank leading the charge.
(http://i.imgur.com/wZimO3bm.png) (http://imgur.com/wZimO3b)
(http://i.imgur.com/MZiNzmjm.png) (http://imgur.com/MZiNzmj)
(http://i.imgur.com/7fcjbPqm.png) (http://imgur.com/7fcjbPq)
A Floater is waiting on the ground, but it is quickly given a warm welcome from the HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/wNHGQOmm.png) (http://imgur.com/wNHGQOm)
(http://i.imgur.com/Pqx03tom.png) (http://imgur.com/Pqx03to)
(http://i.imgur.com/UypzIN3m.png) (http://imgur.com/UypzIN3)
(http://i.imgur.com/4ytfhQ5m.png) (http://imgur.com/4ytfhQ5)
(http://i.imgur.com/Zhhcybgm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zhhcybg)
Another Floater gets blasted into the ice, while some shots from the Skyranger take out the other one.
(http://i.imgur.com/YnPoMGIm.png) (http://imgur.com/YnPoMGI)
Smoke is set down, and the squad gets moving out.
(http://i.imgur.com/fqsTB3Om.png) (http://imgur.com/fqsTB3O)
(http://i.imgur.com/T2eptBzm.png) (http://imgur.com/T2eptBz)
Another Floater falls as the squad advances.
(http://i.imgur.com/oza4pQ7m.png) (http://imgur.com/oza4pQ7)
(http://i.imgur.com/WKk45wum.png) (http://imgur.com/WKk45wu)
(http://i.imgur.com/0aaId57m.png) (http://imgur.com/0aaId57)
(http://i.imgur.com/xKlAwram.png) (http://imgur.com/xKlAwra)
(http://i.imgur.com/ahq1Fglm.png) (http://imgur.com/ahq1Fgl)
(http://i.imgur.com/hcNH2eOm.png) (http://imgur.com/hcNH2eO)
(http://i.imgur.com/1nEECUFm.png) (http://imgur.com/1nEECUF)
(http://i.imgur.com/8sjYUY9m.png) (http://imgur.com/8sjYUY9)
The ship is quickly rushed and cleared out.
Results of Operation Ice Breaker
HWP: 2 kills
Isao Tanida: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Marc Gressier: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Arthur Martin: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Galina Scharov: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
7 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation system recovered
Debriefing: This operation went very well. Short and simple.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZO71PfMm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZO71PfM)
(http://i.imgur.com/FxW1dnem.png) (http://imgur.com/FxW1dne)
An Ethereal scout is neutralized.
(http://i.imgur.com/lPRmG2Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/lPRmG2R)
Another plasma cannon is assembled. Once a hangar is ready at Sakhalin, one of the existing interceptors will be transferred over from one of the current bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/nkDGqtdm.png) (http://imgur.com/nkDGqtd)
(http://i.imgur.com/YWO5adlm.png) (http://imgur.com/YWO5adl)
Another scout ship is shot down over Spain.
(http://i.imgur.com/TtW3DADm.png) (http://imgur.com/TtW3DAD)
(http://i.imgur.com/1wetXn8m.png) (http://imgur.com/1wetXn8)
(http://i.imgur.com/Tya5wdSm.png) (http://imgur.com/Tya5wdS)
Construction at the Sakhalin base is making good progress. Work starts on some anti-air defenses and a radar expansion.
(http://i.imgur.com/OFu7cFIm.png) (http://imgur.com/OFu7cFI)
(http://i.imgur.com/DafYVvHm.png) (http://imgur.com/DafYVvH)
(http://i.imgur.com/DLu8cfnm.png) (http://imgur.com/DLu8cfn)
A Sectoid ship scouting for bases gets taken out in southern Africa; this is a soft target, and the team from Asia goes in again for Operation Hunter's Bane.
Briefing: A scout ship has been shot down in a rural area of southern Africa. Forces from X-COM Two have been sent for a recovery operation. Hostiles will consist of a small to medium crew of Sectoids; high-ranking ones with psionics will not be present.
The squad gets geared up, same equipment as last time, HWP in front.
(http://i.imgur.com/jjuWoxsm.png) (http://imgur.com/jjuWoxs)
The HWP scouts around, and the landing zone appears clear. Smoke gets set down and troops start moving out.
(http://i.imgur.com/GNtfSSUm.png) (http://imgur.com/GNtfSSU)
However, Scharov gets taken by surprise by an enemy that the squad can't be see, getting hit by a surprise shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/AvP4xLcm.png) (http://imgur.com/AvP4xLc)
(http://i.imgur.com/x9FIVfpm.png) (http://imgur.com/x9FIVfp)
(http://i.imgur.com/1qyXruLm.png) (http://imgur.com/1qyXruL)
The Sectoid comes into view, moving into a field. It gets sniped, regardless.
(http://i.imgur.com/tutYpfKm.png) (http://imgur.com/tutYpfK)
(http://i.imgur.com/9CXjSPom.png) (http://imgur.com/9CXjSPo)
Another squaddie is hit by an out-of-sight alien, but survives (although heavily wounded). Treatment is immediately applied.
(http://i.imgur.com/3ywLxlQm.png) (http://imgur.com/3ywLxlQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/8bXy9Eem.png) (http://imgur.com/8bXy9Ee)
The Sectoid that attacked goes into cover; a grenade is used to try and clear it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/3Yqba8jm.png) (http://imgur.com/3Yqba8j)
(http://i.imgur.com/NWt7Nvtm.png) (http://imgur.com/NWt7Nvt)
A Sectoid coming out of another building gets hit by reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/OLlEWexm.png) (http://imgur.com/OLlEWex)
Another coming out of the ship gets ambushed by waiting troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/s7iuposm.png) (http://imgur.com/s7iupos)
The ship gets breached.
(http://i.imgur.com/I7AFS4Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/I7AFS4R)
(http://i.imgur.com/uw0DfFzm.png) (http://imgur.com/uw0DfFz)
Unfortunately, one of the breaching troops gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/g2o8KNzm.png) (http://imgur.com/g2o8KNz)
The Sectoid goes to the door of the ship, where another soldier takes it out in turn.
(http://i.imgur.com/HZ7avSvm.png) (http://imgur.com/HZ7avSv)
(http://i.imgur.com/9oPf9ylm.png) (http://imgur.com/9oPf9yl)
The bridge of the ship is breached, and one last Sectoid is taken out.
Results of Operation Hunter's Bane
Sgt. Isao Tanida: 1 kill
Robert Stewart: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Arthur Martin: 2 kills; wounded, will recover in 25 days
Galina Scharov: Killed in action
Marc Gressier: Killed in action
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: The losses here weren't very pleasing, but this operation yielded some Elerium.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/iJyOMHzm.png) (http://imgur.com/iJyOMHz)
(http://i.imgur.com/1mCLc6Am.png) (http://imgur.com/1mCLc6A)
The research team gets some previously-unknown information about the Sectoids.
(http://i.imgur.com/KxwOJgfm.png) (http://imgur.com/KxwOJgf)
(http://i.imgur.com/hvLNja8m.png) (http://imgur.com/hvLNja8)
(http://i.imgur.com/SlM8Slkm.png) (http://imgur.com/SlM8Slk)
(http://i.imgur.com/EIjOYXGm.png) (http://imgur.com/EIjOYXG)
An Ethereal infiltration mission is intercepted before it can gain ground in Egypt.
(http://i.imgur.com/IRuQRLbm.png) (http://imgur.com/IRuQRLb)
(http://i.imgur.com/R1aOBGOm.png) (http://imgur.com/R1aOBGO)
A Floater harvester ship is shot down, but goes down in the ocean, leaving no wreckage to recover.
(http://i.imgur.com/Cnni7B0m.png) (http://imgur.com/Cnni7B0)(http://i.imgur.com/IlGTNZfm.png) (http://imgur.com/IlGTNZf)
A scout ship in the US gets destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/Sh74m8Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sh74m8R)
Engineering has been working nonstop on using the acquired Elerium from previous operations to produce more troop armor. This ensures that battlefield losses can be quickly replaced.
(http://i.imgur.com/uLO1FlKm.png) (http://imgur.com/uLO1FlK)
(http://i.imgur.com/QvT4Bu6m.png) (http://imgur.com/QvT4Bu6)
A hangar is now ready at X-COM Five on Sakhalin. One of the extra interceptors is being sent over from X-COM Two.
(http://i.imgur.com/yprNWUUm.png) (http://imgur.com/yprNWUU)
(http://i.imgur.com/0FabbBsm.png) (http://imgur.com/0FabbBs)
(http://i.imgur.com/RTRsx5mm.png) (http://imgur.com/RTRsx5m)
(http://i.imgur.com/ev0DIccm.png) (http://imgur.com/ev0DIcc)
Some more alien ships go down; the Snakeman supply ship is followed until it reaches a coastline, leaving an opportunity to recover it.
(http://i.imgur.com/k3xQlIKm.png) (http://imgur.com/k3xQlIK)
Operation Serpent Storm begins.
Briefing: A supply ship has been shot down over eastern Africa. Forces led by Yoko Iwahara have been sent to clear the site for recovery and reclamation. Enemy forces will consist of a medium to large crew of Snakemen.
(http://i.imgur.com/G7NhGcJm.png) (http://imgur.com/G7NhGcJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/xe8RFs1m.png) (http://imgur.com/xe8RFs1)
(http://i.imgur.com/EWNdQaQm.png) (http://imgur.com/EWNdQaQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/nlN9Hljm.png) (http://imgur.com/nlN9Hlj)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZLfPBgSm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZLfPBgS)
(http://i.imgur.com/L6mPnsGm.png) (http://imgur.com/L6mPnsG)
(http://i.imgur.com/PTYOsbLm.png) (http://imgur.com/PTYOsbL)
(http://i.imgur.com/rGQ6Kb4m.png) (http://imgur.com/rGQ6Kb4)
(http://i.imgur.com/QuCSil7m.png) (http://imgur.com/QuCSil7)
(http://i.imgur.com/ggY0HzGm.png) (http://imgur.com/ggY0HzG)
Again, holding nothing back here. Iwahara's loaded with as much blaster ammo as can be physically transported by one person. Same tactics as last time; punch through to the bridge, assault the ship from the top with flying troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/LVThNZTm.png) (http://imgur.com/LVThNZT)
Smoke gets set down and the operation commences.
(http://i.imgur.com/dLNGFQQm.png) (http://imgur.com/dLNGFQQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/d4cU9LMm.png) (http://imgur.com/d4cU9LM)
Fanning out from the landing zone, the squad takes out a Snakeman in the distance.
(http://i.imgur.com/eZ39C6Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/eZ39C6S)
(http://i.imgur.com/PiQBIPum.png) (http://imgur.com/PiQBIPu)
More Snakemen are in the vicinity.
(http://i.imgur.com/Fcm7RGMm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fcm7RGM)
(http://i.imgur.com/HdnBD0Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/HdnBD0R)
The one near the ship gets taken out, but there's another next to it.
(http://i.imgur.com/pHk9XqZm.png) (http://imgur.com/pHk9XqZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/RTnzwyAm.png) (http://imgur.com/RTnzwyA)
Iwahara takes care of the other one, and in the process of blasting the field takes out a Snakeman the squad wasn't aware of.
(http://i.imgur.com/nRu90Agm.png) (http://imgur.com/nRu90Ag)
Some quick sniping cleans up the other one.
(http://i.imgur.com/abdEk7sm.png) (http://imgur.com/abdEk7s)
(http://i.imgur.com/Kpt3bxam.png) (http://imgur.com/Kpt3bxa)
Another Snakeman trying to come around the corner of the ship gets brought down.
(http://i.imgur.com/kCUkWQvm.png) (http://imgur.com/kCUkWQv)
The path is clear to make an advance towards the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/ruxNvVdm.png) (http://imgur.com/ruxNvVd)
Unfortunately, there was one more Snakeman the squad wasn't aware of, and a sergeant at the side of the line goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/vm48BUCm.png) (http://imgur.com/vm48BUC)
(http://i.imgur.com/OshxErsm.png) (http://imgur.com/OshxErs)
The attacking alien is quickly spotted and eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/6Krm9k7m.png) (http://imgur.com/6Krm9k7)
(http://i.imgur.com/LfEsafHm.png) (http://imgur.com/LfEsafH)
With that issue dealt with, Iwahara blasts the top level of the supply ship open.
(http://i.imgur.com/2c8IzQ6m.png) (http://imgur.com/2c8IzQ6)
(http://i.imgur.com/XXd0UhAm.png) (http://imgur.com/XXd0UhA)
As the team moves forward, a Snakeman is spotted on the roof of a nearby building, just having barely evaded the explosion. It's quickly sniped, letting the advance into the ship continue.
(http://i.imgur.com/2lsJPVem.png) (http://imgur.com/2lsJPVe)
Wright and Sharpe have Flying Suits, so they charge through the hull breach.
(http://i.imgur.com/bkEmw9bm.png) (http://imgur.com/bkEmw9b)
(http://i.imgur.com/Te4Vw7Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/Te4Vw7W)
A Snakeman near the bridge is taken out by Sharpe.
(http://i.imgur.com/4NoaNNpm.png) (http://imgur.com/4NoaNNp)
(http://i.imgur.com/GZoadqmm.png) (http://imgur.com/GZoadqm)
Another tries to fire at her, but the armor holds up and she's unscathed. She responds by throwing a grenade down the hallway.
(http://i.imgur.com/rZ3OuD3m.png) (http://imgur.com/rZ3OuD3)
Some sniping takes care of a Snakeman further down.
(http://i.imgur.com/xmhhHGim.png) (http://imgur.com/xmhhHGi)
The lower level is entered. A reactor explosion has taken out a good chunk of it, but there's one power source remaining ? and with it, some of the valuable Elerium this raid hoped to reclaim.
(http://i.imgur.com/pLv6aglm.png) (http://imgur.com/pLv6agl)
(http://i.imgur.com/XEWuTNtm.png) (http://imgur.com/XEWuTNt)
A Snakeman near the door gets quickly blasted by automatic fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/G5vriphm.png) (http://imgur.com/G5vriph)
The last Snakeman in the ship attempts to attack with a grenade, but winds up hitting the doorway and blowing itself up.
Results of Operation Serpent Storm:
Avatar of War, Commander Yoko Iwahara: 3 kills
Col. Andrea ?Successor? Sharpe: 3 kills
Col. Gerhard ?Beacon? Bouton: 2 kills
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 1 kill
Cpt. Uta Mederow: 2 kills
Sgt. Gennadi Korkia: 1 kill
Sgt. Franz Brehme: Killed in action
13 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Some Elerium was obtained from this operation, plus quite a bit of other useful materials and salvage. Losing one soldier is an acceptable tradeoff for those gains.
(http://i.imgur.com/OBv3smdm.png) (http://imgur.com/OBv3smd)
(http://i.imgur.com/YmQ9ZZnm.png) (http://imgur.com/YmQ9ZZn)
With a ridiculous surplus of alloys, the engineering teams at Europe and Central Asia make some basic armor for the security teams at outlying bases. Those bases would still be entirely screwed if Ethereals showed up, but if we have to deal with an attack by low-level aliens like Floaters the bases should hold.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/wAlpTRDm.png) (http://imgur.com/wAlpTRD)
(http://i.imgur.com/eoRSyGXm.png) (http://imgur.com/eoRSyGX)
A wrecked Floater scout is lying in northwestern Canada, an easy target to recover. Operation Klondike Lode begins.
Briefing: A medium scout ship was recently shot down in the wilderness of the Yukon. Forces from X-COM Two have been sent to clear the site for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a small crew of Floaters.
(http://i.imgur.com/t2RwTnZm.png) (http://imgur.com/t2RwTnZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/m8QRi3Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/m8QRi3Z)
(http://i.imgur.com/GOzBYnzm.png) (http://imgur.com/GOzBYnz)
(http://i.imgur.com/KTKTxtXm.png) (http://imgur.com/KTKTxtX)
(http://i.imgur.com/74AO8NIm.png) (http://imgur.com/74AO8NI)
(http://i.imgur.com/JO71bzxm.png) (http://imgur.com/JO71bzx)
(http://i.imgur.com/TiNNCsUm.png) (http://imgur.com/TiNNCsU)
(http://i.imgur.com/0BWAazzm.png) (http://imgur.com/0BWAazz)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mic45o5m.png) (http://imgur.com/Mic45o5)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y1e8iaVm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y1e8iaV)
Same plan as usual; power suits, plasma guns, rocket tank leading the advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/LSOfUFBm.png) (http://imgur.com/LSOfUFB)
Right off the bat, there's a Floater near the wreckage of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Y2Ivozdm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y2Ivozd)
Trying to attack with the HWP misses.
(http://i.imgur.com/NnGKa5im.png) (http://imgur.com/NnGKa5i)
Another is near the ramp of the Skyranger. Unfortunately, the tank misses again, and is destroyed by plasma fire as it attempts to retreat.
(http://i.imgur.com/1BdkMzCm.png) (http://imgur.com/1BdkMzC)
(http://i.imgur.com/AZ1uE0Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/AZ1uE0M)
Careful positioning in the Skyranger and use of a smoke grenade lets the two troops at the front get rid of the Floater near the crashed ship, but the one lurking around the ramp is going to be more difficult.
(http://i.imgur.com/VwZXtVdm.png) (http://imgur.com/VwZXtVd)
(http://i.imgur.com/bfbjV27m.png) (http://imgur.com/bfbjV27)
(http://i.imgur.com/tQkMzftm.png) (http://imgur.com/tQkMzft)
Fortunately, the smoke provides just enough cover to get the needed shot in and let troops get on the ground.
(http://i.imgur.com/pL7pnbYm.png) (http://imgur.com/pL7pnbY)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZdchbqUm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZdchbqU)
Another Floater on the other side of the hill tries firing on the squad, but 1-on-3 is not in its favor.
(http://i.imgur.com/9dckRhqm.png) (http://imgur.com/9dckRhq)
(http://i.imgur.com/zkc2UJcm.png) (http://imgur.com/zkc2UJc)
One Floater remains in the destroyed remnants of the scout ship, quickly falling to advancing troops
Results of Operation Klondike Lode
HWP: Destroyed
Sgt. Leon Gressier: 1 kill
Tatyana Kolotov: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Brett Davies: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull fragments recovered
Debriefing: At this point the old-model HWPs are easy to replace; the cost is quickly offset by the massive amount of excess plasma guns being recovered.
(http://i.imgur.com/t9NXMyIm.png) (http://imgur.com/t9NXMyI)
(http://i.imgur.com/B31W538m.png) (http://imgur.com/B31W538)
The Ethereal infiltration operation in Egypt continues. Taking out the scout ship wasn't enough; the alien mission seems to be well underway. A supply ship is taken out by the new Firestorm from the base in South Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/WJeQhYpm.png) (http://imgur.com/WJeQhYp)
(http://i.imgur.com/o0PsphYm.png) (http://imgur.com/o0PsphY)
(http://i.imgur.com/Isy5a1Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/Isy5a1C)
An Ethereal battleship arrives to complete the infiltration. The Avenger flies over from the Arctic to intercept, but a full salvo of fusion missiles isn't enough to bring it down. Damaged, the X-COM ship is forced to pull back.
(http://i.imgur.com/oXzyWW2m.png) (http://imgur.com/oXzyWW2)
(http://i.imgur.com/gFHKjJzm.png) (http://imgur.com/gFHKjJz)
An interceptor makes a last-ditch attempt to stop the alien capital ship, but doesn't even get a chance to fire a shot before it's critically damaged and forced to retreat.
(http://i.imgur.com/uAboTyHm.png) (http://imgur.com/uAboTyH)
Another battleship comes by, but its search for X-COM bases fails.
(http://i.imgur.com/Zv8FX0Lm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zv8FX0L)
Engineering capacity is expanded at the main base in Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/Lh47s86m.png) (http://imgur.com/Lh47s86)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gmsf7Pvm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gmsf7Pv)
A Floater harvest ship passes by radar while exiting the atmosphere.
(http://i.imgur.com/fnxtSIpm.png) (http://imgur.com/fnxtSIp)
(http://i.imgur.com/9wJwuAQm.png) (http://imgur.com/9wJwuAQ)
Another Floater scout gets sent plummeting into the Arctic Ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/5yzMovZm.png) (http://imgur.com/5yzMovZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/bXKbCX5m.png) (http://imgur.com/bXKbCX5)
Another scout ship hunting for bases gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/m359nOOm.png) (http://imgur.com/m359nOO)
Another Ethereal battleship arrives for the takeover of Egypt. With the Avenger being repaired and an interceptor almost destroyed trying to take this class of ship on, we're out of options.
(http://i.imgur.com/mVvoMevm.png) (http://imgur.com/mVvoMev)
Mind shields are ready at the Africa bases; the chance of them being attacked is now greatly reduced.
(http://i.imgur.com/BWyYwflm.png) (http://imgur.com/BWyYwfl)
(http://i.imgur.com/v0mpMbdm.png) (http://imgur.com/v0mpMbd)
An Ethereal supply ship heads for the already-active base in Nigeria. It doesn't get that far.
(http://i.imgur.com/B9Lkk5Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/B9Lkk5T)
Personnel arrive in Asia, adding more to the roster at X-COM Two and providing security detail for the Sakhalin base.
(http://i.imgur.com/aY1BGRhm.png) (http://imgur.com/aY1BGRh)
(http://i.imgur.com/ViIY2jZm.png) (http://imgur.com/ViIY2jZ)
A Floater harvesting operation packs up and leaves after completing its work in Oceania.
(http://i.imgur.com/lj0vYrwm.png) (http://imgur.com/lj0vYrw)
(http://i.imgur.com/OmB2qvEm.png) (http://imgur.com/OmB2qvE)
(http://i.imgur.com/SxdzQhFm.png) (http://imgur.com/SxdzQhF)
Another ship that appears to be involved in the same operation is taken out over Asia. This will hopefully be a viable target for recovery.
-
You know, I'm quite amazed there are no aircraft losses yet. From personal experience, battleships can one-shot our usual planes before they even get close enough to try using the longest-range weapons.
-
You know, I'm quite amazed there are no aircraft losses yet. From personal experience, battleships can one-shot our usual planes before they even get close enough to try using the longest-range weapons.
I've experienced aircraft losses in playthroughs prior to this LP and I've learned to consider battleships "don't even fight these unless you have Avengers, and even then you probably want two". The most reliable way to stop an alien battleship is to keep it from arriving via taking out any scouts ahead of it.
(http://i.imgur.com/EIFzIwBm.png) (http://imgur.com/EIFzIwB)
Forces move in to recover more wreckage, commencing Operation Terrace Reaping.
Briefing: A Floater harvest ship has crashed in a rural area on the border of China and Bhutan. Forces from X-COM One in Europe led by Yoko Iwahara have been deployed to the area. Recovery of the ship and its components can start once the region is clear of hostiles. Enemy forces will consist of a medium to large force of Floaters. The area is confirmed to be free of civilians, so collateral damage is not a concern.
(http://i.imgur.com/6Kh1MvIm.png) (http://imgur.com/6Kh1MvI)
(http://i.imgur.com/63jADYim.png) (http://imgur.com/63jADYi)
(http://i.imgur.com/FTTc80Um.png) (http://imgur.com/FTTc80U)
(http://i.imgur.com/vyXBkkbm.png) (http://imgur.com/vyXBkkb)
(http://i.imgur.com/fdXs1V1m.png) (http://imgur.com/fdXs1V1)
(http://i.imgur.com/qLXELGZm.png) (http://imgur.com/qLXELGZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/4j0lU0jm.png) (http://imgur.com/4j0lU0j)
(http://i.imgur.com/G82aZUbm.png) (http://imgur.com/G82aZUb)
(http://i.imgur.com/bhmVcArm.png) (http://imgur.com/bhmVcAr)
(http://i.imgur.com/BVfEv9om.png) (http://imgur.com/BVfEv9o)
The squad gets armed up and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/o1pzrZmm.png) (http://imgur.com/o1pzrZm)
(http://i.imgur.com/cxZqErLm.png) (http://imgur.com/cxZqErL)
Smoke gets set down and the squad gets moving.
(http://i.imgur.com/LULuRCUm.png) (http://imgur.com/LULuRCU)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mt1pPU4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Mt1pPU4)
(http://i.imgur.com/kl6saRZm.png) (http://imgur.com/kl6saRZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/NkejJ30m.png) (http://imgur.com/NkejJ30)
Attempts by Floaters to approach are quickly met with reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/pbG9F9Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/pbG9F9B)
(http://i.imgur.com/KxQAwvTm.png) (http://imgur.com/KxQAwvT)
A Floater emerging from the farmhouse gets sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/H2Vte0sm.png) (http://imgur.com/H2Vte0s)
(http://i.imgur.com/91M3ZYZm.png) (http://imgur.com/91M3ZYZ)
Another reaction shot takes out another Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/6u4CAYjm.png) (http://imgur.com/6u4CAYj)(http://i.imgur.com/lgGUpi7m.png) (http://imgur.com/lgGUpi7)
Dagallier's on a roll, taking out one alien after another.
(http://i.imgur.com/wNeJehhm.png) (http://imgur.com/wNeJehh)
(http://i.imgur.com/St6FgZVm.png) (http://imgur.com/St6FgZV)
Troops advancing towards the entrance of the ship take out yet another Floater with reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/AEyNCLBm.png) (http://imgur.com/AEyNCLB)
(http://i.imgur.com/jjoJ7TNm.png) (http://imgur.com/jjoJ7TN)
A slow and cautious advance is made towards the ship, leaving plenty of chance to mow down anyone who emerges from the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/wayeAIpm.png) (http://imgur.com/wayeAIp)
(http://i.imgur.com/14THse9m.png) (http://imgur.com/14THse9)
An attempt by Floaters to snipe from the farmhouse gets the troops' attention, leading to yet another fatal counterattack.
(http://i.imgur.com/xR0sdPXm.png) (http://imgur.com/xR0sdPX)
(http://i.imgur.com/fHOHblem.png) (http://imgur.com/fHOHble)
Another Floater is hiding in the top floor of the farmhouse, but one shot takes it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/fQPBPeFm.png) (http://imgur.com/fQPBPeF)
(http://i.imgur.com/JdvDxyym.png) (http://imgur.com/JdvDxyy)
Another Floater walks into the path of the squad, but quickly retreats back into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Re7oQV4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Re7oQV4)
(http://i.imgur.com/EZafQwXm.png) (http://imgur.com/EZafQwX)
However, it gets quickly chased down and taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/x1o4sUgm.png) (http://imgur.com/x1o4sUg)
(http://i.imgur.com/vWRpgVGm.png) (http://imgur.com/vWRpgVG)
An alien hiding further in the ship fires a stun bomb, but that kind of weapon is only marginally dangerous in this kind of situation.
(http://i.imgur.com/f3O2wHvm.png) (http://imgur.com/f3O2wHv)
(http://i.imgur.com/vsUphvlm.png) (http://imgur.com/vsUphvl)
Another of the troopers comes around from the other entrance and shoots the Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/2tVkONVm.png) (http://imgur.com/2tVkONV)
(http://i.imgur.com/9Ugvp2pm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Ugvp2p)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ipk1yuhm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ipk1yuh)
(http://i.imgur.com/5qf9v9Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/5qf9v9C)
(http://i.imgur.com/kS4zMdDm.png) (http://imgur.com/kS4zMdD)
Another Floater lurking in the entrance gets taken out, and another after that.
(http://i.imgur.com/N0igreYm.png) (http://imgur.com/N0igreY)
(http://i.imgur.com/qRLdZb0m.png) (http://imgur.com/qRLdZb0)
(http://i.imgur.com/1A2zQXdm.png) (http://imgur.com/1A2zQXd)
(http://i.imgur.com/NaOOvUvm.png) (http://imgur.com/NaOOvUv)
It's not very difficult to get to the bridge, where two demoralized and vulnerable Floater leaders are. It's very easy to mop up.
Results of Operation Terrace Reaping
Cpt. Sylvie Dagallier: 8 kills
Cpt. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 4 kills
Cpt. Gennadi Korkia: 1 kill
Sgt. Jacques Pecheux: 2 kills
Leon Dreyfus: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Luck went exceptionally in the squad's favor during this mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/4EcxA07m.png) (http://imgur.com/4EcxA07)
A Sectoid battleship hunts for the Africa bases; with the Mind Shields up and running, it's not going to succeed in locating a target.
(http://i.imgur.com/pki2mPWm.png) (http://imgur.com/pki2mPW)
More engineers arrive at the Europe base to speed up production.
(http://i.imgur.com/P3etpYdm.png) (http://imgur.com/P3etpYd)
A new HWP arrives at the Asia base for use by the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZWi0MHjm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZWi0MHj)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q4zhhmvm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q4zhhmv)
An Ethereal assault gets shot down by one of the Firestorms.
(http://i.imgur.com/lcly7smm.png) (http://imgur.com/lcly7sm)
More hangars are ready for use.
(http://i.imgur.com/Vv7Q3XZm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vv7Q3XZ)
Floater battleships go hunting for the Arctic base. They don't find it, but a Floater attack at this point would be very easy to repel.
(http://i.imgur.com/vxACUH3m.png) (http://imgur.com/vxACUH3)
A Grav Shield is ready at the Europe base, which improves the performance of the other defenses there.
(http://i.imgur.com/dTQL4SXm.png) (http://imgur.com/dTQL4SX)
(http://i.imgur.com/kdUpHUTm.png) (http://imgur.com/kdUpHUT)
An Ethereal scout gets shot down over the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/dnuQhoym.png) (http://imgur.com/dnuQhoy)
(http://i.imgur.com/OlEw335m.png) (http://imgur.com/OlEw335)
A Snakeman supply ship crosses the Indian Ocean. There isn't a good opportunity to catch it over land, so it's shot down while there's still a chance, sending it into the sea.
(http://i.imgur.com/kIgRGcWm.png) (http://imgur.com/kIgRGcW)
(http://i.imgur.com/0LeHfTUm.png) (http://imgur.com/0LeHfTU)
Another Ethereal scout is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/VO2V5Tzm.png) (http://imgur.com/VO2V5Tz)
(http://i.imgur.com/4uY4FXim.png) (http://imgur.com/4uY4FXi)
(http://i.imgur.com/aZdS7UQm.png) (http://imgur.com/aZdS7UQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/QQgAV1Am.png) (http://imgur.com/QQgAV1A)
With more facilities ready at Sakhalin, work is done to narrow the entryway into a choke point.
(http://i.imgur.com/vIwW5Cvm.png) (http://imgur.com/vIwW5Cv)
(http://i.imgur.com/M52Hxanm.png) (http://imgur.com/M52Hxan)
Another scout ship gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/mYJZpXkm.png) (http://imgur.com/mYJZpXk)
(http://i.imgur.com/cX79ivSm.png) (http://imgur.com/cX79ivS)
(http://i.imgur.com/eJY8eaom.png) (http://imgur.com/eJY8eao)
(http://i.imgur.com/8UmmbKcm.png) (http://imgur.com/8UmmbKc)
A Floater scout escapes from the first interceptors that go after it, but one from the Arctic manages to catch up with it and shoot it down. This is a low-risk target if forces are sent to reclaim it, but the odds of the reactor and its fuel still being intact are low and we have more than enough of money and alloys.
For now, the main long-term strategic objective is defending as many primary backing nations as possible and holding out until the psychic capabilities of our elites can be refined. When that happens, assaults can begin on the alien bases worldwide.
(http://i.imgur.com/EIFzIwBm.png) (http://imgur.com/EIFzIwB)
Forces move in to recover more wreckage, commencing Operation Terrace Reaping.
Briefing: A Floater harvest ship has crashed in a rural area on the border of China and Bhutan. Forces from X-COM One in Europe led by Yoko Iwahara have been deployed to the area. Recovery of the ship and its components can start once the region is clear of hostiles. Enemy forces will consist of a medium to large force of Floaters. The area is confirmed to be free of civilians, so collateral damage is not a concern.
(http://i.imgur.com/6Kh1MvIm.png) (http://imgur.com/6Kh1MvI)
(http://i.imgur.com/63jADYim.png) (http://imgur.com/63jADYi)
(http://i.imgur.com/FTTc80Um.png) (http://imgur.com/FTTc80U)
(http://i.imgur.com/vyXBkkbm.png) (http://imgur.com/vyXBkkb)
(http://i.imgur.com/fdXs1V1m.png) (http://imgur.com/fdXs1V1)
(http://i.imgur.com/qLXELGZm.png) (http://imgur.com/qLXELGZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/4j0lU0jm.png) (http://imgur.com/4j0lU0j)
(http://i.imgur.com/G82aZUbm.png) (http://imgur.com/G82aZUb)
(http://i.imgur.com/bhmVcArm.png) (http://imgur.com/bhmVcAr)
(http://i.imgur.com/BVfEv9om.png) (http://imgur.com/BVfEv9o)
The squad gets armed up and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/o1pzrZmm.png) (http://imgur.com/o1pzrZm)
(http://i.imgur.com/cxZqErLm.png) (http://imgur.com/cxZqErL)
Smoke gets set down and the squad gets moving.
(http://i.imgur.com/LULuRCUm.png) (http://imgur.com/LULuRCU)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mt1pPU4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Mt1pPU4)
(http://i.imgur.com/kl6saRZm.png) (http://imgur.com/kl6saRZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/NkejJ30m.png) (http://imgur.com/NkejJ30)
Attempts by Floaters to approach are quickly met with reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/pbG9F9Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/pbG9F9B)
(http://i.imgur.com/KxQAwvTm.png) (http://imgur.com/KxQAwvT)
A Floater emerging from the farmhouse gets sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/H2Vte0sm.png) (http://imgur.com/H2Vte0s)
(http://i.imgur.com/91M3ZYZm.png) (http://imgur.com/91M3ZYZ)
Another reaction shot takes out another Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/6u4CAYjm.png) (http://imgur.com/6u4CAYj)(http://i.imgur.com/lgGUpi7m.png) (http://imgur.com/lgGUpi7)
Dagallier's on a roll, taking out one alien after another.
(http://i.imgur.com/wNeJehhm.png) (http://imgur.com/wNeJehh)
(http://i.imgur.com/St6FgZVm.png) (http://imgur.com/St6FgZV)
Troops advancing towards the entrance of the ship take out yet another Floater with reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/AEyNCLBm.png) (http://imgur.com/AEyNCLB)
(http://i.imgur.com/jjoJ7TNm.png) (http://imgur.com/jjoJ7TN)
A slow and cautious advance is made towards the ship, leaving plenty of chance to mow down anyone who emerges from the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/wayeAIpm.png) (http://imgur.com/wayeAIp)
(http://i.imgur.com/14THse9m.png) (http://imgur.com/14THse9)
An attempt by Floaters to snipe from the farmhouse gets the troops' attention, leading to yet another fatal counterattack.
(http://i.imgur.com/xR0sdPXm.png) (http://imgur.com/xR0sdPX)
(http://i.imgur.com/fHOHblem.png) (http://imgur.com/fHOHble)
Another Floater is hiding in the top floor of the farmhouse, but one shot takes it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/fQPBPeFm.png) (http://imgur.com/fQPBPeF)
(http://i.imgur.com/JdvDxyym.png) (http://imgur.com/JdvDxyy)
Another Floater walks into the path of the squad, but quickly retreats back into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Re7oQV4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Re7oQV4)
(http://i.imgur.com/EZafQwXm.png) (http://imgur.com/EZafQwX)
However, it gets quickly chased down and taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/x1o4sUgm.png) (http://imgur.com/x1o4sUg)
(http://i.imgur.com/vWRpgVGm.png) (http://imgur.com/vWRpgVG)
An alien hiding further in the ship fires a stun bomb, but that kind of weapon is only marginally dangerous in this kind of situation.
(http://i.imgur.com/f3O2wHvm.png) (http://imgur.com/f3O2wHv)
(http://i.imgur.com/vsUphvlm.png) (http://imgur.com/vsUphvl)
Another of the troopers comes around from the other entrance and shoots the Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/2tVkONVm.png) (http://imgur.com/2tVkONV)
(http://i.imgur.com/9Ugvp2pm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Ugvp2p)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ipk1yuhm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ipk1yuh)
(http://i.imgur.com/5qf9v9Cm.png) (http://imgur.com/5qf9v9C)
(http://i.imgur.com/kS4zMdDm.png) (http://imgur.com/kS4zMdD)
Another Floater lurking in the entrance gets taken out, and another after that.
(http://i.imgur.com/N0igreYm.png) (http://imgur.com/N0igreY)
(http://i.imgur.com/qRLdZb0m.png) (http://imgur.com/qRLdZb0)
(http://i.imgur.com/1A2zQXdm.png) (http://imgur.com/1A2zQXd)
(http://i.imgur.com/NaOOvUvm.png) (http://imgur.com/NaOOvUv)
It's not very difficult to get to the bridge, where two demoralized and vulnerable Floater leaders are. It's very easy to mop up.
Results of Operation Terrace Reaping
Cpt. Sylvie Dagallier: 8 kills
Cpt. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 4 kills
Cpt. Gennadi Korkia: 1 kill
Sgt. Jacques Pecheux: 2 kills
Leon Dreyfus: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Luck went exceptionally in the squad's favor during this mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/4EcxA07m.png) (http://imgur.com/4EcxA07)
A Sectoid battleship hunts for the Africa bases; with the Mind Shields up and running, it's not going to succeed in locating a target.
(http://i.imgur.com/pki2mPWm.png) (http://imgur.com/pki2mPW)
More engineers arrive at the Europe base to speed up production.
(http://i.imgur.com/P3etpYdm.png) (http://imgur.com/P3etpYd)
A new HWP arrives at the Asia base for use by the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZWi0MHjm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZWi0MHj)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q4zhhmvm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q4zhhmv)
An Ethereal assault gets shot down by one of the Firestorms.
(http://i.imgur.com/lcly7smm.png) (http://imgur.com/lcly7sm)
More hangars are ready for use.
(http://i.imgur.com/Vv7Q3XZm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vv7Q3XZ)
Floater battleships go hunting for the Arctic base. They don't find it, but a Floater attack at this point would be very easy to repel.
(http://i.imgur.com/vxACUH3m.png) (http://imgur.com/vxACUH3)
A Grav Shield is ready at the Europe base, which improves the performance of the other defenses there.
(http://i.imgur.com/dTQL4SXm.png) (http://imgur.com/dTQL4SX)
(http://i.imgur.com/kdUpHUTm.png) (http://imgur.com/kdUpHUT)
An Ethereal scout gets shot down over the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/dnuQhoym.png) (http://imgur.com/dnuQhoy)
(http://i.imgur.com/OlEw335m.png) (http://imgur.com/OlEw335)
A Snakeman supply ship crosses the Indian Ocean. There isn't a good opportunity to catch it over land, so it's shot down while there's still a chance, sending it into the sea.
(http://i.imgur.com/kIgRGcWm.png) (http://imgur.com/kIgRGcW)
(http://i.imgur.com/0LeHfTUm.png) (http://imgur.com/0LeHfTU)
Another Ethereal scout is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/VO2V5Tzm.png) (http://imgur.com/VO2V5Tz)
(http://i.imgur.com/4uY4FXim.png) (http://imgur.com/4uY4FXi)
(http://i.imgur.com/aZdS7UQm.png) (http://imgur.com/aZdS7UQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/QQgAV1Am.png) (http://imgur.com/QQgAV1A)
With more facilities ready at Sakhalin, work is done to narrow the entryway into a choke point.
(http://i.imgur.com/vIwW5Cvm.png) (http://imgur.com/vIwW5Cv)
(http://i.imgur.com/M52Hxanm.png) (http://imgur.com/M52Hxan)
Another scout ship gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/mYJZpXkm.png) (http://imgur.com/mYJZpXk)
(http://i.imgur.com/cX79ivSm.png) (http://imgur.com/cX79ivS)
(http://i.imgur.com/eJY8eaom.png) (http://imgur.com/eJY8eao)
(http://i.imgur.com/8UmmbKcm.png) (http://imgur.com/8UmmbKc)
A Floater scout escapes from the first interceptors that go after it, but one from the Arctic manages to catch up with it and shoot it down. This is a low-risk target if forces are sent to reclaim it, but the odds of the reactor and its fuel still being intact are low and we have more than enough of money and alloys.
For now, the main long-term strategic objective is defending as many primary backing nations as possible and holding out until the psychic capabilities of our elites can be refined. When that happens, assaults can begin on the alien bases worldwide.
Just a heads up that updates are probably going to be a bit more sparse over the coming weekend due to a local convention, so don't expect anything new from Friday-Sunday.
-
The Floater crash site in Alaska is ignored; the focus remains on preparing troops and equipment for base assaults.
(http://i.imgur.com/s5JeXN6m.png) (http://imgur.com/s5JeXN6)
A hyperwave decoder is ready at Sakhalin.
(http://i.imgur.com/lr1waobm.png) (http://imgur.com/lr1waob)
(http://i.imgur.com/nCPsA9Om.png) (http://imgur.com/nCPsA9O)
Another Floater scout ship gets shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/i161Vwdm.png) (http://imgur.com/i161Vwd)
(http://i.imgur.com/sLspuKfm.png) (http://imgur.com/sLspuKf)
(http://i.imgur.com/bySWEl9m.png) (http://imgur.com/bySWEl9)
Personal armor gets completed and shipped to the outlying bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/fKCWKarm.png) (http://imgur.com/fKCWKar)
(http://i.imgur.com/MOAtd7cm.png) (http://imgur.com/MOAtd7c)
(http://i.imgur.com/AAMqRbim.png) (http://imgur.com/AAMqRbi)
Production begins on a new Avenger.
(http://i.imgur.com/BFeYlLNm.png) (http://imgur.com/BFeYlLN)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q4n6Lmnm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q4n6Lmn)
Another scout gets shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/wyIwyOjm.png) (http://imgur.com/wyIwyOj)
(http://i.imgur.com/wasJbi3m.png) (http://imgur.com/wasJbi3)
A Muton ship returns to space after dropping off its cargo at the Gulf of Mexico base.
(http://i.imgur.com/cxVXnCFm.png) (http://imgur.com/cxVXnCF)
(http://i.imgur.com/cnjjxgwm.png) (http://imgur.com/cnjjxgw)
Another scout is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/sW2BFIum.png) (http://imgur.com/sW2BFIu)
The month ends. Egypt has been infiltrated by alien forces and pulled its support. However, our funding is holding steady.
(http://i.imgur.com/I1OwlnCm.png) (http://imgur.com/I1OwlnC)
(http://i.imgur.com/4tgSGStm.png) (http://imgur.com/4tgSGSt)
(http://i.imgur.com/qqSVUnYm.png) (http://imgur.com/qqSVUnY)
Psychic training continues. A few soldiers are starting to cross a threshhold where their power will be effective in combat. These psionic capabilities will be tested in ground operations at crash sites before we attempt a base assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/luTGAaEm.png) (http://imgur.com/luTGAaE)
The base established during the infiltration of Egypt has been located elsewhere in North Africa.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/ttJntPKm.png) (http://imgur.com/ttJntPK)
(http://i.imgur.com/lc2y3hFm.png) (http://imgur.com/lc2y3hF)
(http://i.imgur.com/QoMjRK0m.png) (http://imgur.com/QoMjRK0)
(http://i.imgur.com/HsqkvNpm.png) (http://imgur.com/HsqkvNp)
A pair of alien scout ships appear on radar. The Snakeman scout ship goes down in Eastern Europe, while the small scout ship is completely destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/BLMeKqJm.png) (http://imgur.com/BLMeKqJ)
Forces are deployed to the crash site. Operation Fallen Viper commences.
Briefing: A Snakeman scout ship has crashed in Europe. Forces from X-COM One have been sent to clear the area for recovery. Hostiles will consist of a small crew.
(http://i.imgur.com/RK2SvRvm.png) (http://imgur.com/RK2SvRv)
(http://i.imgur.com/FhEjsmUm.png) (http://imgur.com/FhEjsmU)
(http://i.imgur.com/kOfpLSqm.png) (http://imgur.com/kOfpLSq)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bm3zD40m.png) (http://imgur.com/Bm3zD40)
(http://i.imgur.com/aKdGF5sm.png) (http://imgur.com/aKdGF5s)
(http://i.imgur.com/NrIIGLBm.png) (http://imgur.com/NrIIGLB)
(http://i.imgur.com/G9EoXLGm.png) (http://imgur.com/G9EoXLG)
(http://i.imgur.com/D7behfim.png) (http://imgur.com/D7behfi)
(http://i.imgur.com/AVhESOZm.png) (http://imgur.com/AVhESOZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/cmeEpoPm.png) (http://imgur.com/cmeEpoP)
The squad gets equipped and ready. The original plan was to have the two most well-prepared psychic troops be given amplifiers, but I forgot to rotate them into the squad, meaning time to rely on standard tactics.
(http://i.imgur.com/kLcapXzm.png) (http://imgur.com/kLcapXz)
(http://i.imgur.com/BMVd8Qxm.png) (http://imgur.com/BMVd8Qx)
Smoke gets set out and members of the squad get onto the battlefield.
(http://i.imgur.com/AKjaMzpm.png) (http://imgur.com/AKjaMzp)
The area is completely desolate; a slow, careful search is made, but no aliens turn up. Troops are cautiously moved towards the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/IWWu2YCm.png) (http://imgur.com/IWWu2YC)
Two troops move in around the sides of the UFO; it looks to be in very good shape despite getting hit by a plasma weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/W9ykSmVm.png) (http://imgur.com/W9ykSmV)
A proximity mine is used to block off the door, and it's time to start waiting.
(http://i.imgur.com/IUWspEjm.png) (http://imgur.com/IUWspEj)
Thanks to some weirdness regarding how 45-degree wall corners work, it's possible to get a glimpse into the ship. It's in better shape than anticipated, with a functional reactor.
(http://i.imgur.com/vFOwv4Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/vFOwv4W)
A colonel gets on the roof and prepares to ambush anyone exiting.
(http://i.imgur.com/nx8wiOGm.png) (http://imgur.com/nx8wiOG)
(http://i.imgur.com/VKKhHkPm.png) (http://imgur.com/VKKhHkP)
A long, long time passes with no aliens exiting the craft. A regular grenade is used to clear away the mine and give the troops passage into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/fY3VrE3m.png) (http://imgur.com/fY3VrE3)
(http://i.imgur.com/wLKvoo6m.png) (http://imgur.com/wLKvoo6)
Now the Snakemen decide to emerge, but with multiple troops lying in wait, two of the alien crew are struck down within moments of exiting the door.
(http://i.imgur.com/8DVSbkUm.png) (http://imgur.com/8DVSbkU)
(http://i.imgur.com/cUZgmI8m.png) (http://imgur.com/cUZgmI8)
Sharpe pops open the door, taking out the alien at the far corner.
(http://i.imgur.com/T0mDTdVm.png) (http://imgur.com/T0mDTdV)
(http://i.imgur.com/aZtXhFmm.png) (http://imgur.com/aZtXhFm)
(http://i.imgur.com/CJqMut4m.png) (http://imgur.com/CJqMut4)
An attempt is made to shoot the one next to the reactor while it's facing away, but the alien survives the first shot and the next two miss. It turns around and retaliates.
(http://i.imgur.com/8DzrT39m.png) (http://imgur.com/8DzrT39)
(http://i.imgur.com/bHCMkpnm.png) (http://imgur.com/bHCMkpn)
Another rush into the ship takes out the last remaining alien.
Results of Operation Fallen Viper
Col. Gerard ?Beacon? Bouton: 1 kill
Cpt. Sylvie Dagallier: 2 kills, promoted to Colonel
Sgt. Leon Dreyfus: Promoted to Captain
Col. Andrea ?Successor? Sharpe: Killed in action
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: Unfortunately, Sharpe's death was completely avoidable. I overestimated the capabilities of the troops and got too aggressive.
(http://i.imgur.com/VsXHsa0m.png) (http://imgur.com/VsXHsa0)
New troops arrive to support the existing security staff at the Africa bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/YTyK0Qgm.png) (http://imgur.com/YTyK0Qg)
(http://i.imgur.com/vyiGRvCm.png) (http://imgur.com/vyiGRvC)
An Ethereal supply ship is shot down near the Russian border.
(http://i.imgur.com/xgbQ0kVm.png) (http://imgur.com/xgbQ0kV)
(http://i.imgur.com/HkWRp09m.png) (http://imgur.com/HkWRp09)
Production begins on more flying armors.
(http://i.imgur.com/8A7QoPqm.png) (http://imgur.com/8A7QoPq)
(http://i.imgur.com/Quf0EjHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Quf0EjH)
A Floater ship is pursued, going off radar for a bit before it appears in the Great Lakes area of the US.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Nc7780ym.png) (http://imgur.com/Nc7780y)
(http://i.imgur.com/P3EDyuwm.png) (http://imgur.com/P3EDyuw)
The Skyranger from X-COM One makes it to the Floater ship that's operating in the United States before it takes off again. Operation Lakeside Hunt begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/zxxaGmVm.png) (http://imgur.com/zxxaGmV)
(http://i.imgur.com/pzn2DTsm.png) (http://imgur.com/pzn2DTs)
(http://i.imgur.com/DvmpJz6m.png) (http://imgur.com/DvmpJz6)
(http://i.imgur.com/1mMNedfm.png) (http://imgur.com/1mMNedf)
(http://i.imgur.com/eceqLWLm.png) (http://imgur.com/eceqLWL)
(http://i.imgur.com/xiALce8m.png) (http://imgur.com/xiALce8)
(http://i.imgur.com/WiXzNk9m.png) (http://imgur.com/WiXzNk9)
(http://i.imgur.com/lrtsAP9m.png) (http://imgur.com/lrtsAP9)
(http://i.imgur.com/fOvH2BUm.png) (http://imgur.com/fOvH2BU)
(http://i.imgur.com/pRitrRAm.png) (http://imgur.com/pRitrRA)
Troops are equipped and ready to go. Two psi-amps, Blaster Launcher, this is massively in our favor.
(http://i.imgur.com/X8FoMOjm.png) (http://imgur.com/X8FoMOj)
(http://i.imgur.com/HxCAU6um.png) (http://imgur.com/HxCAU6u)
Two smoke grenades get tossed out.
(http://i.imgur.com/W1wucUPm.png) (http://imgur.com/W1wucUP)
(http://i.imgur.com/DEVv6aam.png) (http://imgur.com/DEVv6aa)
(http://i.imgur.com/76jcExFm.png) (http://imgur.com/76jcExF)
(http://i.imgur.com/OkjDenhm.png) (http://imgur.com/OkjDenh)
A Floater gets sniped as the troops advanced. Attempts are made to use the Psi-amp against it at first, but
(http://i.imgur.com/8fpvbYWm.png) (http://imgur.com/8fpvbYW)
(http://i.imgur.com/m3V4RYFm.png) (http://imgur.com/m3V4RYF)
(http://i.imgur.com/te407i8m.png) (http://imgur.com/te407i8)
(http://i.imgur.com/hrsWMG3m.png) (http://imgur.com/hrsWMG3)
Fences are blocking off the best path to get to the UFO. A grenade is used to clear the route, with the added bonus of some more smoke.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jp1XAmpm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jp1XAmp)
(http://i.imgur.com/1euu62rm.png) (http://imgur.com/1euu62r)
Another Floater goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/wPlyVqzm.png) (http://imgur.com/wPlyVqz)
(http://i.imgur.com/4up49tGm.png) (http://imgur.com/4up49tG)
Troops are ready to push through and enter the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/jkoxkyzm.png) (http://imgur.com/jkoxkyz)
(http://i.imgur.com/wFvG9AGm.png) (http://imgur.com/wFvG9AG)
(http://i.imgur.com/2Fx8Lm9m.png) (http://imgur.com/2Fx8Lm9)
(http://i.imgur.com/4kBfFYPm.png) (http://imgur.com/4kBfFYP)
(http://i.imgur.com/lWfrhefm.png) (http://imgur.com/lWfrhef)
A Floater is encountered in the doorway, leading to a short firefight.
(http://i.imgur.com/o6zGFnNm.png) (http://imgur.com/o6zGFnN)
(http://i.imgur.com/xJ79TD4m.png) (http://imgur.com/xJ79TD4)
Another Floater goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/IJcGXfgm.png) (http://imgur.com/IJcGXfg)
(http://i.imgur.com/3dbyWa6m.png) (http://imgur.com/3dbyWa6)
(http://i.imgur.com/izmqxAAm.png) (http://imgur.com/izmqxAA)
The next burst of fire puts a hole in the inner hull, in addition to bringing down another alien. That breach is a good opportunity, letting troops go for the cockpit through the engine room.
(http://i.imgur.com/u0P8BP2m.png) (http://imgur.com/u0P8BP2)
(http://i.imgur.com/zecK7A8m.png) (http://imgur.com/zecK7A8)
(http://i.imgur.com/LThh5GPm.png) (http://imgur.com/LThh5GP)
Advancing into the engine room turns up a Floater technician. Firing at it takes out the reactor, but the Elerium fuel core remains stable and intact.
(http://i.imgur.com/Rz83WbHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Rz83WbH)
(http://i.imgur.com/rtdPGMDm.png) (http://imgur.com/rtdPGMD)
The squad continues through the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/IDwOdbwm.png) (http://imgur.com/IDwOdbw)
(http://i.imgur.com/VDYjiEjm.png) (http://imgur.com/VDYjiEj)
(http://i.imgur.com/cQZakWVm.png) (http://imgur.com/cQZakWV)
A single burst of automatic fire takes out two Floaters on one side of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/3fBJnBPm.png) (http://imgur.com/3fBJnBP)
Unfortunately, another hole in the hull interior leaves Dagallier vulnerable, and another Floater gets shots in on her.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZParGivm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZParGiv)
(http://i.imgur.com/MR2chJsm.png) (http://imgur.com/MR2chJs)
Another of the squad member takes out the Floater, cleaning out the ship.
Result of Operation Lakeside Hunt
Results of Operation Lakeside Hunt
Cpt. Uta Mederow: 7 kills, promoted to Colonel
Cpt. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 1 kill
Cpt. Gennadi Korgia: 1 kill
Sgt. Jacques Pecheaux: Promoted to Captain
Jungo Tanida: Promoted to Sergeant
Col. Sylvie Dagallier: Killed in action
9 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: Dagallier's loss was due to some poor placement while going through the ship. The powers of the psionic troops are not yet refined enough to be effective in battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/TjhZKSlm.png) (http://imgur.com/TjhZKSl)
(http://i.imgur.com/1euu62rm.png) (http://imgur.com/1euu62r)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ssou4Rbm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ssou4Rb)
(http://i.imgur.com/cjb51crm.png) (http://imgur.com/cjb51cr)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vrft79ym.png) (http://imgur.com/Vrft79y)
(http://i.imgur.com/03PwqZGm.png) (http://imgur.com/03PwqZG)
An Ethereal terror ship is pursued to the South Pacific. The Firestorm just barely catches up with it and shoots it down over Australia.
(http://i.imgur.com/Gq79UwDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gq79UwD)
(http://i.imgur.com/QZJ4eX4m.png) (http://imgur.com/QZJ4eX4)
A scout ship escapes from radar, but it's a minor threat.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZZ890eLm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZZ890eL)
(http://i.imgur.com/dyXEhzbm.png) (http://imgur.com/dyXEhzb)
A Muton supply ship is intercepted by one of the Firestorms, getting shot down. This is a perfect target.
-
I'm going to be taking a brief break from updating the LP; lately I've been having a lot of trouble focusing on the game with so much going on around me. I don't intend to quit the LP fully; it would be a shame to throw out so much progress moot after coming this far. Unless something world-shattering comes up, I plan to return to this by the end of August.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/4tFBwWem.png) (http://imgur.com/4tFBwWe)
Previously, a Muton supply ship was intercepted and shot down near the Russian border. Forces are now moving in to recover the wreckage. Operation Hollow Shell begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/QphHNf6m.png) (http://imgur.com/QphHNf6)
(http://i.imgur.com/SCARLFPm.png) (http://imgur.com/SCARLFP)
(http://i.imgur.com/rCIoUoOm.png) (http://imgur.com/rCIoUoO)
(http://i.imgur.com/GHvtJPMm.png) (http://imgur.com/GHvtJPM)
(http://i.imgur.com/8hx3PjLm.png) (http://imgur.com/8hx3PjL)
(http://i.imgur.com/4CSzV8Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/4CSzV8W)
(http://i.imgur.com/Au7DFjjm.png) (http://imgur.com/Au7DFjj)
(http://i.imgur.com/BqPdr2km.png) (http://imgur.com/BqPdr2k)
(http://i.imgur.com/PnTIyuOm.png) (http://imgur.com/PnTIyuO)
(http://i.imgur.com/PDZXSubm.png) (http://imgur.com/PDZXSub)
Everybody gets armed up. As usual, Iwahara gets the Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/bA9bOzMm.png) (http://imgur.com/bA9bOzM)
Off the bat, a Muton is waiting outside the landing site.
(http://i.imgur.com/nDpiriPm.png) (http://imgur.com/nDpiriP)
(http://i.imgur.com/W5m4LKZm.png) (http://imgur.com/W5m4LKZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ej2MCoXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ej2MCoX)
While it's pure overkill, the Blaster Launcher allows nothing to be left to chance, and has the added benefit of providing much-valued smoke cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/6god3LHm.png) (http://imgur.com/6god3LH)
(http://i.imgur.com/weripJtm.png) (http://imgur.com/weripJt)
(http://i.imgur.com/aNGxRk7m.png) (http://imgur.com/aNGxRk7)
Another Muton is waiting. An attempt to fire at it misses and results in return fire. Rather than gamble on trying to hit it with a second shot, retreat is considered as an alternative. Unfortunately, the attempted retreat just leads to more reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/1lGdt6dm.png) (http://imgur.com/1lGdt6d)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q7Gucicm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q7Gucic)
Plan B becomes ?use the launcher again.?
(http://i.imgur.com/rKkNu2gm.png) (http://imgur.com/rKkNu2g)
(http://i.imgur.com/5mOfRfFm.png) (http://imgur.com/5mOfRfF)
Another Muton near the ship goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/JYFDXJtm.png) (http://imgur.com/JYFDXJt)
More aliens fire on the squad, taking out another of the team.
(http://i.imgur.com/2L5BQ1Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/2L5BQ1N)
(http://i.imgur.com/47I7WKam.png) (http://imgur.com/47I7WKa)
Return fire is swift and lethal.
(http://i.imgur.com/3spj6kGm.png) (http://imgur.com/3spj6kG)
(http://i.imgur.com/NBARu9Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/NBARu9D)
Another alien goes down to some swift reactions.
(http://i.imgur.com/R7A9JuJm.png) (http://imgur.com/R7A9JuJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/edqmj13m.png) (http://imgur.com/edqmj13)
Mutons keep flooding out of the wreckage, and keep getting mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/n0Cpet1m.png) (http://imgur.com/n0Cpet1)
The rest of the squad hits the ground running.
(http://i.imgur.com/qCoEPdAm.png) (http://imgur.com/qCoEPdA)
(http://i.imgur.com/BcINhKzm.png) (http://imgur.com/BcINhKz)
Another Muton lurking near the ship gets taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/7eJ3aTKm.png) (http://imgur.com/7eJ3aTK)
(http://i.imgur.com/bgSwEKLm.png) (http://imgur.com/bgSwEKL)
An enemy shot sails by, managing to avoid the squad. Unfortunately for the attacking Muton, retaliation fire doesn't miss.
(http://i.imgur.com/9xnOunum.png) (http://imgur.com/9xnOunu)
A Muton comes out of the ship, surveying the scene before retreating back inside.
(http://i.imgur.com/qgTt0ofm.png) (http://imgur.com/qgTt0of)
(http://i.imgur.com/rY6cyrGm.png) (http://imgur.com/rY6cyrG)
The squad advances, taking control of the doorways.
(http://i.imgur.com/8o2B0W2m.png) (http://imgur.com/8o2B0W2)
(http://i.imgur.com/g1oA6tim.png) (http://imgur.com/g1oA6ti)
(http://i.imgur.com/B4yCSglm.png) (http://imgur.com/B4yCSgl)
A Muton at the other door tries to attack, but is outnumbered and outgunned.
(http://i.imgur.com/DqyvV3Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/DqyvV3V)(http://i.imgur.com/NRON7yQm.png) (http://imgur.com/NRON7yQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/4HYaEVJm.png) (http://imgur.com/4HYaEVJ)
The squad takes some Mutons by surprise when the entrance to the ship is breached
(http://i.imgur.com/gij6FYMm.png) (http://imgur.com/gij6FYM)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hgfm3Tem.png) (http://imgur.com/Hgfm3Te)
(http://i.imgur.com/M2o4Uvom.png) (http://imgur.com/M2o4Uvo)
(http://i.imgur.com/RRRQ7jAm.png) (http://imgur.com/RRRQ7jA)
(http://i.imgur.com/OUVaQm0m.png) (http://imgur.com/OUVaQm0)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZQbzbAVm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZQbzbAV)
(http://i.imgur.com/kZ5Ai1Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/kZ5Ai1G)
(http://i.imgur.com/CzTMVzUm.png) (http://imgur.com/CzTMVzU)
(http://i.imgur.com/KMWPPshm.png) (http://imgur.com/KMWPPsh)
(http://i.imgur.com/2tEkCczm.png) (http://imgur.com/2tEkCcz)
Opening the other door leads to another one-sided slaughter. Countless Mutons fall to the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/RscZl92m.png) (http://imgur.com/RscZl92)
(http://i.imgur.com/zJqfi5Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/zJqfi5B)
The advance into the ship continues.
(http://i.imgur.com/idJUSovm.png) (http://imgur.com/idJUSov)
(http://i.imgur.com/iggKhOYm.png) (http://imgur.com/iggKhOY)
Sending someone around a blind corner when it's known a Muton is present proves to be a bad idea.
(http://i.imgur.com/MKxwJewm.png) (http://imgur.com/MKxwJew)
(http://i.imgur.com/74BbdoBm.png) (http://imgur.com/74BbdoB)
(http://i.imgur.com/eCRQ4j1m.png) (http://imgur.com/eCRQ4j1)
(http://i.imgur.com/AZce2nam.png) (http://imgur.com/AZce2na)
(http://i.imgur.com/Uf884CZm.png) (http://imgur.com/Uf884CZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/B9aflrNm.png) (http://imgur.com/B9aflrN)
Mutons wander blindly into the presence of the squad, getting ambushed.
(http://i.imgur.com/DpjLY7gm.png) (http://imgur.com/DpjLY7g)
(http://i.imgur.com/UJskBa7m.png) (http://imgur.com/UJskBa7)
(http://i.imgur.com/eqP4TWkm.png) (http://imgur.com/eqP4TWk)
A further advance finds a Muton in one of the elevator shafts, which gets quickly taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/sRw64bCm.png) (http://imgur.com/sRw64bC)
(http://i.imgur.com/6kgup6Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/6kgup6M)
A wandering Muton in the fields is taken out, clearing the site.
Result of Operation Hollow Shell
Avatar of War, Yoko Iwahara: 1 kill
Col. Uta Mederow: 3 kills
Col. Dwight Kemp: 1 kill
Cpt. Jacques Pecheaux: 3 kills
Cpt. Gennadi Korkia: 1 kill
Cpt. Leon Dreyfus: 1 kill
Sgt. Yoko Shoji: 2 kills
Col. Gerard ?Beacon? Bouton: Killed in action
Gaston Marcelle: Killed in action
Clarence Miller: Killed in action
15 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
2 aliens captured
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Tactical mistakes were made, but this still became a very successful mission. No Elerium was found, but the political favor gained here will be very good for us.
(http://i.imgur.com/Zmd0M8cm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zmd0M8c)
(http://i.imgur.com/QXTsB9Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/QXTsB9S)
(http://i.imgur.com/hjNR7m5m.png) (http://imgur.com/hjNR7m5)
X-COM One in Europe has solidified as the core of strategic operations. With most reverse-engineering and research that can be done completed, the science team has been reduced to a smaller staff focusing on gathering intelligence from captured alien forces. The engineering division here is mainly focused on production of troop armor. The psionic labs here are the most crucial element; once troops have strong enough psionic skill, assaults on alien bases can be carried out with reduced risk.
(http://i.imgur.com/IIAfCm1m.png) (http://imgur.com/IIAfCm1)
(http://i.imgur.com/ymmYsWgm.png) (http://imgur.com/ymmYsWg)
X-COM Two in Central Asia provides support for the main base. Manufacturing here is focused on the production of new aircraft, such as the Firestorm fighter and the Avenger assault craft. Troops here are deployed to smaller-scale operations, such as scout ships.
(http://i.imgur.com/YGG1yoem.png) (http://imgur.com/YGG1yoe)
(http://i.imgur.com/T8Kdpa2m.png) (http://imgur.com/T8Kdpa2)
New Three One and New Three Two replace the fallen X-COM Three in Africa, extending the range of interceptor and radar coverage. The new anti-air fusion missiles and Mind Shield systems will protect these bases against alien incursion.
(http://i.imgur.com/Khv4dhBm.png) (http://imgur.com/Khv4dhB)
X-COM Four at the North Pole is designed to reinforce air coverage over the northern hemisphere. This base is where the Avenger craft built in Asia are stationed; when the time comes, the most combat-capable forces will be relocated here for heavy assaults on alien bases, including what is hoped to be the final assault on the yet-to-be-located alien stronghold on Mars.
(http://i.imgur.com/uZiWdnpm.png) (http://imgur.com/uZiWdnp)
X-COM Five on Sakhalin Island is mainly to provide extended reach over the Pacific and Oceania. With Japan and Russia as crucial backers, further defense for them is needed.
(http://i.imgur.com/T4XhP2Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/T4XhP2V)
So far, the aliens have managed to infiltrate the governments of the United States, Canada, Egypt, Nigeria, and Australia. Our best hope lies in fortifying Europe and Asia and maintaining their political support to keep X-COM alive, while using alien salvage to maintain our cash reserves.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/BoVLDEQm.png) (http://imgur.com/BoVLDEQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/rrrvYIDm.png) (http://imgur.com/rrrvYID)
(http://i.imgur.com/52nGEydm.png) (http://imgur.com/52nGEyd)
An Ethereal scout ship is shot down by a Firestorm, its wreckage left to decay.
(http://i.imgur.com/PUuRArFm.png) (http://imgur.com/PUuRArF)
(http://i.imgur.com/bNVtVPZm.png) (http://imgur.com/bNVtVPZ)
A Muton scout is taken out over Siberia.
(http://i.imgur.com/VLmSzfUm.png) (http://imgur.com/VLmSzfU)
(http://i.imgur.com/925vJMrm.png) (http://imgur.com/925vJMr)
(http://i.imgur.com/8NnrqU2m.png) (http://imgur.com/8NnrqU2)
With another batch of armor completed, work begins on more ammunition for the blaster HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/bHaPkQ5m.png) (http://imgur.com/bHaPkQ5)
(http://i.imgur.com/sN2cWVzm.png) (http://imgur.com/sN2cWVz)
(http://i.imgur.com/9wIo466m.png) (http://imgur.com/9wIo466)
Another scout ship is taken out over the Russian north; the Avenger is sent by mistake, leading to massive overkill.
(http://i.imgur.com/sIqBFqVm.png) (http://imgur.com/sIqBFqV)
(http://i.imgur.com/5ZPDHKvm.png) (http://imgur.com/5ZPDHKv)
A Snakeman scout craft is pursued, shot down, and sunk in the Pacific.
(http://i.imgur.com/yZ9DpFOm.png) (http://imgur.com/yZ9DpFO)
(http://i.imgur.com/N3VwvXLm.png) (http://imgur.com/N3VwvXL)
A Floater scout is taken down near the Great Lakes. Forces from Asia are deployed for Operation Sylvan Scrapyard.
(http://i.imgur.com/kBkyRLWm.png) (http://imgur.com/kBkyRLW)
(http://i.imgur.com/4y2Be5gm.png) (http://imgur.com/4y2Be5g)
In the meantime, a Muton scout gets taken out over Madagascar.
(http://i.imgur.com/LOlB6U4m.png) (http://imgur.com/LOlB6U4)
(http://i.imgur.com/dxH1Q5bm.png) (http://imgur.com/dxH1Q5b)
(http://i.imgur.com/rOy0cgLm.png) (http://imgur.com/rOy0cgL)
(http://i.imgur.com/R23K9MCm.png) (http://imgur.com/R23K9MC)
(http://i.imgur.com/msvvy4am.png) (http://imgur.com/msvvy4a)
(http://i.imgur.com/2CXsY4Km.png) (http://imgur.com/2CXsY4K)
(http://i.imgur.com/uZISc80m.png) (http://imgur.com/uZISc80)
(http://i.imgur.com/wNvTaJSm.png) (http://imgur.com/wNvTaJS)
(http://i.imgur.com/1xIkG6Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/1xIkG6D)
(http://i.imgur.com/BkdfIaHm.png) (http://imgur.com/BkdfIaH)
The team gets equipped for battle. Plasma guns should be more than enough for Floaters.
(http://i.imgur.com/zFRZUiom.png) (http://imgur.com/zFRZUio)
(http://i.imgur.com/zeLoE73m.png) (http://imgur.com/zeLoE73)
Smoke gets set down and the operation commences.
(http://i.imgur.com/ChtJWc8m.png) (http://imgur.com/ChtJWc8)
(http://i.imgur.com/FBKGf8xm.png) (http://imgur.com/FBKGf8x)
Right off the bat, Floaters are spotted.
(http://i.imgur.com/5kWZessm.png) (http://imgur.com/5kWZess)
Distance and range are a major consideration in fights like these. By having someone fire on an enemy that's already been spotted but is out of their sight range, that enemy can not see back or retaliate. This tactic is great for reducing risk.
(http://i.imgur.com/ncuSFtCm.png) (http://imgur.com/ncuSFtC)
(http://i.imgur.com/OorZhP6m.png) (http://imgur.com/OorZhP6)
(http://i.imgur.com/LijHnTNm.png) (http://imgur.com/LijHnTN)
(http://i.imgur.com/m3gu35Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/m3gu35B)
This tactic is very reliable, and more Floaters go down.
(http://i.imgur.com/M0earF8m.png) (http://imgur.com/M0earF8)
(http://i.imgur.com/QMzT5oUm.png) (http://imgur.com/QMzT5oU)
Another alien tries to fire into the smoke, but misses and is quickly hit by return fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/jwEwNBjm.png) (http://imgur.com/jwEwNBj)
(http://i.imgur.com/SkacDhtm.png) (http://imgur.com/SkacDht)
(http://i.imgur.com/pPyDOq2m.png) (http://imgur.com/pPyDOq2)
A grenade explosion alerts the team to the presence of another Floater, which is sniped from over a hill.
The mission concludes. One alien survived the battle, but with no containment facility in Asia, it dies quickly afterward.
Result of Operation Sylvan Scrapyard:
Sgt. Brett Davies: 2 kills
Leonid Petrov: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Helga Zander: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull and navigation systems recovered
Debriefing: Very well-executed, straightforward operation.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/kzDhPyum.png) (http://imgur.com/kzDhPyu)
(http://i.imgur.com/JfOrUoWm.png) (http://imgur.com/JfOrUoW)
(http://i.imgur.com/yfWKIOpm.png) (http://imgur.com/yfWKIOp)
Expansion continues at the Arctic base. A new hangar is added, and a workshop is assembled so aircraft and weapons can be produced on-site.
(http://i.imgur.com/K6AeeaRm.png) (http://imgur.com/K6AeeaR)
An additional hangar is constructed at Sakhalin.
(http://i.imgur.com/FEN3Zxym.png) (http://imgur.com/FEN3Zxy)
Surplus materials from the Asia complex are transferred to the Arctic base, partially to supply the up-and-coming manufacturing division and partly to free up storage space.
(http://i.imgur.com/ybCw025m.png) (http://imgur.com/ybCw025)
(http://i.imgur.com/PeAwHJ5m.png) (http://imgur.com/PeAwHJ5)
Interrogating a Muton fleet engineer gives some information about the alien terror ships.
(http://i.imgur.com/aPIUQRZm.png) (http://imgur.com/aPIUQRZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Xi6lOpam.png) (http://imgur.com/Xi6lOpa)
An Ethereal supply ship lands at the alien base in northern Canada. It lands before a Firestorm can catch up with it, and while a ground assault is possible, the forces would arrive at night, leading to a major disadvantage.
(http://i.imgur.com/CdQFLXYm.png) (http://imgur.com/CdQFLXY)
(http://i.imgur.com/jDGxmiRm.png) (http://imgur.com/jDGxmiR)
(http://i.imgur.com/FRIY7MRm.png) (http://imgur.com/FRIY7MR)
(http://i.imgur.com/aZOUS4Om.png) (http://imgur.com/aZOUS4O)
With the HWP ammunition completed, work begins on a new hovertank to prepare for combat against Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/RnqElT1m.png) (http://imgur.com/RnqElT1)
(http://i.imgur.com/lyaxGTkm.png) (http://imgur.com/lyaxGTk)
The tank is ready in only a day. With no other essential projects needed, work starts on some laser cannons.
(http://i.imgur.com/Dw2rcUDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Dw2rcUD)
An Ethereal battleship hunts for the European base, but fails to find it.
(http://i.imgur.com/YQMD06um.png) (http://imgur.com/YQMD06u)
(http://i.imgur.com/VClOAgLm.png) (http://imgur.com/VClOAgL)
(http://i.imgur.com/DxCOO5km.png) (http://imgur.com/DxCOO5k)
A small Muton is pursued and eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/NVomJibm.png) (http://imgur.com/NVomJib)
(http://i.imgur.com/Tw6g7JLm.png) (http://imgur.com/Tw6g7JL)
Another Ethereal supply ship flies by radar range, leaving the atmosphere over the Arctic circle.
(http://i.imgur.com/gp2tFr7m.png) (http://imgur.com/gp2tFr7)
(http://i.imgur.com/wEJzGEbm.png) (http://imgur.com/wEJzGEb)
Another Muton scout ship is detected, getting pursued and shot down over Central Asia. It shouldn't be hard to capture, but the reactor is likely gone and we have enough alloys.
-
I eagerly await the day we can make ethereals eat small nuclear weapons again.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/lWdUCulm.png) (http://imgur.com/lWdUCul)
The Muton scout is being ignored; it's been neutralized, and a small ship doesn't net enough resources at this point to be worth the time and risk of recovering it.
(http://i.imgur.com/7snlkHVm.png) (http://imgur.com/7snlkHV)
A battleship attempts hunting for X-COM Two, with no success.
(http://i.imgur.com/Y2AEuqDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y2AEuqD)
Engineering finishes the batch of laser cannons, which is sold off for a quick profit.
(http://i.imgur.com/E9Hl6hkm.png) (http://imgur.com/E9Hl6hk)
(http://i.imgur.com/gvv1WARm.png) (http://imgur.com/gvv1WAR)
A Floater ship appears on radar, near the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/XZC3M1hm.png) (http://imgur.com/XZC3M1h)
(http://i.imgur.com/co6O851m.png) (http://imgur.com/co6O851)
An interceptor from X-COM Four chases it down, bringing it down in US territory.
(http://i.imgur.com/dwwIMjym.png) (http://imgur.com/dwwIMjy)
(http://i.imgur.com/wpQnteIm.png) (http://imgur.com/wpQnteI)
An Ethereal supply ship drops off its cargo in northern Canada.
(http://i.imgur.com/xzZ4IkXm.png) (http://imgur.com/xzZ4IkX)
(http://i.imgur.com/5T0Tp9zm.png) (http://imgur.com/5T0Tp9z)
Another supply ship gets intercepted, however, splashing down in the Indian Ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/Y60dBFNm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y60dBFN)
(http://i.imgur.com/DKPvyiLm.png) (http://imgur.com/DKPvyiL)
An Ethereal terror ship shows up on radar. An attempt is made to shoot it down. Unfortunately, it gets away from interceptors and Firestorms.
(http://i.imgur.com/szWEt2wm.png) (http://imgur.com/szWEt2w)
(http://i.imgur.com/szL7gKfm.png) (http://imgur.com/szL7gKf)
Melbourne is attacked. Trying to fight Ethereals at the height of their power is going to be a losing battle, and Australia's government has already been fallen; our efforts would be best focused elsewhere.
(http://i.imgur.com/WukoyvXm.png) (http://imgur.com/WukoyvX)
(http://i.imgur.com/jbudzJJm.png) (http://imgur.com/jbudzJJ)
The focus is put on the crashed Floater abductor. Operation Tormented Sky begins. The squad at X-COM Two has rotated, leaving this operation to a few rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/7pJ76b7m.png) (http://imgur.com/7pJ76b7)
(http://i.imgur.com/w1K2SKEm.png) (http://imgur.com/w1K2SKE)
(http://i.imgur.com/HlZv1jDm.png) (http://imgur.com/HlZv1jD)
(http://i.imgur.com/LkioJj4m.png) (http://imgur.com/LkioJj4)
(http://i.imgur.com/B2WkAhpm.png) (http://imgur.com/B2WkAhp)
(http://i.imgur.com/8ByhPYtm.png) (http://imgur.com/8ByhPYt)
(http://i.imgur.com/ucbsgEdm.png) (http://imgur.com/ucbsgEd)
(http://i.imgur.com/17fgwsFm.png) (http://imgur.com/17fgwsF)
(http://i.imgur.com/94QKHdtm.png) (http://imgur.com/94QKHdt)
(http://i.imgur.com/fa8TIarm.png) (http://imgur.com/fa8TIar)
The squad gets geared up and ready to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/kBqetjym.png) (http://imgur.com/kBqetjy)
(http://i.imgur.com/GduntfBm.png) (http://imgur.com/GduntfB)
An old-model HWP leads the charge as smoke gets set down. Ground troops quickly follow.
(http://i.imgur.com/AXbmO06m.png) (http://imgur.com/AXbmO06)
It's not long until the team reaches the wreckage of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/lfkzAeYm.png) (http://imgur.com/lfkzAeY)
One rookie breaches the entrance, while the tank scans through the breach in the side of the hull.
(http://i.imgur.com/jCvbQrQm.png) (http://imgur.com/jCvbQrQ)
A rocket is fired in, taking out the visible Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ve3RMMUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ve3RMMU)
However, another Floater in the breach that can't be seen takes out the tank with a plasma shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/5qdTeHHm.png) (http://imgur.com/5qdTeHH)
(http://i.imgur.com/Yf7vlakm.png) (http://imgur.com/Yf7vlak)
(http://i.imgur.com/x4RTLcxm.png) (http://imgur.com/x4RTLcx)
Peering in, the Floater is spotted, and there's a perfect opportunity to charge through the door and surprise it.
(http://i.imgur.com/r1GmKcrm.png) (http://imgur.com/r1GmKcr)
In turn, the rookie is surprised by another alien sneaking from around the corner.
(http://i.imgur.com/r1GmKcrm.png) (http://imgur.com/r1GmKcr)
(http://i.imgur.com/JYG6sE4m.png) (http://imgur.com/JYG6sE4)
Troops advance and counter-attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/CTHJq5Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/CTHJq5H)
During the advance, however, another rookie is ambushed from around a blind corner.
(http://i.imgur.com/N7Nf8vLm.png) (http://imgur.com/N7Nf8vL)
(http://i.imgur.com/0gjmFmJm.png) (http://imgur.com/0gjmFmJ)
Using the plasma guns, a hole is punched in the inner walls of the ship to avoid the ambush. One of the ship's reactors is still intact, it appears.
(http://i.imgur.com/sMR17pym.png) (http://imgur.com/sMR17py)
(http://i.imgur.com/9mSEjGVm.png) (http://imgur.com/9mSEjGV)
Floaters are waiting on the upper level. A close-range burst quickly takes one out.
(http://i.imgur.com/RGCFKMMm.png) (http://imgur.com/RGCFKMM)
Troops breach the upper level and get into cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/B9aiDQsm.png) (http://imgur.com/B9aiDQs)
(http://i.imgur.com/yj44oWPm.png) (http://imgur.com/yj44oWP)
A Floater fails to notice the first soldier, but spots the second and gets a lethal shot in.
(http://i.imgur.com/xiMmqppm.png) (http://imgur.com/xiMmqpp)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZRNT8pNm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZRNT8pN)
It doesn't last long, however, before, getting taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/LODHfxrm.png) (http://imgur.com/LODHfxr)
(http://i.imgur.com/Qhm4MWAm.png) (http://imgur.com/Qhm4MWA)
A Floater is even lurking on the top of the UFO's wreck, but it gets taken out with a lucky shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/AWULUtum.png) (http://imgur.com/AWULUtu)
A burst of automatic fire is used to try and break through to the control room of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/OCkDAy7m.png) (http://imgur.com/OCkDAy7)
The wall breaks open, revealing a Floater leader. The safest option is to pull back into cover for now, however.
(http://i.imgur.com/fWUi2Knm.png) (http://imgur.com/fWUi2Kn)
A Floater survived an earlier confrontation, and has gotten back up.
(http://i.imgur.com/ll6xf24m.png) (http://imgur.com/ll6xf24)
Unfortunately, it puts itself in a position that's very tricky to attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/VvSBlX5m.png) (http://imgur.com/VvSBlX5)
(http://i.imgur.com/SGYLiWAm.png) (http://imgur.com/SGYLiWA)
And while trying to deal with that, another Floater shows up, taking out one more of the rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/JppIO8Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/JppIO8X)
(http://i.imgur.com/OopqBrEm.png) (http://imgur.com/OopqBrE)
(http://i.imgur.com/vD1AsNKm.png) (http://imgur.com/vD1AsNK)
Another soldier coming up from the lower level helps to defuse the situation.
(http://i.imgur.com/CLN5s3Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/CLN5s3J)
(http://i.imgur.com/OALseQSm.png) (http://imgur.com/OALseQS)
The control room is rushed through the hole in the wall, surprising the Floater on the bridge.
(http://i.imgur.com/pUMNwyym.png) (http://imgur.com/pUMNwyy)
(http://i.imgur.com/P8hs7nmm.png) (http://imgur.com/P8hs7nm)
Outside the ship, a Floater in a farmhouse attracts attention ? and counter-fire ? from one of the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/AaDYNh1m.png) (http://imgur.com/AaDYNh1)
There appears to be another Floater hiding in the building, which manages to snipe a rookie.
(http://i.imgur.com/bRHG0A3m.png) (http://imgur.com/bRHG0A3)
(http://i.imgur.com/YqJ7m2km.png) (http://imgur.com/YqJ7m2k)
(http://i.imgur.com/cePrpwqm.png) (http://imgur.com/cePrpwq)
(http://i.imgur.com/Tw7mimPm.png) (http://imgur.com/Tw7mimP)
A search of the building leads to a firefight and the alien's demise. It's quickly confirmed that the area has been cleared out.
Results of Operation Tormented Sky
HWP: destroyed
Sigourney Miller: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Spencer Bradley: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Spencer Nash: 0 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Shuji Okamoto: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Oscar Bryant: Killed in action
Isao Okamoto: Killed in action
Gaston Buchard: Killed in action
Claude Gressier: Killed in action
Sylvie Guerin: Killed in action
11 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: This mission could have gone much, much better. Losing half a squad and an HWP is unsatisfactory, even with the resources obtained here.
(http://i.imgur.com/W8HZ6kmm.png) (http://imgur.com/W8HZ6km)
Another battleship tries hunting around for the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/7MJXWrkm.png) (http://imgur.com/7MJXWrk)
(http://i.imgur.com/okZcowxm.png) (http://imgur.com/okZcowx)
A Muton scout gets dropped into the Mozambique Channel.
(http://i.imgur.com/TiPGzQFm.png) (http://imgur.com/TiPGzQF)
The second Avenger is finished and is ready to be transported to the Arctic.
-
Quite ironic that breaking ties with X-COM doesn't prevent terror attacks on a country, even though, fluff-wise, their goal is to provoke just that. Serves them right for thinking a deal with xenos will save them from said xenos.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/rNLSEaFm.png) (http://imgur.com/rNLSEaF)
(http://i.imgur.com/WIZ5VCCm.png) (http://imgur.com/WIZ5VCC)
(http://i.imgur.com/YIidZ6am.png) (http://imgur.com/YIidZ6a)
Some plasma beams are quickly put together for the Avengers stationed at the north pole.
(http://i.imgur.com/hxivtVEm.png) (http://imgur.com/hxivtVE)
A new tank arrives at the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/l4ZsOj1m.png) (http://imgur.com/l4ZsOj1)
The second Avenger arrives at the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/EOJzvOEm.png) (http://imgur.com/EOJzvOE)
Assembly starts on some new power suits.
(http://i.imgur.com/bL72QCem.png) (http://imgur.com/bL72QCe)
(http://i.imgur.com/mXJMjmim.png) (http://imgur.com/mXJMjmi)
An Ethereal scout ship is located and shot down over northern China.
(http://i.imgur.com/UWc60zCm.png) (http://imgur.com/UWc60zC)
(http://i.imgur.com/7bAtYtqm.png) (http://imgur.com/7bAtYtq)
(http://i.imgur.com/cFJwhJkm.png) (http://imgur.com/cFJwhJk)
The Avengers are armed up with the new plasma beams.
(http://i.imgur.com/1RmletWm.png) (http://imgur.com/1RmletW)
(http://i.imgur.com/wFxgoI1m.png) (http://imgur.com/wFxgoI1)
(http://i.imgur.com/kSfs3Tem.png) (http://imgur.com/kSfs3Te)
Work starts on a psionic lab at the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/QayUPhUm.png) (http://imgur.com/QayUPhU)
(http://i.imgur.com/bpaGJVFm.png) (http://imgur.com/bpaGJVF)
(http://i.imgur.com/hgscIy1m.png) (http://imgur.com/hgscIy1)
Work begins on another psionic facility at the Asia base. Now troops can be given training at multiple bases.
(http://i.imgur.com/uWjk6Nhm.png) (http://imgur.com/uWjk6Nh)
(http://i.imgur.com/qzpTV5cm.png) (http://imgur.com/qzpTV5c)
A pair of supply ships shows up on radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/8tPV7hbm.png) (http://imgur.com/8tPV7hb)
The transport heading to the Muton base is shot down over the Atlantic.
(http://i.imgur.com/Gy3wt2hm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gy3wt2h)
The Ethereal ship crashes in Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/djunP8em.png) (http://imgur.com/djunP8e)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ivk8bivm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ivk8biv)
A Snakeman ship is shot down in Central Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/cU4zXLBm.png) (http://imgur.com/cU4zXLB)
(http://i.imgur.com/68UWq9Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/68UWq9Y)
Another ship lurking around Siberia is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/0OWEucOm.png) (http://imgur.com/0OWEucO)
(http://i.imgur.com/0nMKsKAm.png) (http://imgur.com/0nMKsKA)
(http://i.imgur.com/i7dJzaTm.png) (http://imgur.com/i7dJzaT)
(http://i.imgur.com/aeV1Bu3m.png) (http://imgur.com/aeV1Bu3)
A Muton scout almost slips away from radar, but an interceptor catches up with it over the Andes and obliterates it.
(http://i.imgur.com/TKh2Jckm.png) (http://imgur.com/TKh2Jck)
More armor is ready at the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/J0d47jFm.png) (http://imgur.com/J0d47jF)
(http://i.imgur.com/MopFcGFm.png) (http://imgur.com/MopFcGF)
(http://i.imgur.com/6PARtXam.png) (http://imgur.com/6PARtXa)
A pair of abductors shows up over the United States. One lands in the Midwest; this is a good opportunity to obtain Elerium.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/dspcMu0m.png) (http://imgur.com/dspcMu0)
The Skyranger from X-COM One is directed to the Abductor landing site in the United States.
(http://i.imgur.com/i5ZA8MEm.png) (http://imgur.com/i5ZA8ME)
The other Abductor slips out of radar range. Interceptors remain on patrol in case it pops up again.
(http://i.imgur.com/EWOENx2m.png) (http://imgur.com/EWOENx2)
New troops arrive at the secondary base in Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/sNqRukjm.png) (http://imgur.com/sNqRukj)
Forces arrive at the enemy ship, commencing Operation Raven Shade.
(http://i.imgur.com/EvcG46wm.png) (http://imgur.com/EvcG46w)
(http://i.imgur.com/41FpxUam.png) (http://imgur.com/41FpxUa)
(http://i.imgur.com/psSJUDim.png) (http://imgur.com/psSJUDi)
(http://i.imgur.com/D2cVrjam.png) (http://imgur.com/D2cVrja)
(http://i.imgur.com/iHMxFY0m.png) (http://imgur.com/iHMxFY0)
(http://i.imgur.com/0NAqX4Am.png) (http://imgur.com/0NAqX4A)
(http://i.imgur.com/AavGmvfm.png) (http://imgur.com/AavGmvf)
(http://i.imgur.com/CrQPYYVm.png) (http://imgur.com/CrQPYYV)
(http://i.imgur.com/BJ2EBkmm.png) (http://imgur.com/BJ2EBkm)
(http://i.imgur.com/RUybtuBm.png) (http://imgur.com/RUybtuB)
The squad gets armed and ready. An oversight was made and one soldier was not given armor; they will not be used in combat.
(http://i.imgur.com/hyhuVxZm.png) (http://imgur.com/hyhuVxZ)
The squad arrives at night; the hovertank will take point.
(http://i.imgur.com/VaYScX9m.png) (http://imgur.com/VaYScX9)
(http://i.imgur.com/YJRoDtjm.png) (http://imgur.com/YJRoDtj)
A Floater is on a nearby rooftop, getting taken out by the tank as it exits out of the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/sgMLaPbm.png) (http://imgur.com/sgMLaPb)
As smoke and a flare get set down, another Floater is found.
(http://i.imgur.com/HJraarlm.png) (http://imgur.com/HJraarl)
(http://i.imgur.com/DtkIQyIm.png) (http://imgur.com/DtkIQyI)
(http://i.imgur.com/vm3bC5vm.png) (http://imgur.com/vm3bC5v)
The HWP pulls back, leaving an opening for another soldier to hit it.
(http://i.imgur.com/yNLYYpLm.png) (http://imgur.com/yNLYYpL)
Scouting continues, and the ship is found.
(http://i.imgur.com/ilnhMBOm.png) (http://imgur.com/ilnhMBO)
Troops on the ground continue fanning out.
(http://i.imgur.com/66K3llim.png) (http://imgur.com/66K3lli)
(http://i.imgur.com/1KJ0J3Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/1KJ0J3F)
Another alien gets hit by the HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/t33XoDdm.png) (http://imgur.com/t33XoDd)
A Floater manages to get the jump on one of the scouting rookies.
(http://i.imgur.com/lNoi8vPm.png) (http://imgur.com/lNoi8vP)
A missed alien grenade tears the roof off a farmhouse.
(http://i.imgur.com/QcEnOTom.png) (http://imgur.com/QcEnOTo)
(http://i.imgur.com/Fk3xdJZm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fk3xdJZ)
The Floater gets attacked by another rookie, going down.
(http://i.imgur.com/LgueZF2m.png) (http://imgur.com/LgueZF2)
(http://i.imgur.com/rvaVt92m.png) (http://imgur.com/rvaVt92)
The HWP continues advancing, taking out another alien.
(http://i.imgur.com/XMQ95OIm.png) (http://imgur.com/XMQ95OI)
(http://i.imgur.com/iCpZCdBm.png) (http://imgur.com/iCpZCdB)
One of the officers with flying suits takes out one more Floater.
(http://i.imgur.com/OUQncdhm.png) (http://imgur.com/OUQncdh)
(http://i.imgur.com/UG89HTIm.png) (http://imgur.com/UG89HTI)
(http://i.imgur.com/nZrE4lom.png) (http://imgur.com/nZrE4lo)
One of the aliens survived, but a failed grenade attack from it leaves no way for it to hide.
(http://i.imgur.com/ihxbUWRm.png) (http://imgur.com/ihxbUWR)
With the aliens gathered outside the ship cleared away, it's time to break through to the inside of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/r1X48hAm.png) (http://imgur.com/r1X48hA)
Yoko Shoji kicks open the door, finding more Floaters.
(http://i.imgur.com/9qdiKApm.png) (http://imgur.com/9qdiKAp)
One goes down...
(http://i.imgur.com/1yS5t8Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/1yS5t8G)
...but more retaliate, taking her out.
(http://i.imgur.com/A7TlMidm.png) (http://imgur.com/A7TlMid)
(http://i.imgur.com/kW9oW1lm.png) (http://imgur.com/kW9oW1l)
(http://i.imgur.com/PPizv0ym.png) (http://imgur.com/PPizv0y)
(http://i.imgur.com/JNUyhHDm.png) (http://imgur.com/JNUyhHD)
A firefight ensues in the main operating room of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/GojbsGzm.png) (http://imgur.com/GojbsGz)
With the center of the ship cleared, troops advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/GojbsGzm.png) (http://imgur.com/GojbsGz)
(http://i.imgur.com/LPE37nVm.png) (http://imgur.com/LPE37nV)
(http://i.imgur.com/pvxunnIm.png) (http://imgur.com/pvxunnI)
Iwahara aims the blaster launcher at the side of the hull, breaching the ship open. Troops get ready to move through the gap.
(http://i.imgur.com/tisB0WZm.png) (http://imgur.com/tisB0WZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/e69vfHym.png) (http://imgur.com/e69vfHy)
An alien tries to enter the operating room, getting taken out by an ambush of waiting troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/JQW1R7jm.png) (http://imgur.com/JQW1R7j)
(http://i.imgur.com/467UK68m.png) (http://imgur.com/467UK68)
A Floater on the upper level manages to get the jump on a soldier on the upper level.
(http://i.imgur.com/qSSs2Nhm.png) (http://imgur.com/qSSs2Nh)
(http://i.imgur.com/fAKz8T7m.png) (http://imgur.com/fAKz8T7)
Retaliation is swift.
(http://i.imgur.com/PapkCx9m.png) (http://imgur.com/PapkCx9)
A captain punches through a wall of the ship, closing off a potential route of escape and ambush.
(http://i.imgur.com/DlccGBom.png) (http://imgur.com/DlccGBo)
(http://i.imgur.com/iTu63Hom.png) (http://imgur.com/iTu63Ho)
Colonel Mederow enters the control room, taking out the Floater leader and clearing out the area.
Results of Operation Raven Shade:
HWP: 1 kill
Col. Uta Mederow: 3 kills
Cpt. Gennadi Korkia: promoted to Colonel
Bernard Dreyfus: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Isao Noguchi: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Jacques Pecheaux: Killed in action
Cpt. Yoko Shoji: 2 kills, killed in action
Col. Dwight Kemp: Killed in action
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactors, navigation systems, fuel, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Losing a few soldiers was expected for a night mission, but the cache of Elerium is a huge boon.
(http://i.imgur.com/j8M1dykm.png) (http://imgur.com/j8M1dyk)
Production begins on more power suits for ground forces at the European forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/58FcDBbm.png) (http://imgur.com/58FcDBb)
(http://i.imgur.com/JiLZ9IWm.png) (http://imgur.com/JiLZ9IW)
The engineering division at the Asia base starts on producing more Firestorm craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/bL6oirQm.png) (http://imgur.com/bL6oirQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/29NmCxNm.png) (http://imgur.com/29NmCxN)
The other abductor appears on radar again. One of the Avengers quickly sweeps in and takes the craft out.
(http://i.imgur.com/m0G0AhWm.png) (http://imgur.com/m0G0AhW)
This, however, depletes the supply of fusion missiles at the Arctic base; more will have to be manufactured and shipped over.
(http://i.imgur.com/MC45NBpm.png) (http://imgur.com/MC45NBp)
With the Skyranger at X-COM One fuelling back up, the forces from Asia will be handling the crash site of the other abductor.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/d7aVocRm.png) (http://imgur.com/d7aVocR)
(http://i.imgur.com/xmAHvq4m.png) (http://imgur.com/xmAHvq4)
An Ethereal supply ship manages to make it to the ground and deliver its cargo before a Firestorm can catch it.
(http://i.imgur.com/P557eiam.png) (http://imgur.com/P557eia)
(http://i.imgur.com/BDkuOmIm.png) (http://imgur.com/BDkuOmI)
Forces from Asia get ready to move in on the crashed Abductor in the forests of Canada. Operation Boreal Hatchet commences.
(http://i.imgur.com/KnFz7J0m.png) (http://imgur.com/KnFz7J0)
(http://i.imgur.com/tmSm49ym.png) (http://imgur.com/tmSm49y)
(http://i.imgur.com/3MEUtWom.png) (http://imgur.com/3MEUtWo)
(http://i.imgur.com/PORI1scm.png) (http://imgur.com/PORI1sc)
(http://i.imgur.com/6mgEZdEm.png) (http://imgur.com/6mgEZdE)
(http://i.imgur.com/i0yNaF4m.png) (http://imgur.com/i0yNaF4)
(http://i.imgur.com/VFOhJHkm.png) (http://imgur.com/VFOhJHk)
(http://i.imgur.com/GVhEOMEm.png) (http://imgur.com/GVhEOME)
(http://i.imgur.com/PgBk2Lpm.png) (http://imgur.com/PgBk2Lp)
(http://i.imgur.com/gewlQtOm.png) (http://imgur.com/gewlQtO)
Even a team of rookies should be able to handle a Floater crash site when equipped with power suits and plasma guns.
(http://i.imgur.com/xiQFZS5m.png) (http://imgur.com/xiQFZS5)
(http://i.imgur.com/zuLfki0m.png) (http://imgur.com/zuLfki0)
(http://i.imgur.com/2VhEHzVm.png) (http://imgur.com/2VhEHzV)
The HWP is hit as it starts advancing.
(http://i.imgur.com/lYA7Gklm.png) (http://imgur.com/lYA7Gkl)
(http://i.imgur.com/eOc6Decm.png) (http://imgur.com/eOc6Dec)
Smoke is set down, and the squad waits for a safe opportunity to move forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/TNnmFsHm.png) (http://imgur.com/TNnmFsH)
(http://i.imgur.com/8TSq6wRm.png) (http://imgur.com/8TSq6wR)
(http://i.imgur.com/iZGoH3um.png) (http://imgur.com/iZGoH3u)
(http://i.imgur.com/FJEFFOXm.png) (http://imgur.com/FJEFFOX)
Floaters move into the field of fire of troops at the Skyranger's door, quickly getting mowed down.
(http://i.imgur.com/oFmPhk6m.png) (http://imgur.com/oFmPhk6)
(http://i.imgur.com/xeFcYoOm.png) (http://imgur.com/xeFcYoO)
Another alien wanders into range.
(http://i.imgur.com/9rugwLrm.png) (http://imgur.com/9rugwLr)
It's now clear for troops to move down the ramp and into the field.
(http://i.imgur.com/SGjEI88m.png) (http://imgur.com/SGjEI88)
(http://i.imgur.com/YGfbHcSm.png) (http://imgur.com/YGfbHcS)
Another Floater goes down.
(http://i.imgur.com/hNwFHdtm.png) (http://imgur.com/hNwFHdt)
(http://i.imgur.com/40BNGJ6m.png) (http://imgur.com/40BNGJ6)
(http://i.imgur.com/dqGm0Uqm.png) (http://imgur.com/dqGm0Uq)
(http://i.imgur.com/bng4eB7m.png) (http://imgur.com/bng4eB7)
Yet another alien is sniped by the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/ztURvzom.png) (http://imgur.com/ztURvzo)
(http://i.imgur.com/l7j0D8cm.png) (http://imgur.com/l7j0D8c)
Another hostile in the forest is hit.
(http://i.imgur.com/bWPJM09m.png) (http://imgur.com/bWPJM09)
(http://i.imgur.com/ID36HFqm.png) (http://imgur.com/ID36HFq)
(http://i.imgur.com/sGFocYDm.png) (http://imgur.com/sGFocYD)
(http://i.imgur.com/xybt6rum.png) (http://imgur.com/xybt6ru)
(http://i.imgur.com/xz6K8obm.png) (http://imgur.com/xz6K8ob)
(http://i.imgur.com/mvk1VQcm.png) (http://imgur.com/mvk1VQc)
(http://i.imgur.com/CXryjomm.png) (http://imgur.com/CXryjom)
Troops rush into the ship, leading to a deadly firefight.
(http://i.imgur.com/MUWf4L7m.png) (http://imgur.com/MUWf4L7)
(http://i.imgur.com/ioul6z2m.png) (http://imgur.com/ioul6z2)
Another alien past the surgical room gets taken out as the rookies advance.
(http://i.imgur.com/uCAugkmm.png) (http://imgur.com/uCAugkm)
As a sweep is carried out, one of the reactors is found intact.
(http://i.imgur.com/BzBniHKm.png) (http://imgur.com/BzBniHK)
An alien on the other side of the ship manages to catch one of the rookies with plasma fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/XK85Us2m.png) (http://imgur.com/XK85Us2)
(http://i.imgur.com/htIe3apm.png) (http://imgur.com/htIe3ap)
Another of the team manages to take it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/aTH9dBmm.png) (http://imgur.com/aTH9dBm)
(http://i.imgur.com/pdESKXFm.png) (http://imgur.com/pdESKXF)
Troops make their way to the top level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Cw6w34Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/Cw6w34N)
(http://i.imgur.com/CPxrxhIm.png) (http://imgur.com/CPxrxhI)
(http://i.imgur.com/2TOVNKZm.png) (http://imgur.com/2TOVNKZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/2HOjud4m.png) (http://imgur.com/2HOjud4)
One rookie takes out two Floaters in the upper halls of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/vzuPdQRm.png) (http://imgur.com/vzuPdQR)
(http://i.imgur.com/eFclW7jm.png) (http://imgur.com/eFclW7j)
(http://i.imgur.com/h6UDOhVm.png) (http://imgur.com/h6UDOhV)
A push is made into the control room, and the ship's leader is taken out.
Results of Operation Boreal Hatchet:
HWP: destroyed
Bernard Gautier: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Yutaka Fujimoto: Promoted to Squaddie
Virgil Thompson: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Sylvie Gaudin: 1 kill, promoted to Squaddie
Clarence Kemp: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Bernard Marcelle: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Jungo Morita: Killed in action
Kenji Iwahara: Killed in action
16 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Losing a few rookies on a mission is an expected and acceptable loss, but the Elerium is again a major boon.
(http://i.imgur.com/NK0q023m.png) (http://imgur.com/NK0q023)
(http://i.imgur.com/nDtTNUbm.png) (http://imgur.com/nDtTNUb)
A Muton scout is shot down off the African coast.
(http://i.imgur.com/t99TzUEm.png) (http://imgur.com/t99TzUE)
(http://i.imgur.com/9X46fgEm.png) (http://imgur.com/9X46fgE)
The month ends, and the international community continues to pledge its support for us. Psionic training continues; the capabilities of the troops at X-COM One have been enhanced.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/q2h4Wtnm.png) (http://imgur.com/q2h4Wtn)
(http://i.imgur.com/iRrFiFbm.png) (http://imgur.com/iRrFiFb)
(http://i.imgur.com/oZdCkKIm.png) (http://imgur.com/oZdCkKI)
A Muton probe, a Snakeman scout, and an Ethereal cargo ship appear on radar.
(http://i.imgur.com/bqSaIpMm.png) (http://imgur.com/bqSaIpM)
The Snakeman ship is shot down over Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/rABXxGtm.png) (http://imgur.com/rABXxGt)
The Muton scout is completely destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/VwFJ4ajm.png) (http://imgur.com/VwFJ4aj)
The Ethereal ship lands at the alien base in West Africa. With psionic screening and training, plus the current-generation HWPs, it's feasible to make an attempt to seize the supply ship. However, the cargo ship takes off and escapes before the Skyranger can arrive.
(http://i.imgur.com/gVUtrWtm.png) (http://imgur.com/gVUtrWt)
A new batch of troops arrives in Europe, and goes through screening for combat capability.
(http://i.imgur.com/KHpXks3m.png) (http://imgur.com/KHpXks3)
More troops arrive at the Asia base.
(http://i.imgur.com/NFKBDyDm.png) (http://imgur.com/NFKBDyD)
(http://i.imgur.com/5Ovbwdum.png) (http://imgur.com/5Ovbwdu)
Another Muton scout is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/oYlrqOBm.png) (http://imgur.com/oYlrqOB)
A new old-model tank arrives in Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/bUY2c1Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/bUY2c1Z)
(http://i.imgur.com/GP2iRbom.png) (http://imgur.com/GP2iRbo)
A fifth hangar is completed at the polar base; it's almost fully complete.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ik6rlxim.png) (http://imgur.com/Ik6rlxi)
(http://i.imgur.com/QTVgKSUm.png) (http://imgur.com/QTVgKSU)
Another supply ship departs from Oceania, exiting the atmosphere over Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/wqJ30wWm.png) (http://imgur.com/wqJ30wW)
(http://i.imgur.com/xUZBf91m.png) (http://imgur.com/xUZBf91)
Another Ethereal supply ship shows up over Asia, getting shot down by a Firestorm.
(http://i.imgur.com/YqOd0jDm.png) (http://imgur.com/YqOd0jD)
(http://i.imgur.com/FFBGKctm.png) (http://imgur.com/FFBGKct)
More power armor is ready, and engineering in Europe starts assembling more missiles for the Avengers stationed in the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/H7bYCg9m.png) (http://imgur.com/H7bYCg9)
(http://i.imgur.com/rQ8CNkdm.png) (http://imgur.com/rQ8CNkd)
(http://i.imgur.com/O5wBzQmm.png) (http://imgur.com/O5wBzQm)
A Muton supply ship gets shot down over northern Canada by one of the Avengers; this is a good target to reclaim, although the severity of the damage to the ship's reactors can not be known until troops land. A ground operation would also be a good test to determine if our psionics are battle-ready yet.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/kvOwWB9m.png) (http://imgur.com/kvOwWB9)
(http://i.imgur.com/IOFetb6m.png) (http://imgur.com/IOFetb6)
Forces are en route to the crashed Muton supply ship in northern Canada. Operation Spring Permafrost begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/1NLqBRtm.png) (http://imgur.com/1NLqBRt)
(http://i.imgur.com/ox4G0Tzm.png) (http://imgur.com/ox4G0Tz)
(http://i.imgur.com/eaJVRdim.png) (http://imgur.com/eaJVRdi)
(http://i.imgur.com/6OLwPKym.png) (http://imgur.com/6OLwPKy)
(http://i.imgur.com/0vJpchjm.png) (http://imgur.com/0vJpchj)
(http://i.imgur.com/e1GayAZm.png) (http://imgur.com/e1GayAZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/sPnZWV6m.png) (http://imgur.com/sPnZWV6)
(http://i.imgur.com/60O4TFHm.png) (http://imgur.com/60O4TFH)
(http://i.imgur.com/dSX1KeGm.png) (http://imgur.com/dSX1KeG)
(http://i.imgur.com/H3YbZobm.png) (http://imgur.com/H3YbZob)
The squad gets ready for combat. With another month of psionic training underway, the most skilled psychic troops are given amplifiers.
(http://i.imgur.com/7eWWar1m.png) (http://imgur.com/7eWWar1)
(http://i.imgur.com/YurBIkum.png) (http://imgur.com/YurBIku)
(http://i.imgur.com/TtXQeWhm.png) (http://imgur.com/TtXQeWh)
Right off the bat, a Muton near the crash site is taken out by Wright.
(http://i.imgur.com/PmHLqSnm.png) (http://imgur.com/PmHLqSn)
(http://i.imgur.com/O7ZPSKxm.png) (http://imgur.com/O7ZPSKx)
Smoke gets set down.
(http://i.imgur.com/LxYESYum.png) (http://imgur.com/LxYESYu)
(http://i.imgur.com/KSk49r2m.png) (http://imgur.com/KSk49r2)
Another Muton gets sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/OfxzzIam.png) (http://imgur.com/OfxzzIa)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZXaKf6Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZXaKf6H)
Colonel Mederow brings down another Muton in the vicinity of the landing zone.
(http://i.imgur.com/2F4RpKFm.png) (http://imgur.com/2F4RpKF)
(http://i.imgur.com/DFb8WZpm.png) (http://imgur.com/DFb8WZp)
A sergeant deals with another Muton.
(http://i.imgur.com/H341eGbm.png) (http://imgur.com/H341eGb)
(http://i.imgur.com/f7Dqtwpm.png) (http://imgur.com/f7Dqtwp)
One Muton is still outside the ship. A specialist directs their psi-amp, and manages to get the alien under mind control.
(http://i.imgur.com/wwpHIgJm.png) (http://imgur.com/wwpHIgJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/oqGxP9hm.png) (http://imgur.com/oqGxP9h)
The Muton is convinced to throw down its weapon, disarming it.
(http://i.imgur.com/mIZsfWvm.png) (http://imgur.com/mIZsfWv)
(http://i.imgur.com/mIZsfWvm.png) (http://imgur.com/mIZsfWv)
(http://i.imgur.com/8R2tIMMm.png) (http://imgur.com/8R2tIMM)
(http://i.imgur.com/kEnk2Csm.png) (http://imgur.com/kEnk2Cs)
Another Muton comes from the opposite side of ship, drawing reaction fire from the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/wTmKvcym.png) (http://imgur.com/wTmKvcy)
(http://i.imgur.com/0Zluh6um.png) (http://imgur.com/0Zluh6u)
Mind control goes off again, and the Muton is ordered into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/CaWnfwFm.png) (http://imgur.com/CaWnfwF)
(http://i.imgur.com/pqXi6bGm.png) (http://imgur.com/pqXi6bG)
(http://i.imgur.com/Mt2Mcp3m.png) (http://imgur.com/Mt2Mcp3)
(http://i.imgur.com/SjmCMPtm.png) (http://imgur.com/SjmCMPt)
(http://i.imgur.com/2GCiDpYm.png) (http://imgur.com/2GCiDpY)
(http://i.imgur.com/YM3XqRum.png) (http://imgur.com/YM3XqRu)
Another Muton is controlled, and the aliens are turned against one another.
(http://i.imgur.com/EIhhNQlm.png) (http://imgur.com/EIhhNQl)
(http://i.imgur.com/ADXF5xlm.png) (http://imgur.com/ADXF5xl)
Another Muton is forced to throw down its weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/xtavz2im.png) (http://imgur.com/xtavz2i)
(http://i.imgur.com/VvQsgoTm.png) (http://imgur.com/VvQsgoT)
With the hostile resistance softened up, a colonel moves in and begins the assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/PPpHbQbm.png) (http://imgur.com/PPpHbQb)
(http://i.imgur.com/P6wQBgRm.png) (http://imgur.com/P6wQBgR)
Iwahara aims the blaster launcher at the bridge of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/iTfcwyMm.png) (http://imgur.com/iTfcwyM)
(http://i.imgur.com/ixy9DY3m.png) (http://imgur.com/ixy9DY3)
Troops go in through the breach, taking the top level of the cargo shuttle.
(http://i.imgur.com/zTwzcu2m.png) (http://imgur.com/zTwzcu2)
An attack from a Muton lightly wounds Wright, but there's no severe bleeding and he can continue to press on.
(http://i.imgur.com/wYUAeXRm.png) (http://imgur.com/wYUAeXR)
Mind control is used to disarm the Muton and walk it into Wright's line of fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZW892fGm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZW892fG)
(http://i.imgur.com/Aa1y6Sbm.png) (http://imgur.com/Aa1y6Sb)
Another Muton arrives on the bottom level, and gets taken out by waiting troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/Vpuy8Kpm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vpuy8Kp)
(http://i.imgur.com/eJFgnr3m.png) (http://imgur.com/eJFgnr3)
(http://i.imgur.com/XjmYyoBm.png) (http://imgur.com/XjmYyoB)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wbj9tZWm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wbj9tZW)
Wright takes out the weakened Muton, then proceeds to take out another Muton further in the ship and clear the area out.
Results of Operation Spring Permafrost
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 3 kills; wounded, will recover in 7 days
Col. Uta Mederow: 1 kill
Col. Gennadi Korkia: 2 kills
Sgt. Bernard Dreyfus: 2 kills
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien captured
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: After months of research, testing, and training, we now have troops capable of psionic warfare. This opens up a new world of possibilities; it's now reasonable to start taking on the alien bases across the world.
-
The success is indeed worthy of celebration, but don't get too cocky. Mutons are psionically weakest aliens, it'd probably be a bad idea to try that on Sectoids or Ethereals just yet.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/GzcfOpCm.png) (http://imgur.com/GzcfOpC)
(http://i.imgur.com/MJ6PdN7m.png) (http://imgur.com/MJ6PdN7)
With psionics proving to be massively effective against the Mutons, it's time to take down their base in the Gulf of Mexico. Operation Mind Games begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/2G1Arebm.png) (http://imgur.com/2G1Areb)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wo9HdB1m.png) (http://imgur.com/Wo9HdB1)
(http://i.imgur.com/4SUkUxgm.png) (http://imgur.com/4SUkUxg)
(http://i.imgur.com/ffW3fJRm.png) (http://imgur.com/ffW3fJR)
(http://i.imgur.com/7h9hfaQm.png) (http://imgur.com/7h9hfaQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/edq3qPVm.png) (http://imgur.com/edq3qPV)
(http://i.imgur.com/4UH0v8fm.png) (http://imgur.com/4UH0v8f)
(http://i.imgur.com/OtILoKqm.png) (http://imgur.com/OtILoKq)
(http://i.imgur.com/SBq5YU0m.png) (http://imgur.com/SBq5YU0)
(http://i.imgur.com/1PzOoqtm.png) (http://imgur.com/1PzOoqt)
The squad gets armed up and ready. Blaster launcher, psi amplifiers, heavy armor, everything.
(http://i.imgur.com/wcj7dtom.png) (http://imgur.com/wcj7dto)
(http://i.imgur.com/er7Gurcm.png) (http://imgur.com/er7Gurc)
The squad is divided into two teams, at the separate entrances of the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/GS6DQbfm.png) (http://imgur.com/GS6DQbf)
A Muton is spotted by troops, and the psychic assault begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/UvSwlb4m.png) (http://imgur.com/UvSwlb4)
(http://i.imgur.com/5HaSrSom.png) (http://imgur.com/5HaSrSo)
The Muton is forced to discard its weapon and is used as a scout under the squad's control
(http://i.imgur.com/LsBKRKXm.png) (http://imgur.com/LsBKRKX)
(http://i.imgur.com/y2nAzZAm.png) (http://imgur.com/y2nAzZA)
Flares are being used to help extend visual range in the dark hallways of the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/OXo8QZgm.png) (http://imgur.com/OXo8QZg)
(http://i.imgur.com/rBkAqrum.png) (http://imgur.com/rBkAqru)
Another Muton is spotted by the one being used to scout, starting a chain reaction of mind control.
(http://i.imgur.com/1hQBMR4m.png) (http://imgur.com/1hQBMR4)
(http://i.imgur.com/gEz6c9ym.png) (http://imgur.com/gEz6c9y)
(http://i.imgur.com/iZOVNNEm.png) (http://imgur.com/iZOVNNE)
One by one, the Mutons of the base are disarmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/rqMfeowm.png) (http://imgur.com/rqMfeow)
(http://i.imgur.com/CALNgTam.png) (http://imgur.com/CALNgTa)
By using mind-controlled aliens as scouts, there is no risk in being ambushed. It just means that the enemy is fighting against itself against the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/B9Z1RkRm.png) (http://imgur.com/B9Z1RkR)
(http://i.imgur.com/F97g5iZm.png) (http://imgur.com/F97g5iZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/XbPhwB7m.png) (http://imgur.com/XbPhwB7)
Another Muton helper spots some more targets for us.
(http://i.imgur.com/abfhe5im.png) (http://imgur.com/abfhe5i)
(http://i.imgur.com/kfMBrKym.png) (http://imgur.com/kfMBrKy)
(http://i.imgur.com/NUe2xphm.png) (http://imgur.com/NUe2xph)
Controlling an alien carrying a Blaster Launcher solves a lot of problems at once.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ysg3rxbm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ysg3rxb)
(http://i.imgur.com/50L3tLPm.png) (http://imgur.com/50L3tLP)
(http://i.imgur.com/tf3keDxm.png) (http://imgur.com/tf3keDx)
More Mutons are detected.
(http://i.imgur.com/H8HzaGqm.png) (http://imgur.com/H8HzaGq)
One of the aliens is taken out by the infighting.
(http://i.imgur.com/TbAJOhym.png) (http://imgur.com/TbAJOhy)
(http://i.imgur.com/9wzDpOYm.png) (http://imgur.com/9wzDpOY)
(http://i.imgur.com/nh2euCSm.png) (http://imgur.com/nh2euCS)
(http://i.imgur.com/v4N6coZm.png) (http://imgur.com/v4N6coZ)
The aliens continue to turn on each other due to psionic influence.
(http://i.imgur.com/8ntv50um.png) (http://imgur.com/8ntv50u)
(http://i.imgur.com/Dbvtsy4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Dbvtsy4)
One of the colonels steps in and takes out a Muton himself when mind control isn't enough for the job.
(http://i.imgur.com/aXsBubNm.png) (http://imgur.com/aXsBubN)
Despite the overwhelming advantage, a lone scout is taken out by a lucky shot from a dark hallway.
(http://i.imgur.com/FFb3al9m.png) (http://imgur.com/FFb3al9)
(http://i.imgur.com/7ONDkkCm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ONDkkC)
Another Muton is taken out, leaving little between the troops and the command room.
(http://i.imgur.com/By6aVNum.png) (http://imgur.com/By6aVNu)
(http://i.imgur.com/d5LpEPMm.png) (http://imgur.com/d5LpEPM)
(http://i.imgur.com/7eOs9Usm.png) (http://imgur.com/7eOs9Us)
More mind control is used to thin out the Muton ranks.
(http://i.imgur.com/fHqTVG9m.png) (http://imgur.com/fHqTVG9)
(http://i.imgur.com/INs2Aibm.png) (http://imgur.com/INs2Aib)
A Celatid takes out another of the controlled Mutons.
(http://i.imgur.com/3ZjVYROm.png) (http://imgur.com/3ZjVYRO)
(http://i.imgur.com/WNJNMmHm.png) (http://imgur.com/WNJNMmH)
Iwahara carefully directs a Blaster warhead to try and take out the door and the Celatid beyond it. One of the troops is injured by the blast, requiring a rush for medical attention.
(http://i.imgur.com/WNJNMmHm.png) (http://imgur.com/WNJNMmH)
Fortunately, it's easy to get a medic through with most of the facility cleared out.
(http://i.imgur.com/M9hlMtCm.png) (http://imgur.com/M9hlMtC)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wco32Mlm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wco32Ml)
The HWP takes out another roving Muton in the halls.
(http://i.imgur.com/p0b9PU6m.png) (http://imgur.com/p0b9PU6)
(http://i.imgur.com/qWS4NZRm.png) (http://imgur.com/qWS4NZR)
The Celatid survived the explosion, but the hole in the door provides enough of an opening to take it out the normal way.
(http://i.imgur.com/3NSiQ4hm.png) (http://imgur.com/3NSiQ4h)
(http://i.imgur.com/fkiySgSm.png) (http://imgur.com/fkiySgS)
Using a mind-controlled Muton to scout the control room found no command personnel left upstairs, so it's just a matter of going in and clearing things out.
Results of Operation Mind Games:
HWP: 1 kill
Col. Gennadi Korkia: 2 kills
Cpt. Clarence Miller: 1 kill
Cpt. Rene Buchard: 1 kill; wounded, will recover in 13 days
Cpt. Louis Dujardin: killed in action
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
13 aliens killed by aliens
2 aliens captured
Alloys and entertainment systems recovered
Alien base destroyed
Debriefing: While there were some casualties during this mission, the use of psionics offloaded most of the risk of this operation onto the Mutons. It was hoped that a commander could be captured during this operation, but this did not come to pass.
-
Pretty smooth operation for a fuckin' Muton base.
gg psionics.
-
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
13 aliens killed by aliens
WOAH. No wonder this was such a big thing in the reboot.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/ck6yFjrm.png) (http://imgur.com/ck6yFjr)
(http://i.imgur.com/srJOW1Km.png) (http://imgur.com/srJOW1K)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q7nbOJ9m.png) (http://imgur.com/Q7nbOJ9)
A Muton scout ship gets shot down over Africa. The elite troops from Europe are sent to the crash site. Operation Brain Buster begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/LeCISrtm.png) (http://imgur.com/LeCISrt)
(http://i.imgur.com/yarCKQ3m.png) (http://imgur.com/yarCKQ3)
(http://i.imgur.com/f8z8Ynkm.png) (http://imgur.com/f8z8Ynk)
(http://i.imgur.com/1Yr28awm.png) (http://imgur.com/1Yr28aw)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ki92mGBm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ki92mGB)
(http://i.imgur.com/q8XKKoAm.png) (http://imgur.com/q8XKKoA)
(http://i.imgur.com/MXa5Udbm.png) (http://imgur.com/MXa5Udb)
(http://i.imgur.com/uAGGX5Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/uAGGX5D)
(http://i.imgur.com/I5nLSLom.png) (http://imgur.com/I5nLSLo)
(http://i.imgur.com/gTwOO58m.png) (http://imgur.com/gTwOO58)
The squad gets armed and ready for battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/B9PibY4m.png) (http://imgur.com/B9PibY4)
Smoke gets set down to start the mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/fvxjfotm.png) (http://imgur.com/fvxjfot)
Troops get moving out.
(http://i.imgur.com/0xtowDtm.png) (http://imgur.com/0xtowDt)
More smoke gets set down as troops keep moving forward.
(http://i.imgur.com/DlLzSU8m.png) (http://imgur.com/DlLzSU8)
(http://i.imgur.com/3Cbu2c7m.png) (http://imgur.com/3Cbu2c7)
A Muton is controlled and pressured into throwing down its weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/S2afPitm.png) (http://imgur.com/S2afPit)
(http://i.imgur.com/vdzBoBKm.png) (http://imgur.com/vdzBoBK)
A Muton fires on one of its allies, but misses.
(http://i.imgur.com/5AXef9Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/5AXef9X)
(http://i.imgur.com/9PZawPim.png) (http://imgur.com/9PZawPi)
It is sniped by rookie member of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/PNJTORqm.png) (http://imgur.com/PNJTORq)
One of the Mutons shoots one of the aliens under the squad's control.
(http://i.imgur.com/VsJh4wvm.png) (http://imgur.com/VsJh4wv)
(http://i.imgur.com/iyIb96Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/iyIb96W)
(http://i.imgur.com/hSfhQiAm.png) (http://imgur.com/hSfhQiA)
Another Muton is controlled, throwing its weapon off the roof of a farmhouse before being manipulated into jumping off and into the range of the other troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/J9aXEAqm.png) (http://imgur.com/J9aXEAq)
Another Muton is sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/WuIMOZ8m.png) (http://imgur.com/WuIMOZ8)
Troops wait outside the door of the UFO.
(http://i.imgur.com/seuVf44m.png) (http://imgur.com/seuVf44)
Another alien soldier is sniped by the new rookie.
(http://i.imgur.com/egaOd5um.png) (http://imgur.com/egaOd5u)
A Muton emerges from the ship, but is ambushed by the waiting troops. It survives, retreating back inside.
(http://i.imgur.com/tT3plsFm.png) (http://imgur.com/tT3plsF)
(http://i.imgur.com/v0o1h0zm.png) (http://imgur.com/v0o1h0z)
It is mind controlled and disarmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/NWEzmXJm.png) (http://imgur.com/NWEzmXJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/M7iMK7Nm.png) (http://imgur.com/M7iMK7N)
Another Muton in the field is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/TJIdUMAm.png) (http://imgur.com/TJIdUMA)
(http://i.imgur.com/o3de3Ajm.png) (http://imgur.com/o3de3Aj)
The injured navigator is taken down with the stun rod.
Results of Operation Brain Buster
Col. Gennadi Korkia: 1 kills
Yoko Morita: 3 kills, promoted to Sergeant
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
1 alien killed by aliens
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, and fuel recovered
Debriefing: A successful operation. Zero casualties on our part, and a fully intact UFO recovered.
(http://i.imgur.com/WQKIibVm.png) (http://imgur.com/WQKIibV)
Interrogation begins on the alien navigator that was just captured.
-
I like how one alien is being interrogated by 50 scientists.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/PtHjzTjm.png) (http://imgur.com/PtHjzTj)
(http://i.imgur.com/3Xqbahdm.png) (http://imgur.com/3Xqbahd)
Some fuel and ammunition is shipped to the base at the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/N5Rh5F4m.png) (http://imgur.com/N5Rh5F4)
The workshop is completed there.
(http://i.imgur.com/XnohnlDm.png) (http://imgur.com/XnohnlD)
(http://i.imgur.com/fiQeyg5m.png) (http://imgur.com/fiQeyg5)
A small Muton ship is taken out over Western Europe; it's not worth trying to recover.
(http://i.imgur.com/XzqlkUQm.png) (http://imgur.com/XzqlkUQ)
New personnel arrive.
(http://i.imgur.com/o3g2441m.png) (http://imgur.com/o3g2441)
(http://i.imgur.com/a1MxGF6m.png) (http://imgur.com/a1MxGF6)
Another Muton ship, presumably part of the same mission as the one that we recently recovered, is shot down over the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/9A7tvIVm.png) (http://imgur.com/9A7tvIV)
(http://i.imgur.com/z3WP22Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/z3WP22Z)
Interrogation of the captured Muton navigator leads to some concerning information about the nature of the alien operations.
(http://i.imgur.com/TxOFuDCm.png) (http://imgur.com/TxOFuDC)
One of the Firestorms has been finished at the Asia complex; a plasma beam has been quickly put together, and both the ship and its weapon are being shipped to northern Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/4Jv76J7m.png) (http://imgur.com/4Jv76J7)
(http://i.imgur.com/7Qy7UYbm.png) (http://imgur.com/7Qy7UYb)
A Snakeman terror ship is shot down over the wilds of Siberia. The European forces depart to the crash site, beginning Operation Serpent Flayer.
(http://i.imgur.com/ANM9yMZm.png) (http://imgur.com/ANM9yMZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z0fsCiGm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z0fsCiG)
(http://i.imgur.com/LMAhjZkm.png) (http://imgur.com/LMAhjZk)
(http://i.imgur.com/aJSrLxcm.png) (http://imgur.com/aJSrLxc)
(http://i.imgur.com/LfrgWZVm.png) (http://imgur.com/LfrgWZV)
(http://i.imgur.com/iO07vxUm.png) (http://imgur.com/iO07vxU)
(http://i.imgur.com/HsJ211Em.png) (http://imgur.com/HsJ211E)
(http://i.imgur.com/BI54UZYm.png) (http://imgur.com/BI54UZY)
(http://i.imgur.com/sEi2iSRm.png) (http://imgur.com/sEi2iSR)
(http://i.imgur.com/jiIVQTBm.png) (http://imgur.com/jiIVQTB)
(http://i.imgur.com/L3cQY03m.png) (http://imgur.com/L3cQY03)
The squad gets armed and ready for battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/VIYegafm.png) (http://imgur.com/VIYegaf)
(http://i.imgur.com/UZx6oyhm.png) (http://imgur.com/UZx6oyh)
From the start, a Snakeman is visible from the landing zone. And when an alien is visible, it's vulnerable to psionics. Two Snakemen and a Chrysallid get controlled, becoming scouts for our cause.
(http://i.imgur.com/KjxDUkzm.png) (http://imgur.com/KjxDUkz)
(http://i.imgur.com/RTOdzjPm.png) (http://imgur.com/RTOdzjP)
More aliens are spotted via the use of the scouts.
(http://i.imgur.com/71Gzh4mm.png) (http://imgur.com/71Gzh4m)
(http://i.imgur.com/6alp3vom.png) (http://imgur.com/6alp3vo)
(http://i.imgur.com/uYrmKErm.png) (http://imgur.com/uYrmKEr)
With mind control expended for the moment, it's time to switch to a less subtle but no less effective battle tactic.
(http://i.imgur.com/9R4Caqvm.png) (http://imgur.com/9R4Caqv)
(http://i.imgur.com/lh8wUIom.png) (http://imgur.com/lh8wUIo)
Unfortunately, Iwahara's shot with the launcher misses the mark.
(http://i.imgur.com/3M75ZVqm.png) (http://imgur.com/3M75ZVq)
With the presence of more Chryssalids known, the HWP continues to blast the ground.
(http://i.imgur.com/rv7L2MFm.png) (http://imgur.com/rv7L2MF)
(http://i.imgur.com/6KGdTEHm.png) (http://imgur.com/6KGdTEH)
(http://i.imgur.com/GCz0s0Km.png) (http://imgur.com/GCz0s0K)
(http://i.imgur.com/xEQOg5Em.png) (http://imgur.com/xEQOg5E)
Some Snakeman soldiers and a Chryssalid accomplice are neutralized.
(http://i.imgur.com/9KKNpcem.png) (http://imgur.com/9KKNpce)
(http://i.imgur.com/Oos8ez9m.png) (http://imgur.com/Oos8ez9)
Some long-distance shooting from Colonel Korkia brings down another Chryssalid.
(http://i.imgur.com/PY1qrObm.png) (http://imgur.com/PY1qrOb)
(http://i.imgur.com/QmmhaVkm.png) (http://imgur.com/QmmhaVk)
Another Snakeman is controlled and disarmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/Olf2sqNm.png) (http://imgur.com/Olf2sqN)
(http://i.imgur.com/yEROriom.png) (http://imgur.com/yEROrio)
(http://i.imgur.com/5hNoIC2m.png) (http://imgur.com/5hNoIC2)
The HWP gets ready to take a shot at the ground again, but a mistake in plotting the course causes the shot to fly back into the tank. Fortunately, no troops are harmed by the blast.
(http://i.imgur.com/YIQEsoJm.png) (http://imgur.com/YIQEsoJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/vETgVGDm.png) (http://imgur.com/vETgVGD)
Korkia handles another Chrysallid.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZoDE1dPm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZoDE1dP)
(http://i.imgur.com/TqufvsLm.png) (http://imgur.com/TqufvsL)
Iwahara blows open the cockpit; the course of this warhead is planned much more carefully.
(http://i.imgur.com/M5Mm8C9m.png) (http://imgur.com/M5Mm8C9)
A Snakeman leader can be seen through the hole. Unfortunately, Sgt. Morita has no time to get into safe cover, and all she can do is try to crouch and make herself as small of a target as possible.
(http://i.imgur.com/8ETpFlHm.png) (http://imgur.com/8ETpFlH)
(http://i.imgur.com/RP7zCzwm.png) (http://imgur.com/RP7zCzw)
Unfortunately, Morita is seen and sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/EBy5Zqqm.png) (http://imgur.com/EBy5Zqq)
(http://i.imgur.com/SJ3dVk5m.png) (http://imgur.com/SJ3dVk5)
Another Snakeman is spotted and quickly dispatched.
(http://i.imgur.com/IpGUeCLm.png) (http://imgur.com/IpGUeCL)
(http://i.imgur.com/DZifLPYm.png) (http://imgur.com/DZifLPY)
The Snakeman leader is mind-controlled. Its fire is directed at a Chrysallid, which survives the assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/UkmSV6Em.png) (http://imgur.com/UkmSV6E)
(http://i.imgur.com/1F8g8zpm.png) (http://imgur.com/1F8g8zp)
(http://i.imgur.com/KUDKF28m.png) (http://imgur.com/KUDKF28)
The leader then falls to the mutiny of another Snakeman, which is then taken out by Korkia.
(http://i.imgur.com/yHzxeJdm.png) (http://imgur.com/yHzxeJd)
(http://i.imgur.com/ejtcFn5m.png) (http://imgur.com/ejtcFn5)
(http://i.imgur.com/nvbSoQlm.png) (http://imgur.com/nvbSoQl)
(http://i.imgur.com/noJy5Hym.png) (http://imgur.com/noJy5Hy)
Korkia takes out another alien in the cockpit, blowing out the navigation consoles in the process.
(http://i.imgur.com/pOqkjorm.png) (http://imgur.com/pOqkjor)
(http://i.imgur.com/tu0OzkMm.png) (http://imgur.com/tu0OzkM)
(http://i.imgur.com/00NqDhTm.png) (http://imgur.com/00NqDhT)
(http://i.imgur.com/1QKcFRbm.png) (http://imgur.com/1QKcFRb)
(http://i.imgur.com/hH6ot8Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/hH6ot8H)
A Snakeman on the bottom level is mind controlled, turning on the Chryssalid next to it, then another Snakeman, then another Chrysallid.
(http://i.imgur.com/tWw0jWSm.png) (http://imgur.com/tWw0jWS)
(http://i.imgur.com/kjRzsk2m.png) (http://imgur.com/kjRzsk2)
(http://i.imgur.com/tBNGdNEm.png) (http://imgur.com/tBNGdNE)
The Snakeman is then taken out by a Chryssalid; fortunately, there isn't the usual infestation to deal with.
(http://i.imgur.com/718vI5zm.png) (http://imgur.com/718vI5z)
Another of the Snakemen outside is completely neutralized by Korkia.
(http://i.imgur.com/KYbK4AOm.png) (http://imgur.com/KYbK4AO)
(http://i.imgur.com/AYhsg6Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/AYhsg6F)
The last Chryssalid is lured outside, and quickly dealt with.
Result of Operation Serpent Flayer
HWP: 1 kill, destroyed
Col. Gennadi Korkia: 6 kills
Cpt. Isao Noguchi: 2 kills
Sgt. Yoko Morita: Killed in action
14 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
4 aliens killed by aliens
UFO hull, entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: Although some minor losses occurred, the Snakemen are almost as vulnerable to psionics as the Mutons.
(http://i.imgur.com/RrrkkeFm.png) (http://imgur.com/RrrkkeF)
(http://i.imgur.com/EcMDBdwm.png) (http://imgur.com/EcMDBdw)
The psionic troops have obtained the names ?Bend? and ?Break?.
(http://i.imgur.com/hTUx5Ysm.png) (http://imgur.com/hTUx5Ys)
Colonel Mederow has been given the title ?Hailfire?.
(http://i.imgur.com/6aZvpUdm.png) (http://imgur.com/6aZvpUd)
Colonel Korkia has obtained the name ?Stormbringer?.
With it now clear that Snakemen and Chryssalids can be overtaken by psionics, plans are being made to assault the Snakeman base in Papua New Guinea.
-
*Insert long list of Mentok the MINDTAKER quotes here*
Looks like things are picking up.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/8WvGrGvm.png) (http://imgur.com/8WvGrGv)
Engineers arrive at the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/jwNfCnem.png) (http://imgur.com/jwNfCne)
(http://i.imgur.com/Im7nJsHm.png) (http://imgur.com/Im7nJsH)
The new Firestorm arrives in Northern Africa, and is equipped and prepared for interception.
(http://i.imgur.com/eAxsdvpm.png) (http://imgur.com/eAxsdvp)
(http://i.imgur.com/q1a52ttm.png) (http://imgur.com/q1a52tt)
(http://i.imgur.com/M2nLFwAm.png) (http://imgur.com/M2nLFwA)
(http://i.imgur.com/nOYt2B7m.png) (http://imgur.com/nOYt2B7)
The obsolete radar at the Arctic is replaced with a Mind Shield.
(http://i.imgur.com/qKIZFDDm.png) (http://imgur.com/qKIZFDD)
(http://i.imgur.com/gYKWu39m.png) (http://imgur.com/gYKWu39)
An additional Mind Shield is constructed on Sakhalin.
(http://i.imgur.com/pheY7w9m.png) (http://imgur.com/pheY7w9)
(http://i.imgur.com/5szVzHym.png) (http://imgur.com/5szVzHy)
With the squad prepared to move out, forces move out to the Snakeman base on Papua New Guinea. Operation Severed Ouroboros begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/jtIlYykm.png) (http://imgur.com/jtIlYyk)
(http://i.imgur.com/dftV26Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/dftV26W)
(http://i.imgur.com/GEmIkGym.png) (http://imgur.com/GEmIkGy)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bgz2x8Km.png) (http://imgur.com/Bgz2x8K)
(http://i.imgur.com/sjgMQeJm.png) (http://imgur.com/sjgMQeJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/zN3TfkDm.png) (http://imgur.com/zN3TfkD)
(http://i.imgur.com/gOIFB4Um.png) (http://imgur.com/gOIFB4U)
(http://i.imgur.com/JqZ1kTem.png) (http://imgur.com/JqZ1kTe)
(http://i.imgur.com/AR7ztbxm.png) (http://imgur.com/AR7ztbx)
(http://i.imgur.com/R44n598m.png) (http://imgur.com/R44n598)
Everybody gets armed up.
(http://i.imgur.com/cISpbbCm.png) (http://imgur.com/cISpbbC)
(http://i.imgur.com/YNx6dRKm.png) (http://imgur.com/YNx6dRK)
(http://i.imgur.com/kSPdMWym.png) (http://imgur.com/kSPdMWy)
The two entry points to the base are close together, separated by only one single room.
(http://i.imgur.com/XpKFZgdm.png) (http://imgur.com/XpKFZgd)
(http://i.imgur.com/xm92armm.png) (http://imgur.com/xm92arm)
A Snakeman trooper is spotted, and psychic powers are unleashed.
(http://i.imgur.com/5hU24Lvm.png) (http://imgur.com/5hU24Lv)
Two more Snakemen and a Chryssalid are found. The reason this base was left along for so long was the risk involved in fighting the Chryssalids in closed terrain; with psionics, that threat is almost completely eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/sef7X5lm.png) (http://imgur.com/sef7X5l)
(http://i.imgur.com/oG5mw4Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/oG5mw4W)
The other two Snakemen are controlled, and they unleash hell on the surrounded Chryssalid.
(http://i.imgur.com/gvy6PyLm.png) (http://imgur.com/gvy6PyL)
(http://i.imgur.com/JxHIxlmm.png) (http://imgur.com/JxHIxlm)
The outer layer of the command center is opened up, and another Chryssalid is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/FW1kqPAm.png) (http://imgur.com/FW1kqPA)
(http://i.imgur.com/pyDbsMKm.png) (http://imgur.com/pyDbsMK)
Mind-controlled aliens are ordered to throw down their weapons.
(http://i.imgur.com/XBmNXKcm.png) (http://imgur.com/XBmNXKc)
(http://i.imgur.com/veDjDipm.png) (http://imgur.com/veDjDip)
The roving HWP spots another Snakeman. Mind control doesn't take, so the tank gets into cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/8Ok7sV5m.png) (http://imgur.com/8Ok7sV5)
Another Snakeman is disarmed via psionics.
(http://i.imgur.com/GzeKaW1m.png) (http://imgur.com/GzeKaW1)
A Snakeman elsewhere is taken out by a snap reaction shot from one of the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/y3t3myUm.png) (http://imgur.com/y3t3myU)
(http://i.imgur.com/LAE2zfVm.png) (http://imgur.com/LAE2zfV)
(http://i.imgur.com/b6t1g8Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/b6t1g8S)
Control is obtained over a Snakeman with a Blaster Launcher. Troops clear away from the vicinity as the alien fires on its allies and blows a hole into the inner part of the command center.
(http://i.imgur.com/SbxVinSm.png) (http://imgur.com/SbxVinS)
(http://i.imgur.com/CfSXj1Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/CfSXj1Q)
The attacking Snakeman survives, and throws down its weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/qLUh8kpm.png) (http://imgur.com/qLUh8kp)
A navigator also discards its weapon.
(http://i.imgur.com/gwd5Vcwm.png) (http://imgur.com/gwd5Vcw)
(http://i.imgur.com/fhqx6TWm.png) (http://imgur.com/fhqx6TW)
An engineer is made to throw away its Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/Etye6xhm.png) (http://imgur.com/Etye6xh)
(http://i.imgur.com/hsFkueYm.png) (http://imgur.com/hsFkueY)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZQJlEI1m.png) (http://imgur.com/ZQJlEI1)
Colonel Korkia moves in and stuns a Snakeman.
(http://i.imgur.com/DOW4Uh5m.png) (http://imgur.com/DOW4Uh5)
A clump of Snakeman troops is spotted; it's hard to tell which ones are armed and which ones aren't, so troops just hang back for now.
(http://i.imgur.com/w22iUokm.png) (http://imgur.com/w22iUok)
More Snakemen are disarmed via mind control.
(http://i.imgur.com/UZzII6Km.png) (http://imgur.com/UZzII6K)
Unfortunately, as one of the troops moves forward, he is sniped by a Snakeman that wasn't anticipated.
(http://i.imgur.com/xT50kqJm.png) (http://imgur.com/xT50kqJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/HXxVPmAm.png) (http://imgur.com/HXxVPmA)
The HWP searches the blind spot, finding the Snakeman but unable to take it out. The tank pulls back and waits for a better opportunity.
(http://i.imgur.com/2dHT5IBm.png) (http://imgur.com/2dHT5IB)
The HWP is damaged when the Snakeman notices it.
(http://i.imgur.com/6I26tUBm.png) (http://imgur.com/6I26tUB)
Mind control is used to disarm it.
(http://i.imgur.com/SvBDSvOm.png) (http://imgur.com/SvBDSvO)
(http://i.imgur.com/r6coxmQm.png) (http://imgur.com/r6coxmQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/CFl6i5wm.png) (http://imgur.com/CFl6i5w)
More aliens are stunned.
(http://i.imgur.com/bS7HWbUm.png) (http://imgur.com/bS7HWbU)
(http://i.imgur.com/KHgcmKEm.png) (http://imgur.com/KHgcmKE)
(http://i.imgur.com/K0m1FYcm.png) (http://imgur.com/K0m1FYc)
Squad members surround a navigator, preventing it from escaping as it's stunned.
(http://i.imgur.com/N1jvQtym.png) (http://imgur.com/N1jvQty)
A mind-controlled Snakeman is sent up to the command room, finding a lone Snakeman officer.
(http://i.imgur.com/OLeGrWbm.png) (http://imgur.com/OLeGrWb)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z8f6ZM8m.png) (http://imgur.com/Z8f6ZM8)
(http://i.imgur.com/DZ4NCg3m.png) (http://imgur.com/DZ4NCg3)
It's not the commander we're looking for. The leader is mind-controlled, taking out the entire command room with a Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/HryxV0fm.png) (http://imgur.com/HryxV0f)
(http://i.imgur.com/VchT3b7m.png) (http://imgur.com/VchT3b7)
A Snakeman that had neither been noticed or disarmed by the squad gets the jump on the severely damaged HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/Hfatrycm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hfatryc)
Colonel Korkia is hit by a Blaster Launcher round from one of the still-remaining Snakemen.
(http://i.imgur.com/jiGq2Vpm.png) (http://imgur.com/jiGq2Vp)
Psionics quickly disarms and defangs the aliens.
(http://i.imgur.com/NSTWzHgm.png) (http://imgur.com/NSTWzHg)
(http://i.imgur.com/nFypJJYm.png) (http://imgur.com/nFypJJY)
A Chryssalid that was left unnoticed almost catches Mederow, but she has just enough time to blast it repeatedly before it can close in. She then proceeds to clean up the remaining Snakemen.
Result of Operation Severed Ouroboros
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 4 kills
Cpt. Jungo ?Bend? Tanida: Promoted to Colonel
Sgt. Bernard Dreyfus: 1 kill, promoted to Captain
Col. Gennadi ?Stormbringer? Korkia: Killed in action
Cpt. Clarence Miller: Killed in action
HWP: Destroyed
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
11 aliens killed by aliens
3 aliens captured
Alien alloys and entertainment systems recovered
Alien base destroyed
Debriefing: Unfortunately, no commander was found at this base, and two troops and the HWP were lost in the assault. However, destroying another alien base means we are turning the tide.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z7isNKlm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z7isNKl)
Scientists start pumping the captured Snakemen for intelligence.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/1eyn3oHm.png) (http://imgur.com/1eyn3oH)
(http://i.imgur.com/9etlO3Gm.png) (http://imgur.com/9etlO3G)
A Floater scout is destroyed over Siberia.
(http://i.imgur.com/xl4xUwnm.png) (http://imgur.com/xl4xUwn)
(http://i.imgur.com/lehxQPRm.png) (http://imgur.com/lehxQPR)
(http://i.imgur.com/OKtVaM1m.png) (http://imgur.com/OKtVaM1)
(http://i.imgur.com/o6zxLQJm.png) (http://imgur.com/o6zxLQJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/HLVlFh8m.png) (http://imgur.com/HLVlFh8)
Radar picks up a Muton battleship. One of the Avenger craft goes after it, and after a back-and-forth, the alien ship is shot down. This is the first time we've managed to take out a battleship in transit. Little stands in the way of X-COM forces anymore, in the ground or on the air.
(http://i.imgur.com/Ab3SzrYm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ab3SzrY)
(http://i.imgur.com/mfylnkLm.png) (http://imgur.com/mfylnkL)
After taking out an alien capital ship, a small scout is nothing for our interceptors.
(http://i.imgur.com/AKaLnApm.png) (http://imgur.com/AKaLnAp)
(http://i.imgur.com/hHGltWfm.png) (http://imgur.com/hHGltWf)
Forces prepare to move out to the crashed battleship. As this is part of a major turning point in the campaign against the aliens, this is going to be called Operation New Dawn.
(http://i.imgur.com/c1zecMbm.png) (http://imgur.com/c1zecMb)
(http://i.imgur.com/c67i4lZm.png) (http://imgur.com/c67i4lZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/d5zcsuUm.png) (http://imgur.com/d5zcsuU)
(http://i.imgur.com/0uQ0hx4m.png) (http://imgur.com/0uQ0hx4)
(http://i.imgur.com/zb96axsm.png) (http://imgur.com/zb96axs)
(http://i.imgur.com/urH8dGgm.png) (http://imgur.com/urH8dGg)
(http://i.imgur.com/9Dj2uUhm.png) (http://imgur.com/9Dj2uUh)
(http://i.imgur.com/y5JWMo7m.png) (http://imgur.com/y5JWMo7)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y4fPVHtm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y4fPVHt)
(http://i.imgur.com/F815CVEm.png) (http://imgur.com/F815CVE)
The troops get equipped and ready. Armor was forgotten for one of the rookies, so they will be hanging back, operating the mind probe.
(http://i.imgur.com/KD9QHlRm.png) (http://imgur.com/KD9QHlR)
From the start, a Silacoid can be seen in the desert.
(http://i.imgur.com/p3glU3Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/p3glU3J)
(http://i.imgur.com/t3n7VRmm.png) (http://imgur.com/t3n7VRm)
(http://i.imgur.com/Stkp3xrm.png) (http://imgur.com/Stkp3xr)
A nearby Muton is spotted and mind-controlled. It then attacks the Silacoid, before being taken out by another alien soldier.
(http://i.imgur.com/o6JhpTWm.png) (http://imgur.com/o6JhpTW)
(http://i.imgur.com/BlUvGrkm.png) (http://imgur.com/BlUvGrk)
That Muton is forcibly disarmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/lvGFKwVm.png) (http://imgur.com/lvGFKwV)
(http://i.imgur.com/q1kSiEjm.png) (http://imgur.com/q1kSiEj)
(http://i.imgur.com/CrIfQ2dm.png) (http://imgur.com/CrIfQ2d)
A Celatid is spotted, controlled, and has its venom directed at the Silacoid.
(http://i.imgur.com/tGOU30pm.png) (http://imgur.com/tGOU30p)
The disarmed Muton is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/cYilD5zm.png) (http://imgur.com/cYilD5z)
(http://i.imgur.com/4NRjwolm.png) (http://imgur.com/4NRjwol)
More Mutons are manipulated into scouting around for the troops, throwing down their weapons in the process.
(http://i.imgur.com/xrx9bj8m.png) (http://imgur.com/xrx9bj8)
(http://i.imgur.com/K9okaqvm.png) (http://imgur.com/K9okaqv)
The Celatid is taken out by a rookie.
(http://i.imgur.com/SBCbQ2fm.png) (http://imgur.com/SBCbQ2f)
(http://i.imgur.com/HbhJRcwm.png) (http://imgur.com/HbhJRcw)
A Muton is sent inside the ship, finding more hostile.
(http://i.imgur.com/5TGjfmrm.png) (http://imgur.com/5TGjfmr)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cd2P5vam.png) (http://imgur.com/Cd2P5va)
(http://i.imgur.com/YKUaP6Km.png) (http://imgur.com/YKUaP6K)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ve9jGSum.png) (http://imgur.com/Ve9jGSu)
One with a Blaster Launcher is controlled, causing massive devastation.
(http://i.imgur.com/sVkuy7Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/sVkuy7F)
A Muton outside finds the will to use a grenade, but falls short of actually hitting the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/9ait5k6m.png) (http://imgur.com/9ait5k6)
(http://i.imgur.com/G1CNQ8sm.png) (http://imgur.com/G1CNQ8s)
(http://i.imgur.com/1Nw20Mhm.png) (http://imgur.com/1Nw20Mh)
One of the aliens that survived the blast is used to take out a Celatid, before falling to another in the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/hQNUykRm.png) (http://imgur.com/hQNUykR)
(http://i.imgur.com/77666mXm.png) (http://imgur.com/77666mX)
Another with a Blaster Launcher is manipulating into attacking alien forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/DCPFvfjm.png) (http://imgur.com/DCPFvfj)
(http://i.imgur.com/IViFNlBm.png) (http://imgur.com/IViFNlB)
(http://i.imgur.com/e7ncjgHm.png) (http://imgur.com/e7ncjgH)
(http://i.imgur.com/JBFRC0Am.png) (http://imgur.com/JBFRC0A)
(http://i.imgur.com/X83yf3lm.png) (http://imgur.com/X83yf3l)
(http://i.imgur.com/1xiftIPm.png) (http://imgur.com/1xiftIP)
Rookies outside mops up the disorganized Muton forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/USTjGfjm.png) (http://imgur.com/USTjGfj)
(http://i.imgur.com/CQPbHy6m.png) (http://imgur.com/CQPbHy6)
A navigator is stunned and captured.
(http://i.imgur.com/JzNQiBzm.png) (http://imgur.com/JzNQiBz)
One last Muton is taken out, clearing out the wreckage of the ship.
Results of Operation New Dawn
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 2 kills
Gerhard Steinbach: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
Spencer Horton: Promoted to Sergeant
Shigeo Kojima: 2 kills, promoted to Sergeant
No X-COM casualties
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
11 aliens killed by aliens
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: A massive victory for X-COM forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/7xiTns9m.png) (http://imgur.com/7xiTns9)
(http://i.imgur.com/cmPhiWhm.png) (http://imgur.com/cmPhiWh)
(http://i.imgur.com/03DvBvUm.png) (http://imgur.com/03DvBvU)
(http://i.imgur.com/TBiQMTPm.png) (http://imgur.com/TBiQMTP)
Radar picks up a Muton fleet preparing to set up a base. The base is in X-COM territory, and Mutons are no match for psionic troops. As soon as this base is located, it will be destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/4TZyuOOm.png) (http://imgur.com/4TZyuOO)
One of the supply ships is taken out by a Firestorm, although with everything going on there might not be time to recover it.
-
Well that was a crushing victory. More like that pls.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/tGYWIvFm.png) (http://imgur.com/tGYWIvF)
(http://i.imgur.com/KMXmFCem.png) (http://imgur.com/KMXmFCe)
(http://i.imgur.com/SxsFrnBm.png) (http://imgur.com/SxsFrnB)
(http://i.imgur.com/G6VQswqm.png) (http://imgur.com/G6VQswq)
The Muton ships take off from their landing sites, but are immediately intercepted and shot down. Even the battleship leading the operation is taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/LrHLwzIm.png) (http://imgur.com/LrHLwzI)
Two supply ships and a battleship are crashed in the vicinity of Siberia and the Arctic. A series of missions begins in order to recover the crashed fleet; this will be a multi-part operation called Bright Aurora.
(http://i.imgur.com/Wtl1fzNm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wtl1fzN)(http://i.imgur.com/mZgH3Nvm.png) (http://imgur.com/mZgH3Nv)
The battleship near the North Pole will be the first target. Phase One begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/a8e2ROmm.png) (http://imgur.com/a8e2ROm)
(http://i.imgur.com/YkOFTV7m.png) (http://imgur.com/YkOFTV7)
(http://i.imgur.com/MQcwuEGm.png) (http://imgur.com/MQcwuEG)
(http://i.imgur.com/IohHuM5m.png) (http://imgur.com/IohHuM5)
(http://i.imgur.com/drWqq3bm.png) (http://imgur.com/drWqq3b)
(http://i.imgur.com/XwJY0Cxm.png) (http://imgur.com/XwJY0Cx)
(http://i.imgur.com/Oa7ESXim.png) (http://imgur.com/Oa7ESXi)
(http://i.imgur.com/XT2dVSym.png) (http://imgur.com/XT2dVSy)
(http://i.imgur.com/sVm6uRFm.png) (http://imgur.com/sVm6uRF)
(http://i.imgur.com/B3KUguBm.png) (http://imgur.com/B3KUguB)
The squad gets ready for battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/VkNkCRym.png) (http://imgur.com/VkNkCRy)
(http://i.imgur.com/9yRJXHrm.png) (http://imgur.com/9yRJXHr)
(http://i.imgur.com/nueuzqvm.png) (http://imgur.com/nueuzqv)
Smoke gets set down and troops get moving.
(http://i.imgur.com/QfhtkRbm.png) (http://imgur.com/QfhtkRb)
(http://i.imgur.com/wFveayCm.png) (http://imgur.com/wFveayC)
(http://i.imgur.com/l6ROSgSm.png) (http://imgur.com/l6ROSgS)
Mutons get located and mind-controlled.
(http://i.imgur.com/LKkq8BUm.png) (http://imgur.com/LKkq8BU)
They are used to take out a roving Celatid.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jy9EHO6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Jy9EHO6)
(http://i.imgur.com/GdxnBZLm.png) (http://imgur.com/GdxnBZL)
(http://i.imgur.com/k3fTOpBm.png) (http://imgur.com/k3fTOpB)
The Mutons turn on each other, one firing on the ones under mind control.
(http://i.imgur.com/ItCzWm6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ItCzWm6)
(http://i.imgur.com/34CWXnMm.png) (http://imgur.com/34CWXnM)
(http://i.imgur.com/YG2aRvCm.png) (http://imgur.com/YG2aRvC)
A Silacoid tries to attack one of the soldiers, but the heat can't get through the armor and the alien is promptly taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/r6pG4Yzm.png) (http://imgur.com/r6pG4Yz)
(http://i.imgur.com/NSokbnkm.png) (http://imgur.com/NSokbnk)
Another Celatid is located, getting sent into the ship before getting taken out by waiting Muton troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/oogFUHRm.png) (http://imgur.com/oogFUHR)
Muton soldiers are disarmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/xOX15i6m.png) (http://imgur.com/xOX15i6)
(http://i.imgur.com/f7Bn831m.png) (http://imgur.com/f7Bn831)
(http://i.imgur.com/1dnrABtm.png) (http://imgur.com/1dnrABt)
(http://i.imgur.com/czscz2Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/czscz2X)
(http://i.imgur.com/D63ECm9m.png) (http://imgur.com/D63ECm9)
Soldier in the ship are taken control of, using Blaster Launcher warheads to wipe out their allies.
(http://i.imgur.com/M6hxTQMm.png) (http://imgur.com/M6hxTQM)
(http://i.imgur.com/PL3oRF1m.png) (http://imgur.com/PL3oRF1)
An alien is stunned.
(http://i.imgur.com/ClA9pv9m.png) (http://imgur.com/ClA9pv9)
(http://i.imgur.com/AOFR2JWm.png) (http://imgur.com/AOFR2JW)
Iwahara uses her own Blaster Launcher to wipe out more Muton forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/JXvI5jSm.png) (http://imgur.com/JXvI5jS)
(http://i.imgur.com/rcrGnBJm.png) (http://imgur.com/rcrGnBJ)
A Muton that survived that blast is taken out by a shot from another of the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/kMZx9sem.png) (http://imgur.com/kMZx9se)
One of the Mutons that was forced to throw down its weapon manages to use a grenade, managing to land it precisely near one of the troops. The blast is point-blank, causing them to bleed out before aid can be rendered.
(http://i.imgur.com/479J72um.png) (http://imgur.com/479J72u)
The alien is quickly taken out in response.
Results of Operation Bright Aurora, Phase One
Avatar of War, Yoko Iwahara: 3 kills
Cpt. Rene Buchard: promoted to Colonel
Sgt. Gerhard Steinbach: 1 kill, promoted to Captain
Sgt. Shigeo Kojima: 1 kill
Kenji Fujimoto: 1 kill, promoted to Sergeant
Col. Leon Dreyfus: Killed in action
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
11 aliens killed by aliens
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: Other than an unlucky grenade, this mission went very well.
(http://i.imgur.com/MQvdcEem.png) (http://imgur.com/MQvdcEe)
More crash sites remain, and the search is on for the location of the Muton base.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/rRfQazlm.png) (http://imgur.com/rRfQazl)
(http://i.imgur.com/NixjXLSm.png) (http://imgur.com/NixjXLS)
Work begins on some more flying suits using the recently salvaged materials.
(http://i.imgur.com/9GQsCz0m.png) (http://imgur.com/9GQsCz0)
(http://i.imgur.com/7X8c2m8m.png) (http://imgur.com/7X8c2m8)
The Muton supply ships have self-destructed, but flyover patrols have found the base. Phase Two of Bright Aurora begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/JhiRtItm.png) (http://imgur.com/JhiRtIt)
(http://i.imgur.com/nVDxQFnm.png) (http://imgur.com/nVDxQFn)
(http://i.imgur.com/XSi6qHzm.png) (http://imgur.com/XSi6qHz)
(http://i.imgur.com/KXQ38a2m.png) (http://imgur.com/KXQ38a2)
(http://i.imgur.com/kOdXLHQm.png) (http://imgur.com/kOdXLHQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/UZdnpQBm.png) (http://imgur.com/UZdnpQB)
(http://i.imgur.com/2dXxSEFm.png) (http://imgur.com/2dXxSEF)
(http://i.imgur.com/PQV1ldRm.png) (http://imgur.com/PQV1ldR)
(http://i.imgur.com/6X8u02Am.png) (http://imgur.com/6X8u02A)
(http://i.imgur.com/xDdJZj1m.png) (http://imgur.com/xDdJZj1)
The squad gets armed up.
(http://i.imgur.com/F7oZxOrm.png) (http://imgur.com/F7oZxOr)
(http://i.imgur.com/btpk3Udm.png) (http://imgur.com/btpk3Ud)
Troops are split between the two entrances of the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/bu2RUMom.png) (http://imgur.com/bu2RUMo)
Scouting locates one of the Muton guards, allowing Buchard and Tanida to unleash their powers.
(http://i.imgur.com/ghBktWVm.png) (http://imgur.com/ghBktWV)
(http://i.imgur.com/bkLRo6Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/bkLRo6P)
A Muton soldier with a Blaster Launcher is taken control of, blowing away its allies around the outer doors to the control room.
(http://i.imgur.com/QYbWWrQm.png) (http://imgur.com/QYbWWrQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/EMEDtdKm.png) (http://imgur.com/EMEDtdK)
(http://i.imgur.com/vSKvg5jm.png) (http://imgur.com/vSKvg5j)
Another mind-controlled Muton is turned on the enemy.
(http://i.imgur.com/WqbjIo1m.png) (http://imgur.com/WqbjIo1)
(http://i.imgur.com/jV3SPAIm.png) (http://imgur.com/jV3SPAI)
(http://i.imgur.com/50yWbkMm.png) (http://imgur.com/50yWbkM)
A firefight breaks out between the alien forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/32lteXum.png) (http://imgur.com/32lteXu)
A clump of Muton troops under mind control attracts a shot from an enemy Blaster Launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/lSWMIdcm.png) (http://imgur.com/lSWMIdc)
One of the troops advancing down a hallway is caught by surprise.
(http://i.imgur.com/SeElBdGm.png) (http://imgur.com/SeElBdG)
(http://i.imgur.com/BR2QxKAm.png) (http://imgur.com/BR2QxKA)
Iwahara directs her launcher towards the source of the shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/AJpLLDwm.png) (http://imgur.com/AJpLLDw)
(http://i.imgur.com/auuEohcm.png) (http://imgur.com/auuEohc)
(http://i.imgur.com/qQ5taWsm.png) (http://imgur.com/qQ5taWs)
A Celatid is controlled, spitting its venom at a Muton.
(http://i.imgur.com/4G5WQGGm.png) (http://imgur.com/4G5WQGG)
(http://i.imgur.com/KDIPbiTm.png) (http://imgur.com/KDIPbiT)
Once its usefulness is expended, Mederow takes it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/uIPXa0nm.png) (http://imgur.com/uIPXa0n)
(http://i.imgur.com/a3TJc68m.png) (http://imgur.com/a3TJc68)
She then proceeds to take down a Muton further into the storage chamber.
(http://i.imgur.com/NoLfPtLm.png) (http://imgur.com/NoLfPtL)
(http://i.imgur.com/RfMpkuSm.png) (http://imgur.com/RfMpkuS)
(http://i.imgur.com/m6yXSoqm.png) (http://imgur.com/m6yXSoq)
A sergeant takes down some disarmed and demoralized Mutons, clearing out the base.
Results of Operation Bright Aurora, Phase Two
Avatar of War, Yoko Iwahara: 1 kill
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 1 kill
Sgt. Kenji Fujimoto: 1 kill
Sgt. Shigeo Kojima: 2 kiils
Sgt. Spencer Horton: Killed in action
5 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
12 aliens killed by aliens
1 alien captured
Alien alloys and entertainment systems recovered
Alien base destroyed
Debriefing: The alien base was destroyed within days of going online. No clear sign of a commander, but this is still a huge victory.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/81Sjv1Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/81Sjv1T)
(http://i.imgur.com/yJ6SIXgm.png) (http://imgur.com/yJ6SIXg)
A Snakeman scout is taken out over Central Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/oDCDFx7m.png) (http://imgur.com/oDCDFx7)
(http://i.imgur.com/alz3pCxm.png) (http://imgur.com/alz3pCx)
A Muton probe is destroyed near the location of the former Muton base.
(http://i.imgur.com/dXYnTe3m.png) (http://imgur.com/dXYnTe3)
Psionic labs are ready in Asia and the Arctic. More troops can now be trained for psychic warfare.
(http://i.imgur.com/gsOShOjm.png) (http://imgur.com/gsOShOj)
(http://i.imgur.com/xPwf5Okm.png) (http://imgur.com/xPwf5Ok)
Interrogating a captured navigator leads to some new intelligence.
(http://i.imgur.com/nkeLEMJm.png) (http://imgur.com/nkeLEMJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/NuFFtHqm.png) (http://imgur.com/NuFFtHq)
More materials are shipped to Asia. Captain Buchard arrives to provide psychic capabilities to the squad at X-Com Two.
(http://i.imgur.com/zG9V5Qfm.png) (http://imgur.com/zG9V5Qf)
(http://i.imgur.com/n4iTGBDm.png) (http://imgur.com/n4iTGBD)
A Muton ship is pursued over Europe, getting shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/GBCMPvIm.png) (http://imgur.com/GBCMPvI)
(http://i.imgur.com/al4769Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/al4769S)
(http://i.imgur.com/AlFeU30m.png) (http://imgur.com/AlFeU30)
A new Firestorm is ready in Asia. It gets armed and shipped off to Sakhalin with some fuel.
(http://i.imgur.com/rZDPoaQm.png) (http://imgur.com/rZDPoaQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/16HWdbGm.png) (http://imgur.com/16HWdbG)
(http://i.imgur.com/FtvvHNzm.png) (http://imgur.com/FtvvHNz)
(http://i.imgur.com/98cmzLHm.png) (http://imgur.com/98cmzLH)
Engineering in Europe finishes the flying armor, and gets started on another HWP. It is quickly put together and loaded up onto the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/xKOBMvgm.png) (http://imgur.com/xKOBMvg)(http://i.imgur.com/7dmjB44m.png) (http://imgur.com/7dmjB44)
Another Muton scout is taken down.
(http://i.imgur.com/ee15E86m.png) (http://imgur.com/ee15E86)
(http://i.imgur.com/ieQrbmpm.png) (http://imgur.com/ieQrbmp)
A supply ship is sunk off the African coast.
(http://i.imgur.com/Shaf7wPm.png) (http://imgur.com/Shaf7wP)
(http://i.imgur.com/yUvACaqm.png) (http://imgur.com/yUvACaq)
A Floater scout is shot down over Russia.
(http://i.imgur.com/vuPxupum.png) (http://imgur.com/vuPxupu)
(http://i.imgur.com/LTTWtznm.png) (http://imgur.com/LTTWtzn)
A Muton harvester appears on radar over the Arctic. An Avenger shoots it down only a few miles away from the polar base. The option exists to reclaim the wreckage if we so wish. However, it might be more efficient to focus on getting to the end of the month with as few bumps as possible and get more psychic training online.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/JRYEpumm.png) (http://imgur.com/JRYEpum)
The Harvester ship is going to be ignored; it is unlikely that desirable materials will be gained from it, and it will be difficult to reach the site in daylight.
(http://i.imgur.com/7dpF9Kom.png) (http://imgur.com/7dpF9Ko)
(http://i.imgur.com/zOBoEBmm.png) (http://imgur.com/zOBoEBm)
(http://i.imgur.com/sDjJcG8m.png) (http://imgur.com/sDjJcG8)
A battleship is pursued from the Arctic, being shot down over the western Sahara by an Avenger craft. This will be a much more valuable recovery. Forces are sent in from Europe for Operation Sand Scourer.
(http://i.imgur.com/MFWyEDdm.png) (http://imgur.com/MFWyEDd)
(http://i.imgur.com/YbJlKLPm.png) (http://imgur.com/YbJlKLP)
A captured navigator gives more information about UFO flight plans.
(http://i.imgur.com/o2IuQkNm.png) (http://imgur.com/o2IuQkN)
The mission to seize the wrecked battleship commences.
(http://i.imgur.com/CVLJaBMm.png) (http://imgur.com/CVLJaBM)
(http://i.imgur.com/B4LxRHBm.png) (http://imgur.com/B4LxRHB)
(http://i.imgur.com/ynsz6uim.png) (http://imgur.com/ynsz6ui)
(http://i.imgur.com/sulBsVym.png) (http://imgur.com/sulBsVy)
(http://i.imgur.com/mKcnuZKm.png) (http://imgur.com/mKcnuZK)
(http://i.imgur.com/zVs2HJRm.png) (http://imgur.com/zVs2HJR)
(http://i.imgur.com/KczFp1dm.png) (http://imgur.com/KczFp1d)
(http://i.imgur.com/AUBv3O4m.png) (http://imgur.com/AUBv3O4)
(http://i.imgur.com/X4Lbu6Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/X4Lbu6S)
(http://i.imgur.com/I4Sk1zDm.png) (http://imgur.com/I4Sk1zD)
The squad gets armed up. A quick check indicates that Iwahara's psychic capability is enough to take on Mutons, so she's given an amplifier in addition to her launcher.
(http://i.imgur.com/9oZkY0Wm.png) (http://imgur.com/9oZkY0W)
(http://i.imgur.com/82RWkSjm.png) (http://imgur.com/82RWkSj)
The team gets to work fast.
(http://i.imgur.com/0roIVpvm.png) (http://imgur.com/0roIVpv)
(http://i.imgur.com/PHQxaWdm.png) (http://imgur.com/PHQxaWd)
The usual playbook is carried out. Use one Muton to scout around, control any others that are found, and disarm as many as possible.
(http://i.imgur.com/WMIwhBHm.png) (http://imgur.com/WMIwhBH)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cp2bV4cm.png) (http://imgur.com/Cp2bV4c)
A Muton in the ship is taken out by others waiting for intruders.
(http://i.imgur.com/y17ROwKm.png) (http://imgur.com/y17ROwK)
(http://i.imgur.com/T1T80Vum.png) (http://imgur.com/T1T80Vu)
Two heavily armed Mutons are disarmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/HcMYbmFm.png) (http://imgur.com/HcMYbmF)
Another Muton is taken out by its allies.
(http://i.imgur.com/hCWaQvIm.png) (http://imgur.com/hCWaQvI)
(http://i.imgur.com/rn8vxiDm.png) (http://imgur.com/rn8vxiD)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ad3yGy6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Ad3yGy6)
The HWP takes out a roaming Celatid.
(http://i.imgur.com/MAx6ND5m.png) (http://imgur.com/MAx6ND5)
(http://i.imgur.com/XhGR4btm.png) (http://imgur.com/XhGR4bt)
(http://i.imgur.com/CU7D6CCm.png) (http://imgur.com/CU7D6CC)
(http://i.imgur.com/tQ4zCWzm.png) (http://imgur.com/tQ4zCWz)
Various officers take out the Mutons in the desert. In the process, Captain Noguchi is hit by a Muton that wasn't disarmed, going down.
(http://i.imgur.com/wPmAqWom.png) (http://imgur.com/wPmAqWo)
(http://i.imgur.com/rPLpKHym.png) (http://imgur.com/rPLpKHy)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZsbpA8sm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZsbpA8s)
(http://i.imgur.com/7toZ8nCm.png) (http://imgur.com/7toZ8nC)
Launcher fire is directed near the entry point to the ship, but only succeeds in wounding a Muton.
(http://i.imgur.com/VfgP8fKm.png) (http://imgur.com/VfgP8fK)
(http://i.imgur.com/tQpZVlRm.png) (http://imgur.com/tQpZVlR)
(http://i.imgur.com/ac534TNm.png) (http://imgur.com/ac534TN)
(http://i.imgur.com/JLRM6PYm.png) (http://imgur.com/JLRM6PY)
With the enemies weakened and their numbers thinned out, forces pour into the ship, overrunning the crew.
Results of Operation Sand Scourer
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 3 kills
Cpt. Gerhard Steinbach: 2 kills
Cpt. Bernard Dreyfus: 2 kills
Sgt. Kenji Fujimoto: 3 kills, promoted to Captain
HWP: 1 kill
Cpt. Isao Noguchi: Killed in action
10 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
7 aliens killed by aliens
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: One casualty is within acceptable limits for a mission; no alien commander found here, but some useful Elerium has been retrieved.
(http://i.imgur.com/Y6vhcKQm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y6vhcKQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/7EU5BIjm.png) (http://imgur.com/7EU5BIj)
(http://i.imgur.com/Owr6c22m.png) (http://imgur.com/Owr6c22)
(http://i.imgur.com/YQvSdYYm.png) (http://imgur.com/YQvSdYY)
(http://i.imgur.com/qjeiwYwm.png) (http://imgur.com/qjeiwYw)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nyyisdwm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nyyisdw)
(http://i.imgur.com/4JBgnePm.png) (http://imgur.com/4JBgneP)
(http://i.imgur.com/JSikgyZm.png) (http://imgur.com/JSikgyZ)
Alien ships of varying classes and purposes are shot down by intercept craft.
(http://i.imgur.com/P0EvPSAm.png) (http://imgur.com/P0EvPSA)
The month ends, with great approval from all of the backing nations. Destroying multiple alien bases and neutralizing several battleships has earned a very favorable performance rating.
(http://i.imgur.com/zZoYhzqm.png) (http://imgur.com/zZoYhzq)
With psi-labs online at three bases, psionic screening and training will be no problem at all.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/gETD7Yom.png) (http://imgur.com/gETD7Yo)
(http://i.imgur.com/2HD11K2m.png) (http://imgur.com/2HD11K2)
(http://i.imgur.com/H7vI3uRm.png) (http://imgur.com/H7vI3uR)
(http://i.imgur.com/kDf99Dsm.png) (http://imgur.com/kDf99Ds)
A pair of scout ships get taken out by the air fleet.
(http://i.imgur.com/vFdWGEym.png) (http://imgur.com/vFdWGEy)
(http://i.imgur.com/O6OuYyum.png) (http://imgur.com/O6OuYyu)
(http://i.imgur.com/RMFVRtlm.png) (http://imgur.com/RMFVRtl)
An Ethereal supply ship is shot down as it departs from a base. The European squad moves in for a recovery mission we are calling Operation Meeting of Minds.
(http://i.imgur.com/DwIAS4um.png) (http://imgur.com/DwIAS4u)
(http://i.imgur.com/6uyzpWom.png) (http://imgur.com/6uyzpWo)
(http://i.imgur.com/r21IbuAm.png) (http://imgur.com/r21IbuA)
(http://i.imgur.com/WPdwfYBm.png) (http://imgur.com/WPdwfYB)
(http://i.imgur.com/II5N5jBm.png) (http://imgur.com/II5N5jB)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q3Fylvrm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q3Fylvr)
(http://i.imgur.com/lz8X9Rsm.png) (http://imgur.com/lz8X9Rs)
(http://i.imgur.com/4UCkBXSm.png) (http://imgur.com/4UCkBXS)
Only eight troops are being used this time around, selected for their psionic strength. The troops with the strongest capability are being given amplifiers, while those with the weakest are being left with support tools.
(http://i.imgur.com/ozEfaeom.png) (http://imgur.com/ozEfaeo)
Tanida has become powerful enough to even mind control Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/yam6b7am.png) (http://imgur.com/yam6b7a)
(http://i.imgur.com/IITxM6fm.png) (http://imgur.com/IITxM6f)
(http://i.imgur.com/ozUgA0im.png) (http://imgur.com/ozUgA0i)
The Ethereals are turned on each other in the greatest of ironies.
(http://i.imgur.com/1pOFM1Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/1pOFM1Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/XhtpDg2m.png) (http://imgur.com/XhtpDg2)
Iwahara fires the launcher at an alien taking cover behind a house.
(http://i.imgur.com/ezcAbNum.png) (http://imgur.com/ezcAbNu)
The HWP is taken out by another lurking Ethereal.
(http://i.imgur.com/hvEtOkMm.png) (http://imgur.com/hvEtOkM)
Another Ethereal is sniped by the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/pQH1IS9m.png) (http://imgur.com/pQH1IS9)
(http://i.imgur.com/V0Cb7G5m.png) (http://imgur.com/V0Cb7G5)
(http://i.imgur.com/LyUBQDmm.png) (http://imgur.com/LyUBQDm)
Tanida's mind control is used again to turn one Ethereal on another, softening the enemy up before Dreyfus takes the remaining one out.
(http://i.imgur.com/IbbC176m.png) (http://imgur.com/IbbC176)
(http://i.imgur.com/p0TUcQHm.png) (http://imgur.com/p0TUcQH)
(http://i.imgur.com/RfKxGBYm.png) (http://imgur.com/RfKxGBY)
Psionics are used to weaken the enemy again before Mederow does some sharpshooting.
(http://i.imgur.com/wHgEJrWm.png) (http://imgur.com/wHgEJrW)
With the field clear, forces pour out of the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/kb7uQ7Vm.png) (http://imgur.com/kb7uQ7V)
(http://i.imgur.com/wAdMRrwm.png) (http://imgur.com/wAdMRrw)
(http://i.imgur.com/cTnTTgCm.png) (http://imgur.com/cTnTTgC)
(http://i.imgur.com/KV2tjBnm.png) (http://imgur.com/KV2tjBn)
Ethereals in the ship are suppressed by Tanida, leaving them vulnerable to assault.
(http://i.imgur.com/82TSRjYm.png) (http://imgur.com/82TSRjY)
(http://i.imgur.com/zWn3CHJm.png) (http://imgur.com/zWn3CHJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/Zur9B3bm.png) (http://imgur.com/Zur9B3b)
An Ethereal on the second level of the ship is mind-controlled and lured to the bottom, where Mederow is waiting.
(http://i.imgur.com/8mTFd24m.png) (http://imgur.com/8mTFd24)
(http://i.imgur.com/eV5Gxzum.png) (http://imgur.com/eV5Gxzu)
Another Ethereal is dealt with by Wright.
(http://i.imgur.com/a5U05Xem.png) (http://imgur.com/a5U05Xe)
(http://i.imgur.com/oSJV5rfm.png) (http://imgur.com/oSJV5rf)
Ethereals have started using their own psionic powers on the squad. Mind control is only able to work on the troops that have been set up as decoys. They are able to inflict panic on a few other soldiers, but with every alien in sight disarmed, this only slows them down.
(http://i.imgur.com/xo0MTtcm.png) (http://imgur.com/xo0MTtc)
(http://i.imgur.com/h3gpOAfm.png) (http://imgur.com/h3gpOAf)
(http://i.imgur.com/D3McGGOm.png) (http://imgur.com/D3McGGO)
An assault begins on the top level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/zX0LkUTm.png) (http://imgur.com/zX0LkUT)
(http://i.imgur.com/7evHBp9m.png) (http://imgur.com/7evHBp9)
(http://i.imgur.com/pfedg9Am.png) (http://imgur.com/pfedg9A)
The control room is breached.
(http://i.imgur.com/vzTnKWlm.png) (http://imgur.com/vzTnKWl)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y6Wd3SQm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y6Wd3SQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/O5osC41m.png) (http://imgur.com/O5osC41)
Mind control is used to prevent any counterattacks, and the ship is cleared out with minimal opposition.
Results of Operation Meeting of Minds
HWP: Destroyed
Avatar of War, Yoko Iwahara: 1 kill
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 5 kills
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 3 kills
Cpt. Bernard Dreyfus: 6 kills
Sergei Mikhailov: Promoted to Sergeant
Yuzo Fujimoto: Promoted to Sergeant
15 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
2 aliens killed by aliens
UFO hull, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: We are now on a nearly even footing with the Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/dDNHNqMm.png) (http://imgur.com/dDNHNqM)
Buchard is recalled to Europe to prepare for fighting against the Ethereals.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/b677EJIm.png) (http://imgur.com/b677EJI)
Production shifts to old-generation laser tanks. They're less resource-intensive to produce than the hover HWPs, and engineering has nothing better to do right now.
(http://i.imgur.com/QbXLsQ6m.png) (http://imgur.com/QbXLsQ6)
(http://i.imgur.com/OJS6E6Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/OJS6E6J)
A Muton scout ship gets shot down near the Mediterranean.
(http://i.imgur.com/HvpTrpIm.png) (http://imgur.com/HvpTrpI)
(http://i.imgur.com/X0tsNLum.png) (http://imgur.com/X0tsNLu)
An Ethereal supply ship manages to outrun the Firestorms from Asia, reaching its destination and taking off again before it can be caught.
(http://i.imgur.com/Snv9LgGm.png) (http://imgur.com/Snv9LgG)
(http://i.imgur.com/O0heJ8am.png) (http://imgur.com/O0heJ8a)
(http://i.imgur.com/IzHz40om.png) (http://imgur.com/IzHz40o)
(http://i.imgur.com/cbM3tmmm.png) (http://imgur.com/cbM3tmm)
A Muton harvester is intercepted and shot down over Northern Europe. Forces rapidly move in to reclaim the site, commencing Operation Withered Leaf.
(http://i.imgur.com/YJCY7Ubm.png) (http://imgur.com/YJCY7Ub)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z35A8xQm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z35A8xQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/1hheX4Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/1hheX4R)
(http://i.imgur.com/J3QSdpum.png) (http://imgur.com/J3QSdpu)
(http://i.imgur.com/6vLonkmm.png) (http://imgur.com/6vLonkm)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ay5JKJGm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ay5JKJG)
(http://i.imgur.com/iKJzLTkm.png) (http://imgur.com/iKJzLTk)
(http://i.imgur.com/c9hd1hqm.png) (http://imgur.com/c9hd1hq)
(http://i.imgur.com/BImAARym.png) (http://imgur.com/BImAARy)
(http://i.imgur.com/NBZx7gPm.png) (http://imgur.com/NBZx7gP)
Squad gets armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/1BEgNKHm.png) (http://imgur.com/1BEgNKH)
(http://i.imgur.com/1SIUAenm.png) (http://imgur.com/1SIUAen)
The tank moves out first, with smoke getting set out on top of it for cover.
(http://i.imgur.com/gnoFDyZm.png) (http://imgur.com/gnoFDyZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/8xLWPqom.png) (http://imgur.com/8xLWPqo)
(http://i.imgur.com/36jWYnJm.png) (http://imgur.com/36jWYnJ)
Scouting spots some Mutons in the field. Psionic powers are unleashed, and the work of pacifying the enemy force begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/ACVuagnm.png) (http://imgur.com/ACVuagn)
One is sent into the UFO, revealing the engines have been blown out by the interception.
(http://i.imgur.com/jkRneHmm.png) (http://imgur.com/jkRneHm)
A Muton under the troops' control is taken out by another in the field.
(http://i.imgur.com/UTzCJOvm.png) (http://imgur.com/UTzCJOv)
The aliens guarding the ship are manipulated into disarming, as well as searching for any other hostiles.
(http://i.imgur.com/zmMhtaOm.png) (http://imgur.com/zmMhtaO)
One of the mind-controlled Mutons is hit by a grenade from one of its former allies.
(http://i.imgur.com/vuWv5sem.png) (http://imgur.com/vuWv5se)
Colonel Wright starts to breach the ship and start clearing the area out.
(http://i.imgur.com/BuC1NI5m.png) (http://imgur.com/BuC1NI5)
One of the Mutons sent into the cockpit by the troops is taken out by a waiting navigator.
(http://i.imgur.com/A7Mgse2m.png) (http://imgur.com/A7Mgse2)
Another Muton wandering in the field is hit by snap reaction fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/KEIxmxym.png) (http://imgur.com/KEIxmxy)
Troops in flying suits maneuver through the trees, hunting for hostiles. One Muton tries to retaliate by throwing a grenade in their direction, which works about as well as one would expect.
(http://i.imgur.com/Cdq6EDim.png) (http://imgur.com/Cdq6EDi)
The HWP manages to take out one of the Mutons with its laser cannon.
(http://i.imgur.com/VVoX1wEm.png) (http://imgur.com/VVoX1wE)
Wright continues to sweep up the Mutons inside the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/Sp4TmIXm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sp4TmIX)
(http://i.imgur.com/sHYGoJvm.png) (http://imgur.com/sHYGoJv)
(http://i.imgur.com/OiDoSBym.png) (http://imgur.com/OiDoSBy)
Mutons are herded from the upper levels into Wright's range.
(http://i.imgur.com/WtxN214m.png) (http://imgur.com/WtxN214)
Captain Fujimoto assists with the cleanup.
(http://i.imgur.com/fcxoE2Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/fcxoE2H)
(http://i.imgur.com/SgE0yvLm.png) (http://imgur.com/SgE0yvL)
Eventually, troops reach the cockpit, clearing out the whole of the ship.
Results of Operation Withered Leaf
HWP: 1 kill
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 1 kill
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 3 kills
Cpt. Bernard Dreyfus: 2 kills
Cpt. Kenji Fujimoto: 2 kills
No X-COM casualties
7 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
4 aliens killed by aliens
1 alien captured
UFO hull, navigation systems, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: Our psychic troops are becoming numerous enough and powerful enough that they will soon overwhelm any opposition.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Sh5sNNFm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sh5sNNF)
(http://i.imgur.com/uVDey9mm.png) (http://imgur.com/uVDey9m)
(http://i.imgur.com/VorE1D3m.png) (http://imgur.com/VorE1D3)
(http://i.imgur.com/QbpLyq6m.png) (http://imgur.com/QbpLyq6)
The intercept fleet continues their assault on the invading ships.
(http://i.imgur.com/dGOlew2m.png) (http://imgur.com/dGOlew2)
(http://i.imgur.com/e1hclpDm.png) (http://imgur.com/e1hclpD)
An Ethereal supply ship goes down in Central Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/pOuJenFm.png) (http://imgur.com/pOuJenF)
(http://i.imgur.com/D2OosDgm.png) (http://imgur.com/D2OosDg)
A Snakeman terror ship is shot down over Japan after a lengthy pursuit.
(http://i.imgur.com/Wh2P9w4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Wh2P9w4)
(http://i.imgur.com/pF5f5VNm.png) (http://imgur.com/pF5f5VN)
Yet another Muton scout is taken down over Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/Wh2P9w4m.png) (http://imgur.com/Wh2P9w4)
An assault begins on the crashed supply ship. Operation Clashing Will begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/a1kOJhLm.png) (http://imgur.com/a1kOJhL)
(http://i.imgur.com/IGJc4RZm.png) (http://imgur.com/IGJc4RZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/WqJuWIRm.png) (http://imgur.com/WqJuWIR)
(http://i.imgur.com/SAgtvcHm.png) (http://imgur.com/SAgtvcH)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cc01Ofim.png) (http://imgur.com/Cc01Ofi)
(http://i.imgur.com/Eh2gaj6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Eh2gaj6)
(http://i.imgur.com/QAnBMtam.png) (http://imgur.com/QAnBMta)
(http://i.imgur.com/cctQaGsm.png) (http://imgur.com/cctQaGs)
(http://i.imgur.com/VVzoczRm.png) (http://imgur.com/VVzoczR)
(http://i.imgur.com/0KY2YYXm.png) (http://imgur.com/0KY2YYX)
Forces get equipped for combat. There's a mix of psychic troops and decoys for this operation.
(http://i.imgur.com/BJGja3Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/BJGja3Z)
The HWP is hit when trying to exit the Skyranger.
(http://i.imgur.com/FuSRQF4m.png) (http://imgur.com/FuSRQF4)
(http://i.imgur.com/M7AGmYzm.png) (http://imgur.com/M7AGmYz)
(http://i.imgur.com/LVUjN3Xm.png) (http://imgur.com/LVUjN3X)
An Ethereal comes into range of the troops, getting mind controlled. It is used to scout around before getting mowed down on the second level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/N9iSsAim.png) (http://imgur.com/N9iSsAi)
(http://i.imgur.com/3VcNzdlm.png) (http://imgur.com/3VcNzdl)
(http://i.imgur.com/zoyejTvm.png) (http://imgur.com/zoyejTv)
The use of psionics starts a firefight in the ship, taking out more aliens before disarming the rest.
(http://i.imgur.com/5XU4OyGm.png) (http://imgur.com/5XU4OyG)
(http://i.imgur.com/qoYDvx0m.png) (http://imgur.com/qoYDvx0)
(http://i.imgur.com/4Iy9EF8m.png) (http://imgur.com/4Iy9EF8)
(http://i.imgur.com/7ooqusgm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ooqusg)
(http://i.imgur.com/IjKlhv3m.png) (http://imgur.com/IjKlhv3)
Troops start moving out into the field and taking out the weakened Ethereal force.
(http://i.imgur.com/5JwLS20m.png) (http://imgur.com/5JwLS20)
(http://i.imgur.com/eL8Plghm.png) (http://imgur.com/eL8Plgh)
The aliens respond with a psychic assault, getting control over the decoys. One of the other troops is momentarily panicked, opening fire on one of these rookie decoys. There are wounds, but not life-threatening ones.
(http://i.imgur.com/IjKlhv3m.png) (http://imgur.com/IjKlhv3)
(http://i.imgur.com/Eaj2cEcm.png) (http://imgur.com/Eaj2cEc)
(http://i.imgur.com/42tbKBum.png) (http://imgur.com/42tbKBu)
(http://i.imgur.com/EfIZgCfm.png) (http://imgur.com/EfIZgCf)
(http://i.imgur.com/xsjRlb7m.png) (http://imgur.com/xsjRlb7)
Colonel Wright breaks through into the second level of the ship, taking out a number of Ethereals.
(http://i.imgur.com/vJlI0vhm.png) (http://imgur.com/vJlI0vh)
Iwahara, completely immune to the powers of the Ethereals, takes a plasma gun and moves in directly, along with another soldier. They take the top level of the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/57cfOXTm.png) (http://imgur.com/57cfOXT)
A mind-controlled Ethereal is used to open up the control room, where numerous leaders have holed up.
(http://i.imgur.com/XU57SXPm.png) (http://imgur.com/XU57SXP)
(http://i.imgur.com/cFGXxQDm.png) (http://imgur.com/cFGXxQD)
(http://i.imgur.com/pKu7JFIm.png) (http://imgur.com/pKu7JFI)\
(http://i.imgur.com/E95Qjlim.png) (http://imgur.com/E95Qjli)
One is stunned by an ally before being blown up with the navigation console as Iwahara storms in and takes out the other two. She then proceeds to eliminate one more around the corner.
(http://i.imgur.com/0Y2eECJm.png) (http://imgur.com/0Y2eECJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/g1CdgDkm.png) (http://imgur.com/g1CdgDk)
(http://i.imgur.com/YIrpVGGm.png) (http://imgur.com/YIrpVGG)
Other troops quickly mop up the remaining hostiles.
Results of Operation Clashing Will
HWP: Destroyed
Avatar of War, Yoko Iwahara: 3 kills
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 5 kills
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 3 kills
Cpt. Bernard Dreyfus: 1 kill
Alan Martin: Promoted to Sergeant; wounded, will recover in 7 days
12 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
4 aliens killed by aliens
UFO hull, reactor, fuel, food capsules, and surgical equipment recovered
Debriefing: While the threat of mind control has been almost completely nullified at this point, the risk of psionic-induced panic in our forces still exists. This must be taken into consideration for future missions.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/t0ccUmKm.png) (http://imgur.com/t0ccUmK)
(http://i.imgur.com/p7STXMvm.png) (http://imgur.com/p7STXMv)
(http://i.imgur.com/OA006y5m.png) (http://imgur.com/OA006y5)
(http://i.imgur.com/t09z7Whm.png) (http://imgur.com/t09z7Wh)
(http://i.imgur.com/APRde7zm.png) (http://imgur.com/APRde7z)
(http://i.imgur.com/nGVdQ9im.png) (http://imgur.com/nGVdQ9i)
(http://i.imgur.com/jvV9rh9m.png) (http://imgur.com/jvV9rh9)
Intercepts and shootdowns continue, including scouts and an Ethereal supply vessel.
(http://i.imgur.com/YA55xxSm.png) (http://imgur.com/YA55xxS)
(http://i.imgur.com/9Qi84j6m.png) (http://imgur.com/9Qi84j6)
Forces are sent to the crash site of the Snakeman terror ship that was recently shot down over Japan. Operation Serpent Sacrifice begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/9imsUXgm.png) (http://imgur.com/9imsUXg)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y63FXhhm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y63FXhh)
(http://i.imgur.com/zgA48H2m.png) (http://imgur.com/zgA48H2)
(http://i.imgur.com/OHTyUixm.png) (http://imgur.com/OHTyUix)
(http://i.imgur.com/kjXujwhm.png) (http://imgur.com/kjXujwh)
(http://i.imgur.com/GYMRpS2m.png) (http://imgur.com/GYMRpS2)
(http://i.imgur.com/LL3BSTzm.png) (http://imgur.com/LL3BSTz)
(http://i.imgur.com/h1Y4PDAm.png) (http://imgur.com/h1Y4PDA)
(http://i.imgur.com/ws82kRgm.png) (http://imgur.com/ws82kRg)
(http://i.imgur.com/18Tfmp3m.png) (http://imgur.com/18Tfmp3)
Troops get armed and ready.
(http://i.imgur.com/pViQ9RQm.png) (http://imgur.com/pViQ9RQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/h39XKpKm.png) (http://imgur.com/h39XKpK)
(http://i.imgur.com/FsWhHAKm.png) (http://imgur.com/FsWhHAK)
Psionic ability is used to suppress the Snakemen that are spotted by initial scouting.
(http://i.imgur.com/XHRaE3km.png) (http://imgur.com/XHRaE3k)
(http://i.imgur.com/AnhbuVsm.png) (http://imgur.com/AnhbuVs)
(http://i.imgur.com/gKuZcqfm.png) (http://imgur.com/gKuZcqf)
The Chryssalids that are detected are controlled and used to scout the area, one getting into the ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/7VgD1A8m.png) (http://imgur.com/7VgD1A8)
(http://i.imgur.com/bqCFQHlm.png) (http://imgur.com/bqCFQHl)
One Snakeman still has its gun, and is turned on other aliens around it.
(http://i.imgur.com/oWFLI68m.png) (http://imgur.com/oWFLI68)
(http://i.imgur.com/9R4IYK0m.png) (http://imgur.com/9R4IYK0)
With the area under control, troops start to move out.
(http://i.imgur.com/iO4Arn8m.png) (http://imgur.com/iO4Arn8)
One Snakeman under mind control is attacked by a Chryssalid. This takes care of one hostile for us, and helps to exhaust the Chryssalid for an eventual takedown.
(http://i.imgur.com/wJZqatum.png) (http://imgur.com/wJZqatu)
(http://i.imgur.com/eLYXk4Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/eLYXk4D)
(http://i.imgur.com/g2kxMO6m.png) (http://imgur.com/g2kxMO6)
Some oddness with how hills and explosions work prevents the Blaster Launcher from having its proper effect, leaving a Chryssalid unscathed from Iwahara's attack.
(http://i.imgur.com/gqUOBeUm.png) (http://imgur.com/gqUOBeU)
A grenade from a Snakeman doesn't do much to it, either.
(http://i.imgur.com/a78VeZWm.png) (http://imgur.com/a78VeZW)
Other aliens are mind-controlled and left in its range of attack as a diversion.
(http://i.imgur.com/hHxmZEQm.png) (http://imgur.com/hHxmZEQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/wzrusKWm.png) (http://imgur.com/wzrusKW)
(http://i.imgur.com/AObWPWSm.png) (http://imgur.com/AObWPWS)
Two Snakemen and another Chryssalid are torn apart.
(http://i.imgur.com/Z6iQAyom.png) (http://imgur.com/Z6iQAyo)
More troops hit the ground as the field is cleared.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZTy82UUm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZTy82UU)
(http://i.imgur.com/Uyoptdkm.png) (http://imgur.com/Uyoptdk)
(http://i.imgur.com/wQsDtYXm.png) (http://imgur.com/wQsDtYX)
More Chryssalids are taken out by the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jhss9Pym.png) (http://imgur.com/Jhss9Py)
(http://i.imgur.com/vhsqbHBm.png) (http://imgur.com/vhsqbHB)
A Snakeman coming out of the ship is ambushed by a soldier hovering between the trees.
(http://i.imgur.com/CfUOyAAm.png) (http://imgur.com/CfUOyAA)
(http://i.imgur.com/lGG194Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/lGG194R)
(http://i.imgur.com/Fc7QrhCm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fc7QrhC)
Another alien comes out of the ship, completely outnumbered and outgunned.
(http://i.imgur.com/GRA5lJ3m.png) (http://imgur.com/GRA5lJ3)
(http://i.imgur.com/vGdgivWm.png) (http://imgur.com/vGdgivW)
(http://i.imgur.com/oibFNEfm.png) (http://imgur.com/oibFNEf)
(http://i.imgur.com/SzgiSd0m.png) (http://imgur.com/SzgiSd0)
The HWP spots two more Chryssalids, which are lured outside with psionics before being sniped.
(http://i.imgur.com/nuVyGjam.png) (http://imgur.com/nuVyGja)
(http://i.imgur.com/AAmCc76m.png) (http://imgur.com/AAmCc76)
(http://i.imgur.com/0D1vCkzm.png) (http://imgur.com/0D1vCkz)
(http://i.imgur.com/1xqlJPSm.png) (http://imgur.com/1xqlJPS)
(http://i.imgur.com/K0xdgNlm.png) (http://imgur.com/K0xdgNl)
The ship is quickly stormed and any remaining aliens are dealt with.
Result of Operation Serpent Sacrifice
Col. Uta "Hailfire" Mederow: 3 kils
Cpt. Gerhard Steinbach: 2 kills
Cpt. Kenji Fujimoto: 4 kills
9 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
6 aliens killed by aliens
No X-COM casualties
UFO hull, navigation systems, and entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: A clean recovery.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/T0i1c3Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/T0i1c3R)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nnx8jpMm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nnx8jpM)
(http://i.imgur.com/P3GGeeJm.png) (http://imgur.com/P3GGeeJ)
A battleship departing from a harvest operation is pursued, but leaves the atmosphere before an Avenger can catch up.
(http://i.imgur.com/IbauhAKm.png) (http://imgur.com/IbauhAK)
(http://i.imgur.com/RrrN4Rhm.png) (http://imgur.com/RrrN4Rh)
Laser cannons are fitted to some of the aircraft, partially to replace the old and obsolete Avalanche launchers on the original interceptors and partly to be a secondary support weapon. It's more than affordable at this point.
(http://i.imgur.com/4vMXZifm.png) (http://imgur.com/4vMXZif)
Engineering at X-COM Two in Asia starts on another Firestorm, which will be shipped to the polar base when completed.
(http://i.imgur.com/SjnTiBTm.png) (http://imgur.com/SjnTiBT)
(http://i.imgur.com/j51yPFPm.png) (http://imgur.com/j51yPFP)
(http://i.imgur.com/R5eGa4Um.png) (http://imgur.com/R5eGa4U)
(http://i.imgur.com/JaORsYYm.png) (http://imgur.com/JaORsYY)
A pair of Ethereal supply ships is crashed in the ocean off the southern coast of Asia.
(http://i.imgur.com/X0uNavfm.png) (http://imgur.com/X0uNavf)
(http://i.imgur.com/hqRQ1E2m.png) (http://imgur.com/hqRQ1E2)
(http://i.imgur.com/UcbEilnm.png) (http://imgur.com/UcbEiln)
(http://i.imgur.com/KNIYZ2pm.png) (http://imgur.com/KNIYZ2p)
(http://i.imgur.com/uPI0HjHm.png) (http://imgur.com/uPI0HjH)
A battleship seeks out the location of X-COM One in Europe. It vastly overshoots the location, going over the Atlantic. One of the Avengers engages it, shooting it down over Iceland. Operation Cold Judgement commences.
(http://i.imgur.com/jJFX8O8m.png) (http://imgur.com/jJFX8O8)
(http://i.imgur.com/NbiadCGm.png) (http://imgur.com/NbiadCG)
(http://i.imgur.com/OolX7ymm.png) (http://imgur.com/OolX7ym)
(http://i.imgur.com/zkXCNV9m.png) (http://imgur.com/zkXCNV9)
(http://i.imgur.com/1JBHUMHm.png) (http://imgur.com/1JBHUMH)
(http://i.imgur.com/Blv7b3Um.png) (http://imgur.com/Blv7b3U)
(http://i.imgur.com/h3zizMpm.png) (http://imgur.com/h3zizMp)
(http://i.imgur.com/7rF0UJHm.png) (http://imgur.com/7rF0UJH)
(http://i.imgur.com/WJCovZ1m.png) (http://imgur.com/WJCovZ1)
(http://i.imgur.com/S6FwVSTm.png) (http://imgur.com/S6FwVST)
Forces get prepared for combat.
(http://i.imgur.com/HdfAnYjm.png) (http://imgur.com/HdfAnYj)
(http://i.imgur.com/XvuNhDMm.png) (http://imgur.com/XvuNhDM)
A Celatid is the first alien to be spotted, meaning it's the first to volunteer to scout.
(http://i.imgur.com/Fycnuvvm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fycnuvv)
(http://i.imgur.com/kPGwnAcm.png) (http://imgur.com/kPGwnAc)
The HWP deploys, with Wright providing smoke cover for it.
(http://i.imgur.com/1PbG9kym.png) (http://imgur.com/1PbG9ky)
(http://i.imgur.com/6pkK1zsm.png) (http://imgur.com/6pkK1zs)
The Celatid is killed when it goes into the battleship, but spots several more targets in the process.
(http://i.imgur.com/jfxa9O0m.png) (http://imgur.com/jfxa9O0)
One of the Mutons has a Blaster Launcher. This clears up at least one problem.
(http://i.imgur.com/W0oKerRm.png) (http://imgur.com/W0oKerR)
The walls being ripped apart reveals another Muton soldier, which is mind-controlled and used to handle the alien that survived the prior explosion.
(http://i.imgur.com/F7hDyxrm.png) (http://imgur.com/F7hDyxr)(http://i.imgur.com/HMUhe1pm.png) (http://imgur.com/HMUhe1p)
(http://i.imgur.com/xiv50EYm.png) (http://imgur.com/xiv50EY)
A Muton on the upper level of the ship also has a launcher, which gets rid of more hostiles and breaks the center of the ship apart.
(http://i.imgur.com/FdiqOySm.png) (http://imgur.com/FdiqOyS)
(http://i.imgur.com/T4wkJ1xm.png) (http://imgur.com/T4wkJ1x)
A clear line of sight to the top level gets the troops control over another Muton, which takes out a Silacoid.
(http://i.imgur.com/9NsQOGTm.png) (http://imgur.com/9NsQOGT)
(http://i.imgur.com/YfP338Km.png) (http://imgur.com/YfP338K)
The Mutons outside the ship are turned on one another.
(http://i.imgur.com/Yrb1i2xm.png) (http://imgur.com/Yrb1i2x)
The HWP manages to get a lethal hit in on one of the aliens emerging from what's left of the central elevator.
(http://i.imgur.com/tNnNFQim.png) (http://imgur.com/tNnNFQi)
(http://i.imgur.com/0t49W7im.png) (http://imgur.com/0t49W7i)
A mind-controlled Navigator takes out one of the Mutons still in the ship, getting a line of fire thanks to the various holes from explosions.
(http://i.imgur.com/6R3aEQWm.png) (http://imgur.com/6R3aEQW)
Colonel Wright manages to take out a Muton, one of the rare times a soldier gets directly involved during this mission.
(http://i.imgur.com/KUQkPwim.png) (http://imgur.com/KUQkPwi)
(http://i.imgur.com/fVCiTWim.png) (http://imgur.com/fVCiTWi)
(http://i.imgur.com/MU6gz1Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/MU6gz1P)
The navigator brings down another of its former allies before disarming itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/DUCLBobm.png) (http://imgur.com/DUCLBob)
Troops get moving to capture it.
(http://i.imgur.com/DeMic1sm.png) (http://imgur.com/DeMic1s)
Mind control is used to wear the Navigator out and get it into range, at which point it's surrounded and stunned, ending the operation.
Results of Operation Cold Judgement:
HWP: 1 kill
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 1 kill
2 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
11 aliens killed by aliens
1 alien captured
UFO hull, reactors, navigation systems, fuel, an entertainment systems recovered
Debriefing: Our assaults on alien ships have still not retrieved a commander, but this mission was completed without any casualties.
(http://i.imgur.com/pBtBsqCm.png) (http://imgur.com/pBtBsqC)
Interrogation of the navigator begins. Trying to get intelligence is all the science division has to do at this point.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/no2SeyOm.png) (http://imgur.com/no2SeyO)
A Mind Shield comes online at the base in the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/CZ0cN0bm.png) (http://imgur.com/CZ0cN0b)
(http://i.imgur.com/UyNfjFZm.png) (http://imgur.com/UyNfjFZ)
An Ethereal supply vessel gets shot down over the Thar Desert between India and Pakistan. It's unlikely any Elerium survived the explosion, and this ship is too small to have a commander; it is being left alone.
(http://i.imgur.com/iNiwQ30m.png) (http://imgur.com/iNiwQ30)
(http://i.imgur.com/KxaJXJOm.png) (http://imgur.com/KxaJXJO)
A Muton scout ship gets shot down over eastern Russia.
(http://i.imgur.com/6KCBUzam.png) (http://imgur.com/6KCBUza)
(http://i.imgur.com/GTIXtaQm.png) (http://imgur.com/GTIXtaQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/T7PQyusm.png) (http://imgur.com/T7PQyus)
(http://i.imgur.com/UeFugYLm.png) (http://imgur.com/UeFugYL)
Another pair of alien ships is intercepted and neutralized.
(http://i.imgur.com/TVt01RBm.png) (http://imgur.com/TVt01RB)
(http://i.imgur.com/6fxfRCIm.png) (http://imgur.com/6fxfRCI)
(http://i.imgur.com/ve34yNfm.png) (http://imgur.com/ve34yNf)
A batch of laser HWPs has been completed and is ready to be shipped off to various bases. Work starts on some newer-model hover HWPs, which are quickly finished.
(http://i.imgur.com/Fpvcukcm.png) (http://imgur.com/Fpvcukc)
(http://i.imgur.com/bHJBe52m.png) (http://imgur.com/bHJBe52)
A scout ship is shot down off the African coast.
(http://i.imgur.com/TGIxBSxm.png) (http://imgur.com/TGIxBSx)
Troops and equipment are shipped to the Arctic base. The plan is to use one of the Avengers to transport multiple HWPs and the best troops available, then start launching assaults on the remaining alien bases.
Names are being considered for the Avenger craft themselves; the working names are ?Jane Bailey? and ?Andrea Sharpe?, for X-COM's earliest veterans. Suggestions are being accepted for other names.
(http://i.imgur.com/1W7Oi5Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/1W7Oi5R)
Work begins on some more armor for the troops that remain in Europe.
(http://i.imgur.com/ATi2rtjm.png) (http://imgur.com/ATi2rtj)
(http://i.imgur.com/2aPEgHrm.png) (http://imgur.com/2aPEgHr)
A scout ship is shot down over Britain.
(http://i.imgur.com/fy7g5BYm.png) (http://imgur.com/fy7g5BY)
(http://i.imgur.com/kPZn3oAm.png) (http://imgur.com/kPZn3oA)
Interrogating the recently captured navigator gives some information about the nature about the retaliation missions, although much of this had been figured out already.
(http://i.imgur.com/p2ovZyEm.png) (http://imgur.com/p2ovZyE)
(http://i.imgur.com/goiOfJwm.png) (http://imgur.com/goiOfJw)
An Abductor is shot down over the Arctic.
(http://i.imgur.com/q7xwg1ym.png) (http://imgur.com/q7xwg1y)
(http://i.imgur.com/X4afFk6m.png) (http://imgur.com/X4afFk6)
A battleship is shot down over the UK. Unfortunately, the damage from the engagement means that neither of the Avengers can bring the elites from the Arctic in, and a Skyranger isn't available there, either. There are troops and transports available at other bases, but it might not be possible to fully equip those troops and there will not be access to psionics during the operation. We may have to pass up a recovery operation and wait until our forces are better prepared again.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/4rBmDGFm.png) (http://imgur.com/4rBmDGF)
(http://i.imgur.com/poBXtu9m.png) (http://imgur.com/poBXtu9)
(http://i.imgur.com/Gpdd1MJm.png) (http://imgur.com/Gpdd1MJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/aOzPLiMm.png) (http://imgur.com/aOzPLiM)
A pair of Floater abduction craft is knocked out of the air over Russia.
(http://i.imgur.com/i9Sz8nTm.png) (http://imgur.com/i9Sz8nT)
(http://i.imgur.com/wd7gnFcm.png) (http://imgur.com/wd7gnFc)
(http://i.imgur.com/8wcIEKNm.png) (http://imgur.com/8wcIEKN)
(http://i.imgur.com/8oGqgXFm.png) (http://imgur.com/8oGqgXF)
A Sectoid scout appears over the ocean, heading west before being intercepted over central Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/V4Ik8pDm.png) (http://imgur.com/V4Ik8pD)
(http://i.imgur.com/eIVsDiem.png) (http://imgur.com/eIVsDie)
A new Firestorm is ready. It will be shipped over to the base in the Arctic to assist in intercepting smaller craft, while the Avengers handle larger vessels such as battleships.
(http://i.imgur.com/RpTTp71m.png) (http://imgur.com/RpTTp71)
(http://i.imgur.com/QCF48tDm.png) (http://imgur.com/QCF48tD)
(http://i.imgur.com/5djBXtLm.png) (http://imgur.com/5djBXtL)
An Ethereal supply vessel crosses the southern tip of Japan, heading over mainland Asia before getting shot down above China.
(http://i.imgur.com/wyXmzPXm.png) (http://imgur.com/wyXmzPX)
(http://i.imgur.com/Qrth2lom.png) (http://imgur.com/Qrth2lo)
(http://i.imgur.com/VC33lHtm.png) (http://imgur.com/VC33lHt)
(http://i.imgur.com/iql9S1Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/iql9S1Y)
Another Sectoid scout is located, pursued, and eliminated.
(http://i.imgur.com/BSNLTL1m.png) (http://imgur.com/BSNLTL1)
(http://i.imgur.com/ts1QGhRm.png) (http://imgur.com/ts1QGhR)
Another supply barge is shot down, sinking far from the Madagascar coast.
(http://i.imgur.com/V5bAeypm.png) (http://imgur.com/V5bAeyp)
(http://i.imgur.com/Rn7c6Jom.png) (http://imgur.com/Rn7c6Jo)
(http://i.imgur.com/LWAXq6Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/LWAXq6B)
(http://i.imgur.com/KEf22mam.png) (http://imgur.com/KEf22ma)
A Muton scout flies over the Arctic, being intercepted in the Russian tundra.
(http://i.imgur.com/bUOoJ7Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/bUOoJ7F)
(http://i.imgur.com/bb11Mcsm.png) (http://imgur.com/bb11Mcs)
A new batch of armor has been completed at the main base in Europe. Some of it will be used for the troops there, while some is being shipped to supplement forces at the Arctic. Engineering starts work on some additional Psi-Amps.
(http://i.imgur.com/g9z8sU2m.png) (http://imgur.com/g9z8sU2)
A Skyranger has been ordered for the Arctic base to act as an additional transport when Avengers are unavailable.
(http://i.imgur.com/xgkqLd2m.png) (http://imgur.com/xgkqLd2)
(http://i.imgur.com/WoEzOXIm.png) (http://imgur.com/WoEzOXI)
Another Ethereal cargo transport goes down in the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/WinUwgBm.png) (http://imgur.com/WinUwgB)
(http://i.imgur.com/JSWhfHWm.png) (http://imgur.com/JSWhfHW)
(http://i.imgur.com/7KAfBCfm.png) (http://imgur.com/7KAfBCf)
Yet another Sectoid scout is shot down over the Sahara.
(http://i.imgur.com/oai1BcYm.png) (http://imgur.com/oai1BcY)
(http://i.imgur.com/0ZtWXbPm.png) (http://imgur.com/0ZtWXbP)
A Muton scout craft is shot down in the sea between Japan and the main continent.
(http://i.imgur.com/nRcmkqTm.png) (http://imgur.com/nRcmkqT)
April ends, and the council of nations is extremely satisfied with X-COM's overall progress. Psionic screening continues, obtaining very favorable results.
(http://i.imgur.com/5RNQuo1m.png) (http://imgur.com/5RNQuo1)
(http://i.imgur.com/DNY3KnQm.png) (http://imgur.com/DNY3KnQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/oUZwiQ0m.png) (http://imgur.com/oUZwiQ0)
Shootdowns continue at the start of the new month, starting with a Snakeman scout ship.
(http://i.imgur.com/kojKhh6m.png) (http://imgur.com/kojKhh6)
(http://i.imgur.com/qoHQtCcm.png) (http://imgur.com/qoHQtCc)
(http://i.imgur.com/6KR28YTm.png) (http://imgur.com/6KR28YT)
A small scout is pursued over Europe and destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/lOKLGscm.png) (http://imgur.com/lOKLGsc)
More powered armor and some UFO components arrive at the Arctic base for use by personnel.
(http://i.imgur.com/RCb3LeYm.png) (http://imgur.com/RCb3LeY)
(http://i.imgur.com/UAwf7RKm.png) (http://imgur.com/UAwf7RK)
(http://i.imgur.com/4EIo6VUm.png) (http://imgur.com/4EIo6VU)
(http://i.imgur.com/Yod5hn6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Yod5hn6)
Another supply ship is shot down in the ocean, not far from landing at its intended destination.
(http://i.imgur.com/1oZ0Vdxm.png) (http://imgur.com/1oZ0Vdx)
(http://i.imgur.com/ar9Xejym.png) (http://imgur.com/ar9Xejy)
(http://i.imgur.com/JAI5a2Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/JAI5a2Z)
An Ethereal terror attack is stopped before it reaches its target, leaving the transport to crash on the tip of Scandinavia.
(http://i.imgur.com/AOXSWX8m.png) (http://imgur.com/AOXSWX8)
(http://i.imgur.com/5HXWocBm.png) (http://imgur.com/5HXWocB)
Sectoid scouts continue to be shot down over Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/LXBI5lem.png) (http://imgur.com/LXBI5le)
(http://i.imgur.com/eTmE3d0m.png) (http://imgur.com/eTmE3d0)
(http://i.imgur.com/16lnVAnm.png) (http://imgur.com/16lnVAn)
(http://i.imgur.com/vpDvktGm.png) (http://imgur.com/vpDvktG)
(http://i.imgur.com/HBg4yrlm.png) (http://imgur.com/HBg4yrl)
(http://i.imgur.com/GLMCAtTm.png) (http://imgur.com/GLMCAtT)
A pair of Floater abductors is neutralized, both of them crashing in the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/MImLt2rm.png) (http://imgur.com/MImLt2r)
(http://i.imgur.com/87uh4vMm.png) (http://imgur.com/87uh4vM)
(http://i.imgur.com/YQM7o3Qm.png) (http://imgur.com/YQM7o3Q)
(http://i.imgur.com/lErynMam.png) (http://imgur.com/lErynMa)
(http://i.imgur.com/bRvIfRGm.png) (http://imgur.com/bRvIfRG)
Scout ships continue to be easy prey for the pilots at New Three One and New Three Two.
(http://i.imgur.com/11s1G4dm.png) (http://imgur.com/11s1G4d)
One of the Avengers has been fully repaired from its engagement with alien battleships. The most heavily equipped troops with the strongest psionic capabilities have been assigned on board, along with three HWPs. After months of preparation, it is now time to start directly assaulting the Ethereal bases on Earth.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/YHPPqOHm.png) (http://imgur.com/YHPPqOH)
With an Avenger prepared for a ground assault, it is now possible to attack any Ethereal base of our choice.
(http://i.imgur.com/R46Seyvm.png) (http://imgur.com/R46Seyv)
(http://i.imgur.com/ieq2Pw6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ieq2Pw6)
(http://i.imgur.com/86umKZVm.png) (http://imgur.com/86umKZV)
The base in Sri Lanka is closest to our own facilities, and will be the first to be targeted. Destroying this base will leave X-COM's defense of Asia and Europe almost completely unchallenged. This assault will be the first phase of an ongoing mission, Operation Defiant Will.
(http://i.imgur.com/cfHbALvm.png) (http://imgur.com/cfHbALv)
(http://i.imgur.com/snID6X1m.png) (http://imgur.com/snID6X1)
(http://i.imgur.com/U1Obsyzm.png) (http://imgur.com/U1Obsyz)
(http://i.imgur.com/vu5gU60m.png) (http://imgur.com/vu5gU60)
(http://i.imgur.com/Q0znNNQm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q0znNNQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/rZyyznKm.png) (http://imgur.com/rZyyznK)
(http://i.imgur.com/pLAvx4Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/pLAvx4T)
(http://i.imgur.com/LGotmyvm.png) (http://imgur.com/LGotmyv)
(http://i.imgur.com/bOAkljdm.png) (http://imgur.com/bOAkljd)
(http://i.imgur.com/s2NuRoZm.png) (http://imgur.com/s2NuRoZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/rcETF4em.png) (http://imgur.com/rcETF4e)
Going all-out with equipment. Multiple psi-amps, two blaster launchers, and a wide array of support tools.
(http://i.imgur.com/OUDmtcMm.png) (http://imgur.com/OUDmtcM)
(http://i.imgur.com/BMQoOYam.png) (http://imgur.com/BMQoOYa)
Forces are ready to storm both entrances of the facility.
(http://i.imgur.com/RCgpoIwm.png) (http://imgur.com/RCgpoIw)
(http://i.imgur.com/ghY8G5dm.png) (http://imgur.com/ghY8G5d)
(http://i.imgur.com/8nnUnEzm.png) (http://imgur.com/8nnUnEz)
An Ethereal is spotted and controlled. It turns out that troops have found an alien commander.
(http://i.imgur.com/an7hlfYm.png) (http://imgur.com/an7hlfY)
(http://i.imgur.com/an7hlfYm.png) (http://imgur.com/an7hlfY)
An Ethereal soldier is sent into the outer layer of the command room, finding another Ethereal and some kind of alien machine; from intelligence data, we can presume this is the Sectopod.
(http://i.imgur.com/2p42yQjm.png) (http://imgur.com/2p42yQj)
(http://i.imgur.com/4NaZcwhm.png) (http://imgur.com/4NaZcwh)
One alien takes out the other, before getting shot itself as the door to the command center closes up.
(http://i.imgur.com/cMjhyehm.png) (http://imgur.com/cMjhyeh)
The commander is disarmed and sent into a corner with mind control, while troops pin it and get out stun rods. One of the HWPs provides cover for them while this goes on.
(http://i.imgur.com/TXoZWtzm.png) (http://imgur.com/TXoZWtz)
(http://i.imgur.com/DmRtDXzm.png) (http://imgur.com/DmRtDXz)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZCScTUKm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZCScTUK)
(http://i.imgur.com/tMaUcEcm.png) (http://imgur.com/tMaUcEc)
Another group of Ethereals comes under X-COM control and is turned on itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/hW1gP6Rm.png) (http://imgur.com/hW1gP6R)
(http://i.imgur.com/ykqnUP6m.png) (http://imgur.com/ykqnUP6)
(http://i.imgur.com/B888M6am.png) (http://imgur.com/B888M6a)
A Sectopod with other aliens next to it is the perfect target for Iwahara's launcher. An Ethereal that wasn't seen gets hit by the warhead, but the explosion is more than enough to take everyone out.
(http://i.imgur.com/pS4Bxdgm.png) (http://imgur.com/pS4Bxdg)
(http://i.imgur.com/9E26ZCum.png) (http://imgur.com/9E26ZCu)
(http://i.imgur.com/QykIxg0m.png) (http://imgur.com/QykIxg0)
An Ethereal soldier is sent up against a Sectopod, getting taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/bAtCHG2m.png) (http://imgur.com/bAtCHG2)
(http://i.imgur.com/0xAHt76m.png) (http://imgur.com/0xAHt76)
(http://i.imgur.com/oDl78iKm.png) (http://imgur.com/oDl78iK)
Iwahara gets the launcher ready again. The shot goes slightly off-course, but the blast still destroys the Sectopod, along with a good number of alien bodies.
(http://i.imgur.com/4ScjJ9dm.png) (http://imgur.com/4ScjJ9d)
(http://i.imgur.com/SiiY6Fdm.png) (http://imgur.com/SiiY6Fd)
The alien commander is panicked with psionics, suppressing it until it can be knocked out with stun rods.
(http://i.imgur.com/BLjzdEHm.png) (http://imgur.com/BLjzdEH)
The unconscious commander is carried upstairs and set down, with troops waiting in case it wakes up again.
(http://i.imgur.com/hpPJKCXm.png) (http://imgur.com/hpPJKCX)
(http://i.imgur.com/kbXSZ81m.png) (http://imgur.com/kbXSZ81)
(http://i.imgur.com/D2b6UI5m.png) (http://imgur.com/D2b6UI5)
(http://i.imgur.com/L6UAOwom.png) (http://imgur.com/L6UAOwo)
Another Sectopod is obliterated with a launcher, this time by Mederow.
(http://i.imgur.com/Tji8A2ym.png) (http://imgur.com/Tji8A2y)
(http://i.imgur.com/rtpiOHvm.png) (http://imgur.com/rtpiOHv)
(http://i.imgur.com/1q7VIq3m.png) (http://imgur.com/1q7VIq3)
(http://i.imgur.com/arfgX4cm.png) (http://imgur.com/arfgX4c)
(http://i.imgur.com/L9qcXc5m.png) (http://imgur.com/L9qcXc5)
One of the troops gets control over the organic components of a Sectopod, causing it to fire on itself and self-destruct.
(http://i.imgur.com/Bm5na1Mm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bm5na1M)
(http://i.imgur.com/F7P7jlwm.png) (http://imgur.com/F7P7jlw)
A force of alien leaders is gathered in the control room. While a single Blaster Launcher round would annihilate them all, it would also destroy some of the equipment we're hoping to recover. One of the aliens has a stun launcher, so it quickly fires on the group, knocking out two of them.
(http://i.imgur.com/0YrJURTm.png) (http://imgur.com/0YrJURT)
(http://i.imgur.com/V31Yjfbm.png) (http://imgur.com/V31Yjfb)
(http://i.imgur.com/LkwLDM6m.png) (http://imgur.com/LkwLDM6)
One Ethereal is used to take two more of the leaders out before being disarmed.
(http://i.imgur.com/LkwU9FQm.png) (http://imgur.com/LkwU9FQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/hzEsNgTm.png) (http://imgur.com/hzEsNgT)
(http://i.imgur.com/HO58K6sm.png) (http://imgur.com/HO58K6s)
The HWP takes out the two aliens left in the command room.
(http://i.imgur.com/JAW1qBRm.png) (http://imgur.com/JAW1qBR)
(http://i.imgur.com/eG5HNu5m.png) (http://imgur.com/eG5HNu5)
(http://i.imgur.com/t4OjHIhm.png) (http://imgur.com/t4OjHIh)
Only one alien remains. It's lured into a position where it's quickly dealt with.
(http://i.imgur.com/Zr5ohvim.png) (http://imgur.com/Zr5ohvi)
In all the planning to secure the base's commander alive, a crucial detail had been forgotten. The Arctic base does not have a containment facility to store it, leading to its death along with several stunned leaders.
Results of Operation Defiant Will, Phase One
New-model HWPs: 2 kills
Avatar of War, Yoko Iwahara: 4 kills
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 1 kill
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 1 kill
8 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
6 aliens killed by aliens
3 aliens killed due to complications from capture
No X-COM casualties
Alien alloys and entertainment systems recovered
Alien base destroyed
Debriefing: Clearing out an Ethereal base with no injuries or even a loss of HWPs is astounding. However, failing to obtain the commander alive is a setback that will slow down our progress in defeating this invasion.
(http://i.imgur.com/a0X4ij7m.png) (http://imgur.com/a0X4ij7)
(http://i.imgur.com/Bjg6zmKm.png) (http://imgur.com/Bjg6zmK)
Construction starts on containment and additional storage at the Arctic base. Operation Defiant Will will resume when these facilities go online.
-
The Arctic base does not have a containment facility to store it, leading to its death along with several stunned leaders.
:colonveeplusalpha: :colonveeplusalpha: :colonveeplusalpha:
I have no idea how you take the mental strain.
-
:colonveeplusalpha: :colonveeplusalpha: :colonveeplusalpha:
-
So close...
But still, clearing out an Ethereal base without much trouble. Just wow.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/oLnKifym.png) (http://imgur.com/oLnKify)
(http://i.imgur.com/LuIy22em.png) (http://imgur.com/LuIy22e)
(http://i.imgur.com/3jDPzhEm.png) (http://imgur.com/3jDPzhE)
(http://i.imgur.com/WtbNeosm.png) (http://imgur.com/WtbNeos)
A Muton Battleship is detected over the Atlantic, being shot down over the Canadian wilderness.
(http://i.imgur.com/dmcFlQam.png) (http://imgur.com/dmcFlQa)
Operation Devouring Wind commences. It will be an ongoing mission to salvage the wreckage of any battleships that are shot down. It's a fairly straightforward routine at this point, so a play-by-play isn't needed. Mind control any aliens that the troops spot on the ground, have them scout around, and either have them take each other out or disarm them and let ground troops take them out.
Result of Operation Devouring Wind, Phase One
Col. Uta ?Hailfire? Mederow: 2 kills
Sgt. Andrea Martin: 2 kills
No X-COM casualties
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
9 aliens killed by aliens
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/bHhCxWtm.png) (http://imgur.com/bHhCxWt)
Elerium is shipped off to other bases to add to the fuel supply.
(http://i.imgur.com/4eMh9xwm.png) (http://imgur.com/4eMh9xw)
(http://i.imgur.com/M9ihNpXm.png) (http://imgur.com/M9ihNpX)
(http://i.imgur.com/TWgrAIgm.png) (http://imgur.com/TWgrAIg)
(http://i.imgur.com/cN94VeNm.png) (http://imgur.com/cN94VeN)
Sectoid scout ships are taken down over Africa.
(http://i.imgur.com/1X2Es4qm.png) (http://imgur.com/1X2Es4q)
(http://i.imgur.com/OYAnJylm.png) (http://imgur.com/OYAnJyl)
(http://i.imgur.com/oYYuQlEm.png) (http://imgur.com/oYYuQlE)
A small scout ship is destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/4lwHGUAm.png) (http://imgur.com/4lwHGUA)
(http://i.imgur.com/A7WHbGWm.png) (http://imgur.com/A7WHbGW)
Another supply ship is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/OLhjIUsm.png) (http://imgur.com/OLhjIUs)
(http://i.imgur.com/4NO95yom.png) (http://imgur.com/4NO95yo)
An Ethereal probe is destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/twIpGPGm.png) (http://imgur.com/twIpGPG)
(http://i.imgur.com/dSONuvUm.png) (http://imgur.com/dSONuvU)
(http://i.imgur.com/T1ny0Cem.png) (http://imgur.com/T1ny0Ce)
An attempted Snakeman infiltration operation is disrupted over Italy.
(http://i.imgur.com/WU94wt0m.png) (http://imgur.com/WU94wt0)
(http://i.imgur.com/aL6XYvjm.png) (http://imgur.com/aL6XYvj)
(http://i.imgur.com/5KfLsxxm.png) (http://imgur.com/5KfLsxx)
A scout ship hunting for the base in Europe is shot down over the UK.
(http://i.imgur.com/NBInlItm.png) (http://imgur.com/NBInlIt)
(http://i.imgur.com/keXd4tum.png) (http://imgur.com/keXd4tu)
(http://i.imgur.com/rxaFfqYm.png) (http://imgur.com/rxaFfqY)
A Muton scout is intercepted and shot down over the Indian Ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/x1AnN8bm.png) (http://imgur.com/x1AnN8b)
(http://i.imgur.com/FLqTLIqm.png) (http://imgur.com/FLqTLIq)
(http://i.imgur.com/xfyK1nbm.png) (http://imgur.com/xfyK1nb)
A supply ship is sunk in the ocean.
(http://i.imgur.com/O1yQxzUm.png) (http://imgur.com/O1yQxzU)
(http://i.imgur.com/pwkKwgam.png) (http://imgur.com/pwkKwga)
(http://i.imgur.com/YRdLVY8m.png) (http://imgur.com/YRdLVY8)
A Sectoid scout is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/hEdK6FWm.png) (http://imgur.com/hEdK6FW)
(http://i.imgur.com/QeiABuQm.png) (http://imgur.com/QeiABuQ)
An Ethereal supply vessel is shot down over the Middle East. While it seems like a good opportunity for valuable materials, it would be best to avoid any unnecessary confrontations with Ethereals until it's time to assault another base.
(http://i.imgur.com/acTxrfJm.png) (http://imgur.com/acTxrfJ)
Additional storage comes online at the polar base.
(http://i.imgur.com/VRBMtVKm.png) (http://imgur.com/VRBMtVK)
(http://i.imgur.com/7IV9vzum.png) (http://imgur.com/7IV9vzu)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZM213FCm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZM213FC)
A Snakeman ship is shot down off the African coast.
(http://i.imgur.com/m8Pr10Om.png) (http://imgur.com/m8Pr10O)
(http://i.imgur.com/VfVCLrnm.png) (http://imgur.com/VfVCLrn)
(http://i.imgur.com/hKBX02gm.png) (http://imgur.com/hKBX02g)
Another battleship is shot down by the Avengers. The next part of Devouring Wind begins.
Result of Operation Devouring Wind, Phase Two
HWP: 1 kill
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 1 kill
No X-COM casualties
2 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
14 aliens killed by aliens
UFO hull, reactor, navigation systems, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
(http://i.imgur.com/Du9iYXjm.png) (http://imgur.com/Du9iYXj)
(http://i.imgur.com/zObKQclm.png) (http://imgur.com/zObKQcl)
A Sectoid scout evades interception.
(http://i.imgur.com/WvTgFh8m.png) (http://imgur.com/WvTgFh8)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ck20rkfm.png) (http://imgur.com/Ck20rkf)
(http://i.imgur.com/voZWdvWm.png) (http://imgur.com/voZWdvW)
An Ethereal terror ship is shot down near Iceland.
(http://i.imgur.com/gSTRBIrm.png) (http://imgur.com/gSTRBIr)
(http://i.imgur.com/GPNiDfPm.png) (http://imgur.com/GPNiDfP)
(http://i.imgur.com/jlgoMLlm.png) (http://imgur.com/jlgoMLl)
A ship hunting for X-COM Two is shot down off the coast of the India and Sri Lanka.
(http://i.imgur.com/VOmX6d9m.png) (http://imgur.com/VOmX6d9)
(http://i.imgur.com/6uPcc52m.png) (http://imgur.com/6uPcc52)
(http://i.imgur.com/xRmglT2m.png) (http://imgur.com/xRmglT2)
An Ethereal supply ship is shot down over the south Atlantic.
(http://i.imgur.com/yk4s8mXm.png) (http://imgur.com/yk4s8mX)
A battleship shows up on radar, but both of the Avengers are still being repaired and there's no real way to take it on.
(http://i.imgur.com/b1AUQphm.png) (http://imgur.com/b1AUQph)
(http://i.imgur.com/XTXuhdmm.png) (http://imgur.com/XTXuhdm)
(http://i.imgur.com/jLk4L8dm.png) (http://imgur.com/jLk4L8d)
A Sectoid scout ship is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/UAgJDvCm.png) (http://imgur.com/UAgJDvC)
(http://i.imgur.com/nI7DJ7am.png) (http://imgur.com/nI7DJ7a)
An Ethereal supply ship is detected off the African coast, but there isn't any way to intercept it before it reaches its destination.
(http://i.imgur.com/7GSFQXYm.png) (http://imgur.com/7GSFQXY)
(http://i.imgur.com/px3Lmpam.png) (http://imgur.com/px3Lmpa)
(http://i.imgur.com/J878Xjom.png) (http://imgur.com/J878Xjo)
An Ethereal ship scouting for a site to establish a new base is shot down.
(http://i.imgur.com/QVSmeMGm.png) (http://imgur.com/QVSmeMG)
(http://i.imgur.com/5j9Fw5hm.png) (http://imgur.com/5j9Fw5h)
(http://i.imgur.com/WQeGjrUm.png) (http://imgur.com/WQeGjrU)
A scout is shot down over the Spain-Portugal border.
(http://i.imgur.com/JjmMzIum.png) (http://imgur.com/JjmMzIu)
(http://i.imgur.com/tcngfspm.png) (http://imgur.com/tcngfsp)
(http://i.imgur.com/5tUUgT8m.png) (http://imgur.com/5tUUgT8)
A small ship hunting for the base at the North Pole is destroyed.
(http://i.imgur.com/dTLYbX2m.png) (http://imgur.com/dTLYbX2)
(http://i.imgur.com/bgNeiG8m.png) (http://imgur.com/bgNeiG8)
A scout ship slips away from air patrols, but it poses no significant threat.
(http://i.imgur.com/G4rZu15m.png) (http://imgur.com/G4rZu15)
Containment at the Arctic base is now online. The elite psionic troops can now safely capture alien forces from ships and bases.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/dxm30CIm.png) (http://imgur.com/dxm30CI)
(http://i.imgur.com/pPOCiSWm.png) (http://imgur.com/pPOCiSW)
(http://i.imgur.com/ALzvMeZm.png) (http://imgur.com/ALzvMeZ)
(http://i.imgur.com/wHoWQqSm.png) (http://imgur.com/wHoWQqS)
(http://i.imgur.com/x7PXQptm.png) (http://imgur.com/x7PXQpt)
(http://i.imgur.com/UIRD2Msm.png) (http://imgur.com/UIRD2Ms)
(http://i.imgur.com/Or8x6txm.png) (http://imgur.com/Or8x6tx)
Snakeman ships are intercepted and shot down as forces prepare for the next phase of Operation Defiant Will.
(http://i.imgur.com/q8WqsK9m.png) (http://imgur.com/q8WqsK9)
(http://i.imgur.com/kwjQNDCm.png) (http://imgur.com/kwjQNDC)
(http://i.imgur.com/KfTwZyGm.png) (http://imgur.com/KfTwZyG)
(http://i.imgur.com/V0F2kROm.png) (http://imgur.com/V0F2kRO)
(http://i.imgur.com/qqiUmKqm.png) (http://imgur.com/qqiUmKq)
(http://i.imgur.com/ldVWkIPm.png) (http://imgur.com/ldVWkIP)
(http://i.imgur.com/OZRrQp2m.png) (http://imgur.com/OZRrQp2)
Sectoid scouting operations are also disrupted.
(http://i.imgur.com/8jpdOfVm.png) (http://imgur.com/8jpdOfV)
Avenger-1 ?Jane Bailey? is repaired and ready for operations again. The squad is rallied and gets ready for combat.
(http://i.imgur.com/BYSpDlIm.png) (http://imgur.com/BYSpDlI)
(http://i.imgur.com/dpmdJqtm.png) (http://imgur.com/dpmdJqt)
The next target is an Ethereal base in Ivory Coast. The nature of its location has made it difficult to intercept supply shipments to it, so destroying this base will provide a huge advantage in disrupting alien operations.
(http://i.imgur.com/vpBYNDim.png) (http://imgur.com/vpBYNDi)
(http://i.imgur.com/kSwfaJbm.png) (http://imgur.com/kSwfaJb)
(http://i.imgur.com/a7QCcQnm.png) (http://imgur.com/a7QCcQn)
(http://i.imgur.com/ptKCVxum.png) (http://imgur.com/ptKCVxu)
(http://i.imgur.com/JXBBI7Hm.png) (http://imgur.com/JXBBI7H)
(http://i.imgur.com/3NCB1hpm.png) (http://imgur.com/3NCB1hp)
(http://i.imgur.com/2F0yw2Tm.png) (http://imgur.com/2F0yw2T)
(http://i.imgur.com/r96CWZsm.png) (http://imgur.com/r96CWZs)
(http://i.imgur.com/nQ12gYum.png) (http://imgur.com/nQ12gYu)
(http://i.imgur.com/5uBFBcYm.png) (http://imgur.com/5uBFBcY)
The assault force is coming in with a Blaster Launcher, almost an entire squad's worth of Psi Amps, and 4 HWPs.
(http://i.imgur.com/fSrx0N6m.png) (http://imgur.com/fSrx0N6)
(http://i.imgur.com/dV4xLfXm.png) (http://imgur.com/dV4xLfX)
The entry points are separated by only one room.
(http://i.imgur.com/nflxiw8m.png) (http://imgur.com/nflxiw8)
(http://i.imgur.com/IFHxWvfm.png) (http://imgur.com/IFHxWvf)
(http://i.imgur.com/7zpHnTrm.png) (http://imgur.com/7zpHnTr)
A Sectopod in the hallways near the entrance is controlled and destroys itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/gnzMR1Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/gnzMR1P)
(http://i.imgur.com/VZOioVqm.png) (http://imgur.com/VZOioVq)
(http://i.imgur.com/qqnBUNsm.png) (http://imgur.com/qqnBUNs)
(http://i.imgur.com/sMAQkpEm.png) (http://imgur.com/sMAQkpE)
(http://i.imgur.com/0jcSRxjm.png) (http://imgur.com/0jcSRxj)
(http://i.imgur.com/YVrlJxgm.png) (http://imgur.com/YVrlJxg)
A group of Ethereals and Sectopods around the entrance to the command center is turned on itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/nkoITSLm.png) (http://imgur.com/nkoITSL)
(http://i.imgur.com/Nw8FXZYm.png) (http://imgur.com/Nw8FXZY)
(http://i.imgur.com/bXwEYltm.png) (http://imgur.com/bXwEYlt)
A commander is pulled away from the gathering enemy forces, disarming it and bringing it to the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/duVnqUnm.png) (http://imgur.com/duVnqUn)
(http://i.imgur.com/HNiUKM5m.png) (http://imgur.com/HNiUKM5)
(http://i.imgur.com/xravBBqm.png) (http://imgur.com/xravBBq)
This gets it out of range as a lower-ranking Ethereal officer arms a Blaster Launcher round.
(http://i.imgur.com/FMPgQDhm.png) (http://imgur.com/FMPgQDh)
(http://i.imgur.com/oWRIz3vm.png) (http://imgur.com/oWRIz3v)
The Commander is brought up to one of the entrances, where it is surrounded by troops with stun rods.
(http://i.imgur.com/HldlOuvm.png) (http://imgur.com/HldlOuv)
One of the scouting HWPs is ambushed by an Ethereal in a blind spot in the hallways. It is destroyed, buy the laser HWPs only take an insignificant amount of money and a day's work by an engineering crew to replace.
(http://i.imgur.com/zPCRVR0m.png) (http://imgur.com/zPCRVR0)
(http://i.imgur.com/4dnkI7sm.png) (http://imgur.com/4dnkI7s)
(http://i.imgur.com/8S2KoM9m.png) (http://imgur.com/8S2KoM9)
(http://i.imgur.com/1eyO8kGm.png) (http://imgur.com/1eyO8kG)
Any alien forces gathering around the entrance to the control room of the base are forced to fight each other, thinning out their numbers.
(http://i.imgur.com/W1YdNWum.png) (http://imgur.com/W1YdNWu)
This is unexpected. However, Buchard has been exerting himself so hard with his own psionics that he poses no threat to the rest of the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/Q679Hjtm.png) (http://imgur.com/Q679Hjt)
The Ethereals continue to battle each other.
(http://i.imgur.com/9HWU4y5m.png) (http://imgur.com/9HWU4y5)
(http://i.imgur.com/5ApCmOAm.png) (http://imgur.com/5ApCmOA)
(http://i.imgur.com/fizghvmm.png) (http://imgur.com/fizghvm)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZSk6Chbm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZSk6Chb)
One of the HWPs breaks through to the control room. One Ethereal leader is taken out by another before the tank cleans things up.
(http://i.imgur.com/5TBef93m.png) (http://imgur.com/5TBef93)
(http://i.imgur.com/2OtqTpvm.png) (http://imgur.com/2OtqTpv)
A worn-out Ethereal trooper is brought in front of another HWP, where it is taken out by laser fire.
(http://i.imgur.com/ZHqKWakm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZHqKWak)
(http://i.imgur.com/Hq4mVIYm.png) (http://imgur.com/Hq4mVIY)
The third remaining HWP finishes clearing out the base.
Results of Operation Defiant Will, Phase Two
Laser HWP 1: 1 kill
Laser HWP 2: Destroyed
Plasma HWP 1: 1 kills
Plasma HWP 2: 1 kill
4 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
15 aliens killed by aliens
3 aliens captured
Alien alloys, reactors, fuel, and entertainment systems recovered
Alien base destroyed
Debriefing: This mission ended with a commander retrieved alive. It is being moved from the containment unit at the Arctic base to X-COM One in Europe to be interrogated. This long and brutal conflict may soon be at an end.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/6I5s8etm.png) (http://imgur.com/6I5s8et)
(http://i.imgur.com/zoO6mZ0m.png) (http://imgur.com/zoO6mZ0)
(http://i.imgur.com/d2Flf1qm.png) (http://imgur.com/d2Flf1q)
(http://i.imgur.com/bjR0dAKm.png) (http://imgur.com/bjR0dAK)
The Ethereal commander has arrived at X-Com One and is being interrogated by the science division.
(http://i.imgur.com/7yxfov6m.png) (http://imgur.com/7yxfov6)
(http://i.imgur.com/wUsgExwm.png) (http://imgur.com/wUsgExw)
(http://i.imgur.com/RCE3qP0m.png) (http://imgur.com/RCE3qP0)
An Ethereal supply ship is pursued but lands at its destination before it can be intercepted.
(http://i.imgur.com/Pm7mtkym.png) (http://imgur.com/Pm7mtky)
(http://i.imgur.com/GpcpKCAm.png) (http://imgur.com/GpcpKCA)
The base it is stationed at is targeted for elimination. Phase three of Operation Defiant Will starts.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jg7PQGzm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jg7PQGz)
(http://i.imgur.com/syQTcpCm.png) (http://imgur.com/syQTcpC)
(http://i.imgur.com/9AdenqQm.png) (http://imgur.com/9AdenqQ)
(http://i.imgur.com/lO3fsDdm.png) (http://imgur.com/lO3fsDd)
(http://i.imgur.com/FFDADpPm.png) (http://imgur.com/FFDADpP)
(http://i.imgur.com/Y35IIXUm.png) (http://imgur.com/Y35IIXU)
(http://i.imgur.com/jbqcuMqm.png) (http://imgur.com/jbqcuMq)
(http://i.imgur.com/2DFUX1cm.png) (http://imgur.com/2DFUX1c)
(http://i.imgur.com/JNX9fubm.png) (http://imgur.com/JNX9fub)
(http://i.imgur.com/HSbkHocm.png) (http://imgur.com/HSbkHoc)
Troops get armed and ready to assault the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/AOc2yP0m.png) (http://imgur.com/AOc2yP0)
(http://i.imgur.com/pW3Xq8zm.png) (http://imgur.com/pW3Xq8z)
Forces are ready at both entrances to the alien base.
(http://i.imgur.com/hc8YtDfm.png) (http://imgur.com/hc8YtDf)
(http://i.imgur.com/wjxDR9Um.png) (http://imgur.com/wjxDR9U)
An Ethereal is spotted by one of the HWPs and falls under the control of the squad.
(http://i.imgur.com/2RWIyydm.png) (http://imgur.com/2RWIyyd)
(http://i.imgur.com/lVYb48Fm.png) (http://imgur.com/lVYb48F)
(http://i.imgur.com/gxcXIRJm.png) (http://imgur.com/gxcXIRJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/b2PTKl1m.png) (http://imgur.com/b2PTKl1)
(http://i.imgur.com/tiaT5TYm.png) (http://imgur.com/tiaT5TY)
(http://i.imgur.com/4QWynfxm.png) (http://imgur.com/4QWynfx)
(http://i.imgur.com/poyA6JEm.png) (http://imgur.com/poyA6JE)
A Sectopod is also taken control of, made to go haywire until it's destroyed by another Sectopod, which is also self-destructed.
(http://i.imgur.com/Rlwj10vm.png) (http://imgur.com/Rlwj10v)(http://i.imgur.com/qB6kXuWm.png) (http://imgur.com/qB6kXuW)
An attempt to take out a sentry in the center of a large storage vault goes awry when the Blaster Launcher warhead drifts off course, but there's no casualties to our own forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/QwAptSqm.png) (http://imgur.com/QwAptSq)
The sentry takes out the commander that forces had control over. X-COM already has a commander captured and under interrogation, so this is not a significant loss.
(http://i.imgur.com/pF3CM00m.png) (http://imgur.com/pF3CM00)(http://i.imgur.com/dlBVyJlm.png) (http://imgur.com/dlBVyJl)
Iwahara takes a shot at the watchtower.
(http://i.imgur.com/SqNctRtm.png) (http://imgur.com/SqNctRt)
(http://i.imgur.com/2dWhX3Km.png) (http://imgur.com/2dWhX3K)
The Ethereal inside survives the initial blast, but it's exposed to a lethal shot from an HWP below.
(http://i.imgur.com/YvisO9Km.png) (http://imgur.com/YvisO9K)
(http://i.imgur.com/JC9i54Em.png) (http://imgur.com/JC9i54E)
The other laser HWP takes out an Ethereal in the hallways.
(http://i.imgur.com/DAPlI2Ym.png) (http://imgur.com/DAPlI2Y)
(http://i.imgur.com/Rzy7NfDm.png) (http://imgur.com/Rzy7NfD)
(http://i.imgur.com/eIPjatPm.png) (http://imgur.com/eIPjatP)
(http://i.imgur.com/pkzyCXNm.png) (http://imgur.com/pkzyCXN)
(http://i.imgur.com/NKK3UJ1m.png) (http://imgur.com/NKK3UJ1)
An Ethereal is turned on its closest ally before a plasma HWP takes it out.
(http://i.imgur.com/k5Hna6xm.png) (http://imgur.com/k5Hna6x)
(http://i.imgur.com/GlJPJzdm.png) (http://imgur.com/GlJPJzd)
A high-ranking Ethereal on the outlying edge of the command center is used to annihilate one of the guards with a Blaster Launcher round.
(http://i.imgur.com/yvOXgPfm.png) (http://imgur.com/yvOXgPf)
(http://i.imgur.com/6jExZ5Zm.png) (http://imgur.com/6jExZ5Z)
Another Ethereal is taken out by the other hover HWP.
(http://i.imgur.com/MVD2gwtm.png) (http://imgur.com/MVD2gwt)
The HWPs begin to converge on the command center of the base.
(http://i.imgur.com/XPLrNpHm.png) (http://imgur.com/XPLrNpH)
(http://i.imgur.com/NkgwNPom.png) (http://imgur.com/NkgwNPo)
A mind-controlled Ethereal is sent into the command center, getting ambushed by a Sectopod.
(http://i.imgur.com/iCmwqPgm.png) (http://imgur.com/iCmwqPg)
(http://i.imgur.com/8m6r5YBm.png) (http://imgur.com/8m6r5YB)
Ethereal leaders are clustered in the control room. Mind-controlling one that's carrying a Blaster Launcher wipes out the entire chamber.
(http://i.imgur.com/Sfxa9wwm.png) (http://imgur.com/Sfxa9ww)
(http://i.imgur.com/nlzlTDlm.png) (http://imgur.com/nlzlTDl)
The Sectopod is self-destructed by firing on itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/ck3vb7am.png) (http://imgur.com/ck3vb7a)
(http://i.imgur.com/QqOVjXOm.png) (http://imgur.com/QqOVjXO)
Results of Operation Defiant Will, Phase Three
Hover HWP1: 1 kill
Hover HWP 2: 1 kill
Laser HWP 1: 1 kill
Laser HWP 2 1 kill
Col. Alan ?Emergent? Wright: 1 kill
Sgt. Leon Gressier: 1 kill
No X-COM casualties
6 aliens killed by X-COM ground forces
12 aliens killed by aliens
Alien alloys and entertainment systems recovered
Alien base destroyed
Debriefing: Another alien base completely neutralized.
(http://i.imgur.com/HDQEipYm.png) (http://imgur.com/HDQEipY)
The month ends with another favorable rating from the council of nations.
(http://i.imgur.com/Uslt7nIm.png) (http://imgur.com/Uslt7nI)
(http://i.imgur.com/Sm5t26am.png) (http://imgur.com/Sm5t26a)
Pumping the Ethereal Commander for information gives the science team the data needed to narrow down the location of the alien stronghold. The fleet holds out against scouts, attempted landings in urban centers, and hunts for X-COM bases for two weeks as this data is analyzed.
(http://i.imgur.com/vWh88rlm.png) (http://imgur.com/vWh88rl)
Almost 18 months into the invasion, the tipping point is reached. The site of the aliens' primary base has been pinpointed, and X-COM has the troops and technology to mount an assault on Mars. The final operation of this campaign is almost upon us; this battle will decide the fate of humanity.
-
It's time to kick ass and chew bubblegum. And we're all out of gum.
-
Our finest operatives will convince the aliens to shoot themselves in the face.
-
YOU AND I MUST FIGHT FOR OUR RIGHTS
YOU AND I MUST FIGHT TO SURVIVE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3Yc3HhSl1Q)
(Even though I stopped posting, I've been following the run the whole way through. Good going, let's make some elerium bongs to celebrate \o/
-
(http://i.imgur.com/Z4kxJKdm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z4kxJKd)
Yoko Iwahara joined X-COM in August 1999. She quickly gained a reputation within the organization, partly for her combat prowess and partly for her ability to survive injuries that would be fatal or career-ending for other soldiers. She quickly rose through the ranks, eventually replacing the deceased Paul Reynolds as field operations commander. She was given the title ?Avatar of War? when her psionic strength was discovered; She is not just the leader of X-COM's ground forces, but the spearhead of humanity's war against the aliens.
(http://i.imgur.com/xKth7ZBm.png) (http://imgur.com/xKth7ZB)
Alan Wright joined in November 1999, and was first tested in the fires of battle during an anti-terror operation in South Africa. He gained the title ?Emergent? due to his rapid rise to the rank of officer and the discovery of immense psychic powers.
(http://i.imgur.com/PGKBkVUm.png) (http://imgur.com/PGKBkVU)
Uta Mederow has been a part of X-COM since December of 1999. She has consistently been one of the best-performing soldiers in X-COM, even in spite of her unrefined psychic powers.
(http://i.imgur.com/A4nlQV0m.png) (http://imgur.com/A4nlQV0)
(http://i.imgur.com/Fdv30X6m.png) (http://imgur.com/Fdv30X6)
Jungo Tanida and Claude Buchard have not participated in much direct combat, but their psychic capability has turned the tide of this war.
(http://i.imgur.com/BdlM6S0m.png) (http://imgur.com/BdlM6S0)
(http://i.imgur.com/1orC6z8m.png) (http://imgur.com/1orC6z8)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZLGi5Xsm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZLGi5Xs)
(http://i.imgur.com/Cz2EbODm.png) (http://imgur.com/Cz2EbOD)
(http://i.imgur.com/2jwo6mJm.png) (http://imgur.com/2jwo6mJ)
(http://i.imgur.com/x4VkzAxm.png) (http://imgur.com/x4VkzAx)
(http://i.imgur.com/5UaUu1nm.png) (http://imgur.com/5UaUu1n)
(http://i.imgur.com/Uinob3im.png) (http://imgur.com/Uinob3i)
(http://i.imgur.com/twRZ39ym.png) (http://imgur.com/twRZ39y)
The other soldiers have been chosen for a variety of traits, including rank, experience, shooting accuracy and psychic resistance.
(http://i.imgur.com/Om7XkZam.png) (http://imgur.com/Om7XkZa)
(http://i.imgur.com/zKdPfpWm.png) (http://imgur.com/zKdPfpW)
(http://i.imgur.com/Eo4qORCm.png) (http://imgur.com/Eo4qORC)
Avenger-2, ?Andrea Sharpe?, gets ready for takeoff. Operation War Gods begins. From here on, there can be no turning back. If this strike fails, the alien counterattack will be so severe that X-COM ? and human civilization ? will be completely crushed.
(http://i.imgur.com/EQbvIc2m.png) (http://imgur.com/EQbvIc2)
This will be a two-phase operation, starting with an assault on the surface and breaking through alien forces to find an entry point to the alien base.
(http://i.imgur.com/wEhJSXdm.png) (http://imgur.com/wEhJSXd)
(http://i.imgur.com/CR6WWUtm.png) (http://imgur.com/CR6WWUt)
(http://i.imgur.com/MeZ65qom.png) (http://imgur.com/MeZ65qo)
(http://i.imgur.com/TNXzXZOm.png) (http://imgur.com/TNXzXZO)
(http://i.imgur.com/x7voLQpm.png) (http://imgur.com/x7voLQp)
(http://i.imgur.com/gxL79ewm.png) (http://imgur.com/gxL79ew)
(http://i.imgur.com/BraqfyMm.png) (http://imgur.com/BraqfyM)
(http://i.imgur.com/KhBf2KEm.png) (http://imgur.com/KhBf2KE)
(http://i.imgur.com/t9ZyM6fm.png) (http://imgur.com/t9ZyM6f)
(http://i.imgur.com/3gQ8te6m.png) (http://imgur.com/3gQ8te6)
(http://i.imgur.com/nYD8AJ2m.png) (http://imgur.com/nYD8AJ2)
(http://i.imgur.com/eXd2h4Im.png) (http://imgur.com/eXd2h4I)
(http://i.imgur.com/gLp3kZsm.png) (http://imgur.com/gLp3kZs)
(http://i.imgur.com/Z4wo6Acm.png) (http://imgur.com/Z4wo6Ac)
Forces get armed and ready for the final battle. Not a single piece of equipment is wasted.
(http://i.imgur.com/IM5zVHLm.png) (http://imgur.com/IM5zVHL)
The assault on the surface of Mars begins.
(http://i.imgur.com/RyEUAaam.png) (http://imgur.com/RyEUAaa)
(http://i.imgur.com/y6ZCHQ9m.png) (http://imgur.com/y6ZCHQ9)
An advancing HWP spots a Sectoid, which the troops take control of.
(http://i.imgur.com/rdZLzCPm.png) (http://imgur.com/rdZLzCP)
(http://i.imgur.com/y1Md641m.png) (http://imgur.com/y1Md641)
(http://i.imgur.com/oYuSyfdm.png) (http://imgur.com/oYuSyfd)
It attacks a Cyberdisc behind it, and both aliens are taken out by the resulting explosion.
(http://i.imgur.com/QjBYvAem.png) (http://imgur.com/QjBYvAe)
(http://i.imgur.com/pVrr8Ifm.png) (http://imgur.com/pVrr8If)
(http://i.imgur.com/7sorh6Bm.png) (http://imgur.com/7sorh6B)
The HWP takes some damage while scouting, detecting another Cyberdisc. Control is taken over its organic components, and the unit goes haywire. The resulting explosion destroys both machines.
(http://i.imgur.com/IRlDfBOm.png) (http://imgur.com/IRlDfBO)
With the disc destroyed and the Martian dust, it's hard to get a good visual on the battlefield.
(http://i.imgur.com/xcS6Yzlm.png) (http://imgur.com/xcS6Yzl)
The next casualty of the battle is the plasma HWP, critically damaged as it crosses the gap between two pyramids.
(http://i.imgur.com/YTm4f5xm.png) (http://imgur.com/YTm4f5x)
(http://i.imgur.com/TWKYE5Sm.png) (http://imgur.com/TWKYE5S)
With the location of an alien known even without a clear visual, Mederow fires a launcher warhead into the upper level of one of the pyramids.
(http://i.imgur.com/W80IOkNm.png) (http://imgur.com/W80IOkN)
(http://i.imgur.com/vvgf8rom.png) (http://imgur.com/vvgf8ro)
(http://i.imgur.com/xAUH0ETm.png) (http://imgur.com/xAUH0ET)
(http://i.imgur.com/G6qpbu9m.png) (http://imgur.com/G6qpbu9)
An alien grenade is thrown at the top of the Andrea Sharpe's exit ramp. The last remaining HWP takes no damage, but Mederow and another soldier are wounded by shrapnel and require treatment.
(http://i.imgur.com/DTwlS2Um.png) (http://imgur.com/DTwlS2U)
(http://i.imgur.com/T4qvOCgm.png) (http://imgur.com/T4qvOCg)
(http://i.imgur.com/LEFfgFwm.png) (http://imgur.com/LEFfgFw)
(http://i.imgur.com/k4PpEuQm.png) (http://imgur.com/k4PpEuQ)
A cluster of Sectoid troops is spotted, and Iwahara unleashes another launcher shot.
(http://i.imgur.com/l18HP2ym.png) (http://imgur.com/l18HP2y)
(http://i.imgur.com/iGbc22sm.png) (http://imgur.com/iGbc22s)
The launcher HWP continues its patrol, taking severe damage as it runs into another trio of Sectoids.
(http://i.imgur.com/BQprxOUm.png) (http://imgur.com/BQprxOU)
(http://i.imgur.com/vTY0lXpm.png) (http://imgur.com/vTY0lXp)
(http://i.imgur.com/Wfe0XFvm.png) (http://imgur.com/Wfe0XFv)
Another launcher warhead is deployed, not only taking out the aliens but blasting out a path to what appears to be the base's entryway.
(http://i.imgur.com/Urp3zqwm.png) (http://imgur.com/Urp3zqw)
(http://i.imgur.com/2lJOFOmm.png) (http://imgur.com/2lJOFOm)
Mind control is quickly used to lure an alien into range, where ground forces take it down.
(http://i.imgur.com/xubxVsDm.png) (http://imgur.com/xubxVsD)
The last HWP is damaged beyond recovery by hostile fire from outside of visual range. This is where things become risky; scouting for enemies will have to be done by the troops.
(http://i.imgur.com/hU77Toam.png) (http://imgur.com/hU77Toa)
Troops use whatever cover is available in order to advance towards the enemy.
(http://i.imgur.com/sajqbXBm.png) (http://imgur.com/sajqbXB)
Sergeant Bernard Marcelle is fatally hit by the Sectoid lurking the darkness.
(http://i.imgur.com/f3eTR8Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/f3eTR8P)
(http://i.imgur.com/vG3vKanm.png) (http://imgur.com/vG3vKan)
(http://i.imgur.com/214DjKvm.png) (http://imgur.com/214DjKv)
Sigourney Miller manages to tank some hits and spot the alien. Mind control is used to bring it into range, where it falls alongside its former allies.
(http://i.imgur.com/V3R2J7nm.png) (http://imgur.com/V3R2J7n)
Troops manage to start getting into the base's entryway.
(http://i.imgur.com/Qv445Zym.png) (http://imgur.com/Qv445Zy)
(http://i.imgur.com/Me6uyEKm.png) (http://imgur.com/Me6uyEK)
(http://i.imgur.com/2Gia4bAm.png) (http://imgur.com/2Gia4bA)
(http://i.imgur.com/sANOi0Im.png) (http://imgur.com/sANOi0I)
A grenade blast alerts soldiers to the location of one more Sectoid, which is brought into firing range and taken out. With the surface cleared of hostiles, troops can force their way into the interior of the Cydonia complex. Phase two of Operation War Gods is about to begin.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/0K8CTRcm.png) (http://imgur.com/0K8CTRc)
Troops have breached the surface of Cydonia and reached the primary stronghold of the invading alien forces. All that remains is to seek out and destroy the core brain of the force.
(http://i.imgur.com/PioycoTm.png) (http://imgur.com/PioycoT)
(http://i.imgur.com/M9ttBtJm.png) (http://imgur.com/M9ttBtJ)
Past the surface, the base splits into two entrances.
(http://i.imgur.com/0eMvOfNm.png) (http://imgur.com/0eMvOfN)
The first alien to be encountered is a Silacoid. After dealing with Chryssalid infestations, nigh-indestructable Mutons, and the mental assaults of Ethereals, these slow-moving and almost rock-like creatures are the least threatening of the aliens that X-COM has encountered. The fact I allowed a soldier to get killed by one by oversight is one of the things that has weighed heaviest on me during my command.
(http://i.imgur.com/8uRbQHjm.png) (http://imgur.com/8uRbQHj)
The Silacoids are used to scout around.
(http://i.imgur.com/7ELw5DXm.png) (http://imgur.com/7ELw5DX)
(http://i.imgur.com/wvYJXb2m.png) (http://imgur.com/wvYJXb2)
A Chryssalid was spotted lurking in one of the cave tunnels, so a blaster round is launched by Iwahara.
(http://i.imgur.com/PSUMkvJm.png) (http://imgur.com/PSUMkvJ)
The alien was further away from the blast site than anticipated, but it's still vulnerable to other techniques in our arsenal.
(http://i.imgur.com/OlSMGsAm.png) (http://imgur.com/OlSMGsA)
(http://i.imgur.com/Ng5u567m.png) (http://imgur.com/Ng5u567)
Isao Tanida mops up one of the Silacoids.
(http://i.imgur.com/BFryC5Pm.png) (http://imgur.com/BFryC5P)
As mind-controlled aliens are sent through the tunnels, a massive grove of alien fauna is spotted. Similar species were found in the bases on Earth; have the aliens been terraforming?
(http://i.imgur.com/675RA0Jm.png) (http://imgur.com/675RA0J)
Large numbers of aliens are spotted. Most of them seem to be the types used in terror forces, while a heavily armed Ethereal is also visible.
(http://i.imgur.com/pMhAGWnm.png) (http://imgur.com/pMhAGWn)
A Chryssalid goes after the Silacoid under our control.
(http://i.imgur.com/Jjb1pRlm.png) (http://imgur.com/Jjb1pRl)
(http://i.imgur.com/GV3SjfTm.png) (http://imgur.com/GV3SjfT)
(http://i.imgur.com/BgmsXClm.png) (http://imgur.com/BgmsXCl)
(http://i.imgur.com/3gTNKIMm.png) (http://imgur.com/3gTNKIM)
Control is taken over the Ethereal, and its attack is directed at a cluster of alien forces.
(http://i.imgur.com/JF1zZbGm.png) (http://imgur.com/JF1zZbG)
(http://i.imgur.com/BIBuIG8m.png) (http://imgur.com/BIBuIG8)
(http://i.imgur.com/4AN6Z1Im.png) (http://imgur.com/4AN6Z1I)
A Sectopod is controlled and goes rampant, killing a Celatid and then destroying itself.
(http://i.imgur.com/qPkBX8gm.png) (http://imgur.com/qPkBX8g)
(http://i.imgur.com/llV9SqBm.png) (http://imgur.com/llV9SqB)
The aliens unleash more launcher fire on each other, while the Ethereal that the troops exploited is taken out by another Chryssalid.
(http://i.imgur.com/PyCyQ4km.png) (http://imgur.com/PyCyQ4k)
The Chryssalid then goes running wild, but can't focus on a target long enough to avoid getting taken out.
(http://i.imgur.com/z3jp0APm.png) (http://imgur.com/z3jp0AP)
(http://i.imgur.com/aK1NMWIm.png) (http://imgur.com/aK1NMWI)
An Ethereal is sent to scout, wandering off into what appears to be a storage facility.
(http://i.imgur.com/mvQSl2fm.png) (http://imgur.com/mvQSl2f)
Arthur Martin is hit by plasma fire and falls in battle.
(http://i.imgur.com/BE6gZJFm.png) (http://imgur.com/BE6gZJF)
The Sectopod responsible is spotted, and psionics are used to keep it and an Ethereal suppressed while troops focus their efforts elsewhere.
(http://i.imgur.com/4CLJTjnm.png) (http://imgur.com/4CLJTjn)
A mind-controlled alien is sent into what appears to be the base's core. A large device appearing to be the alien brain is found. While it would be easy to just mind control an Ethereal and destroy it that way, an objective this significant requires a more direct response.
(http://i.imgur.com/Oo6LEcOm.png) (http://imgur.com/Oo6LEcO)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZtrkzZWm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZtrkzZW)
(http://i.imgur.com/xIhbfJCm.png) (http://imgur.com/xIhbfJC)
(http://i.imgur.com/SKQcrgkm.png) (http://imgur.com/SKQcrgk)
The Ethereals guarding the sphere are turned on each other.
(http://i.imgur.com/7UsJo0Dm.png) (http://imgur.com/7UsJo0D)
(http://i.imgur.com/bSHHrPAm.png) (http://imgur.com/bSHHrPA)
(http://i.imgur.com/ZDWVFOLm.png) (http://imgur.com/ZDWVFOL)
(http://i.imgur.com/V5BHS46m.png) (http://imgur.com/V5BHS46)
Iwahara and Mederow get into position for the final strike, setting waypoints for two successive warhead launches.
(http://i.imgur.com/JmtDbZIm.png) (http://imgur.com/JmtDbZI)
(http://i.imgur.com/6MEUXYKm.png) (http://imgur.com/6MEUXYK)
While the last remaining Ethereal guard in the command room manages to block one of the launches, the blasts are enough to rip apart the chamber. The floors are broken apart, alien bodies are completely obliterated, and nothing remains of the alien brain.
Operation War Gods has succeeded. After almost a year and a half and countless lives lost, the alien invasion has finally been defeated.
-
(http://i.imgur.com/IXLWPcym.png) (http://imgur.com/IXLWPcy)
(http://i.imgur.com/Vm0fQmsm.png) (http://imgur.com/Vm0fQms)
(http://i.imgur.com/sjsknTwm.png) (http://imgur.com/sjsknTw)
(http://i.imgur.com/1wxcEbJm.png) (http://imgur.com/1wxcEbJ)
I am pretty sure that is not how any of this happened.
With confirmation that the alien brain overseeing the invasion force has been destroyed, X-COM forces return to Earth. Bernard Marcelle and Arthur Martin will be buried with full military honors. Technology salvaged from wreckage of the base has been placed in storage for later analysis and study.
Without a guiding intelligence to lead them, the alien forces on Earth fall into disarray. Over the next few weeks, X-COM assaults the remaining Ethereal bases. Without any support from off-planet, the remnants of the alien forces quickly fall.
Although the alien invasion has been halted, the council of backing nations gives X-COM and its bases permission to remain operational. With no immediate threat to humanity, the organization's goal shifts to research, searching the cosmos for potential extraterrestrial threats and developing new technology for if an invasion should ever occur again. Yoko Iwahara becomes the head of this new post-war X-COM.
As X-COM research is declassified, there are great strides in numerous fields of science. In particular, reverse-engineering of alien technology has allowed for many advances in space exploration. Some time after the aliens have been pushed off of Mars, humans manage to settle on the planet.
(http://i.imgur.com/vxcYkwFm.png) (http://imgur.com/vxcYkwF)
I'm glad I was able to see this through to the end, and I'm happy that people enjoyed this. I don't know what'll come after this; I'm not playing Terror from the Deep (or at the least, if I do I'm not LPing it) because it's pretty much more of the same. I do want to try and play through another game, but I'm not sure I want to do one that's as time-consuming as this one.
Thank you to all my readers for following this playthrough for the last four months.
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Very nice work keeping this running. It's been interesting seeing how the old game works. Congrats on your win as well.
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:toot:
It was great to see this game not just played, but completed! Bonus points for making quite a comeback after suffering a crushing defeat way back then.
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The NO on the brain's screen is a wonderful touch. GG, and congrats on such a crushing comeback!