In XCOM 2, mastering your equipment can make the difference between success and failure during high-stakes missions. Among the many unique tools at your disposal, the Skulljack stands out as a mission-critical item that also opens up new tactical possibilities. Not only is the Skulljack essential for progressing through certain story objectives, but it can also be used in combat to gain valuable intel and trigger hidden encounters. However, equipping and using it properly requires an understanding of the game’s systems and squad management. Whether you’re new to the game or revisiting it with the War of the Chosen expansion, learning how to equip the Skulljack correctly is a key step toward victory.
What Is the Skulljack?
The Skulljack is a special utility item in XCOM 2 used to hack into enemy forces, particularly ADVENT officers. It is introduced as part of a storyline mission and is required to complete one of the game’s main objectives. Aside from advancing the plot, it allows players to access unique hacking attempts that can provide in-game bonuses, unlock the Codex enemy, and trigger Avatar Project progress.
How to Unlock the Skulljack
Step 1: Build the Proving Ground
Before you can even build the Skulljack, you need to construct the Proving Ground facility aboard the Avenger. This facility unlocks the ability to develop experimental items, including the Skulljack.
- Go to the Engineering screen.
- Choose an empty room and assign engineers to build the Proving Ground.
- Wait several in-game days for construction to finish.
Step 2: Begin Skulljack Research
Once the Proving Ground is available, you can begin the project to develop the Skulljack:
- Enter the Proving Ground menu.
- Select Skulljack from the list of available projects.
- Assign an engineer to speed up the process.
- Wait for the project to complete it usually takes a few in-game days.
After completion, the Skulljack will appear in your inventory and be available for use in future missions.
How to Equip the Skulljack
Step 1: Choose the Right Soldier
Only certain classes can equip the Skulljack. The most suitable soldier for the job is a Specialist, particularly one with the Hacker skill tree. While technically any soldier with a utility slot can carry the Skulljack, Specialists get the most out of it due to their ability to safely engage with enemies and hack targets from close range.
- Ensure the Specialist is healthy and ready for deployment.
- Check if the soldier has an available utility slot and no conflicting equipment.
Step 2: Equip the Skulljack via the Loadout Menu
To equip the Skulljack on a soldier:
- Go to the Armory and select View Soldiers.
- Pick the soldier you want to carry the Skulljack.
- Click Loadout to customize their equipment.
- Under the Utility Items section, select an empty slot.
- Choose the Skulljack from the available list.
Now, the selected soldier will carry the Skulljack into missions, allowing you to use it when the right opportunity arises.
Using the Skulljack in Combat
Targeting ADVENT Officers
The main use of the Skulljack is to perform a melee-style hack on ADVENT officers. You need to move your soldier close to the officer, similar to how you would approach an enemy for a sword strike.
- Approach an ADVENT Officer and position your soldier within melee range.
- Look for the Skulljack icon in the action bar, usually highlighted when a valid target is selected.
- Execute the Skulljack attempt success will trigger a hacking minigame and potentially spawn the Codex enemy.
Benefits of Successful Skulljacking
There are several advantages to using the Skulljack successfully:
- Progresses the story by unlocking the Codex and eventually the Avatar project missions.
- Triggers hacking challenges with rewards like Intel or bonuses for your squad.
- Can be a tactical way to instantly eliminate a mid-tier enemy if the hack is successful.
Skulljack vs. Skullmine
After completing the initial Skulljack objective, you can later upgrade it to the Skullmine. This upgrade improves hacking capabilities and expands the number of enemy types you can use it on, such as Sectoids and Officers.
- Skullmine provides higher hacking rewards and a better chance of success.
- It also improves your overall Intel generation capabilities.
The Skullmine is also equipped via the utility slot in the same way as the Skulljack, but only becomes available after additional research and development at the Proving Ground.
Tips for Maximizing Skulljack Usage
Use Specialists with High Hack Stats
Hack success rates improve with higher tech skill. Train your Specialist to follow the Hacker path and equip them with upgraded Gremlins to boost their effectiveness when using the Skulljack or Skullmine.
Time the Skulljack Carefully
Triggering the Skulljack will summon the Codex, a powerful enemy that uses teleportation and area-of-effect abilities. It’s best to Skulljack when your squad is fully prepared to deal with the threat immediately afterward.
Scout Ahead and Isolate Targets
Don’t rush the Skulljack. Use stealth and scouting to locate lone ADVENT Officers and avoid pulling multiple enemy pods at once. A controlled setup gives you the best chance of surviving the Codex encounter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to equip the Skulljack before the mission starts double-check your loadouts.
- Trying to use the Skulljack from a distance it only works in melee range.
- Using it on a non-Officer enemy during the first mission it won’t trigger the correct story event.
- Bringing low-health or untrained soldiers for the Skulljack action they may not survive the Codex fight.
Equipping and using the Skulljack effectively is an essential part of progressing through XCOM 2. While it may seem like just another tool at first glance, it plays a central role in unlocking deeper parts of the story and offers strategic advantages when used well. By preparing the right soldier, approaching combat tactically, and timing your use of the Skulljack, you can get the most out of this unique device. With the added tension of spawning new enemies and the reward of critical Intel, the Skulljack remains one of the most dynamic elements in XCOM 2’s tactical arsenal.