USC: Counterforce

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|| [[basics|Basics]] || [[combat_mechanics|Combat]] || [[squad|Squad]] || [[tactics|Tactics]] || [[dtb|Defend the Base!]] || [[skills|Skills]] || [[damage_type_info|Damage type info]] ||

|| <color red>NEW →</color> || [[squad_roles|**Squad Roles**]] || [[usccf_weapons|Weapons & Ammunition]] || [[equipment|Equipment & Crafting materials]] || [[xenology|Xenology]] || [[campaign|Campaign]] || [[ui|UI]] ||

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====== SQUAD ROLES ======
====This entry covers the possible roles in a squad, including their Skills, Weapons, Equipment, and more, with examples, advice, and other details.====
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===== Table of Contents =====

  * [[#bastion | Bastion]]
  * [[#sniper | Sniper]]
  * [[#medic | Medic]]
  * [[#technician | Technician]]
  * [[#heavy_arm_specialist | Heavy arm specialist]]
  * [[#cqw | CQW]]
  * [[#general_role | General role]]

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==== BASTION ====

This Marine is equipped to take on the <color yellow>front lines</color> in battle and draw the enemy's interest to themselves. This unit <color yellow>must face</color> and withstand both physical attacks and various hazards. Make sure to bring [[equipment#biomax_rad|BioMax Rads]] for [[damage_type_info#poison|Poison]], [[equipment#neutro|Neutro]] for [[damage_type_info#fire|Fire]], and [[equipment#bandages|Bandages]] for Bleeding with this Marine. A Bastion's best friend is the [[#medic|Medic]], who can prevent them from dying, ease their pain with [[equipment#medikit|healing kits]], and remove most hazards with the [[equipment#bat|BAT]] / [[equipment#hazmat-kit|HazMat-kit]].

In dire situations, the Morale of this unit may drop due to the vast number of attacks they receive from enemies. Therefore, having some [[equipment#morale_stimulant|Morale stimulants]] in their inventory is highly advised.


//Here are some possible (useful but not mandatory) variations of a Bastion's Inventory//:

**Example #1**: A [[usccf_weapons#frontier_axe|Frontier Axe]], some Armor, [[equipment#biomax_rad|BioMax Rad]] pills (for Poison), [[equipment#neutro|Neutro]] (for Fire), [[equipment#morale_stimulant|Morale]], and [[equipment#health_stimulant|Health]] stimulants.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/B1.png}}
Squad Points cost: 23,000 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #2**: A more effective weapon, a [[usccf_weapons#katana|Katana]], with a [[usccf_weapons#riot_shield|Shield]], along with some [[equipment#extra_armor_plating|Armor]], [[equipment#bandages|Bandages]] (for Bleeding), [[equipment#biomax_rad|BioMax Rad]] pills (for Poison), and [[equipment#morale_stimulant|Morale]] stimulants.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/B2.png}}
Squad Points cost: 32,800 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #3**: After obtaining some precious Blueprints/loot or via crafting, you can have high-end [[equipment#extra_armor_plating|Armor]] that boosts your resistances/protections (like the [[usccf_weapons#energy_shield|Energy shield]]), and grants greater damage output* ([[usccf_weapons#energy_blade|Energy blade]]), not to mention the Health-regeneration ([[equipment#regenerator|Regenerator]]).
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/B3.png}}
Squad Points cost: 62,800 (without any crafted items/promotions).

*//The details about the different ammunition types can be found under the respective weapons descriptions.//

**Skill Points**: This Marine should be tough as hell. Skill points-wise, the best choices are [[skills#endurance|Endurance]] (Level: 4-5) and [[skills#melee_combat|Melee Combat]] (Level: 4-5). As for Primary Specialization, both Endurance and Melee Combat have their advantages; whichever you choose, the other should be the Secondary Spec for this unit. Also, [[skills#agility|Agility]] (Level: 4-5) and [[skills#mental_conditioning|Mental Conditioning]] (Level: 4-5) are crucial to have to create a tanky marine.

[[#Top|Back to top ↑]]
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==== SNIPER ====

A Sniper's top priority is to take down any enemy that holds back the movement of the Squad, if the target is too dangerous, or simply to reduce the number of enemies—preferably <color yellow>from a distance</color>. As the Sniper is ideally positioned //far// from the front line, they should be **cautious** of any flanking attacks. They can also support fellow Squad members by providing equipment or loot if there's any good stuff nearby, or by simply closing doors. Since their attack has a low AP cost, going into Defense Mode with them will halt/knock back inbound enemies during the enemy's Turn. (Note that some Heavy Weapons are also capable of sniping/one-shotting the aliens, but be mindful of the Squad Point cost when equipping those firearms. E.g. [[usccf_weapons#nuclear_hand_cannon|Nuclear Hand Cannon]], [[usccf_weapons#laser_scorcher|Laser Scorcher]]. __Important__: Specialization needs to be changed to [[skills#heavy_arms|Heavy arms]] when using dedicated heavy weapons.)


//Some possible (useful but not mandatory) variations of a Sniper's Inventory//:

**Example #1**: A [[usccf_weapons#sniper_rifle|Sniper rifle]] with a good amount of ammunition*. This marine also has a few [[equipment#bandages|Bandages]] (for Bleeding), some [[equipment#biomax_rad|BioMax Rad]] pills (for Poison), plus [[equipment#morale_stimulant|Morale]] and [[equipment#health_stimulant|Health stimulants]], too.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/SN1.png}}
Squad Points cost: 12,800 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #2**: A [[usccf_weapons#sniper_rifle|Sniper rifle]] with Armor Piercing and Mercury Ignition Charge bullets*, along with a [[equipment#tactical_laser_scope|Tactical Laser Scope]] (for additional Accuracy, Critical Hit Chance, and Critical Damage Factor). This Marine also has some self-healing equipment, like [[equipment#biomax_rad|BioMax Rad]] pills (for Poison), as well as [[equipment#morale_stimulant|Morale]] and [[equipment#health_stimulant|Health stimulants]]. There are also some [[equipment#bandages|Bandages]] and a [[equipment#first_aid_kit|First aid kit]] for supporting the Squad.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/SN2.png}}
Squad Points cost: 20,140 (without any crafted items/promotions).

*//The details about the different ammunition types can be found under the respective weapons descriptions.//

**Skill Points**: The main skill a Sniper will use is [[skills#marksmanship|Marksmanship]] (Level: 4-5) as they Primary Specialization (precise and deadly shots for less AP). The Secondary Specialization should be [[skills#agility|Agility]] (Level: 4-5) for mobility and to have more <color #66ff00>Action Points</color> overall. Of course, adding some points in [[skills#endurance|Endurance]] (Level: 3-5) and [[skills#mental_conditioning|Mental Conditioning]] (Level: 3-5) yields extra <color red>Health</color> and <color #08e8de>Morale</color>.

[[#Top|Back to top ↑]]
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==== MEDIC ====

The presence of a well-equipped Medic in the Squad is __imperative__. Various hazards and the never-ending, ruthless attacks of the Horde won’t deal gently with your marines. Because of the enemy’s flanks, melee, and ranged strikes, the [[#bastion|Bastion]] and other Squad members will be glad to have some care. Thanks to the Medic’s Primary Specialization in [[skills#biochemistry|Biochemistry]], you can handle even extreme situations <color yellow>without consuming healing items</color>. However, this unit can also deal damage if you put the right weapon and ammunition in their hands. Golden rule: keep your Medic **safe**, as their sacrificial work is key during many encounters. Nevertheless, equipping your units with some medicines, bandages, and stimulants will support the whole Squad by all means and put less burden on the Medic's shoulders, allowing them to concentrate on those who are severely injured.


//Variations of a Medic's Inventory (some items are mandatory, weapons/ammo can be varied)//:

**Example #1**: This setup should suffice until the middle to high difficulty levels. The weapon (a [[usccf_weapons#shotgun|Shotgun]]) is particularly potent at close range (1 grid), and the Medic can effectively restore the health of fellow marines and mitigate significant amounts of poison.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/M1.png}}
Squad Points cost: 40,440 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #2**: The HCB Bio-warfare ammo* loaded into this [[usccf_weapons#bulleteer|Bulleteer]] causes substantial damage. Having this amount of medical equipment is highly advisable in higher difficulty levels. The [[equipment#hazmat-kit|HazMat-kits]], [[equipment#trauma_kit|Trauma kits]], and two stacks of [[equipment#bat|BAT (bioactive anti-toxin)]] are must-haves in harder scenarios.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/M2.png}}
Squad Points cost: 60,300 (without any crafted items/promotions).

*//The details about the different ammunition types can be found under the respective weapons descriptions.//

**Skill Points**: The Primary Specialization for a Medic will go to the [[skills#biochemistry|Biochemistry Skill]] (Level 4-5). Secondary Specializations may vary, but it is advised to have Level 3-5 in the [[skills#agility|Agility Skill]] and/or [[skills#marksmanship|Marksmanship Skill]]. Allocate Skill Points to [[skills#endurance|Endurance]] and [[skills#mental_conditioning|Mental Conditioning]] (Levels 1-5) to boost their <color red>Health</color> and <color #08e8de>Morale</color>.

[[#Top|Back to top ↑]]
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==== TECHNICIAN ====

What really makes this unit useful is their <color yellow>hacking ability</color> thanks to their gadgets. They can open or <color yellow>close/seal doors</color>, <color yellow>hack databanks</color>, and handle ordnances like <color yellow>turrets</color> and <color yellow>mines</color>. Turrets are also tanky, and if placed by Technicians, they have a higher damage output. It is practical to use them to <color yellow>seal service tunnel hatches</color> too, as they can do it for fewer <color #66ff00>Action Points</color> compared to other marines. Equipping this unit with the right tools and using these tools wisely allows you to control the movement of the enemy and acquire precious //loot//. Don’t treat them as if they are only a support unit. Gear them up with proper weapons and ammunition, and they will perform well during encounters.

//Some (useful but not mandatory) variations of a Technician's Inventory//:

**Example #1**: A cheap but still effective setup for lower difficulty levels, a [[usccf_weapons#bulleteer_smg|Bulleteer]] with some HCB Armor piercing ammunition*, three [[usccf_weapons#smart_mine|Smart mines]], a simple hacking tool, the [[equipment#quickhacker|Quickhacker]] to hack Databanks or doors, and some "health preserver medicine".
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/T1.png}}
Squad Points cost: 15,900 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #2**: This setup is the high-end of Technicians.
  * a weapon (+ 2 types of ammo: HCB High Explosive and HCB Acid Charge*) that is capable of the [[tactics#combos|acid/fire combo]]
  * a [[usccf_weapons#hc_turret|High-Caliber Auto-Turret]] (deals a lot of damage)
  * a [[equipment#primotron_chimeira|Primotron Chimeira]] hacking tool with 10 grids of range
  * a [[equipment#structure_scanner|Structure]] and a [[equipment#biosign_scanner|Biosign scanner]] for better intel
  * a [[equipment#force_field_emitter|Force field emitter]] which creates an impassable barrier
  * a [[equipment#welding_torch|Welding torch]] to seal/repair doors
  * some [[equipment#morale_stimulant|Morale stimulants]] (in case of emergency)
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/T2.png}}
Squad Points cost: 67,350 (without any crafted items/promotions).

*//The details about the different ammunition types can be found under the respective weapons descriptions.//

**Skill Points**: They must have [[skills#electrotechnics|Electrotechnics]] as their Primary Specialization (Level 4-5) and a lot of APs. Technicians may have [[skills#agility|Agility Skill]] (Level 4-5) for Secondary Specialization, or [[skills#marksmanship|Marksmanship]] (Level 3-5), as you prefer. Consider adding some Skill Points to [[skills#endurance|Endurance]] and [[skills#mental_conditioning|Mental Conditioning]] (both can be Level 1-5 based on your free Skill Points) to improve <color red>Health</color> and <color #08e8de>Morale</color>.


[[#Top|Back to top ↑]]
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==== HEAVY ARM SPECIALIST ====

As they are carrying some savage weapons, Heavys can **one-hit** enemies or eliminate many of them easily with their **AOE** attacks. Equipping them with such armaments is costly but very effective. Find the sweet spot for them so they can prepare more strikes if you save the right amount of <color #66ff00>Action Points</color> for these actions. Using Heavy weapons yields demolition and hazards (fire, acid, poison, etc.) within range. Use this to drive alien movement, snipe primary targets, and <color yellow>eliminate grouped foes</color>. If you need to tear down some //walls// or break through //doors//, Heavys will be more than happy to assist you—depending on their type of weapon, of course! Note that these demolishers often have to toggle [[combat_mechanics#the_combat_panel|Friendly Fire]] on, so plan your actions carefully, as a chain reaction can potentially occur due to these actions!


//Here are some possible (useful but not mandatory) variations of a Heavy's Inventory (medicines included)//:

**Example #1**: A [[usccf_weapons#grenade_launcher|Grenade launcher]] with High Explosive, Acid and Armor Piercing charges*. This is a setup for a real demolisher. The [[usccf_weapons#self_defense_pistol|Self-defense pistol]] is a backup weapon.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/H1.png}}
Squad Points cost: 25,640 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #2**: This is a [[usccf_weapons#laser_scorcher|Laser Scorcher]] with a lot of Condensed Energy Charges*. This setup is quite expensive, so it's advisable to use crafted items to save Squad Points. Needless to say, this weapon is brutally effective. (Not to mention the two [[usccf_weapons#incendiary_grenade|Incendiary grenades]].)
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/H2.png}}
Squad Points cost: 75,400 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #3**: The [[usccf_weapons#nuclear_hand_cannon|Nuclear hand cannon]] with two types of SuperShells*. Snipe the target, then—if it’s still alive—detonate the explosive charges. This weapon boasts a respectable impact force.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/H3.png}}
Squad Points cost: 47,400 (without any crafted items/promotions)

*//The details about the different ammunition types can be found under the respective weapons descriptions.//

**Skill Points**: Spend your Skill Points (Level 4-5) on [[skills#heavy_arms|Heavy arms]] and make it your Primary Specialization; this will remarkably improve the Heavy’s damage. All you need is some additional <color #66ff00>Action Points</color> provided by the Secondary Specialization in [[skills#agility|Agility]] (Level 4-5). Also, improve the Heavy’s <color red>Health</color> and <color #08e8de>Morale</color> by assigning Skill Points to [[skills#endurance|Endurance]] and [[skills#mental_conditioning|Mental Conditioning]] (Levels 1-5).

[[#Top|Back to top ↑]]
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==== CQW ====

This role offers various **combinations**, allowing you to equip these units in many ways to suit the mission at hand. They can support other marines, prepare attacks, inflict significant damage, or hold a position if needed. The latter can be achieved by equipping a <color yellow>shield</color>, which sacrifices some <color #66ff00>Action Points</color> but provides a more //resistant// unit. With access to numerous ammunition types, a marine with a CQW (Close Quarters Warfare) weapon can be a serious damage dealer. Consider Armor Penetration, Poison, Acid, Fire, Cryo, and other damage types or [[tactics#combos|combos]] they can inflict alone or with another squad member. They can also use grenades if the situation requires them.


//Different configurations for a CQW user squad member (pills included)//:

**Example #1**: Using the [[usccf_weapons#quadseeker|QuadSeeker]]'s two attack modes along with the HCB High Explosive and Acid Charges*, this unit can effectively destroy the enemy. This is just one example of the [[tactics#combos|acid/fire combo]] in action.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/C1.png}}
Squad Points cost: 14,300 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #2**: Tanky and deadly. A shield paired with a [[usccf_weapons#shotgun|Shotgun]], equipped with different types of 12 gauge shells (Acid Charges, Bio-warfare, and Armor Piercing*) in the Inventory. This setup supports other marines by repairing their Armor rating with the [[equipment#armor_repair_kit|Armor repair kit]] and the Technician’s turret with the [[equipment#field_repair_kit|Field repair kit]], if needed.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/C2.png}}
Squad Points cost: 34,120 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #3**: A great setup for freezing aliens is using the [[usccf_weapons#bulleteer_smg|Bulleteer]] with HCB Cryo charges*, along with [[usccf_weapons#cryo_grenade|Cryo grenades]]. Additionally, having someone with a high-impact force weapon like a [[usccf_weapons#sniper_rifle|Sniper rifle]] or [[usccf_weapons#nuclear_hand_cannon|Nuclear hand cannon]] can shatter your foes.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/C3.png}}
Squad Points cost: 36,050 (without any crafted items/promotions)

*//The details about the different ammunition types can be found under the respective weapons descriptions.//

**Skill Points**: A marine using a CQW weapon should have the [[skills#marksmanship|Marksmanship Skill]] (Level 4-5) as their Primary Specialization. The Secondary Spec. can be [[skills#agility|Agility]] (Level 4-5) for mobility and to perform more actions. Boost this unit’s <color red>Health</color> and <color #08e8de>Morale</color> by leveling up [[skills#endurance|Endurance]] and [[skills#mental_conditioning|Mental Conditioning]] (Levels 1-5) with Skill Points.

[[#Top|Back to top ↑]]
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==== GENERAL ROLE ====

Not every unit needs to fill a specific role; generally, they are __marines__ capable of using **all** weapons and gadgets. The difference lies in //efficiency//. If the available Skill Points don't allow for specific roles, that doesn't make a unit worthless. However, having both Specializations set is mandatory and well-advised. Similarly, equipping each unit with a proper weapon, a reasonable amount of ammunition, and some helpful items (like bandages, stimulants, grenades, etc.) is highly recommended. Spending Skill Points on [[skills#field_expertise|Field expertise]], [[skills#biochemistry|Biochemistry]], or [[skills#electrotechnics|Electrotechnics]] will also yield benefits for you.

===Note: It is imperative to bring enough ammo to a mission. Though – with some luck – you may find ammo, or even weapons during the mission, it is best practice to estimate how much ammo you would need in the worst case. For example, if you could fire a rifle, say, 4 times a turn on average, and each attack cost 5 ammo, then for a mission that had a deadline of 20 turns, a minimum safe amount would be a stack of 4x5x20=400.===

//Possible equipment//:

**Example #1**: An infantry unit equipped with an [[usccf_weapons#assault_rifle|Assault rifle]], a proper amount of ammunition*, a [[usccf_weapons#smart_mine|Smart mine]], some [[usccf_weapons#frag_grenade|grenades]], and healing equipment.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/GR1.png}}
Squad Points cost: 19,440 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #2**: A [[skills#field_expertise|Field expertise]] specialist, now serving as a grenadier with a [[usccf_weapons#self_defense_pistol|Self-defense pistol]] and a [[usccf_weapons#riot_shield|Riot shield]]. This marine is somewhat tanky and capable of causing serious AOE damage.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/GR2.png}}
Squad Points cost: 37,140 (without any crafted items/promotions).


**Example #3**: Equipped with an [[usccf_weapons#energy_rifle|Energy rifle]] and carrying a lot of Energy Charges*, this marine can ignite many enemies. They also carry a [[equipment#biosign_scanner|Biosign scanner]] to gain intel about the aliens’ positions, along with medicines for both themselves and fellow Squad members.
{{https://angrycatstudios.com/usccf/squad_roles/GR3.png}}
Squad Points cost: 49,850 (without any crafted items/promotions).

*//The details about the different ammunition types can be found under the respective weapons descriptions.//

**Skill Points**: Essentially, to perform more actions, having the [[skills#agility|Agility Skill]] (Level 3-5) is suggested. For sufficient damage output, the [[skills#marksmanship|Marksmanship Skill]] (Level 3-5) is favored. Choosing Primary and Secondary Specializations can be adjusted to the actual task. Always spend Skill Points on [[skills#endurance|Endurance]] and [[skills#mental_conditioning|Mental Conditioning]] (Levels 1-5) to enhance the marines’ <color red>Health</color> and <color #08e8de>Morale</color>, if possible.

[[#Top|Back to top ↑]]
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USC: Counterforce

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