Valkyria Chronicles II: Getting Started Guide

Welcome to the ultimate Valkyria Chronicles II: Getting Started Guide! Whether you're a seasoned strategist or a newcomer eager to dive into this captivating tactical RPG, we've got you covered. This guide will help you set up your game for success, understand fundamental mechanics, and embark on your first mission with confidence. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich, strategic world of Valkyria Chronicles II with subtopics that include Creating Your Profile, Understanding Basic Controls, Navigating the Game World, Starting Your First Mission, and some essential Tips for New Players. Let’s start your adventure on the right foot!

Creating Your Profile

Introduction

Creating your profile in Valkyria Chronicles II is your first step into the world of Gallia. This profile will be your in-game identity, housing your progress, character customizations, and achievements. Here's everything you need to know to set up a killer profile and get started on your adventure.

Initial Setup

When you first launch Valkyria Chronicles II, you'll be prompted to create a new profile. This process is pretty straightforward but there are a few details you’ll want to be sure to get right.

Choose Your Name: This is the name you'll be known by throughout your journey. Make it something memorable because once it’s set, it can’t be changed. You could go with your real name, a nickname, or something totally random--whatever feels right to you!
Select Your Avatar: You'll have several customizable options for your avatar. This includes hair, face, and uniform color. Although these changes are mostly aesthetic, they'll make your in-game experience feel more personal. Spend a few moments to find a look that you really like.

Setting Preferences

After creating your avatar, you'll be asked to set your in-game preferences. These include:

Difficulty Level: Choose between Easy, Normal, and Hard. If you're new to strategy RPGs, start with Easy or Normal so you can get a feel for the game mechanics. You can always change this later if you find the current setting is not challenging enough or too difficult.
Voice Settings: Decide whether you want English or Japanese voice-overs. Both options have their own appeal, so choose what immerses you more in the story.
Control Settings: Tweak the controls to match your preferences. Whether you like the default setup or you want to invert the Y-axis, set it up so you’re comfortable.

Profile Information

Once you’ve set up your avatar and preferences, it’s time to finalize your profile information. Your profile will typically include:

Player Name: As chosen previously.
Avatar/Image: A snapshot of your custom avatar.
Rank: Your starting rank will be Cadet, but as you progress through the game, you will earn higher ranks.
Completion Stats: As you continue, this section will show how much of the game you’ve finished, including missions completed, characters unlocked, and more.

Saving and Backing Up

Don’t forget to save your profile! Valkyria Chronicles II allows you to create multiple save files, which can be a lifesaver. You might want to have separate saves for different playthroughs or to try out different strategies without overwriting your main progress. Make sure to save frequently, especially before and after major battles or story events.

Linking To Online Features

While primarily a single-player game, Valkyria Chronicles II does feature some online components. Linking your profile to online features can unlock special missions and offer other goodies:

Network Mode: Engage in multiplayer missions and cooperative gameplay.
DLC Content: Download additional content to expand your game.
Leaderboards: Track how you stack up against other players.

Conclusion

Setting up your profile in Valkyria Chronicles II is just the beginning of your military journey in Gallia. A well-crafted profile serves as your digital diary, charting your progress and personal style. Take your time with each step and make it uniquely yours. Now, with your profile set up, you’re ready to dive into the tactical, turn-based warfare and lead your squad to victory.

Time to hit the battlefield, Cadet!

Understanding Basic Controls

Get ready to jump into the battlefield with Valkyria Chronicles II! But first, let's get you familiar with the basic controls. Each button has a unique function, and knowing them well will help you command your squad effectively. Here's a breakdown of what each button does both in and out of combat.

Navigating Menus

D-Pad / Left Analog Stick: Move through options.
X Button: Select/Confirm.
O Button: Cancel/Go back.
Square Button: Open up additional information or context options.
Triangle Button: Open the game's system menu (useful for saving, loading, and other settings).

Menus are where you’ll spend a lot of time outside combat--customizing your squad, equipping weapons, and more. Get comfortable with these controls to make quick adjustments on the fly.

In-Combat Movement

Left Analog Stick: Move your character.
Right Analog Stick: Rotate the camera to look around.
L Button: Center camera behind the current character. Perfect for re-orienting yourself.
R Button: Enter Target Mode to aim your weapon.
Triangle Button: Change stance (e.g., crouch/stand).

While moving, keep an eye out for cover like sandbags or tall grass. These spots are perfect for sneaking up on enemies or avoiding incoming fire.

Combat Actions

X Button: Select and confirm actions such as entering Target Mode and using Area Skills.
O Button: Cancel an action or exit a menu.
Square Button: Interact with objects or allies and use items.
R Button: Enter Target Mode, essential for aiming and shooting.
Triangle Button: Toggle stances like crouch or stand up.
D-Pad: Quickly swap between different weapons.

In combat, decisions are crucial. Think tactically about when to open fire or hold back. Your actions can significantly impact the flow of battle, so make every move count.

Command Mode

D-Pad / Left Analog Stick: Move the cursor around the map to select units or navigate through options.
X Button: Select a unit or confirm an action.
O Button: Cancel a selection or go back to the previous screen.
R Button: Zoom in on the map, useful for checking out detailed terrain or enemy positions.
L Button: Zoom out of the map to get a broader view.

Command Mode is your strategic hub during battles. From here, you’ll give orders, deploy reinforcements, and monitor the battlefield. Knowing how to swiftly navigate and make decisions will strengthen your command skills.

Special Commands

Select Button: Toggle the mini-map on and off.
Start Button: Pause the game and open the menu--essential if you need a breather or to make quick adjustments.

These buttons can help you keep track of positioning and resources, ensuring you stay one step ahead of the enemy.

Pro Tips

Quick Saving: Valkyria Chronicles II allows you to save during missions. Use this feature to avoid losing progress after tough battles.
Stance Change: Often underestimated, changing your stance can reduce damage taken from enemy fire. Stay crouched when not actively moving.
Camera Adjustment: Rapid camera adjustments help you spot enemies before they can ambush you. Always keep your field of view clear.

Mastering these basic controls will turn you from a rookie commander into a seasoned leader in no time. Stay sharp, adapt to the situation, and lead your squad to victory!

Navigating the Game World

Venturing into the vibrant and complex world of Valkyria Chronicles II can be a bit overwhelming at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a thrilling ride. Here’s a breakdown of how to navigate the game world efficiently, ensuring you’re always ready for the next challenge.

The Academy Campus

Welcome to Lanseal Royal Military Academy! This is your main hub where you’ll be spending time between missions. Think of it as your central command center. Here’s what you need to know:

Classroom: The classroom is where you’ll receive mission briefings and updates on the story. Always check here after completing major missions to stay updated on the latest events.
R&D Building: This is your go-to place for developing new weapons, armor, and other gear. Regularly check back to see what new upgrades are available to keep your squad in top shape.
Drill Grounds: Here, you can train your squad to improve their skills and unlock new abilities. Training is crucial for leveling up your characters and increasing their combat effectiveness.
Barracks: This is where you manage your team. Customize your squad, assign classes, and check their stats. Make sure to keep your team balanced for various mission types.

World Map

Once you're ready to head out for a mission, you'll use the World Map. This map is your gateway to all the action-packed scenarios the game has to offer. Here’s a quick guide to making the most of it:

Selecting Missions: Missions are divided into story missions, classmate missions, and free missions. Story missions advance the plot, classmate missions strengthen bonds with your peers, and free missions are great for grinding experience and experimenting with tactics.
Region Breakdown: The world is divided into different regions, each with its own unique terrain and challenges. Pay attention to the layout and enemy placements on the map before deploying your troops.
Completion Status: Keep track of your progress in each region. Completed missions will be marked, and replaying missions can help you earn additional rewards and strengthen your characters.

Battlefield Navigation

So you've selected your mission and it's time to hit the battlefield. Here’s how to maneuver through the chaos of war and come out on top:

Turn System: The game uses an Action Point (AP) system for movement. Each character has a set amount of AP that determines how far they can move. Move strategically to conserve AP and position your units effectively.
Command Points (CP): CP allows you to take actions with your squad members. Plan your moves to maximize efficiency--sometimes, saving CP for future turns can give you a strategic edge.
Cover and Terrain: Make use of cover and high ground. Units in cover take less damage, and some terrain (like sandbags) can be used to create temporary protection. Knowing your terrain can make or break a mission.
Objectives and Victory Conditions: Always keep an eye on your objectives. Missions can range from capturing bases, eliminating key targets, or surviving for a set number of turns. Focus on the mission at hand and plan according to your objectives.

Tips for Success

Save Often: The game allows you to save during missions. Use this to your advantage to avoid replaying large sections if things go awry.
Utilize Different Classes: Each class has unique strengths and weaknesses. Scouts are great for recon, Shocktroopers pack a punch, Engineers can repair and resupply, and Lancers take down armored threats. Mix and match to find the best team composition.
Enemy Patterns: Study enemy movements and patterns. Knowing when they’ll move and how they act can help you set up effective ambushes and counterattacks.

Navigating the complex world of Valkyria Chronicles II might seem daunting, but with these tips, you'll master the game's various systems and lead your squad to victory. Dive in, experiment, and most importantly, have fun strategizing your way through each mission.

Starting Your First Mission

So, you’ve just fired up Valkyria Chronicles II and are about to dive into your very first mission. Exciting! Here’s a handy guide to help you get started off on the right foot.

Getting to Know Your Squad

First things first, you need to familiarize yourself with your squad. In Valkyria Chronicles II, you’ll be working with a group of cadets from Lanseal Royal Military Academy. Each character in your squad brings something unique to the table, so make sure you take some time to understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Key Characters

Avan Hardins: The main protagonist. He’s versatile and can fit into multiple roles as you progress.
Zeri: A talented Darcsen student with sharpshooting skills. He’s excellent for precision attacks.
Cosette Coalhearth: A medic-in-training. She’s invaluable for keeping your squad healthy.

Checking the Briefing

Before jumping headfirst into the fireworks, it’s crucial to check the mission briefing. This will give you an idea of what you’re up against and what objectives you need to complete. Objectives usually range from capturing enemy bases to defeating key targets.

The briefing screen is your best friend--don't just skip through it. Pay attention to:

Primary Objectives: These are your main goals and must be completed to finish the mission.
Secondary Objectives: These often provide extra rewards and can give you an edge in the game.
Enemy Intel: Information on enemy locations and their strength. This can help you plan your strategy.

Deploying Your Squad

Now that you know what you’re up against, it’s time to deploy your squad. You’ll have a limited number of slots for your units, so choose wisely. Usually, you’ll want a balanced team with a mix of classes:

Scouts: Fast and have a large movement range. Perfect for recon and capturing bases.
Shocktroopers: Heavily armed and can deal massive damage. Great for offensive maneuvers.
Lancers: Anti-tank specialists. They’re slower but pack a punch against armored enemies.
Engineers: They can repair tanks, disarm mines, and resupply ammunition. Super handy for support roles.
Snipers: Deadly from a distance. They can pick off enemies before they get close.

Plan Your Moves

Once you’re in the mission, it’s all about strategy. Start by sending out your scouts to gain visibility of the battlefield. They’ll help you identify enemy positions and potential threats. Don’t rush; plan your moves carefully. Here are some tips:

Use cover: Always try to keep your units behind cover to reduce the damage from enemy fire.
Move in pairs: Keep your units close enough to support each other but spread out to avoid splash damage from grenades.
Watch your CP: Command Points (CP) determine how many actions you can take per turn. Use them wisely--move your key units first and save some CP for emergency situations.

Engaging the Enemy

When you encounter enemies, assess the situation. Sometimes, it might be better to avoid direct confrontation. Use your sniper or long-range units to weaken opponents before sending in your shocktroopers for the kill.

Focus fire: Concentrating your attacks on a single enemy reduces the threat faster and conserves ammo.
Utilize orders: Orders are special commands from Avan that can greatly enhance your units’ capabilities. They cost CP but can turn the tide of battle.
Heal and resupply: Keep an eye on your unit’s health and ammo. Make sure to use engineers and medics to keep your squad in fighting shape.

Completing the Mission

After you’ve completed your objectives, the mission will end, and you’ll be graded based on your performance. Higher grades mean better rewards, so try to be efficient with your CP and minimize casualties.

Quick Tips

Save frequently: The game allows you to save during missions. Take advantage of this feature to avoid losing progress.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different strategies and squad compositions. Finding what works best for you is key to success.
Stay adaptable: Missions can change unexpectedly. Be ready to adjust your plans on the fly.

And that’s it! You’re now equipped with the basics to start your first mission in Valkyria Chronicles II. Good luck, and enjoy the journey!

Tips for New Players

Welcome to the world of Valkyria Chronicles II! If you're new to the game, we've got some tips to help you dive in and become a star on the battlefield.

1. Understand the Class System

Valkyria Chronicles II features multiple classes: Scouts, Shocktroopers, Engineers, Lancers, and Armored Techs.

Scouts are your eyes on the battlefield. They can cover a lot of ground but aren't great in combat.
Shocktroopers are your offensive units. They're slower but pack a punch.
Engineers can repair and heal, keeping your vehicles and soldiers in top shape.
Lancers are essential for taking out enemy tanks. They’re a bit slow, so use them wisely.
Armored Techs are your defensive tanks. They can absorb and block a lot of damage.

Understanding who does what will make a big difference in your strategy.

2. Mix Up Your Team

Don’t rely entirely on one unit type. A balanced squad that includes Scouts to recon, Shocktroopers to fight, and Engineers to support can handle most situations. Experiment with different configurations to find what works best for you.

3. Use Cover and Terrain

Always make use of cover whenever possible. Hide behind sandbags, walls, and other obstacles to protect your soldiers from enemy fire. The terrain can affect movement and visibility, so use bushes and high ground to your advantage.

Also, remember that enemies can use cover too! Position your troops smartly to counteract their defenses.

4. Utilize Command Points Wisely

Command Points (CP) are a vital resource. Each turn, you have a limited amount of CP to move your units and attack. It's tempting to use all your CP on a single powerful unit, but spreading them out and keeping your team coordinated is usually a better strategy.

5. Save Often

The battlefield can be unpredictable. Save your game regularly so you can reload if things go south. It's better to be safe than sorry, especially before making risky moves.

6. Upgrade and Customize

As you progress, you'll earn experience and resources to upgrade your weapons and units. Don’t forget to visit the R&D (Research & Development) department often to equip your squad with better gear. Customizing your squad’s equipment can give you a significant edge in battles.

7. Manage Your Resources

Always keep an eye on your resources. Supplies like grenades and ammo are limited, so don’t waste them on unnecessary actions. Use them when you absolutely need to gain an advantage or take out tough enemies.

8. Pay Attention to Orders

Your character, Avan, can issue Orders to units, giving them buffs like increased defense or extra firepower. Orders can turn the tide of battle, so use them strategically. Learn when and how to issue orders for maximum effectiveness.

9. Explore and Engage in Free Missions

Before tackling major story missions, engage in free missions to level up and gain more experience. These missions help you practice and improve your strategy. It’s also a good way to get better equipment and stronger units without the pressure of the main storyline.

10. Have Fun and Experiment

Finally, remember that this is a game - have fun! Don’t be afraid to try new strategies and see what happens. You’ll learn more by experimenting and enjoying the process.

With these tips in your arsenal, you're ready to take on the challenges of Valkyria Chronicles II. Good luck out there, and happy commanding!