In the world of video games, the Army of Two franchise has carved a unique niche, offering an intense and tactical cooperative experience. The series, known for its emphasis on teamwork and strategic gameplay, reached new heights with the release of Army of Two: Cartel. This installment takes players on a thrilling journey through a dangerous and intricate criminal underworld, demanding not only brute force but also clever tactics and coordination. This comprehensive strategy guide aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the game, offering insights, tips, and strategies to help players navigate the challenging world of Army of Two: Cartel.
Understanding the Cartel: Story and Setting
Army of Two: Cartel is set in a contemporary urban environment, where a powerful and ruthless drug cartel has taken control, imposing its brutal rule. The story follows the iconic duo, Salem and Rios, as they infiltrate the cartel’s ranks, using their skills and strategic mindset to disrupt and dismantle the organization from within. The game’s narrative is rich and layered, providing a compelling backdrop for the intense firefights and tactical decisions that players will encounter.
The Cartel’s Hierarchy and Weaknesses
At the top of the cartel’s structure is the elusive El Jefe, the mastermind behind the organization’s operations. Below him are the Capos, regional leaders who oversee the cartel’s activities in specific areas. These Capos command the Soldados, the foot soldiers of the cartel, who are often heavily armed and trained in guerilla warfare tactics. Understanding this hierarchy is crucial, as it reveals potential vulnerabilities and strategic opportunities for infiltration and disruption.
Intelligence and Stealth: The Key to Success
In Army of Two: Cartel, intelligence gathering and stealth play a pivotal role. Before engaging in direct combat, it’s essential to gather information about the cartel’s operations, troop movements, and potential weak points. This can be achieved through various means, such as interrogating captured enemies, analyzing intelligence reports, or even eavesdropping on cartel communications.
| Intelligence Source | Information Yield |
|---|---|
| Interrogations | Location of key targets, troop movements, and potential ambush sites. |
| Intelligence Reports | Details on cartel operations, including weapons stockpiles and safe houses. |
| Eavesdropping | Real-time updates on enemy plans and potential escape routes. |
Tactical Firefighting: Mastery of Combat
Army of Two: Cartel offers an intense and dynamic combat experience, requiring players to master a range of tactical skills. The game’s combat is designed to reward teamwork and strategic thinking, making it crucial for players to understand their role within the duo and adapt their tactics accordingly.
Weapon Proficiency and Customization
Weapons in Army of Two: Cartel are diverse and powerful, ranging from assault rifles and shotguns to sniper rifles and explosive devices. Each weapon has its strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these nuances is key to effective combat. For instance, a sniper rifle may be ideal for long-range engagements, while a shotgun excels in close-quarters combat.
Weapon customization is a significant aspect of the game, allowing players to modify their firearms to suit their playstyle and mission requirements. This includes attachments such as scopes, suppressors, and extended magazines, each offering unique advantages.
| Weapon | Strengths | Ideal Situations |
|---|---|---|
| Assault Rifle | High rate of fire, good accuracy, and moderate damage. | Mid-range engagements and suppressing enemy fire. |
| Shotgun | Devastating close-range damage and quick reloads. | Room clearing and up-close encounters. |
| Sniper Rifle | Exceptional long-range accuracy and one-shot kills. | Sniper positions and taking out high-value targets. |
Cooperative Tactics: Overkill and Breach
The true strength of Army of Two: Cartel lies in its cooperative gameplay, where the dynamic between Salem and Rios becomes a powerful tool. The game introduces two signature cooperative tactics: Overkill and Breach.
Overkill: This tactic allows players to combine their firepower, delivering a devastating synchronized attack. By coordinating their actions, Salem and Rios can unleash a deadly barrage of bullets, taking out multiple enemies in a single, well-timed burst.
Breach: Breach is a strategic maneuver where one player creates an opening (e.g., by shooting a lock) while the other provides covering fire. This tactic is particularly useful for accessing secure areas or neutralizing heavily fortified positions.
Infiltration and Disruption: Mission Strategies
Army of Two: Cartel presents a series of challenging missions, each with its unique objectives and potential pitfalls. Understanding the mission objectives and adapting strategies accordingly is crucial for success.
Urban Warfare: Navigating the City
Many missions in Army of Two: Cartel take place in densely populated urban environments, where cover is abundant but so are potential enemies. Navigating these areas requires a careful balance of speed and stealth. Players should aim to utilize the environment to their advantage, using buildings, vehicles, and other objects as cover while advancing towards their objectives.
Hostage Situations: Precision and Communication
Certain missions involve rescuing hostages, a delicate operation that requires precision and coordination. It’s crucial to approach these situations with caution, using stealth to identify the hostage’s location and the enemies guarding them. Communication is key; players must work together to neutralize the threat without harming the hostages.
Vehicle Pursuits: Mobile Combat
Some missions involve high-speed vehicle pursuits, where players must engage enemies on the move. These situations demand quick thinking and accurate shooting. Players should aim to utilize their vehicle’s advantages, such as speed or firepower, while also being prepared to adapt their tactics if the pursuit takes an unexpected turn.
Upgrading and Progression: Building Your Arsenal
As players progress through Army of Two: Cartel, they earn experience points and currency, which can be used to upgrade their weapons and gear. This progression system is designed to reward players for their skill and strategic thinking, allowing them to customize their loadout to suit their preferred playstyle.
Weapon Upgrades: Enhancing Performance
Weapons can be upgraded in various ways, such as increasing their damage output, rate of fire, or accuracy. Players should consider their playstyle and the mission’s requirements when deciding on upgrades. For instance, a player who prefers a more aggressive, close-quarters approach may opt for upgrades that enhance their weapon’s damage and rate of fire.
Gear and Abilities: Tactical Advantages
In addition to weapon upgrades, players can also unlock new gear and abilities, offering unique tactical advantages. This could include items such as advanced body armor, night vision goggles, or even special grenades. These additions can significantly impact a player’s performance, allowing them to adapt to a wider range of situations.
Conclusion: Mastering the Cartel
Army of Two: Cartel presents a challenging and immersive cooperative experience, demanding strategic thinking and precise execution. By understanding the cartel’s structure, mastering combat tactics, and adapting to the game’s diverse mission types, players can emerge victorious. The game’s emphasis on teamwork and tactical decision-making makes it a unique and engaging experience, offering a fresh challenge for both solo players and cooperative duos.
What is the ideal class setup for a stealthy approach in Army of Two: Cartel?
+For a stealth-focused approach, players should consider a class setup that emphasizes stealth and intelligence. This could include abilities such as enhanced movement speed, increased stealth, and improved interrogation skills. Additionally, weapons with suppressors and night vision gear can be invaluable for stealth missions.
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<h3>How can players effectively coordinate Overkill and Breach tactics in Army of Two: Cartel?</h3>
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<p>Effective coordination of Overkill and Breach tactics requires clear communication and precise timing. Players should establish a clear signal system, such as a specific voice command or a visual cue, to indicate when they are ready to execute these tactics. Regular practice and understanding each other's playstyle can lead to seamless coordination.</p>
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<h3>What are some advanced combat strategies for taking down heavily fortified positions in Army of Two: Cartel?</h3>
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<p>Taking down heavily fortified positions requires a combination of precision, teamwork, and strategic thinking. Players can utilize Breach tactics to create openings, while also employing suppressive fire to keep enemies at bay. Additionally, using explosives or heavy weaponry can be effective against reinforced positions.</p>
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