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Xeno Quickstart Guide: Difference between revisions

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So you've just joined for the first time as a Xenomorph? No idea what your doing? This [https://tgstation13.org/wiki/Starter_guide Starter Guide to Space Station 13] is pretty good as an introduction to the interface! Otherwise, let this guide get you up to scratch!
So you've just joined for the first time as a Xenomorph? No idea what you are doing? This [[Space Station 13 Guide]] is pretty good as an introduction to the interface! Otherwise, let this guide get you up to scratch! If you have any questions, we have an '''inbuilt mentor questions system''' made specifically so you can ask for help in game. Just press '''F1''' and click the '''(Gameplay Mechanics/ Mentorhelp)''' option and one of the server's mentors will be happy to help you. We also have an ever expanding '''ingame Tutorial'''. Just join the server and you will be abel to enter it from the Lobby screen.
 
As a foreword, rounds on this server may last between two to three hours! Make sure you have the time commitment to sit a full round.


As a foreword, rounds on this server usually last between two to three hours! Make sure you have the time commitment to sit a full round.


= The Rules =
= The Rules =
While it's not fair to shove the rules down your throat, Aliens: CM is a roleplay focused server and as such has an extensive list of [http://colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=57&t=5094 Rules]. It's highly recommended you spend some time reading the rules to ensure you don't accidently break any. Thank you.
While it's not fair to shove the rules down your throat, CM-SS13 is a roleplay focused server and as such has an extensive list of [[Rules]]. It's highly recommended you spend some time reading the rules to ensure you don't accidentally break any. Ignorance of the rules is not an excuse. Thank you.
 
= How to join the Hive =
=== Join at roundstart ===
In the lobby screen, open the [[Space_Station_13_Guide#Getting_Started|Setup Character]] window, Go to '''Setup Character''' -> '''Set Role Preferences''', set xenomorph to '''[HIGH]''' and click the bottom option until it's '''Return to lobby if preference unavailable'''.
 
 
=== Late join ===
After the round has started, click '''Join the Hive''' you can take up any SSD Xenos or pooled larva. If there is no xeno you can take up, click '''Observe''' to spawn as a ghost. Once you are a ghost, click '''Toggle SpecialRole Candidacy''' in the '''Preferences''' tab, then turn on Xeno preference, you will get this message: ''You will now be considered for Xenomorph events (where possible)''. You can also click '''Join as Xeno''' in the '''Ghost''' tab to see if there is an SSD (i.e., away from keyboard) Xeno you can occupy (that's why ghosting is more preferable than simply closing the game if you need to go, as ghosting will free up the xeno immediately instead of freeing up after the AFK timer), or a pooled larva available.
 
= Who Orders Who =
[[File:Evolution.png|thumb]]There are four tiers of aliens. Not every player can evolve to the top, because the spots are limited at each tier. The [[Queen]] is at the top who runs the Hive. The third tiers (T3) are the [[Boiler]], [[Crusher]], [[Praetorian]] and [[Ravager]]. These are comparable to Marine officers. Look to them for leadership. The second tiers (T2) are the [[Carrier]], [[Burrower]], [[Hivelord]], [[Lurker]], [[Warrior]] and [[Spitter]]. These are advanced versions of the bottom tier aliens. The [[Drone]], [[Runner]], [[Sentinel]], and [[Defender]] are the first tier (T1) and make up the meat and potatoes of the Hive. If it's your first game, avoid evolving past the first tier unless it's necessary for the Hive. Allow more experienced players to take these more complicated roles.
 
 
'''You should obey any orders given to you by your Queen or Hive Leaders. It is a hive mind, and you have no free will.''' The only exception is if you are given orders that violate the rules. (Should you be given orders that would break the rules then you should contact the admins by ahelping, F1 -> gameplay issue.) If an alien that outranks you asks for something, try to do it. Assisting experienced players is a great way to learn the game.
 
 
== Communication ==
[[File:Say_window.png|thumb|''F3 or T to talk'']]Communication is essential! Use '''F3''', '''T''' (in [[Space_Station_13_Guide#Hotkeys|hotkey mode]]), or the chat box at the bottom of the screen (you need to type '''Say''' before your message if you use the chat box at the bottom).
* You can talk to any alien in your local area, aka with your field of vision (You cannot talk through walls. If you can't see the terrain they are on, they can't hear you).
* Type ''';''' before your message to talk to the whole Hive. (e.g. ''; There are multiple tallhosts in Medbay.'')
* Click the '''LOOC''' verb in the OOC section to talk in local out of character (LOOC) to ask questions about the game and how to do things. e.g. ''How to devour?''


= [[Larva]] =
[[File:Alien-Larva.png|thumb]][[File:Queen_indicator.png|thumb]]As you spawn as a chestburster or Larva, you're very weak and should avoid conflict. If you wake up inside the Hive, stay there! If you wake up outside the Hive, follow the Queen indicator on the right side of your screen to find the Queen.'''You can Alt Click the Queen indicator to select a leader marker, a hivecore marker, or a tunnel marker as well'''. If you join late in a round, you may wake up in strange places, don't panic and use your survival skills to escape from danger, '''clicking on doors''' to squeeze through them, '''crawl into vents''' (in the '''Alien''' tab, or alt-clicking them) and the '''hide''' ability which will make you hidden below tables, items and such, then ask the Queen for further commands.


= Character Setup =
For the most part this part is simple, you'll create your character on the setup character page. If you want to play Xenomorphs, check the box that says you're interested in alien roles. Otherwise, as an alien, it won't really matter what your character looks like. As part of an alien Hive, you'll be assigned a number. Welcome to the machine. Click the [Join the Hive!] button and you should be in.


Wait until the '''Progress''' in the '''Stats''' tab reaches 60/60, then click the '''Evolve''' in the '''Alien''' tab. Since you are new, you may want to ask the Queen what you should evolve into (or just check '''Hive Status''' in the '''Alien''' tab and evolve into the fewest caste among [[Drone]], [[Runner]], [[Sentinel]] or [[Defender]]).


= Your First Game =
= Larva Evolutions =
For your first run, try and join a round before it starts. It's no big deal to join in the middle, but starting a round will ensure you aren't born into a difficult or deadly situation.


== The Tabs ==
Let us introduce to you what you are seeing, starting from the tabs located in the upper right corner:
* Text: Shows game log all the way up.
* Info: Opens the info-section with in-game tabs.
* Wiki: Opens the game wiki in your internet browser.
* Forum: Opens the game discussion forum in your internet browser.
* Rules: Opens the rules.
* Changelog: Opens the changelog.


== The In-Game Tabs ==
[[File:Alien-Drone.png|thumb]]<big>'''[[Drone|Drones]]'''</big> are very important supporting players, but not in combat roles.  Drones have two primary functions. The first is building walls, doors, nests, and resin to create and protect the Hive. The second is planting as many weeds as possible to expand the Hive. You can't go too wrong if you're planting weeds! All aliens are more robust on weeds. Read more about [http://cm-ss13.com/wiki/Hives Hives].
* Status: Lists various points of interest such as orders from the Queen and your current status.
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
* Admin: The first option in this tab, 'Adminhelp', is something that should always be remembered, adminhelp sends a direct message for questions pertaining gameplay. 'Adminwho', gives a list of in-game admins.
! width=150|Abilities:
* Alien: Special alien actions.
! Description:
* IC: Gives a list of In-Character actions that can be done at the moment.
|-
* OOC: Gives a list of Out-Of-Character actions, which are anything outside of the current game.
![[File:Plant purple sac.png]]<br>Plant Resin Node
* Preferences: Gives a list of toggleable out-of-character settings.
|Can't be planted if there is already a node on the tile or if it's on unsuitable ground to plant it on. An example would be grass or water.


== The HUD ==
There should be three indicators on the right hand side of your screen. The top circle shows your plasma storage. This is the bank of energy that allows alien players to take special actions. The middle circle is a compass that will always point in the direction of the [[Queen]]. If she's on a different Z-level from you, it will show up as a dot in the middle. The bottom circle is your health. It will drop as you get hurt, show if you're in critical condition, and let you know if you've kicked the bucket.


== The Buttons ==
Costs 75 plasma.
The bottom of the screen has two buttons for your claws/hands. There's a [Resist] button to free yourself if you've been restrained. There's a button that changes your movement speed, but there may be no reason to change it from Hunt. There's a button that changes your intent. There are four intents: Help, Disarm, Grab, Harm. These are very important for interacting. If you attack marines with your Help intent active, you're gonna have a bad time. Another indicator shows your body target. This is the part of the body you'll attempt to interact with when you click on another player, marine or alien. There's a button for dropping things from your hands and another button for throwing them.
|-
![[File:Build select.png]]<br>Choose Resin Structure
|Click to choose what resin structure to make. The default structure is a Resin Wall.
|-
![[File:Secrete Resin.png]]<br>Secrete Resin
|Secrete the chosen Resin Structure on your tile.


== How to Communicate ==
Communication is very important! Use the box at the bottom of the screen. There are several methods, but just know three for now:


(1) Use the hivemind to talk to the whole Hive. Examples:
Costs 75 plasma.
* Say ":a I live!!!"
|-
* Say ":a There are multiple tallhosts in Medbay."
![[File:Corrosive acid.png]]<br>Corrosive Acid
* Say ":a We are under attack from the south!"
|Vomit a glob of acid on an item to dissolve it. Multiple items can be clicked at once as long as you are standing still.


(2) Talk to any alien around you on the map. Examples:
* Say "Please lay more eggs, your Highness."
* Say "Follow me."
* Say "What should I do?"


(3) Talk in local out of character (LOOC) to ask questions about the game and how to do things. You can toggle LOOC chat in the menus if it's distracting. Examples:
Costs 75 plasma.
* LOOC "How do I upgrade? How do I do X?"
|-
* LOOC "Why is there so much lag?"
![[File:Emit pheromones.png]]<br>Emit Pheromones
* LOOC "Did you see the touchdown in the Seahawks game?"
|Emit one of the three [[Pheromones]]. It is advised to emit the pheromone that is not already getting emitted, as pheromones don't stack.
|}


== The Alien Life Cycle ==
Xenomorphs are essentially [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parasitoid_wasp#Parasitism parasitic insects]. A Hive has only one Queen. The Queen lays eggs. The eggs mature after several minutes. Mature eggs contain a larval facehugger. The facehugger stays in the egg until disturbed. The facehugger can be grabbed by an adult alien (click the mature egg, then click the facehugger) or the hugger will attempt to attach itself to any host that gets close. The facehugger infects a host by implanting a larva inside its host. Because larvae require time to mature, the Xenomorph Hive will guard infected hosts and secure them into nests to prevent escape. Once mature, the young adults burst out of the host. They are colloquially called chestbursters and Larva may be a misnomer. This kills the host. Chestbursters are extremely weak at first, but given time can evolve and mature into several much stronger forms.


== Waking Up ==
----
You'll usually wake up as a chestburster or Larva. Yes, you're an evil-looking snake-lizard-thingy, but you're basically a baby. You're very weak and should avoid conflict. You want to slaughter, not get slaughtered. '''Your first priority is to evolve into something bigger.''' So get out of danger and stay alive. If you wake up inside the Hive, stay there! If you wake up outside the Hive, there's a circular indicator on the right side of your screen that always points at the Queen. She's probably at the Hive, so go there. If she's outside the Hive, you may want to ask where she wants you to go. If you join late in a round, you may wake up in strange places. '''Remember that your first priority is to stay safe and evolve into something bigger.''' Please don't go awesoming around the map by yourself.


Click the [STATUS] button on the right side of your display. As a larva, you can evolve when both your indicators are at 100%. Xenos cannot evolve without an active Queen. Stay safe until these indicators reach the top. When they do, click the [ALIEN] button on the right part of your screen and click <code> evolve </code>. Many players ask the Queen what they should evolve into, but you'll have the final decision of [[Drone]], [[Sentinel]], or [[Runner]]. Check the next section for details.


[[File:Alien-Runner.png|thumb]]<big>'''[[Runner|Runners]]'''</big> are the Hive's scouts. You're very weak at first, so don't rush out at any enemies. It's easy to tell inexperienced Runners because they tend to die quickly. Don't let that happen to you. Think of yourself as a ninja. Speed and cunning are your weapons, not brute strength. Your primary role is to scout around the Hive, identify any threats or possible hosts, and report back to the Hive. Stay in the dark. Communicate with the hive constantly. At the beginning of the round, Runners are expected to quickly bring back hosts like monkeys, etc., to the Hive to be infected.
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
! width=150|Abilities:
! Description:
|-
![[File:Hide.png]]<br>Hide
|Hide under objects. Pouncing will cancel your Hiding.
|-
![[File:Pounce.png]]<br>Pounce
|Pounce at a target, forcing the victim on the ground and drop their weapons. Though one can quickly get up from a Runner's pounce, so some Runners tend to tackle the victim as follow up.
|-
![[File:Bone_Spur.png]]<br>Bone Spur
|Fire a blast of bone chips at your target. A limited range, perfectly accurate skillshot that slows the target for 6 seconds.


= Who Orders Who =
Take a look at the [http://www.colonial-marines.com/wiki/File:Evolution.png Alien Evolution Chart]. There are four tiers of aliens. Not every player can evolve to the top, because there are only so many spots available at each tier. The Queen is at the top. She runs the Hive. The third tier (frequently called T3) are the Carrier, Hivelord, Ravager, Crusher, Boiler, and Praetorian. These are comparable to Marine officers. Look to them for leadership. The second tier (frequently called T2) are the Hunter and Spitter. These are advanced versions of the bottom tier aliens.  The Drones, Runners, and Sentinels are the first tier and make up the meat and potatoes of the Hive. If it's your first game, avoid evolving past the first tier unless it's necessary for the Hive.  Allow more experienced players to take these more complicated roles.


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/wiki/Drone Drones] are very important supporting players, but not in combat roles. It makes an excellent choice for your first game. Drones have two primary functions. The first is building walls, doors, nests, and resin to create and protect the Hive. The second is planting as many weeds as possible to expand the Hive. You can't go too wrong if you're planting weeds! All aliens are more robust on weeds. Read more about [http://www.colonial-marines.com/wiki/Hives Hives].
Costs 30 Plasma, cooldown: 13 seconds.
|-
![[File:Toggle_Long_Range_Sight.png]]<br>Toggle Long Range Sight
|[[File:Stretch_to_fit.png|thumb|Use "Stretch to fit" to minimize the hassle of changing icon size when zooming in/out.]]Toggles long range sight in the direction you're facing.
<br>
Costs 20 plasma.
|}
 
 
----
 
 
[[File:Alien-Sentinel.png|thumb]]<big>'''[[Sentinel|Sentinels]]'''</big> are the tier 1 of ranged caste, You can spit weak neurotoxin which will at first slow hosts and if hit enough times will cause them to be knocked out. '''The sentinel also makes an excellent choice for your first game due to its simplistic abilities and moderate health pool.'''
 
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
! width=150|Abilities:
! Description:
|-
![[File:Corrosive acid.png]]<br>Corrosive Acid
|Vomit a glob of acid on item to dissolve it. Multiple items can be clicked at once as long as you are standing still.
 
 
Costs 75 plasma.
|-
![[File:Xeno_Spit.png]]<br>Slowing Spit
|Use middle mouse button to spit a glob of slowing neurotoxin to stun hosts.
 
Cooldown: 1.5 seconds.
|-
![[File:Acid_Shotgun.png]]<br>Scattered Spit
|Use middle mouse button to spit globs of paralyzing neurotoxin, Knocking down hosts hit for 0.7 seconds.
 
Cooldown: 8 seconds.
|-
![[File:Crippling-Strike.png]]<br>Paralyzing Slash
|Empowers you next attack to inject neurotoxin into the host, Dazing them for 4 seconds and immediately after knocking them down helpless for 2 seconds.
 
Cooldown: 12 seconds.
|}


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/wiki/Sentinel Sentinels] are the primary defenders of the Hive. This includes defending the Queen. The other primary duty is making sure that no captured hosts escape to wreck the Hive. The ability to spit neurotoxin really helps. Unless the Queen says so, you should remain inside or around the Hive at all times. If live hosts are nested, you should remain close by to stop them from escaping. At the beginning of the round, you should be guarding the Hive and shepherding any hosts.


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/wiki/Runner Runners] are the Hive's scouts. You're very weak at first, so don't rush out at any enemies. It's easy to tell inexperienced Runners because they tend to die quickly. Don't let that happen to you. Think of yourself as a ninja. Speed and cunning are your weapons, not brute strength. Your primary role is to scout around the Hive, identify any threats or possible hosts, and report back to the Hive. Stay in the dark. Communicate lots. At the beginning of the round, Runners are expected to quickly bring back hosts like monkeys, etc., to the Hive to be infected.
----


You should obey any orders given to you by your Queen. It is a hive mind and you have no free will. The only exception is if you are given orders that violate the rules. (Should you be given orders that would violate the rules then you should contact the admins.) If an alien that outranks you asks for something, try to do it. Assisting experienced players is a great way to learn the game.


[[File:Defender.png|thumb]]<big>'''[[Defender|Defenders]]'''</big> are as the name implies meant to defend the hive and support it's members when they are in need. This means using your tailsweep ability to knock back marines from an injured sister or covering their retreat by taking the damage for them. At the beginning of the round, you should be guarding the hive and making sure your fellow sisters are safe.
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible"
! width=150|Abilities:
! |Description:
|-
|[[File:Headbutt.png]]
'''Headbutt'''
|Headbutts into the designated target causing them to be thrown one tile. Use middle mouse button to toggle.


= Upgrading =
Check your [STATUS] button on the right hand side. You can either <code>upgrade</code> or <code>evolve</code> when both meters are at 100%. Keep an eye on your status and watch for messages hinting that you're ready to upgrade. When it's time, click <code>upgrade</code> and you'll advance in rank from "Young" to "Mature". Your strength and abilities get better every time you upgrade. Check your [STATUS] again and upgrade when you can. Because of upgrades, the Hive gets '''much''' stronger as time progresses. You're an investment for the Hive and it's strategically very important to stay alive.
If you're new, please avoid the <code>evolve</code> button and let more experienced players play the more advanced Xenos. Crawl before you run.


Costs 10 plasma.
|-
|[[File:Tailsweep.png]]
'''Tail Sweep'''
| A spinning action that causes all marines within a one tile range to have a chance to be knocked down or thrown one tile.


= Alien Abilities =
There are others, but you should especially be aware of these. You can find them under the [ALIEN] tab on the right hand side:
'''For All Aliens:'''
* <code>toggle darkvision</code> - Arguably should have its own HUD button. Aliens can see in the dark. Marines don't. Use this frequently to check where the Marines can't see. It's hard to shoot something you can't see or find. It's also hard to defend against something attacking out of the darkness.
* <code>check hive status</code> - Provides a count and list of all aliens. Check the strength of the Hive and know which direction to evolve.
[[Drone]]
* <code>secrete resin</code> - Calls a sub-menu for building walls, doors, membranes, nests, and sticky resin.
* <code>plant weeds</code> - Plants weeds.
* <code>secrete pheromones</code> - Calls a sub-menu for helping nearby aliens. Frenzy is offensive, Guard is defensive, and Recovery is healing.
[[Sentinel]]
* <code>spit neurotoxin</code> - Missile weapon that stuns hosts.
* <code>corrosive acid</code> - Calls a sub-menu to melt nearby items. Xenomorphs hate metal. Melt everything useful to the Marines.
[[Runner]]
* <code>pounce</code> - Quick jumps several squares. Can be used with the middle mouse button or with a sub-menu. Offensively, can tackle and stun Marines. Defensively, can quickly dodge metal spitters. It takes time to recharge after use.
* <code>hide</code> - Your character is normally drawn in front of any graphics like tables or boxes. When you hide, your character will be '''behind''' those graphics. Bigger things are better. Marines may not notice you. Use this ability offensively or defensively. Toggle it off if attacked, because you may be more susceptible to attacks once you're discovered.
* <code>toggle darkvision</code> - So important for Runners, it's listed again. Stay in the dark until you're ready.


Costs 10 plasma.
|-
|[[File:Toggle_Crest_Defence.png]]
'''Toggle Crest Defence'''
|By lowering its crest, the defender caste becomes more resistant to projectile damage. A lowered crest will cause a small slowdown while toggled on.
|-
|[[File:Fortify.png]]
'''Fortify'''
|When activated the defender becomes extremely resistant to projectile weapons and additionally immobile while in this hunkered downstate.
|}


= Combat =
= Combat =
At the beginning of a game, the Hive is desperate for hosts to infect. The Queen will issue a standing order forbidding the slashing of hosts. While this order is in place, all aliens will do significantly less damage in combat. You might want to avoid conflict, but you can still tackle and hold hosts with your Disarm/Grab intents to try and move them to the Hive. At some point, the Queen will allow the slashing of hosts and your combat power will improve significantly. Check this order with the [STATUS] button.
== Slashing forbidden/restricted/permitted ==
At the beginning of the round, the Hive is desperate for hosts to infect. The Queen may issue a standing order forbidding the slashing of hosts. While this order is in place, slashing is forbidden or restricted to only when you are hurt. You might want to avoid conflict, but you can still tackle and drag hosts with your {{Intent|Disarm}} and {{Intent|Grab}} intents to try and move them to the Hive. At some point, the Queen will allow the slashing of hosts and your combat power will improve significantly. Check this order in the '''Stats''' tab. As the Queen permitted slashing, use {{Intent|Harm}} intent to slash. You can target different body parts [[File:Hud-target.png]]. In general, target unarmored areas to inflict more damage (all armor protects the groin and protects it the same amount as it does the chest).


First tier Xenomorphs have four primary methods of damaging Marines:
== Capturing Hosts ==
* Claws - With Harm intent active, click on a host when you're adjacent or sharing a spot.
While Xenos slash to wound and kill, the main goal is to weaken the hosts enough without killing them so they can be infected and give birth to new larvae.
* Facehuggers - Hold a facehugger with your active hand. With Harm intent active, click on a host when you're adjacent or sharing a spot. If it's not wearing a helmet, the hugger should attach. Otherwise, the hugger will try to break the helmet. You have two hands and can use two facehuggers if you click quickly.
* Tail - Xenomorphs have a powerful tail. Ready it by clicking the button at the bottom of the screen or using the <code>ready tail attack</code> button on the right side under [ALIEN] special powers. When you use your claws, you'll also use your tail. Readying this attack drains plasma.
* Spitting - Sentinels can spit neurotoxin to stun hosts from afar, and the more evolved Spitters can spit burning acid.  


Can you torture Marines in different ways by targeting different parts of their bodies? Try and see! Be entertained by the screams while you experiment!
== Body Block ==
Body block is the act of blocking another xenomorph from moving to the direction they're trying to go, Intentionally or not. This usually happens when playing a large xenomorph (Tier 3s, Carrier, Hive-lord etc.) due to it being impossible to push them. '''Xenomorph leaders however can use disarm intent  to knock down a fellow xeno and escape being bodyblocked.''' This is important all of the time but especially during combat since it can be a matter of life and death. Be careful, Try to understand where your fellow sisters are trying to go and move out of the way!


=How To Infect Hosts=
=== Drag ===
One of the Hive's most important duties is reproduction. The [http://www.colonial-marines.com/wiki/Xeno_Quickstart_Guide#The_Alien_Life_Cycle Alien life cycle] is complicated.
There are primarily two ways of moving hosts, dragging them or devouring them. To drag, you can:
* Ctrl + Click the host, you don't need to switch to the empty hand with this method.
* Click with an '''empty''' hand using {{Intent|Grab}} intent ({{Key press|3}} in [[Space_Station_13_Guide#Hotkeys|hotkey mode]])
* Right Click -> Pull.
You can switch to an '''empty''' hand ({{Key press|X}} in [[Space_Station_13_Guide#Hotkeys|hotkey mode]]) and tackle the host with {{Intent|Disarm}} intent ({{Key press|2}} in [[Space_Station_13_Guide#Hotkeys|hotkey mode]]) to keep them down. However, dragging is slow (except for Runner) and you can't drag hosts into tunnels and vents (to bypass fog wall/terrain/marine force), you need to have the host devoured to do that. Note that you can only moved devoured marines through tunnels and not vents.


==Eggs==
=== Devour ===
The Queen should lay as many eggs as possible. Eggs have several functions. First, egg fields are basically minefields. If hosts run near eggs without clearing them out, they'll get hugged and infected. The Queen should lay eggs in important defensive positions. Second, eggs provide ammunition for the Hive. Aliens, especially Carriers, will grab facehuggers and fling them at hosts. More eggs means more ammo. Third, eggs are necessary for infecting captured hosts.
{{Devour}}


==Using Facehuggers==
Hosts can get hugged actively or passively. Hosts walking through mature egg fields will get attacked by facehuggers and infected. Or, aliens can fling facehuggers at hosts to actively cause an infection. A helmet can stop one or more facehugger attacks, so be ready to attack with more than one. Once attached, a facehugger will stun its host. Once a host is infected, the aliens will become aware of any baby sister inside through an icon. The icon gets bigger as it matures.


==Moving Hosts==
=== When to kill or capture ===
A host can be dragged to a new location by ctrl-clicking on the host. Certain aliens can also devour a host (click the host with grab intent active and then click yourself) and regurgitate it (use the <code>regurgitate</code> button in the [ALIEN] tab) after carrying it to a nest. Carrying it inside is faster. A devoured host will die at some point between 15 and 30 seconds inside an alien, so be careful holding them too long.
Kill when you cannot capture. E.g., His buddy will shoot you to pieces if you drag him/standstill to devour. Capture when it's safe to do so. E.g., the host is alone and tackled, simply unarmed, or you are sure you can drag the host away from his buddies before they shoot you to pieces.


==Securing Hosts==
== Fighting techniques ==
It may not be necessary to secure small hosts (like monkeys) into a nest. These hosts are not dangerous and the young chestburster may still grow and develop. Still, a clean Hive is a happy Hive.
[[File:Tackle_engage_two_hosts.gif|frame|right|''Use tackle (and surprise) to overpower hosts'']]
=== Tackling ===
Tackling with {{Intent|Disarm}} intent ({{Key press|2}}) is very powerful as it forces the victim onto the floor for a period of time. Disabling their attack and escape, allowing you to devour or slash.


Dangerous hosts (like Marines) should be secured into a nest. Otherwise, they'll run or shoot up the Hive. This is '''very''' bad. A Drone, Hivelord, or Queen should set up nests for dangerous hosts using the <code>secrete resin</code> function. These nests should be in a secure location, away from the center of the Hive, and away from any young chestbursters. Move the host to the nest. Then click the host and drag it onto the nest. A Drone, Hivelord, or Queen should then use the <code>secure host</code> button to restrain the host with resin handcuffs. This takes several seconds and can be interrupted. Beware, dangerous hosts can and will escape the resin cuffs. Be ready to secure these hosts again if they're re-captured after escape.


Injured hosts are less dangerous. But injure them too much and they'll die before their time. Should hosts be injured just enough to make it impossible for them to escape? Maybe rip off their hands or feet?
=== Drag and slash ===
Much like you can tackle with another hand when devouring, you can slash with another hand when dragging. First, drag the host, switch to an '''empty''' hand ({{Key press|X}}) and slash them using {{Intent|Harm}} intent ({{Key press|4}}). If you are chased, pounce away (Runner) or simply switch back to the dragging hand and drop them ({{Key press|Q}}).


==Guarding Hosts==
At least one [[Sentinel]], [[Spitter]], or [[Praetorian]] should guard these hosts until their usefulness ends. The <code>spit neurotoxin</code> function is made for this because it stuns the host until they can be placed back in a nest and secured. Hosts can also be tackled by clicking on them with Disarm intent. This stuns the host.


The area surrounding these nests should be constructed to provide maximum safety. A checkerboard pattern is regularly used. See [http://www.colonial-marines.com/wiki/Drone Drone Tactics]. Place a single door, and put four nests adjacent to it. (Above, Below, Left, & Right). Then surround those nests with doors. This allows Sentinel castes to guard all four nests by standing in that initial door. There are other effective methods, including building nests next to solid walls or walling off small rooms full of nests with only one exit.
=== Avoid being hit ===
[[File:Walk_slash2.gif|frame|right]]Avoid charging/retreating in a straight line, instead, take turns, change lanes or even circle so that you are unpredictable. When slashing a downed marine, keep moving around the marine or left and right (or up and down) to dodge.


==After Birth==
== Fight on your terms ==
Listen to the screams and celebrate the birth! Prepare the nest for another host. Move any unconscious chestbursters to a nursery. This should be located in the most secure part of the Hive.
=== Fight on weeds ===
Aliens heal and regenerate plasma when being on weeds, and heal much faster while resting on weeds, downed Xenos will bleed out if not on weeds. Weeds also buff Xeno's speed slightly while slows down tall hosts slightly so try to fight on weeds. Request Drones to weed/re weed if needed.




= Tips =
=== Cover of darkness ===
* Plant Weeds often to spread weeds as far as possible. Plasma is the life force of the xenomorph.
[[File:Xeno_Toggle_night_vision.png|thumb]] Use '''Toggle Xenomorph Vision''' to toggle on and off your ability to see in the dark, and see where is lit and where isn't, allowing you to stay in the dark and ambush.
* Aliens only heal when standing on weeds, and some castes will die slowly if they've been off of it for too long or knocked unconscious.
* Break lights and APCs to deny lights (slash to the APC to [[File:APC_Broken.png|32px]] then '''one more slash''' to cut the wires, you will see <span style="color: red;">'''APC's wires snap apart in a rain of sparks!'''</span>)
* If you are injured, you will regenerate plasma at a much slower rate.
* Melt flares[[File:Flare.gif]]
* Live to fight again. Fall back to weeds when wounded. Heal up before re-joining a battle.
* Slash lights[[File:Light.png]]
* Aliens do not need to breathe. You can traverse open (and oxygenated)  space without permanent damage.
* Disable typing speech bubble to avoid revealing yourself in the dark ('''Preference''' -> '''Show/Hide Typing Indicator''')
* As a Queen, there is no greater advantage you can give your brood than to plant as many eggs as possible. Not only is it an excellent defence, but a powerful weapon when your sisters have access to facehuggers to immobilize their prey.
* Remember you are in a hivemind, you have no free will.


=== Make use of vents ===
Stand near a vent then click '''Crawl into Vent''' in the '''Alien''' tab or alt+click the vent (you can bind a hotkey for it with [[Macros]]). It's good for scouting, ambush, flanking and transporting hosts. '''Note that not all castes are able to vent crawl, and if you have devoured an host you will not be able to vent either'''.


=Xeno Roleplaying Guide and Expectations=
== Reducing casualties ==
* You are an extension of the will of the Queen. If there is a Queen, her will MUST be followed. No exceptions. If she orders you to run to your death, start running.
=== Don't bunch up ===
* You are a hive-mind, information is shared - Because a hive-mind works on the INSTANT transmission of information between all those connected, you CAN use words like "shuttle" or "hydro" to describe things. It's assumed that because you are a hive-mind, if you say "shuttle" your alien character is actually understanding what your are describing instantly (because, it shares a consciousness with you), but since we can't actually "emulate" this, using English to describe things is OK.
Most Xeno deaths happen in choke point pushes or when they are retreating after a failed assault. To try and help reduce Xeno losses, avoid all pushes through a choke point and instead widen the choke point or try to flank around to make a new entrance for the assault. Remember to give way to retreating Xenos and drag back critically wounded Xenos to safety and onto weeds (provided that you don't risk getting killed).
* Do NOT HARM or kill Marines unless explicit permission is given by the Queen. Ravagers are the exception as they can kill UNINFECTED hosts freely unless the Queen states otherwise.
* Being given permission to slash a Human does not confer permission to kill Humans. Get the Queen to confirm or deny a kill request.
* If there is no Queen, all Aliens are free to use lethal force on any prey.
* You do not know that Marines are coming to the planet. Furthermore you cannot prepare defences on or around the dropship landing zones prior to the Marines arrival.
* When you die, you are a 100% NEW XENO. However, your previous life is part of the hive-mind, so you CAN use/pass on knowledge your previous "life" knew, as the hive "should" know it. (i.e. Dying to a mine near the Nexus means you can say "There are mines by the nexus, lookout", but you can't say "I WAS THE PREVIOUS QUEEN, I CLAIM QUEEN, OBEY MEH".
* [http://www.colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=57&t=5093 Roleplaying Guidelines]




= Additional Reading =
=== Fire ===
The following are some good guides and examinations that go further into explaining other details of the game:
[[File:Resist_button.png|thumb]]When you're on fire, step on a weeded tile and click '''RESIST''' (you can bind a [[Macros]]) to roll on the floor and attempt to extinguish the flames. Use {{Intent|Help}} intent clicking to extinguish a fellow xeno on fire, remember to drag them to weeds if they weren't already. Even better, bring them to Warding[[File:Warding_Pheromone.png|32px]]and Recovery[[File:Recovery_Pheromone.png|32px]]Pheromones to reduce fire damage/bleed out and speed up healing. You can pat out fires using {{Intent|Help}} intent the amount of pats required to extinguish is determined by the strength of the fire.


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=133&t=8339 Xeno Roleplay Discussion]
=== Avoid engagements when weak ===
While marines need surgeries to fix serious injuries; Xenos only need to rest on weeds, so don't be greedy trying to get a kill, rest in a safe location when wounded.


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=57&t=5093 Roleplaying Guidelines]


[http://colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=94&t=7626 Ultimate Xeno Write-Up]
== Teamwork ==
Much like marines need to stick with their SLs, you need to stick with the bigger sisters to be effective. Check '''Hive Status''' in the '''Alien''' tab to see everyone's location. Learn the maps and find your way to them. Since you are T1, it's hard for you to initiate attacks to the mass of marines in the frontline; instead, you need to be the follow-up after bigger sister's initiation, like Queen's screech and Boiler's Gas, but again, don't block other sisters when retreating, simply don't go in if the choke point is cramped. Instead, do support work like transporting captured hosts back to the hive.


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=133&t=7834 How to be a respected Sister of the Hive]
=Infecting Hosts=
[[File:Alien-Egg.png|thumb]][[File:Alien-Egg-Open.png|thumb]][[File:Alien-Egg-Dead.png|thumb]]
=== Eggs and facehuggers ===
The Queen lays eggs when in Ovipositor mode. The eggs get planted (by Queen/Drone castes) and mature after a short delay. Mature eggs contain a larval facehugger which stays in the egg until disturbed. Facehugger will attempt to attach itself to any host that gets close and infects a host by implanting a larva inside its host.


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=133&t=8238 Xeno Strategy Guide]


[http://colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=94&t=7675 My Badass Hive Guide]
=== Nests and guards ===
[[File:Nesting.gif|frame|right|''Nesting a marine'']]Once you have a captured host, bring them to a matured egg, the egg will open (if they don't, click the egg with an empty hand) and drag the host to the facehugger to infect. Then find a wall with resin on it, '''click the host on it''' then '''drag the host on to either a wall with resin or a resin wall'''. Dangerous hosts (like Marines) should be secured into a nest. Should a capture should somehow be removed from a nest, whether it be from accidents or explosions, you can try to recapture them back in with '''neurotoxin''' [[File:Toggle_Spit_Type.png|32px]] which is very good at calming enraged hosts. Alternatively, simply tackle them with <span style="background-color: DeepSkyBlue;">'''Disarm'''</span> intent ('''2''') and re-nest them. After some time, listen to the screams and celebrate the birth! Click the nest (any intent except <span style="background-color: Tomato;">'''Harm'''</span>) to unnest the dead host.


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=133&t=8401 The Value of Darkness]
=Xeno Roleplaying Guide and Expectations=
* You are an extension of the will of the Queen. If there is a Queen, her will MUST be followed. No exceptions. If she orders you to run to your death, start running. Queen's word is law unless it breaks a rule in which case you should ahelp it (F1 -> gameplay issue).
* You are a hive-mind - Because all members of a hive-mind are connected they will understand exactly what you mean when you talk about something, that's why you CAN use words like "shuttle" or "hydro" to describe things. It's assumed that because you are a hive-mind if you say "shuttle" your alien character understands what you're describing instantly (because it shares consciousness with you), but since we can't actually "emulate" this, using English to describe things is OK.
* Killing a nested+infected host at ANY TIME is a bannable offense, and don't un-nest just to kill. It's counter-productive to your cause of growing the hive. If a marine escapes the nest and uses a weapon to resist, THEN you may kill them, but you should try to tackle and re-nest them. Remember the more hosts you get and keep alive, the bigger your team. EXCEPTION: The queen MAY kill any marine she wants at any time, provided she has an RP justification (if asked by the admins). This power does NOT extend to aliens following the Queen's orders.
* When you die, you are a 100% NEW XENO. However, you can keep some of the information the rest of your hive has in mind so you dont need to relearn everything in character after each death. For example if the xenomorphs are defending a specific cave entrance its fine to ask how the defence is going after respawning or heading straight back to that location to help out.
* Refrain from saying "Ayylmao," "Ayyy," "Reeeeee" as there is a [https://cm-ss13.com/rules#rule-2-roleplay Stronger Enforcement for Xeno Roleplay].


[http://www.colonial-marines.com/viewtopic.php?f=133&t=8494 TFW Playing Xeno after a few days]
= Additional Reading =
The following are some good guides and examinations that go further into explaining other details of the game:
* See [[Slang#Alien Slang & acronyms|Slang]] for Xeno in-character slangs
* [http://cm-ss13.com/viewtopic.php?f=133&t=8401 The Value of Darkness]
* [http://cm-ss13.com/viewtopic.php?f=133&t=16635 High-end Xeno mechanics]
* [[Macros]]: Making your own key bindings and one-click multi-functions for in-game actions.
      <small>'''It is highly recommended that users new to SS13 use keybindings rather then macros.'''</small>
*[[Space_Station_13_Guide#Keybinds|Keybindings]]: Easily change command function input keys, like any modern videogame.

Latest revision as of 11:47, 27 March 2024

So you've just joined for the first time as a Xenomorph? No idea what you are doing? This Space Station 13 Guide is pretty good as an introduction to the interface! Otherwise, let this guide get you up to scratch! If you have any questions, we have an inbuilt mentor questions system made specifically so you can ask for help in game. Just press F1 and click the (Gameplay Mechanics/ Mentorhelp) option and one of the server's mentors will be happy to help you. We also have an ever expanding ingame Tutorial. Just join the server and you will be abel to enter it from the Lobby screen.

As a foreword, rounds on this server may last between two to three hours! Make sure you have the time commitment to sit a full round.


The Rules

While it's not fair to shove the rules down your throat, CM-SS13 is a roleplay focused server and as such has an extensive list of Rules. It's highly recommended you spend some time reading the rules to ensure you don't accidentally break any. Ignorance of the rules is not an excuse. Thank you.

How to join the Hive

Join at roundstart

In the lobby screen, open the Setup Character window, Go to Setup Character -> Set Role Preferences, set xenomorph to [HIGH] and click the bottom option until it's Return to lobby if preference unavailable.


Late join

After the round has started, click Join the Hive you can take up any SSD Xenos or pooled larva. If there is no xeno you can take up, click Observe to spawn as a ghost. Once you are a ghost, click Toggle SpecialRole Candidacy in the Preferences tab, then turn on Xeno preference, you will get this message: You will now be considered for Xenomorph events (where possible). You can also click Join as Xeno in the Ghost tab to see if there is an SSD (i.e., away from keyboard) Xeno you can occupy (that's why ghosting is more preferable than simply closing the game if you need to go, as ghosting will free up the xeno immediately instead of freeing up after the AFK timer), or a pooled larva available.

Who Orders Who

Evolution.png

There are four tiers of aliens. Not every player can evolve to the top, because the spots are limited at each tier. The Queen is at the top who runs the Hive. The third tiers (T3) are the Boiler, Crusher, Praetorian and Ravager. These are comparable to Marine officers. Look to them for leadership. The second tiers (T2) are the Carrier, Burrower, Hivelord, Lurker, Warrior and Spitter. These are advanced versions of the bottom tier aliens. The Drone, Runner, Sentinel, and Defender are the first tier (T1) and make up the meat and potatoes of the Hive. If it's your first game, avoid evolving past the first tier unless it's necessary for the Hive. Allow more experienced players to take these more complicated roles.


You should obey any orders given to you by your Queen or Hive Leaders. It is a hive mind, and you have no free will. The only exception is if you are given orders that violate the rules. (Should you be given orders that would break the rules then you should contact the admins by ahelping, F1 -> gameplay issue.) If an alien that outranks you asks for something, try to do it. Assisting experienced players is a great way to learn the game.


Communication

F3 or T to talk

Communication is essential! Use F3, T (in hotkey mode), or the chat box at the bottom of the screen (you need to type Say before your message if you use the chat box at the bottom).

  • You can talk to any alien in your local area, aka with your field of vision (You cannot talk through walls. If you can't see the terrain they are on, they can't hear you).
  • Type ; before your message to talk to the whole Hive. (e.g. ; There are multiple tallhosts in Medbay.)
  • Click the LOOC verb in the OOC section to talk in local out of character (LOOC) to ask questions about the game and how to do things. e.g. How to devour?

Larva

Alien-Larva.png
Queen indicator.png

As you spawn as a chestburster or Larva, you're very weak and should avoid conflict. If you wake up inside the Hive, stay there! If you wake up outside the Hive, follow the Queen indicator on the right side of your screen to find the Queen.You can Alt Click the Queen indicator to select a leader marker, a hivecore marker, or a tunnel marker as well. If you join late in a round, you may wake up in strange places, don't panic and use your survival skills to escape from danger, clicking on doors to squeeze through them, crawl into vents (in the Alien tab, or alt-clicking them) and the hide ability which will make you hidden below tables, items and such, then ask the Queen for further commands.


Wait until the Progress in the Stats tab reaches 60/60, then click the Evolve in the Alien tab. Since you are new, you may want to ask the Queen what you should evolve into (or just check Hive Status in the Alien tab and evolve into the fewest caste among Drone, Runner, Sentinel or Defender).

Larva Evolutions

Alien-Drone.png

Drones are very important supporting players, but not in combat roles. Drones have two primary functions. The first is building walls, doors, nests, and resin to create and protect the Hive. The second is planting as many weeds as possible to expand the Hive. You can't go too wrong if you're planting weeds! All aliens are more robust on weeds. Read more about Hives.

Abilities: Description:
Plant purple sac.png
Plant Resin Node
Can't be planted if there is already a node on the tile or if it's on unsuitable ground to plant it on. An example would be grass or water.


Costs 75 plasma.

Build select.png
Choose Resin Structure
Click to choose what resin structure to make. The default structure is a Resin Wall.
Secrete Resin.png
Secrete Resin
Secrete the chosen Resin Structure on your tile.


Costs 75 plasma.

Corrosive acid.png
Corrosive Acid
Vomit a glob of acid on an item to dissolve it. Multiple items can be clicked at once as long as you are standing still.


Costs 75 plasma.

Emit pheromones.png
Emit Pheromones
Emit one of the three Pheromones. It is advised to emit the pheromone that is not already getting emitted, as pheromones don't stack.




Alien-Runner.png

Runners are the Hive's scouts. You're very weak at first, so don't rush out at any enemies. It's easy to tell inexperienced Runners because they tend to die quickly. Don't let that happen to you. Think of yourself as a ninja. Speed and cunning are your weapons, not brute strength. Your primary role is to scout around the Hive, identify any threats or possible hosts, and report back to the Hive. Stay in the dark. Communicate with the hive constantly. At the beginning of the round, Runners are expected to quickly bring back hosts like monkeys, etc., to the Hive to be infected.

Abilities: Description:
Hide.png
Hide
Hide under objects. Pouncing will cancel your Hiding.
Pounce.png
Pounce
Pounce at a target, forcing the victim on the ground and drop their weapons. Though one can quickly get up from a Runner's pounce, so some Runners tend to tackle the victim as follow up.
Bone Spur.png
Bone Spur
Fire a blast of bone chips at your target. A limited range, perfectly accurate skillshot that slows the target for 6 seconds.


Costs 30 Plasma, cooldown: 13 seconds.

Toggle Long Range Sight.png
Toggle Long Range Sight
Use "Stretch to fit" to minimize the hassle of changing icon size when zooming in/out.
Toggles long range sight in the direction you're facing.


Costs 20 plasma.




Alien-Sentinel.png

Sentinels are the tier 1 of ranged caste, You can spit weak neurotoxin which will at first slow hosts and if hit enough times will cause them to be knocked out. The sentinel also makes an excellent choice for your first game due to its simplistic abilities and moderate health pool.

Abilities: Description:
Corrosive acid.png
Corrosive Acid
Vomit a glob of acid on item to dissolve it. Multiple items can be clicked at once as long as you are standing still.


Costs 75 plasma.

Xeno Spit.png
Slowing Spit
Use middle mouse button to spit a glob of slowing neurotoxin to stun hosts.

Cooldown: 1.5 seconds.

Acid Shotgun.png
Scattered Spit
Use middle mouse button to spit globs of paralyzing neurotoxin, Knocking down hosts hit for 0.7 seconds.

Cooldown: 8 seconds.

Crippling-Strike.png
Paralyzing Slash
Empowers you next attack to inject neurotoxin into the host, Dazing them for 4 seconds and immediately after knocking them down helpless for 2 seconds.

Cooldown: 12 seconds.




Defender.png

Defenders are as the name implies meant to defend the hive and support it's members when they are in need. This means using your tailsweep ability to knock back marines from an injured sister or covering their retreat by taking the damage for them. At the beginning of the round, you should be guarding the hive and making sure your fellow sisters are safe.

Abilities: Description:
Headbutt.png

Headbutt

Headbutts into the designated target causing them to be thrown one tile. Use middle mouse button to toggle.


Costs 10 plasma.

Tailsweep.png

Tail Sweep

A spinning action that causes all marines within a one tile range to have a chance to be knocked down or thrown one tile.


Costs 10 plasma.

Toggle Crest Defence.png

Toggle Crest Defence

By lowering its crest, the defender caste becomes more resistant to projectile damage. A lowered crest will cause a small slowdown while toggled on.
Fortify.png

Fortify

When activated the defender becomes extremely resistant to projectile weapons and additionally immobile while in this hunkered downstate.

Combat

Slashing forbidden/restricted/permitted

At the beginning of the round, the Hive is desperate for hosts to infect. The Queen may issue a standing order forbidding the slashing of hosts. While this order is in place, slashing is forbidden or restricted to only when you are hurt. You might want to avoid conflict, but you can still tackle and drag hosts with your Disarm and Grab intents to try and move them to the Hive. At some point, the Queen will allow the slashing of hosts and your combat power will improve significantly. Check this order in the Stats tab. As the Queen permitted slashing, use Harm intent to slash. You can target different body parts Hud-target.png. In general, target unarmored areas to inflict more damage (all armor protects the groin and protects it the same amount as it does the chest).

Capturing Hosts

While Xenos slash to wound and kill, the main goal is to weaken the hosts enough without killing them so they can be infected and give birth to new larvae.

Body Block

Body block is the act of blocking another xenomorph from moving to the direction they're trying to go, Intentionally or not. This usually happens when playing a large xenomorph (Tier 3s, Carrier, Hive-lord etc.) due to it being impossible to push them. Xenomorph leaders however can use disarm intent to knock down a fellow xeno and escape being bodyblocked. This is important all of the time but especially during combat since it can be a matter of life and death. Be careful, Try to understand where your fellow sisters are trying to go and move out of the way!

Drag

There are primarily two ways of moving hosts, dragging them or devouring them. To drag, you can:

  • Ctrl + Click the host, you don't need to switch to the empty hand with this method.
  • Click with an empty hand using

Grab intent (3 in hotkey mode)

  • Right Click -> Pull.

You can switch to an empty hand (X in hotkey mode) and tackle the host with Disarm intent (2 in hotkey mode) to keep them down. However, dragging is slow (except for Runner) and you can't drag hosts into tunnels and vents (to bypass fog wall/terrain/marine force), you need to have the host devoured to do that. Note that you can only moved devoured marines through tunnels and not vents.

Devour

To devour, grab a host with Ctrl + Click or Grab intent (3 in hotkey mode) then click yourself, standstill. To stop the host from getting up and running away, you can switch to an empty hand (X in hotkey mode) and keep tackling them using Disarm intent (2 in hotkey mode) when you are devouring them. Xenos with devoured humans inside them can not vent crawl but Xenos with devoured monkeys can. Hosts with boot knives can injure the Xenomorph they are inside if they are conscious. Using this ability with a host devoured will regurgitate them back up, giving a moderate stun. (Edit this template)


When to kill or capture

Kill when you cannot capture. E.g., His buddy will shoot you to pieces if you drag him/standstill to devour. Capture when it's safe to do so. E.g., the host is alone and tackled, simply unarmed, or you are sure you can drag the host away from his buddies before they shoot you to pieces.

Fighting techniques

Use tackle (and surprise) to overpower hosts

Tackling

Tackling with Disarm intent (2) is very powerful as it forces the victim onto the floor for a period of time. Disabling their attack and escape, allowing you to devour or slash.


Drag and slash

Much like you can tackle with another hand when devouring, you can slash with another hand when dragging. First, drag the host, switch to an empty hand (X) and slash them using Harm intent (4). If you are chased, pounce away (Runner) or simply switch back to the dragging hand and drop them (Q).


Avoid being hit

Walk slash2.gif

Avoid charging/retreating in a straight line, instead, take turns, change lanes or even circle so that you are unpredictable. When slashing a downed marine, keep moving around the marine or left and right (or up and down) to dodge.

Fight on your terms

Fight on weeds

Aliens heal and regenerate plasma when being on weeds, and heal much faster while resting on weeds, downed Xenos will bleed out if not on weeds. Weeds also buff Xeno's speed slightly while slows down tall hosts slightly so try to fight on weeds. Request Drones to weed/re weed if needed.


Cover of darkness

Xeno Toggle night vision.png

Use Toggle Xenomorph Vision to toggle on and off your ability to see in the dark, and see where is lit and where isn't, allowing you to stay in the dark and ambush.

  • Break lights and APCs to deny lights (slash to the APC to APC Broken.png then one more slash to cut the wires, you will see APC's wires snap apart in a rain of sparks!)
  • Melt flaresFlare.gif
  • Slash lightsLight.png
  • Disable typing speech bubble to avoid revealing yourself in the dark (Preference -> Show/Hide Typing Indicator)

Make use of vents

Stand near a vent then click Crawl into Vent in the Alien tab or alt+click the vent (you can bind a hotkey for it with Macros). It's good for scouting, ambush, flanking and transporting hosts. Note that not all castes are able to vent crawl, and if you have devoured an host you will not be able to vent either.

Reducing casualties

Don't bunch up

Most Xeno deaths happen in choke point pushes or when they are retreating after a failed assault. To try and help reduce Xeno losses, avoid all pushes through a choke point and instead widen the choke point or try to flank around to make a new entrance for the assault. Remember to give way to retreating Xenos and drag back critically wounded Xenos to safety and onto weeds (provided that you don't risk getting killed).


Fire

Resist button.png

When you're on fire, step on a weeded tile and click RESIST (you can bind a Macros) to roll on the floor and attempt to extinguish the flames. Use

Help intent clicking to extinguish a fellow xeno on fire, remember to drag them to weeds if they weren't already. Even better, bring them to WardingWarding Pheromone.pngand RecoveryRecovery Pheromone.pngPheromones to reduce fire damage/bleed out and speed up healing. You can pat out fires using Help intent the amount of pats required to extinguish is determined by the strength of the fire.

Avoid engagements when weak

While marines need surgeries to fix serious injuries; Xenos only need to rest on weeds, so don't be greedy trying to get a kill, rest in a safe location when wounded.


Teamwork

Much like marines need to stick with their SLs, you need to stick with the bigger sisters to be effective. Check Hive Status in the Alien tab to see everyone's location. Learn the maps and find your way to them. Since you are T1, it's hard for you to initiate attacks to the mass of marines in the frontline; instead, you need to be the follow-up after bigger sister's initiation, like Queen's screech and Boiler's Gas, but again, don't block other sisters when retreating, simply don't go in if the choke point is cramped. Instead, do support work like transporting captured hosts back to the hive.

Infecting Hosts

Alien-Egg.png
Alien-Egg-Open.png
Alien-Egg-Dead.png

Eggs and facehuggers

The Queen lays eggs when in Ovipositor mode. The eggs get planted (by Queen/Drone castes) and mature after a short delay. Mature eggs contain a larval facehugger which stays in the egg until disturbed. Facehugger will attempt to attach itself to any host that gets close and infects a host by implanting a larva inside its host.


Nests and guards

Nesting a marine

Once you have a captured host, bring them to a matured egg, the egg will open (if they don't, click the egg with an empty hand) and drag the host to the facehugger to infect. Then find a wall with resin on it, click the host on it then drag the host on to either a wall with resin or a resin wall. Dangerous hosts (like Marines) should be secured into a nest. Should a capture should somehow be removed from a nest, whether it be from accidents or explosions, you can try to recapture them back in with neurotoxin Toggle Spit Type.png which is very good at calming enraged hosts. Alternatively, simply tackle them with Disarm intent (2) and re-nest them. After some time, listen to the screams and celebrate the birth! Click the nest (any intent except Harm) to unnest the dead host.

Xeno Roleplaying Guide and Expectations

  • You are an extension of the will of the Queen. If there is a Queen, her will MUST be followed. No exceptions. If she orders you to run to your death, start running. Queen's word is law unless it breaks a rule in which case you should ahelp it (F1 -> gameplay issue).
  • You are a hive-mind - Because all members of a hive-mind are connected they will understand exactly what you mean when you talk about something, that's why you CAN use words like "shuttle" or "hydro" to describe things. It's assumed that because you are a hive-mind if you say "shuttle" your alien character understands what you're describing instantly (because it shares consciousness with you), but since we can't actually "emulate" this, using English to describe things is OK.
  • Killing a nested+infected host at ANY TIME is a bannable offense, and don't un-nest just to kill. It's counter-productive to your cause of growing the hive. If a marine escapes the nest and uses a weapon to resist, THEN you may kill them, but you should try to tackle and re-nest them. Remember the more hosts you get and keep alive, the bigger your team. EXCEPTION: The queen MAY kill any marine she wants at any time, provided she has an RP justification (if asked by the admins). This power does NOT extend to aliens following the Queen's orders.
  • When you die, you are a 100% NEW XENO. However, you can keep some of the information the rest of your hive has in mind so you dont need to relearn everything in character after each death. For example if the xenomorphs are defending a specific cave entrance its fine to ask how the defence is going after respawning or heading straight back to that location to help out.
  • Refrain from saying "Ayylmao," "Ayyy," "Reeeeee" as there is a Stronger Enforcement for Xeno Roleplay.

Additional Reading

The following are some good guides and examinations that go further into explaining other details of the game:

     It is highly recommended that users new to SS13 use keybindings rather then macros.
  • Keybindings: Easily change command function input keys, like any modern videogame.