Xcom 2 Dimensional Rift
In XCOM 2, mastering the various soldier classes and their unique abilities can mean the difference between survival and total squad annihilation. Among the game’s most powerful tools is the Psionic Operative’s ability called Dimensional Rift. This late-game psionic power is one of the most destructive abilities available, capable of turning the tide in missions that would otherwise seem overwhelming. Learning how to unlock, utilize, and maximize Dimensional Rift is essential for commanders looking to dominate the battlefield in the war against ADVENT and the alien threat.
What Is Dimensional Rift in XCOM 2?
Psionic Power Overview
Dimensional Rift is a high-level psionic ability exclusive to the Psi Operative class in XCOM 2. Unlike the standard soldier classes, Psi Operatives don’t follow a conventional promotion tree. Instead, they acquire powers by undergoing training in the Psi Lab. Dimensional Rift is unlocked in the later stages of Psi Operative development and is considered a top-tier offensive ability.
Functionality and Effects
When activated, Dimensional Rift opens a rift at a targeted location, which then destabilizes the area over several turns. After a short delay, the rift explodes, dealing massive psionic damage in a wide area. This delayed effect can be strategically deployed to punish enemies grouped together or those about to move into cover.
- Type: Offensive Psionic Ability
- Damage: High, area-of-effect (AoE)
- Cooldown: Moderate (usually 4 turns)
- Area: Large circular zone, similar to grenades or Void Rift
How to Unlock Dimensional Rift
Building the Psi Lab
Before you can train soldiers in psionics, you must construct a Psi Lab in your Avenger base. This facility allows you to assign rookies to begin training as Psi Operatives. As they gain experience through training sessions, more powerful abilities like Dimensional Rift become available.
Training Progression
Unlike traditional classes, Psi Operatives gain abilities by direct assignment, not battlefield experience. After each training session, a new ability becomes available to train. Eventually, once lower-tier abilities such as Soulfire, Insanity, and Void Rift are unlocked, Dimensional Rift appears as a training option.
- Ensure Psi Lab is upgraded to support multiple operatives or training slots
- Assign rookies early to maximize training duration throughout the campaign
- Continue rotating Psi Operatives through training until Dimensional Rift is unlocked
Prerequisites
There are no specific skill prerequisites for Dimensional Rift, but it appears deeper in the training pool. Some operatives may receive it later based on RNG if other abilities are prioritized first. The key is patience and consistent use of the Psi Lab.
Combat Applications of Dimensional Rift
Offensive Strategies
Dimensional Rift is primarily used to cause high damage over a large area. Because of its delayed explosion, it can be used preemptively to catch enemies during their turn. For example, placing a rift near enemies who are behind cover may force them to move or suffer lethal damage on the next turn.
- Use to disrupt enemy formations
- Pair with abilities like Stasis or Domination for controlled engagement
- Trigger panic among lower-will targets even before the explosion
Synergy With Other Abilities
Dimensional Rift works well alongside other AoE abilities like grenades, rockets, and explosives. You can soften targets or remove cover with an initial attack, then place the rift for finishing damage. It also pairs with Void Rift or Insanity for multiple psionic effects in a single engagement.
Dealing With Sectopods and Gatekeepers
Enemies like Sectopods, Gatekeepers, and Andromedons are excellent targets for Dimensional Rift. These powerful units often have high armor and HP, and the psionic nature of the rift allows you to bypass some of their defensive layers. It’s especially useful against tightly clustered robotic enemies.
Best Practices for Using Dimensional Rift
Ideal Scenarios
- Enemy pods clustered near objectives or buildings
- Enemies about to take high ground positions
- Multiple low-will targets vulnerable to psionic effects
Turn Planning
Because Dimensional Rift has a delay before detonation, timing is crucial. Place the rift in advance of anticipated enemy movement, or use it to block retreat paths. Proper planning lets you exploit its damage without overexposing your operative.
Risk Management
Dimensional Rift can cause significant environmental destruction. Avoid placing it near mission-critical items like VIPs, hacking terminals, or objectives that require recovery. It also consumes one of your Psi Operative’s action points, so use it when safe or under cover.
Dimensional Rift vs Other Psionic Abilities
Comparison with Void Rift
Void Rift and Dimensional Rift are both AoE psionic abilities, but Dimensional Rift is more focused on raw destructive power. Void Rift includes mind effects like Insanity, while Dimensional Rift delivers guaranteed high damage after a delay. Use Void Rift for mind control or panic effects, and Dimensional Rift for heavy eliminations.
Comparison with Null Lance
Null Lance is a straight-line psionic beam that causes heavy damage, ideal for narrow corridors or grouped enemies. Dimensional Rift offers more flexibility in placement and wider area damage. Choosing between the two depends on mission environment and enemy layout.
Late Game Relevance
Psionic Power in Endgame Missions
In the final stages of the campaign, enemies are tougher, and tactics need to be more efficient. Dimensional Rift’s damage output remains highly effective against late-game threats like Avatar units, Archons, and MECs. It also provides a tactical edge in timed missions by reducing the number of active enemies quickly.
Operation Avenger and Final Mission
When storming the alien stronghold, Dimensional Rift can clear out waves of reinforcements, allowing your squad to push forward. It’s also an excellent tool for eliminating spawn waves before they can react. Keeping your Psi Operative alive during this mission becomes a priority due to the sheer value of the rift.
Tips for Psi Operative Survivability
Armor and Gear
Equip your Psi Operatives with armor that provides mobility and protection, such as Warden Armor or War Suits. Consider personal combat sims (PCS) that boost Will, Mobility, or HP. Defensive loadouts keep them safe while setting up powerful abilities like Dimensional Rift.
Positioning
Maintain rear or high-ground positioning to avoid enemy fire. The extended range of psionic abilities means your operative doesn’t need to be on the front line. Always use cover and keep distance from explosive hazards.
Companion Support
Pair your Psi Operative with a Specialist for healing or a Grenadier for softening enemy targets. Coordinated attacks between classes allow maximum value from the rift and prevent unnecessary risk.
Dimensional Rift in XCOM 2 is a devastating psionic ability that, when used effectively, can alter the course of a battle in your favor. Unlocking and mastering this ability requires careful investment in the Psi Operative class and a strong understanding of battlefield tactics. Its wide-area damage and delayed explosion make it both strategic and lethal, especially in mid to late-game missions where enemy numbers and strength increase significantly. By combining this power with smart positioning, timing, and synergy with other units, commanders can ensure that the alien forces fall before the might of XCOM’s psionic arsenal.