XDefiant - How to Play the Phantoms Faction

XDefiant is Ubisoft's crossover arena shooter game with Factions pulled straight from the developer's lineup of games. One such group, aptly named Phantoms, is right out of Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Phantoms. Whether you're starting out in the game or jumping back into it, here's how to play as the Phantom Faction.

Phantom Faction

The Phantoms are a group known as the future soldiers. While they may seem to be related to stealth, they're far from their counterpart at the Echelon. Instead, they focus on using future tech to control the battlefield.

Phantom Abilities

The Phantoms may appear to be built for spy tactics but they're the exact opposite. Yes, they may be known as Shadow Team, but in XDefiant, they rely on heavy shields and futuristic weaponry to overcome challenges. They start out with two abilities:

• Mag Barrier. An electromagnetic barrier blocks incoming enemy fire and grenades.
• Blitz Shield. Equip a tactical shield. Press the Melee button for a shield bash.

Mag Barrier launches a blue shield that prevents enemy fire from passing through it. However, it's not immune to damage and will eventually dissipate if it takes enough. The plus side is, you and your allies are free to fire through it. Once activated, you can aim where you want to the shield to appear and once in place, it'll remain until the ability cooldown resets or it is destroyed. This shield is best utilized for capturing a zone or defending an area.

The Blitz Shield is a physical object that you carry in front of you to block damage. As soon as the ability is activated, you'll put away your gun and replace it with the shield. Then you become a battering ram capable of taking down enemies with a melee attack. Though, be careful as your back and head are still visible making them both targets for enemies.

Your Ultra ability as a Phantom is called Aegis. As soon as you activate it, you'll swap your weapon for a massive electro-scattergun. It's basically a large shotgun that fires electricity at targets. It also provides a protective bubble around you that acts as an additional shield to protect your health.

Your Passive Trait, Hardened, increases your overall health making you tougher and more capable in battle.

Phantom Recommended Weapons

As a Phantom, you're built for close-range combat. With the combination of Hardened, both shields, and your Ultra ability, you can become quite the tank. Choosing weapons like an LMG or shotgun are great for those who prefer to stay closer to the action.