Skells are a game-changing feature in Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, offering players powerful mechs that enhance both combat and exploration across the vast world of Mira. While one Skell is given for free early in the game, unlocking more for your full party and making them fully functional requires strategic effort, in-game credits, and patience. From meeting level requirements to acquiring proper gear and eventually gaining the ability to fly, there’s a lot to manage. This guide breaks down how to unlock Skells quickly, what you’ll need to prepare for, and how to get the most out of these incredible machines.
How to Unlock Skells Quickly in Xenoblade Chronicles X
In Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, players are introduced to Skells, powerful mechs that drastically change both exploration and combat. The first Skell, the US0220 Urban ST, is gifted to the protagonist by Vandham and comes free of charge. However, if you want your entire party equipped with mechs, you’ll need to invest both time and credits to unlock and purchase additional models. New Skells only become available after level 30, and even the cheaper ones are costly, requiring strategic saving and planning.
It’s important to note that Skells don’t come armed by default. To make them battle-ready, players must either loot weapons from enemies during their travels across Mira or buy equipment from Armor Alley. Since Mecha Skill Arts depend on the gear attached to the Skell, investing in the right equipment is essential for maximizing combat efficiency. Though the initial setup can feel like a grind, these machines can turn the tide of tough battles, especially when facing off against powerful Tyrants.
Early on, however, it’s wise to use Skells with care. If your mech is destroyed, recovering it using Skell Insurance can be expensive. The starting model, the Urban ST, may be basic in its features, but it offers a huge upgrade in mobility and combat. With its ability to jump higher and traverse the map faster, the Urban ST makes exploration much smoother and gives players a solid edge in early fights.
Skells come in three core types: Light, Medium, and Heavy. Light Skells prioritize agility and are best suited for hit-and-run tactics, though they’re less durable. Medium Skells strike a balance, making them reliable across most situations. Heavy Skells, while slow and less maneuverable, are built like tanks, ideal for soaking damage and dishing out devastating attacks. Each type caters to different playstyles, so choosing the right one can make all the difference in your journey through Mira.
How to Use Skells in Xenoblade Chronicles X
In Xenoblade Chronicles X, Skells come with two distinct modes: a standard battle stance for combat and a vehicle form that changes depending on the model you’ve purchased. The vehicle mode, which is activated by pressing the left analog stick, just like sprinting, offers faster movement and is great for getting around the map quickly. Yet, if you can’t wait to get airborne, you’ll have to hold off for a little while; flying isn’t something that you get to do straight away. Despite the fact that you get your first Skell during Chapter 6, real flight exploration isn’t available until Chapter 9, when you obtain the Flight Module.
