Unlocking Skells in Xenoblade Chronicles X: Why Patience is Key!

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In the world of Xenoblade Chronicles X, Skells are the game’s interpretation of mech-like vehicles. These mechanical beasts are heavily emphasized in the game’s marketing materials, hinting at their significant role within the game. Contrary to initial expectations, players won’t get their hands on a Skell right away when they start Xenoblade Chronicles X. Instead, they’ll need to demonstrate some patience as they work towards acquiring one.

This write-up offers a few hints about the game, Xenoblade Chronicles X, which include certain aspects of Skells and their capabilities.

When Do You Get a Skell in Xenoblade Chronicles X?

Players will unlock their initial Skell following completion of Xenoblade Chronicles X’s sixth chapter and by successfully finishing “The Skell License”, a mission focused on clearing eight proficiency tests. The duration to reach this stage in the game may differ among players, but it is likely that the Skell License will be earned roughly 30 hours into gameplay. It should be noted that this timeframe is less than half of an average playthrough, and those hours might seem prolonged for players anticipating immediate mech control.

As a speedrunner diving into the expansive world of Xenoblade Chronicles X, I managed to crack the Any% speedrun code and unlocked my Skell in a whirlwind of gaming glory, clocking in at an impressive 2 hours, 18 minutes!

Getting the Skell Flight Module in Xenoblade Chronicles X

To use Skells, the mechs you gain access to after obtaining the Skell License, you’ll need a bit more time. The Flight Module is necessary for Skells to fly, but it’s not something you’ll get right away. You can only acquire this component after completing A Girl’s Wings, an Affinity Mission that doesn’t become available until after Chapter 9 in Xenoblade Chronicles. So, be ready to wait a while before you can soar with your Skells, as patience will once again be key.

Xenoblade Chronicles X’s Skell Insurance System

In Xenoblade Chronicles X, the time it takes to fully utilize Skells and their features isn’t the only aspect that might try a player’s patience. Some players may find the Skell Insurance system a bit frustrating. For those not familiar, each purchased Skell comes with three insurance charges that allow for free repairs when the mech is damaged. However, once these charges run out, players must employ Salvage Tickets, earned through online Division activities, pay around 70% of the Skell’s total value (including its equipment) to fix it, or purchase a brand-new Skell altogether.

Although players can reduce the frequency of needing Skell Insurance by achieving “Perfects” during quick time events when a mech’s health drops to zero, some might find the process of replacing a destroyed Skell time-consuming and prefer a way to replenish its insurance charges. Regrettably, it’s not feasible for players who feel this way to buy extra Skell Insurance; instead, they must adjust to the game system in this highly-rated action JRPG.

If combatants aren’t fond of Skell Insurance and would rather avoid using it, they have the option to save their game before entering a fight. If they happen to lose the battle, they can reload that saved game instead.

From my gaming perspective, I appreciate the restraint imposed by Skell Insurance in Xenoblade Chronicles X. It makes me think twice before rushing into a battle with a low-on-insurance mech, which adds an extra layer of strategy to the game. If Skell Insurance were unlimited, I might not value each skell as much or approach each battle more cautiously. As it stands, this system gives my mechs a sense of worth and importance.

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2025-03-19 20:09