At the outset of *Citizen Sleeper 2*, players are faced with a crucial choice among three distinct classes: Operator, Machinist, and Extractor. This decision can significantly shape your gameplay experience, and the right choice depends heavily on your preferred playstyle. Having completed the game, I'll delve into the specifics of each class, discussing their abilities and their appeal from a role-playing standpoint.
Operator
The Operator class begins with a + in Interface, alongside base levels in Intuit and Engage, but lacks any initial points in Engineer. Notably, they cannot improve their Endure skill. A unique feature of the Operator is their ability to gain Stress in exchange for re-rolling their lowest dice, which can be a double-edged sword.
While I appreciate the Operator class, it's not my top choice. As you advance and upgrade your skills, the class becomes significantly more potent. However, the early stages can be challenging, and the re-rolling mechanic, while potentially beneficial, can still leave you with unfavorable outcomes. Interface is a valuable skill, making the Operator a solid choice if you can navigate the initial difficulties.
From a role-playing perspective, the Operator is versatile, allowing you to embody a wide range of characters within the game's universe.
Machinist
The Machinist starts with a + in Engineer, complemented by base levels in Interface and Intuit, but no initial points in Endure. They are unable to upgrade Engage. Their distinctive ability lets them gain Stress to add +2 to their lowest dice, and they also benefit from losing 2 Stress on a positive outcome. As you progress in *Citizen Sleeper 2*, you can enhance this ability to further improve your dice rolls and manage Stress more effectively.
In my first playthrough, I chose the Machinist, and it quickly became my favorite class. The ability to boost dice rolls and manage Stress effectively is invaluable, particularly given the frequent Engineer and Interface checks throughout the game. The Stress reduction aspect is particularly crucial, as managing this mechanic can be one of the game's more challenging elements.
For those drawn to the technical and mechanical aspects of the game's world, the Machinist class offers a deeply engaging role-playing experience.
Extractor
The Extractor class starts with a + in Endure, alongside base levels in Engineer and Engage, but no initial points in Interface. They cannot improve their Intuit skill. Their ability allows them to gain Stress to add +2 to the lowest dice of their crew, and this ability can be upgraded as the game progresses to further enhance crew performance.
The Extractor's ability is quite appealing, especially when managing crew during Contracts. The bonus to Endure is particularly beneficial given its frequent necessity in the game. However, the abundance of crew members with high Endure and Engage skills might make this class less unique as the game progresses.
From a role-playing perspective, the Extractor suits players who enjoy embodying a tough, resilient character, offering a gritty and robust playstyle in *Citizen Sleeper 2*.
This guide should help you make an informed decision about which class to choose in *Citizen Sleeper 2*, ensuring your gameplay aligns with your preferred style and role-playing aspirations.
