Skells

Skells are large piloted exosuits featured in the video game Xenoblade Chronicles X. They function as a central gameplay mechanic that expands both traversal and combat on the planet Mira. Each Skell is a self-contained vehicle piloted by the player from a cockpit, granting superior speed, armor, and access to a range of built-in and interchangeable weapons compared with on-foot combat.

Players can choose from multiple Skell models, each optimized for different roles such as offensive, defensive, or reconnaissance. Skells can be customized with weapon loadouts and equipment modules to suit different playstyles and mission requirements. Progression in the game unlocks additional Skell variants and upgrade options, expanding the player’s tactical options during exploration and battles.

In practice, Skells enable faster travel across the game’s open world, traversal over variety of terrain, and the ability to engage enemies with heavy firepower. They are used in a range of situations, from direct assaults to scouting and environmental interactions that benefit from greater reach or durability. Dismounting returns the player to on-foot exploration, allowing Skells to complement rather than replace character progression.

Development and reception commentary notes that Skells were a defining feature of Xenoblade Chronicles X, contributing to its expansive scope and distinctive gameplay experience. They were widely praised for adding scale and novelty, while some players criticized aspects such as resource costs and pacing related to switching between Skell and on-foot play.