Watch Dogs 2 is an action-adventure game that takes place in a fictionalized version of San Francisco, where you play as Marcus Holloway, a young and talented hacker. As a member of the hacking group DedSec, your goal is to take down a corrupt corporation known as Blume, which has created a surveillance system called ctOS that monitors and controls the city’s infrastructure.
One of the key features of Watch Dogs 2 is its hacking mechanics, which allow you to access and control various devices and systems throughout the city. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what you can hack in Watch Dogs 2 and how to do it.
Basic Hacking Mechanics
Before we dive into the specifics of what you can hack, let’s cover the basic hacking mechanics in Watch Dogs 2. The game uses a system called “NetScan” to allow you to scan and hack devices. To use NetScan, you’ll need to press the corresponding button (usually L1 on PlayStation or LB on Xbox), which will bring up a scanning interface.
From here, you can see all the devices in the area that are connected to the ctOS network. You can then select a device to hack, which will bring up a mini-game that requires you to solve a puzzle to gain access.
Device Types
There are several types of devices that you can hack in Watch Dogs 2, including:
- Security Cameras: These can be hacked to give you a view of the surrounding area, allowing you to spot enemies and plan your approach.
- Turrets: These can be hacked to turn them against your enemies, making them a useful ally in combat.
- Robots: These can be hacked to take control of them, allowing you to use them to access hard-to-reach areas or distract enemies.
- Alarms: These can be hacked to disable them, allowing you to sneak past undetected.
- Doors: These can be hacked to unlock them, giving you access to new areas.
Hacking People
In addition to devices, you can also hack people in Watch Dogs 2. This is done using a system called “Profiler,” which allows you to scan people and access their personal data.
Profiler Upgrades
As you progress through the game, you can upgrade your Profiler to give you access to more information about the people you scan. These upgrades include:
- Basic Profiler: This is the default Profiler upgrade, which gives you basic information about the person you’re scanning, such as their name and occupation.
- Advanced Profiler: This upgrade gives you more detailed information about the person, including their income and education level.
- Expert Profiler: This upgrade gives you access to even more detailed information, including the person’s medical history and criminal record.
Hacking People’s Phones
In addition to accessing people’s personal data, you can also hack their phones to gain access to their text messages, emails, and other personal communications. This can be useful for gathering information about your enemies or finding clues to solve puzzles.
Hacking Vehicles
You can also hack vehicles in Watch Dogs 2, which can be useful for getting around the city quickly or escaping from enemies.
Vehicle Hacking
To hack a vehicle, you’ll need to use your NetScan ability to scan the vehicle and then select the “Hack” option. This will bring up a mini-game that requires you to solve a puzzle to gain control of the vehicle.
Once you’ve hacked a vehicle, you can use it to get around the city or escape from enemies. You can also use hacked vehicles to complete missions or side quests.
Hacking Drones
Drones are a new addition to the Watch Dogs series, and they can be hacked to give you access to new areas or provide you with a useful ally in combat.
Drone Hacking
To hack a drone, you’ll need to use your NetScan ability to scan the drone and then select the “Hack” option. This will bring up a mini-game that requires you to solve a puzzle to gain control of the drone.
Once you’ve hacked a drone, you can use it to scout out areas, distract enemies, or complete missions.
Other Hacking Opportunities
In addition to the devices, people, vehicles, and drones mentioned above, there are many other hacking opportunities in Watch Dogs 2. These include:
- ATMs: These can be hacked to give you access to cash.
- Security Systems: These can be hacked to disable alarms and cameras.
- Robotic Arms: These can be hacked to give you access to hard-to-reach areas.
- 3D Printers: These can be hacked to create useful items, such as guns or gadgets.
Conclusion
Hacking is a key part of the Watch Dogs 2 gameplay experience, and there are many different devices, people, vehicles, and drones that you can hack throughout the game. By using your NetScan ability and solving puzzles, you can gain access to new areas, gather information, and complete missions.
Whether you’re a seasoned hacker or just starting out, Watch Dogs 2 offers a fun and challenging hacking experience that’s sure to keep you entertained for hours on end.
Final Tips and Tricks
- Always keep an eye out for hacking opportunities, as they can often give you an advantage in combat or help you complete missions more quickly.
- Upgrade your Profiler regularly to give you access to more information about the people you scan.
- Use your hacking abilities to distract enemies and gain the upper hand in combat.
- Experiment with different hacking techniques to find what works best for you.
By following these tips and tricks, you can become a master hacker in Watch Dogs 2 and take down the corrupt corporation of Blume.
What is the main hacking mechanic in Watch Dogs 2?
The main hacking mechanic in Watch Dogs 2 is based on a system called “NetScan,” which allows the player to scan and hack into electronic devices, cameras, and other objects in the game world. This mechanic is used to progress through the game’s story, complete side missions, and explore the game’s open world. The NetScan system is an essential part of the game’s hacking mechanics and is used extensively throughout the game.
As players progress through the game, they can upgrade their hacking abilities, allowing them to access more advanced devices and systems. The NetScan system is also used in conjunction with other hacking mechanics, such as the ability to hack into cameras and drones, to create a comprehensive hacking experience. The game’s hacking mechanics are designed to be intuitive and accessible, making it easy for players to learn and master the skills needed to progress through the game.
How do I upgrade my hacking skills in Watch Dogs 2?
Upgrading your hacking skills in Watch Dogs 2 is done through a system called “Research Points.” As players complete missions and activities, they earn Research Points, which can be used to unlock new hacking abilities and upgrades. The Research Points system is divided into several categories, each focusing on a specific aspect of hacking, such as device hacking or network infiltration.
Players can choose to upgrade their hacking skills in a way that suits their playstyle, focusing on the abilities that are most useful to them. The Research Points system is designed to be flexible, allowing players to experiment with different hacking techniques and strategies. As players upgrade their hacking skills, they will gain access to more advanced devices and systems, allowing them to take on more challenging missions and activities.
What are the different types of hacking in Watch Dogs 2?
Watch Dogs 2 features several types of hacking, each with its own unique mechanics and applications. Device hacking allows players to access and control electronic devices, such as cameras and alarms. Network infiltration enables players to access and control computer systems, allowing them to steal data and disrupt enemy operations.
Other types of hacking in the game include drone hacking, which allows players to take control of enemy drones, and vehicle hacking, which enables players to access and control vehicles. Each type of hacking has its own set of challenges and opportunities, and players must use their skills and abilities to overcome obstacles and achieve their objectives.
How do I use my hacking skills to complete missions in Watch Dogs 2?
Using your hacking skills to complete missions in Watch Dogs 2 is an essential part of the game. Players can use their hacking abilities to access restricted areas, disable security systems, and gather information about enemy operations. The game’s missions are designed to require players to use their hacking skills in creative and strategic ways.
For example, players may need to hack into a security camera to gather information about an enemy’s location, or use their device hacking skills to disable an alarm system. The game’s missions are designed to be challenging and require players to think strategically about how to use their hacking skills to achieve their objectives.
Can I use my hacking skills to make money in Watch Dogs 2?
Yes, players can use their hacking skills to make money in Watch Dogs 2. The game features a system called “Hacking Contracts,” which allows players to complete hacking tasks for money. These contracts can be accessed through the game’s open world and require players to use their hacking skills to complete specific objectives.
Players can also use their hacking skills to steal money from ATMs and other electronic devices. However, this type of hacking is considered illegal in the game and can attract unwanted attention from the authorities. Players must use their hacking skills carefully and strategically to avoid detection and maximize their earnings.
How do I avoid detection while hacking in Watch Dogs 2?
Avoiding detection while hacking in Watch Dogs 2 is an essential part of the game. Players can use their hacking skills to create distractions and diversions, making it easier to avoid detection. The game also features a system called “Noise,” which indicates the level of detection risk when hacking.
Players can use their skills and abilities to reduce the Noise level, making it easier to hack without being detected. The game also features a variety of stealth mechanics, such as sneaking and hiding, which can be used to avoid detection while hacking. Players must use their skills and abilities carefully and strategically to avoid detection and complete their objectives.
What are the consequences of getting caught while hacking in Watch Dogs 2?
The consequences of getting caught while hacking in Watch Dogs 2 can be severe. If players are detected while hacking, they will attract unwanted attention from the authorities, who will attempt to apprehend them. Players can use their skills and abilities to evade capture, but if they are caught, they will be forced to restart from a previous checkpoint.
In addition to the risk of capture, players can also suffer reputational damage if they are caught hacking. The game features a reputation system, which tracks the player’s hacking activities and rewards or penalizes them accordingly. If players are caught hacking, their reputation will suffer, making it more difficult to access certain areas and complete certain missions.