Console Commands Xcom Enemy Within

In XCOM: Enemy Within , enabling the developer console requires more than just a single key press, as the expansion removed the original shell access found in the base game. You must either manually bind commands to specific keys or use a third-party mod to restore the full command line. Method 1: Manual Key Bindings (No Mods)

This is the most common way to "use" commands without altering core game files.

Locate the Config File: Navigate to your installation folder:...\Steam\steamapps\common\XCom-Enemy-Unknown\XEW\XComGame\Config\.

Edit DefaultInput.ini: Open the file in a text editor (e.g., Notepad).

Add Bindings: Find the relevant section and paste your desired command. For Base/Strategy Screen: Find [Engine.PlayerInput].

For Tactical/Mission Screen: Find [XComGame.XComTacticalInput].

Example Syntax: .Bindings=(Name="F10", Command="GiveResource Money 5000"). Essential Console Commands

If you have the Developer Console mod (often found via Nexus Mods) installed, you can hit the tilde key (~ or \) to type these directly. Keybind commands - Enemy Unknown - Nexus Mods Forums

Enabling console commands in XCOM: Enemy Within (EW) is notably more difficult than in the base game or XCOM 2 because the developer shell was intentionally patched out by the developers. To access these commands, you must either manually bind specific keys in your configuration files or use a third-party mod to re-enable the full interface. Steam Community 1. How to Enable the Console There are two primary methods for PC players: The Key-Binding Method (No Mods Required) DefaultInput.ini in your game files, typically at:

Steam\steamapps\common\XCom-Enemy-Unknown\XEW\XComGame\Config\ Open the file and find the sections for [Engine.PlayerInput] (for the base/strategy layer) or [XcomGame.XcomTacticalInput] (for combat). Add a line following this format: .Bindings=(Name="K", Command="KillClosestEnemy", Alt=True) In-game, press to execute the command. The Modding Method (Full Console Interface) Download the Developer Console mod (often found on the XCOM Nexus ) or use the console enabler included with the

Once installed, you can typically open the full console with the Backslash () 2. Essential Console Commands

Once enabled, use these commands to manage your squad and resources: Strategy Layer (Base/Geoscape) lowerpanic : Reduces panic across all countries. Levelupbarracks [Number]

: Sets all soldiers in your barracks to the specified level (e.g., for Colonel). GiveResource [Type] [Amount] : Adds resources. Replace Scientists Steam Community Tactical Layer (Combat/Missions) Console Commands on Enemy Within - XCOM

To use console commands in XCOM: Enemy Within , you must first enable the Developer Console, as it is disabled by default in the expansion. Steam Community How to Enable the Console , simply adding a launch argument often does not work for Enemy Within because the game's internal IsConsoleAllowed

function is hardcoded to "false". You have two primary options: Steam Community Option 1: Use a Mod (Recommended) : Download a pre-patched Engine.upk file or use PatcherGUI

to apply a "Dev Console" patch. Many players use the "Activate Dev Console" file from the Long War mod page on Nexus Mods , which works for the base Enemy Within game as well. Option 2: Keybinding Method : Edit your DefaultInput.ini file (found in XEW\XcomGame\Config

) to bind specific commands to keys. For example, add this line under [Engine.PlayerInput] .Bindings=(Name="U", Command="restartlevel", Alt=True) This allows you to execute the command by pressing without opening a console window. Steam Community Useful Console Commands Once the console is active (usually by pressing the key), you can use these common commands: Tactical (In-Mission)

Mastering XCOM: Enemy Within console commands can transform a grueling campaign into a sandbox of tactical possibilities. Whether you're stuck on a buggy mission, looking to experiment with late-game gear early, or simply want to bypass the resource grind, this guide covers everything from enabling the console to the most powerful commands available. How to Enable the Console in XCOM: Enemy Within

Unlike its sequel, XCOM: Enemy Within does not have a simple "enable console" toggle in the menus. There are two primary ways to gain access: Method 1: The Config Bind (Simplest)

This method allows you to bind specific commands to keys without needing external mods. console commands xcom enemy within

Locate your DefaultInput.ini file. It is typically found at:...\Steam\steamapps\common\XCom-Enemy-Unknown\XEW\XcomGame\Config

Open the file and find the headers [XComGame.XComTacticalInput] (for battle commands) or [Engine.PlayerInput] (for base management).

Add your desired bind. For example, to bind a mission restart to Alt+U, paste:.Bindings=(Name="U", Command="restartlevel", Alt=True) Method 2: The Dev Console Mod

To use a real-time typing console (typically opened with the backslash (\) or tilde (~) key), many players download a modified Engine.upk file from sources like Nexus Mods. This is the standard for the Long War mod and provides the most flexibility. Essential Tactical Console Commands

These commands are used during active missions (the "Battlescape").

restartlevel: Restarts the current mission from the beginning, useful for fixing broken triggers or undoing a disastrous turn.

GivePerk [ID]: Grants a specific ability to the currently selected soldier. For example, GivePerk 117 might grant "Low Profile." Use a negative sign (e.g., GivePerk -117) to remove it.

GivePsiPerks: Instantly grants all psionic abilities to the selected soldier. TakeNoDamage: Makes all units on your squad invincible.

ToggleFOW: Toggles the "Fog of War," revealing the entire map and all enemy locations. PowerUp: Combines invincibility with unlimited ammunition. Essential Strategy Console Commands

These commands are used while at XCOM HQ (the "Geoscape") to manage your resources and base. Console Commands on Enemy Within - Steam Community

XCOM: Enemy Within (EW) doesn't make it easy to access the developer console. Unlike its successor, XCOM 2, which allows you to simply add a launch parameter, EW requires a bit more legwork—either through manual .ini file editing or third-party patches. How to Enable the Console in XCOM: Enemy Within

There are two primary ways to gain "god-like" powers over your campaign. Method 1: The Keybind Method (No Mods Required)

This is the safest method and involves binding specific commands to keys in your game configuration files.

Navigate to your game’s config folder: ...Steam\steamapps\common\XCom-Enemy-Unknown\XEW\XcomGame\Config. Open DefaultInput.ini with a text editor like Notepad.

For Tactical Commands (during missions): Find the line [XComGame.XComTacticalInput].

For Base Commands (at HQ): Find the line [Engine.PlayerInput]. Add your custom binding below the header using this format: .Bindings=(Name="U", Command="restartlevel", Alt=True)

Note: Using Alt=True ensures you don't accidentally trigger a cheat by hitting the key during normal play. Method 2: The PatcherGUI Method (Full Console Access)

If you want a live console where you can type commands as you go, you’ll need the Developer Console Activation for EW from Nexus Mods. Download and run PatcherGUI.

Apply the .txt patch file included with the mod to your XComGame.exe. In XCOM: Enemy Within , enabling the developer

Once patched, you can usually press the Tilde (~) key in-game to open the command line. Essential Console Commands for XCOM: EW

Once your console or keybinds are active, use these commands to manipulate the game. restartlevel Restarts the current mission from the beginning. TeleportToCursor Instantly moves the selected unit to your mouse pointer. ToggleFOW Turns the Fog of War on or off to see the whole map. GivePerk [ID] Grants a specific ability to the selected soldier. Levelupbarracks 7 Sets all soldiers in your barracks to the maximum rank. GiveItem [Name] [Qty] Adds specific items or resources to your inventory. Console Commands on Enemy Within - Steam Community

Take Control of the Invasion: A Guide to XCOM: Enemy Within Console Commands

Whether you're looking to recover a campaign gone sideways or simply want to experiment with the game's mechanics, console commands provide powerful tools for any XCOM commander. However, unlike its sequel, accessing these commands in Enemy Within (EW) requires a bit of behind-the-scenes work. How to Enable Console Commands

The traditional "tilde" key method typically used in PC gaming doesn't work by default in Enemy Within due to updates that patched out old developer console access. Instead, you must manually bind commands to specific keys within the game's configuration files.

Locate the Configuration File: Navigate to your XCOM: Enemy Unknown installation folder, typically found at:C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\XCom-Enemy-Unknown\XEW\XcomGame\Config.

Edit DefaultInput.ini: Open this file with a text editor like Notepad. Always create a backup before making changes.

Add Key Bindings: You must place your bindings under the correct section depending on where you want them to work:

Tactical (In-Mission): Look for [XComGame.XComTacticalInput]. Base (Geoscape): Look for [Engine.PlayerInput].

Format Your Commands: Add a line using this syntax:.Bindings=(Name="K", Command="[CommandName]", Alt=True).

Note: Using Alt=True is highly recommended so you don't trigger cheats accidentally during normal gameplay. Essential Tactical Commands

These commands are best bound under the [XComGame.XComTacticalInput] header for use during active missions.

Restart Level: restartlevel — Restarts the current mission from the beginning, including a fresh randomization of alien and Meld locations.

Teleport to Cursor: TeleportToCursor — Instantly moves the currently selected soldier to where your mouse is pointing.

Toggle Fog of War: ToggleFOW — Reveals the entire map, though enemies may still stay hidden until actually spotted.

Invincibility: TakeNoDamage — Makes all your units immune to damage.

Unlimited Ammo/No Reload: PowerUp — Combines invincibility with infinite ammunition. Strategic Base Commands

For boosting your resources at HQ, bind these under the [Engine.PlayerInput] section. Command Name Description Example Binding Give Engineers Instantly adds a set number of engineers.

.Bindings=(Name="E", Command="GiveResource Engineers 50", Alt=True) Give Scientists Instantly adds a set number of scientists. Part 4: The "Give Perk" Deep Dive One

.Bindings=(Name="S", Command="GiveResource Scientists 50", Alt=True) Give Cash Boosts your monthly funding. .Bindings=(Name="C", Command="GiveCash 1000", Alt=True) Level Up Barracks Increases the rank of all soldiers. .Bindings=(Name="L", Command="Levelupbarracks 7", Alt=True) Add Items Adds specific resources like Meld or Elerium. .Bindings=(Name="M", Command="GiveItem Meld 500", Alt=True) Pro Tip: The "Long War" Shortcut

If editing .ini files feels too tedious, many players choose to install the Long War mod or use its standalone Developer Console patch available on Nexus Mods. These modifications often re-enable the standard backslash (\) or tilde (~) key to open a live console window, removing the need for manual key bindings. Console Commands on Enemy Within - Steam Community

In XCOM: Enemy Within, console access is restricted, requiring users to enable commands by editing the DefaultInput.ini file to bind keys or by installing a third-party Developer Console Activation mod. Common commands allow for functionality like toggling the fog of war, teleporting units, and leveling up soldiers. For a detailed guide on enabling these commands, visit Steam Community. Console Commands on Enemy Within - Steam Community

Here’s a short, informative piece tailored for a gaming guide or blog. It covers the essentials for using console commands in XCOM: Enemy Within.


Part 4: The "Give Perk" Deep Dive

One of the coolest uses of the console is creating hybrid super-soldiers. Want a Heavy with Squad Sight? A Sniper with Run & Gun? You can do that.

First, you need the internal perk names. You cannot guess them. Here are some fan-favorites:

How to use it:

  1. Select your soldier on the battlefield.
  2. Open console.
  3. Type: GivePerk Perk_SquadSight
  4. Hit Enter.

Your sniper now has Squad Sight on top of their existing skills. This can break the game's balance, but it is incredibly fun.


D. Monster Factory (Spawning Units)

Warning: Spawning enemies on the strategy layer can corrupt your save. Only use these in a tactical mission. Warning 2: Spawned units are neutral at first. You must get close to activate them.

| Command | Effect | | :--- | :--- | | SpawnUnit ePawnType_Sectoid 0 | Spawns a friendly Sectoid. (Change 0 to 1 for enemy). | | SpawnUnit ePawnType_Cyberdisc 1 | Spawns an enemy Cyberdisc. Good luck. | | SpawnUnit ePawnType_Mechtoid 1 | Spawns an enemy Mechtoid (requires a Sectoid commander nearby to shield it). | | SpawnUnit ePawnType_Berserker 1 | Spawns an enemy Berserker. It will charge you immediately. | | SpawnUnit ePawnType_Ethereal 1 | Spawns the final boss type. Insanely dangerous. |

Tip for Spawning: Save your game before spawning. Nothing ruins a run like a Chryssalid appearing directly inside your Support's skull.


A. Resource & Base Management (The Ant Farm Cheats)

These are best used in the Ant Farm (the strategy layer), not during a mission.

| Command | Effect | Example | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | GiveResource 0 [amount] | Adds Money (Credits) | GiveResource 0 5000 | | GiveResource 1 [amount] | Adds Alloys | GiveResource 1 999 | | GiveResource 2 [amount] | Adds Elerium | GiveResource 2 999 | | GiveResource 3 [amount] | Adds Meld | GiveResource 3 500 | | GiveResource 4 [amount] | Adds Weapon Fragments | GiveResource 4 300 | | GiveEngineer [amount] | Adds Engineer staff | GiveEngineer 25 | | GiveScientist [amount] | Adds Scientist staff | GiveScientist 25 | | GiveActionPoints [amount] | Gives all soldiers extra moves (Tactical) | GiveActionPoints 3 | | SetHQTransferRate [0-5] | Changes panic level globally (0=none, 5=max panic) | SetHQTransferRate 0 |

Pro Tip: After adding engineers or scientists, you may need to exit to the main menu and reload your save for the game to recalculate build times.

5. Mission & Tactical (Battle) Commands

Use these during a ground mission (Battlescape).

| Command | Description | |----------|-------------| | ToggleGodMode | Active soldier cannot die (but can still get panicked/flanked). | | UnlimitedMoves | Toggle infinite actions per turn for current soldier. | | TakeAction | Debug – forces current soldier to complete an action (often buggy). Better to use UnlimitedMoves. | | KillAliens | Instantly kills all aliens on the map (ends mission if all eliminated). | | RestartMission | Restarts current tactical mission from load (helpful if triggered accidentally). | | SpawnUnit <unit> <team> | Spawns a unit. Team: 0 = XCOM, 1 = Aliens, 2 = Neutral/Friendly (e.g., Civilians). Example: SpawnUnit Sectopod 1 | | SpawnUnitFromType <name> | Same as above but with technical names – use SpawnUnit usually. | | DropItem <itemname> | Drops a specific item at cursor location during tactical. | | GiveActionPoints 5 | Adds action points to current soldier (0-99). | | DamageUnit <amount> | Damages the selected unit (alien or soldier) by that HP amount. | | SetUnitHP <hp> | Sets current unit’s HP (can heal). | | ExitToSkyranger | Teleports entire squad to the LZ (evac zone) – useful for quick mission ends. | | ForceCompleteMission | Ends mission with current objectives (risky – may break scripted missions). |

List of spawnable units (team 1 = enemy):
Sectoid, Floater, ThinMan, Muton, Cyberdisc, Drone, Sectopod, Ethereal, Berserker, Chryssalid, HeavyFloater, Mechtoid, Seeker, Outsider, Zombie, SHIV (not all work as enemies).


Example Sequence (Quick Resource Boost)

  1. Open console
  2. GiveResource money 2000
  3. GiveResource meld 300
  4. GiveResource alloys 500
  5. GiveResource elerium 300
  6. LevelUpBarracks 3 (gives all soldiers +3 ranks)

D. Soldier & Class Manipulation

Want to turn that rookie into a max-rank Colonel Psionic?

| Command | Effect | | :--- | :--- | | GivePerk [PerkName] | Gives the selected soldier a specific perk. | | SetSoldierClass [ClassName] | Changes the selected soldier's class. | | PsiTest | Immediately makes the selected soldier Psi-positive (if eligible). | | GivePsiXP [amount] | Adds Psi XP to level up Psi abilities. | | LevelUpBarracks [number] | Levels up every soldier in the barracks (e.g., LevelUpBarracks 7 for Colonel). |

ClassNames: Heavy, Sniper, Support, Assault, Mec