Choose UEF if you enjoy coordinating infantry, armor, and support. Choose PHC if you prefer making each higher-cost unit count. Choose Substrate if you like pressing a position, pulling away to recover shields, and coming back with drone support.
How the three factions compare
| Faction | What stands out | First thing to practice |
|---|---|---|
| United Earth Forces | Infantry and specialized units working together in larger forces | Scout first and bring armor and infantry that can cover one another |
| Post-Human Coalition | Generally costlier, individually stronger units | Commit to fights that fit the unit's role and keep support nearby |
| Substrate | Regenerating shields and drone swarms | Pull out of a fight while there is room to recover and reposition |
The developers' Ashes II FAQ explains that the factions use different kinds of expendable forces. A Substrate drone swarm does not fill exactly the same role as UEF infantry.
UEF: Coordinate different kinds of units
The UEF showcase uses the Pathfinder as a reconnaissance vehicle and the Leopard 4 as a frontline tank. You can scout an approach with one, then bring up the other and support it with infantry. This approach rewards making the different parts of your force work together rather than counting on every unit to win its own duel.
PHC: Get value from each commitment
The PHC reveal shows the Nemesis as a long-range anti-tank specialist and the Hyperion as an aerial unit for attacking ground targets. Use scouting to match the unit to the target. With more invested in a typical unit, it pays to decide how you will protect it or pull it back before attacking.
Substrate: Use recovery to maintain pressure
The Substrate reveal pairs regenerating shields with drone swarms. The Reaper is a frontline hovercraft, while the Overmind provides drone-based support. Leave yourself a route out of the fight so damaged shields can recover before the next push.
FAQ
Which faction should I choose first?
Pick the style you want to practice. UEF teaches coordination across unit roles, PHC rewards careful commitments, and Substrate rewards judging when to leave a fight and return.
Are PHC units always stronger one-on-one?
The developers describe a general tendency, and the official profiles give different units distinct roles. What matters in a fight is whether the unit is suited to the target and has the support it needs.
Are these all of the units in the game?
The examples come from official previews. Check the current in-game roster for the complete lineup and balance values.