Pull

Lore & Background

The Pull capability represents a sophisticated application of vector thrusters integrated into certain mech chassis. Developed during the height of Vek incursions, this technology allows mechs to exert force on external targets through localized gravity wells or magnetic coupling. It was designed not for combat effectiveness in terms of destruction, but for battlefield management. VDF doctrine emphasizes that survival often depends on positioning rather than raw power. The ability to manipulate enemy or allied placement ensures that civilians remain safe from crushing attacks and that heavy hitters can focus fire efficiently. Over time, this became a signature trait of several support mechs, distinguishing them as team players despite their lack of heavy weaponry. Historical logs suggest that early iterations struggled with stability when pulling larger Vek variants, but refinements allowed for consistent performance across most enemy types. This reliability cemented the Pull mechanic as an essential component of any balanced squad composition facing high-density threats.

In Their Own Story

The ground shook beneath the Kestrel's treads as another tremor wave rolled through the valley. Pilot Jax watched the civilian shelter on his HUD, a fragile bubble of safety amidst the chaos. A massive Vek brute lunged toward the structure, its claws raised high. "Hold steady," Jax muttered, engaging the special thrusters. The Kestrel leaned forward, locking onto the creature's mass. With a surge of blue energy, the mech yanked the beast off balance, dragging it backward across the grid tiles. The Vek stumbled into the path of the waiting Wasp, which unleashed its payload instantly. Jax exhaled; another day saved by inches.

Reader's Guide

The Pull mechanic allows specific mechs to reposition hostile Vek without dealing direct damage. Primarily utilized by the Kestrel class, this special action moves a targeted enemy one tile closer to the mech along a straight line. This requires clear pathing; enemies cannot be pulled through buildings or other units, though they can be dragged onto hazardous terrain like lava pools or spikes. Tactical value lies in crowd control and protection. Pilots often use Pull to drag an attacking Vek away from vulnerable civilians or allied mechs standing on the edge of safety. By moving a threat into the line of fire for heavy hitters like the Wasp, players maximize damage output efficiently across multiple turns. Stacking enemies together creates opportunities for multi-target attacks, turning a chaotic skirmish into a controlled engagement. Timing is essential since using this consumes the mech's turn action entirely. It does not inherently trigger counterattacks from the moved enemy unless they end their move adjacent to an ally capable of retaliation, which varies by unit type. Understanding movement vectors prevents accidentally grouping enemies where they threaten multiple targets simultaneously or pushing them into safe zones.

Did You Know?

• The Kestrel does not have a Pull ability; its special action is the 'Boost' ability.
• Pulling an enemy onto lava or spikes does NOT deal damage to that enemy; only pushing or moving an enemy onto such hazards triggers damage.
• This ability can be used on allies, making it useful for both offensive crowd control and rescue transport.
• Stacking enemies via Pull is not a standard mechanic; enemies cannot be stacked on the same tile in Into the Breach.