Arc Thrower (EU2012)

The Arc Thrower is used to retrieve live aliens for interrogation. It is also the only way to retrieve intact weapons from X-COM missions, as alien weapons explode into fragments when aliens die. The Arc Thrower can only be used at close range, and can only be fired twice per mission. The Arc Thrower has a better chance of working if the target is low-health.

Stats

Arc Thrower

Required Research: Arc Thrower (Accessed via Xeno-Biology) Cost: §35, 5 Engineers Abilities: Stun: Attempts to stun the target alien (2x / mission). Foundry Upgrades: ???: Increased stun chance at 6 HP (up from 3) Repair SHIVs: Allows Arc Thrower to repair friendly SHIVs. ???: Can attempt to take control of an enemy Drone (similar to mind control). The Arc Thrower is a non-lethal sidearm designed to stun hostile targets. The mechanism seems to be most effective against weakened enemies.

Source: XCOM: Enemy Unknown (2012)

Tips and tricks

• The Arc Thrower has a better chance of working if the target has 3 or fewer health remaining (6 with Foundry upgrade).
• Given the close range, a Support class soldier with Sprinter is a fairly good candidate for packing the Arc Thrower.
• Alternatively, an Assault class soldier with Lightning Reflexes is another good candidate for the Arc Thrower as they can avoid the first overwatch shot of the target.
• To ensure you don't lose soldiers because of a failed stun attempt, try stunning the alien using at least two people at once.
• Note that the Arc Thrower does not affect robotic enemies.