Vanguard
This article is about the enemy group and organization. For the badge, see Vanguard Badge.
History
During the Rikti War, shortly after the initial Rikti attack, The United Nations Security Council, led by Great Britain and France, formed an emergency umbrella organization to help coordinate hero resources in the worldwide war against the invaders. Called the Vanguard, this group was composed of some of the world's best and brightest heroes.
The Rikti had taken their toll and famous super groups like the Freedom Phalanx, the Dawn Patrol, Midnight Squad, Regulators, and Hero Corps were down to only the toughest and most powerful heroes. With its decentralized command structure and international recruiting base, only the Vanguard remained a viable, organized fighting force.
It sprang into action immediately, and began to effect stalemates similar to the one that had been reached in Paragon City. The aliens' advances were halted, but it seemed impossible to take back the territory they had already seized.
The Vanguard initiated a plan to strike back at the Rikti using a plan by Dr. Science. Leaving only skeleton crews to man defenses, the Vanguard was split into two teams. Alpha Team was led by Statesman and Omega Team was led by Hero 1. Alpha Team was much larger and consisted of over 1,000 heroes which launched a frontal assault on the Rikti. It was a costly attack and 800 of the heroes lost their lives. While the Alpha Team attacked the main body of Rikti troops, Omega Team slipped into the main Rikti portal base, through one of the portals and after a huge explosion from the other side, the portal was shut down. Only one hero, the utterly invulnerable Ajax, managed to survive the blast on this side of the portal. It is presumed that the heroes that went through the portal have perished.
Thanks to the heroics of the Vanguard, the Rikti War was over, or at least the first phase of it was. Both sides were nearly shattered in the process. The Vanguard and the other great hero organizations of the world scarcely existed anymore. With the exception of Statesman and a few others, all the world's greatest heroes had died in the war. Trillions upon trillions of dollars of damage had been done to the majority of the world's most populated cities. Paragon City was the worst hit of all. Once a shining beacon of light and prosperity, now much of it lay in ruins. It didn't take long for criminals to start reasserting themselves, and new heroes were needed. It was the beginning of a desperate time that would last for decades.
Today, the Vanguard objectives are the same that they were years ago during the Rikti War. The organization opposes the Rikti wherever they show up, and so, the Rikti War Zone is a primary concern for the group, where they keep a strong presence encircling the downed Rikti starship.
But the Vanguard has a dark side too: Dedicated to stop the Rikti by whatever means necessary, they gladly recruit metahumans without any kind of distinction, not caring about the past of any new recruits. In practice this means that the Vanguard accepts into its ranks heroes as well as villains. This open door policy is causing a lot of tension between the organization and Longbow, whose point of view about the matter is completely different. Despite the fact that both groups fight for the same side and want to see the Rikti defeated, some of the Longbow leaders, such as W. M. Dietrich are especially critical of Vanguard.
And while the Vanguard fights for the planet as a whole and even has known villains in its ranks, villain groups such as the Malta Group or Arachnos are openly hostile to them, making its ally list even thinner.
Fighting an alien race in an open war, distrusted by hero organizations and attacked by villain groups, the Vanguard faces an uncertain future ahead. Only time will tell if the Vanguard and its allies succeed in their goals.
Structural Hierarchy
The Vanguard is split into 5 main divisions: The Helm, The Gauntlet, The Shield, The Herald, and The Sword.
The Herald - The public relations division is ran by a heroine named Incandescent. She's not normally on-site as she's usually too busy abroad working with the UN.
The Shield - The security division headed up by the sisters Levantera and Borea. Sharing the leadership between the two of them, together they handle security and most defensive roles.
The Gauntlet - The main offensive branch is headed up by the hero known as Serpent Drummer. Most troops that are visibly seen taking physical action against the Rikti belong to this branch.
The Helm - The intelligence division, headed up by the mysterious Dark Watcher. This division is dedicated in gathering information to help keep the Rikti contained.
The Sword - The counter-intelligence and special ops division is a secret branch headed up by Gaussian, and handles all kinds of cloak-and-dagger works.
The Lady Grey is the overall commander of the Vanguard and is both powerful and well connected. It's believed that she has been around as long as Statesman and Recluse. She sets the overall strategy of the organization and has Dark Watcher as her second in command.
Benefits
Despite the group's overall situation and its relations with the rest of the world, metahumans who join the Vanguard may reap the benefits of their services:
Vanguard Badges
Just joining the Vanguard will net your char a badge. Continued action against the Rikti during Invasions and Rikti Ship Raids will yield more.
You have helped place 10 bombs on the crashed Rikti ship in the Rikti War Zone.
You have defeated the Rikti Master At Arms from the crashed ship in the Rikti War Zone.
Vanguard Merits
Main Article: Vanguard Merit
The first thing a metahuman must do after joining the Vanguard is earn its favor. This can be done by earning Vanguard Merits through tasks such as completing missions and defeating Rikti troops in the War Zone, or attacking the Rikti Ship. Once enough Merits have been earned, they can be spent on different perks at special worktables located within the Vanguard base.
Costume Pieces
Main Article: Vanguard Costume Pieces
The Vanguard can outfit recruits with the same Impervium armor their troops use in battle. Each piece must be earned seperately.
(Note that the Vanguard armor pieces are just costume pieces at the tailor and don't grant characters any special resistances nor benefits.)
Temporary Powers
Main Article: Vanguard Temporary Powers
After fighting a highly-advanced alien race for years, the Vanguard has new technology to offer its allies: Heavy Assault mechs, psi-weapons, and even spells are all available to metahumans.
Weapon Customization
Main Article: Weapon Customization
Along with Vanguard armor costume pieces, some of the Vanguard's weaponry can also be bought to add to characters' costumes. Among these weapons are things like the Vanguard Redding Rifle and Vanguard Claws, as well as other Vanguard weaponry which the Vanguard troops don't even use!
Contacts
Models
Male NPC models
Female NPC models
Heavy Assault model. Not to scale; this model is over 20 feet tall.
Enemy Types
Currently, not every branch of the Vanguard may be found in game. The following Vanguard soldiers can be found, mostly as neutral or ally to heroes and villains.
Vanguard Shield
Minions
Vanguard Soldier
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Burst Ranged, Damage over Time(Lethal/Energy), Foe -Defense
Your Defense has been reduced by the Submachine Gun.
Bayonet Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal/Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Flashbang Grenades Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Foe -ToHit, -Defense
You've been partially blinded by the Flashbang Grenades. Your Accuracy and Defense are reduced.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S15 L15 E15 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard Soldier
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Strike Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Slash Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Focus Ranged, High Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy), Knockback
Your resistances have been weakened.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S15 L15 E15 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Conference Security
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
(Note: Conference Security is a group of NPCs found in the mission Help with Conference Security from Serpent Drummer. They actively fight the Rikti; however, if you defeat their enemies around them, they will remain in place and not attack further unless provoked.)
Lieutenants
Vanguard Adept
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Ice Blast Ranged, Moderate Damage(Cold/Smash), Foe -Recharge, -Speed
Ice Blast hurls shards of ice at foes and Slows their attacks and movement for a time. Slower recharge than Ice Bolt, but more damage. Damage: Moderate
Life Drain Ranged, Moderate Damage(Negative), Foe -ToHit, -Resist(All), Self +HP
You can tap the power of the Netherworld to steal some life from a target foe and reduce his Accuracy. Some of that stolen life is transferred to you in the form of Hit Points. Damage: Moderate
Defense Aura Toggle, Point Blank Area of Effect, Energy, Foe Sleep, -Endurance, -Recovery
Your Endurance has been drained and you are in a state of shock.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard Sergeant
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Burst Ranged, Damage over Time(Lethal/Energy), Foe -Defense
Your Defense has been reduced by the Submachine Gun.
Bayonet Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal/Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Willie Pete Round Ranged, Lethal, Location Targeted Area of Effect, Damage over Time(Fire/Smashing)
This explosion from this Fragmentation Grenade affects all within the blast and can knock them back.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Bosses
Vanguard Colonel
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Burst Ranged, Damage over Time(Lethal/Energy), Foe -Defense
Your Defense has been reduced by the Submachine Gun.
Bayonet Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal/Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Willie Pete Round Ranged, Lethal, Location Targeted Area of Effect, Damage over Time(Fire/Smashing)
This explosion from this Fragmentation Grenade affects all within the blast and can knock them back.
Plasma Blast Ranged, Energy, Foe -Regeneration, Knockback
Plasma burns are hard to heal. The burns have halted your Regeneration rate.
SIGIL Round Ranged, Negative/Lethal, Foe Disorient, Cursed
Fires a large slug at a single target at very long range. This very accurate weapon hits hard, and can knock down foes.
Curse of Weariness Foe -MaxEndurance
You are tired. Your endurance total has been reduced.
Assault Auto, Point Blank Area of Effect, Team +Damage, Resist(Taunt, Placate)
Your attack damage is improved due to good leadership and teamwork. You are partially resistant to Taunt and Placate.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P35 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard Wizard
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Ice Blast Ranged, Moderate Damage(Cold/Smash), Foe -Recharge, -Speed
Ice Blast hurls shards of ice at foes and Slows their attacks and movement for a time. Slower recharge than Ice Bolt, but more damage. Damage: Moderate
Life Drain Ranged, Moderate Damage(Negative), Foe -ToHit, -Resist(All), Self +HP
You can tap the power of the Netherworld to steal some life from a target foe and reduce his Accuracy. Some of that stolen life is transferred to you in the form of Hit Points. Damage: Moderate
Freezing Sphere Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Superior Damage(Cold/Smash), Foe -Recharge, -Speed, -ToHit
A slower yet more powerful version of Ice Blast, Bitter Ice Blast deals much more damage and can also reduce your enemy's Accuracy. Like other Ice Blast powers, Bitter Ice Blast can Slow a target's movement and attack speed. Damage: Superior
Ball Lightning Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Energy, Foe Sleep, -Endurance, -Recovery
Your Endurance has been drained and are in a state of shock.
Defense Aura Toggle, Point Blank Area of Effect, Energy, Foe Sleep, -Endurance, -Recovery
Your Endurance has been drained and you are in a state of shock.
Tactics Auto, Point Blank Area of Effect, Team +ToHit, Resist(Confuse, Fear), +Perception
Your Accuracy and Perception is improved due to good teamwork and Leadership.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P35 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Elite Bosses
Vanguard Commander
These walking tanks are the pinnacle of everything that is Vanguard's training, weapons, and a symbol of their power.
These men and women are at the head of Vanguard's endeavors to keep Earth safe and won't hesitate to make the difficult calls on what must be sacrificed to ensure every threat is eliminated before it can harm our world.
Powers
Burst Ranged, Damage over Time(Lethal/Energy), Foe -Defense
Your Defense has been reduced by the Submachine Gun.
Bayonet Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal/Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Willie Pete Round Ranged, Lethal, Location Targeted Area of Effect, Damage over Time(Fire/Smashing)
This explosion from this Fragmentation Grenade affects all within the blast and can knock them back.
Plasma Blast Ranged, Energy, Foe -Regeneration, Knockback
Plasma burns are hard to heal. The burns have halted your Regeneration rate.
SIGIL Round Ranged, Negative/Lethal, Foe Disorient, Cursed
Fires a large slug at a single target at very long range. This very accurate weapon hits hard, and can knock down foes.
- Curse of Weariness Foe -MaxEndurance
You are tired. Your endurance total has been reduced.
Strike Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Slash Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Focus Ranged, High Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy), Knockback
Your resistances have been weakened.
Assault Auto, Point Blank Area of Effect, Team +Damage, Resist(Taunt, Placate)
Your attack damage is improved due to good leadership and teamwork. You are partially resistant to Taunt and Placate.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P35 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard HVAS
Main Article: Vanguard HVAS
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Tear Gas Ranged, Location Area of Effect, Smash, Foe Hold
The Tear Gas has left you choking and helpless.
Grenade Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Lethal/Smash, Foe Knockback
Grenade!
Plasma Blast Ranged, Energy, Foe -Regeneration, Knockback
Plasma burns are hard to heal. The burns have halted your Regeneration rate.
Seeker Drones Summon Seeker Drones: Suicide Special, Area of Effect, Low Damage(Energy), Foe Disorient, -Damage, -ToHit, -Perception
The Seeker Drones have Disoriented you and reduced your Damage, Accuracy and Perception range.
Energy Barrage Ranged Cone, Damage over Time(Energy/Smash), Foe Knockback
You have been knocked back.
Air Bomb Ranged, Location Area of Effect, Fire/Smash, Damage over Time(Fire), Foe Knockback
You have been knocked back by the explosion and are on fire.
Heavy Boost Auto, Self +Damage, +Speed
Your Damage has been increased.
Resistances Res( S25 L25 F25 C25 E25 N25 P40 T50 )
Resistance
Vanguard Sword
Minions
Vanguard Ranger
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace in our world.
Powers
Strike Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Slash Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Focus Ranged, High Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy), Knockback
Your resistances have been weakened.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S15 L15 E15 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard Ranger
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Burst Ranged, Damage over Time(Lethal/Energy), Foe -Defense
Your Defense has been reduced by the Submachine Gun.
Bayonet Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal/Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Flashbang Grenades Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Foe -ToHit, -Defense
You've been partially blinded by the Flashbang Grenades. Your Accuracy and Defense are reduced.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S15 L15 E15 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Lieutenants
Vanguard Eliminator
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Spin Point Blank Area of Effect Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Slash Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Focus Ranged, High Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy), Knockback
Your resistances have been weakened.
Shockwave Melee Cone, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal, Energy), Knockback
Your resistances have been weakened.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard Sergeant
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Burst Ranged, Damage over Time(Lethal/Energy), Foe -Defense
Your Defense has been reduced by the Submachine Gun.
Bayonet Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal/Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Willie Pete Round Ranged, Lethal, Location Targeted Area of Effect, Damage over Time(Fire/Smashing)
This explosion from this Fragmentation Grenade affects all within the blast and can knock them back.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard Magician
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Ice Blast Ranged, Moderate Damage(Cold/Smash), Foe -Recharge, -Speed
Ice Blast hurls shards of ice at foes and Slows their attacks and movement for a time. Slower recharge than Ice Bolt, but more damage. Damage: Moderate
Life Drain Ranged, Moderate Damage(Negative), Foe -ToHit, -Resist(All), Self +HP
You can tap the power of the Netherworld to steal some life from a target foe and reduce his Accuracy. Some of that stolen life is transferred to you in the form of Hit Points. Damage: Moderate
Defense Aura Toggle, Point Blank Area of Effect, Energy, Foe Sleep, -Endurance, -Recovery
Your Endurance has been drained and you are in a state of shock.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P20 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Bosses
Vanguard Colonel
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace in our world.
Powers
Burst Ranged, Damage over Time(Lethal/Energy), Foe -Defense
Your Defense has been reduced by the Submachine Gun.
Bayonet Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal/Energy), Damage over Time(Lethal), Foe -Resist(Lethal/Energy)
Your resistances have been weakened.
Willie Pete Round Ranged, Lethal, Location Targeted Area of Effect, Damage over Time(Fire/Smashing)
This explosion from this Fragmentation Grenade affects all within the blast and can knock them back.
Plasma Blast Ranged, Energy, Foe -Regeneration, Knockback
Plasma burns are hard to heal. The burns have halted your Regeneration rate.
SIGIL Round Ranged, Negative/Lethal, Foe Disorient, Cursed
Fires a large slug at a single target at very long range. This very accurate weapon hits hard, and can knock down foes.
- Curse of Weariness Foe -MaxEndurance
You are tired. Your endurance total has been reduced.
Psi-Bomb Ranged, Targeted Area of Effect, Psionic, Foe Disorient, Special(Confuse Rikti)
You are stunned and possibly confused.
Assault Auto, Point Blank Area of Effect, Team +Damage, Resist(Taunt, Placate)
Your attack damage is improved due to good leadership and teamwork. You are partially resistant to Taunt and Placate.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P35 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Vanguard Sorcerer
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Ice Blast Ranged, Moderate Damage(Cold/Smash), Foe -Recharge, -Speed
Ice Blast hurls shards of ice at foes and Slows their attacks and movement for a time. Slower recharge than Ice Bolt, but more damage. Damage: Moderate
Life Drain Ranged, Moderate Damage(Negative), Foe -ToHit, -Resist(All), Self +HP
You can tap the power of the Netherworld to steal some life from a target foe and reduce his Accuracy. Some of that stolen life is transferred to you in the form of Hit Points. Damage: Moderate
Freezing Sphere Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Superior Damage(Cold/Smash), Foe -Recharge, -Speed, -ToHit
A slower yet more powerful version of Ice Blast, Bitter Ice Blast deals much more damage and can also reduce your enemy's Accuracy. Like other Ice Blast powers, Bitter Ice Blast can Slow a target's movement and attack speed. Damage: Superior
Ball Lightning Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Energy, Foe Sleep, -Endurance, -Recovery
Your Endurance has been drained and are in a state of shock.
Defense Aura Toggle, Point Blank Area of Effect, Energy, Foe Sleep, -Endurance, -Recovery
Your Endurance has been drained and you are in a state of shock.
Tactics Auto, Point Blank Area of Effect, Team +ToHit, Resist(Confuse, Fear), +Perception
Your Accuracy and Perception is improved due to good teamwork and Leadership.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P35 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Elite Bosses
Vanguard HVAS
Main Article: Vanguard HVAS
Vanguard is a group backed by the United Nations, and headed up by Lady Grey. Their soldiers are specifically outfitted in Impervium armor and with high tech as well as magical weaponry to fight the Rikti. Everything they do is centered around containing the Rikti menace on our world.
Powers
Tear Gas Ranged, Location Area of Effect, Smash, Foe Hold
The Tear Gas has left you choking and helpless.
Grenade Ranged Targeted Area of Effect, Lethal/Smash, Foe Knockback
Grenade!
Plasma Blast Ranged, Energy, Foe -Regeneration, Knockback
Plasma burns are hard to heal. The burns have halted your Regeneration rate.
Seeker Drones Summon Seeker Drones: Suicide Special, Area of Effect, Low Damage(Energy), Foe Disorient, -Damage, -ToHit, -Perception
The Seeker Drones have Disoriented you and reduced your Damage, Accuracy and Perception range.
Energy Barrage Ranged Cone, Damage over Time(Energy/Smash), Foe Knockback
You have been knocked back.
Air Bomb Ranged, Location Area of Effect, Fire/Smash, Damage over Time(Fire), Foe Knockback
You have been knocked back by the explosion and are on fire.
Heavy Boost Auto, Self +Damage, +Speed
Your Damage has been increased.
Resistances Res( S25 L25 F25 C25 E25 N25 P40 T50 )
Resistance
Signature Heroes
Faultline
Main Article: Faultline (As Ally)
See also: Jim Temblor (As Contact)
After he rediscovered his heroic roots, young Jim Temblor has been doing all he can to redeem the name of his father: Faultline. Following several intense battles with the Rikti, Faultline and his girlfriend Fusionette have joined the Vanguard to help fight the alien invaders.
Powers:
Granite Armor Self, +Resistance(All but Psionics), +Defense(All but Psionics), -Speed, -Recharge, -Damage
When you activate this power, you are transformed into a massive bulk of unyielding Granite. Your incredible mass makes you almost completely invulnerable and resistant to most effects. However, you also become quite heavy, cannot fly, your attack and movement speed are Slowed and you do less damage. Granite Armor also grants you high resistance to Defense DeBuffs.Cannot be active at the same time as other Armors in this set, Fly powers, Sprint, Super Speed, or Jump powers.
Earth's Embrace Self, +Resistance(All but Psionics), +Defense(All but Psionics), -Speed, -Recharge, -Damage
You are so connected to the Earth, you can draw upon its power to add to your own health. Activating this power increases your maximum Hit Points, and grants you resistance to Toxic Damage.
Mud Pots Toggle: PBAoE, Minor DoT (Fire), Foe Immobilize, -Speed
While this power is active, you draw upon the geothermal power of the Earth to create a bubbling pool of hot mud around yourself. All foes in melee range will become snared and entrapped in the mud, Immobilizing some and slowing others. The boiling heat from Mud Pots also deals some damage over time to the snared foes.
Quicksand Ranged, Location Area of Effect, Foe -Speed, -Jump, -Fly, -Defense
You can cause the ground to liquefy like Quicksand at a targeted location. Any foes that pass through the Quicksand will become snared, their movement will be dramatically Slowed, and their Defense reduced. Foes trapped in the Quicksand cannot jump or Fly.
Stone Prison Ranged, Minor Damage (Smashing), Foe Immobilize, -Fly, -Defense
Immobilizes a single target within an earthy formation and deals some Smashing damage over time. Some more resilient foes may require multiple attacks to Immobilize. Stone Prison can also reduce a target's Defense.
Fossilize Ranged, Moderate Damage (Smashing), Foe Hold, -Defense
Encases a single target within solid stone. The stone slowly crushes the victim, dealing Smashing damage. The Fossilized victim is held helpless and unable to defend himself.
Stone Fist Melee, Moderate Damage(Smashing), Foe Minor Disorient
Your stone covered fists attack swiftly for moderate damage, and may Disorient your opponent.
Tremor PBAoE, Moderate DMG (Smash), Knockback
You can cause a localized earthquake immediately around you. This will deal moderate damage to every foe in melee range, while knocking them back.
Seismic Smash Melee, Extreme Damage(Smashing), Foe Hold
This massive attack hits with all the force of the Earth itself. It deals tremendous amounts of damage, and may Hold the target if they are not defeated outright.
Resistance +Prot( Ho 50 St 50 Kb 100 Co 50 Fr 50 Rp 100 ), +Res( Rgn 85 Rcv 85 THt 85 Rech 85 Def 85 )
Auto, Self
Fusionette
Main Article: Fusionette
Fusionette is one of the Nuclear 90; 90 children from around the world all born in one year with an unusual mutation that gives them natural magnetic nuclear fusion reactors for hearts, and the ability to channel energy from their internal reactor for a variety of super powers. Like many of the Nuclear 90, Fusionette has decided to use her powers for the betterment of mankind as a hero. She has recently joined the Vanguard along with her boyfriend Faultline in order to help fight the Rikti.
Powers:
Power Bolt Ranged, Minor Damage (Energy/Smash), Foe: Knockback
A quick attack that rapidly hurls small bolts of energy at foes, sometimes knocking them down. Fast, but little damage.
Power Blast Ranged, Moderate Damage (Energy/Smash), Foe: Knockback
A much more powerful, yet slower version of Power Bolt. Power Blast sends a focused beam of energy at a foe that can knock him back.
Power Beam Ranged, Moderate Damage (Energy/Smash), Foe: Knockback
A much more powerful, yet slower version of Power Bolt. Power Blast sends a focused beam of energy at a foe that can knock him back.
Explosive Blast Targeted AoE Smash/Energy, Knockback
Hurls a blast of charged energy that violently explodes on impact, damaging all foes near the target.
Power Burst Close, High Damage (Energy/Smash), Foe: Knockback
A short range, but devastating attack. Power Burst unleashes a massive amount of energy dealing very high damage at short distances. The impact from this burst often knocks back most foes.
Fly Toggle:
Resistance +Prot( Ho 50 St 50 Kb 100 Co 50 Fr 50 Rp 100 ), +Res( Rgn 85 Rcv 85 THt 85 Rech 85 Def 85 )
Auto, Self
Apex
Main Article: Apex
Apex was recommended to Vanguard by the Back Alley Brawler, who accounted Apex's brave stand alongside War Witch and a man named Horus against Requiem.
Apex has come far from his humble beginnings, and is now an indispensible asset to Paragon City and one of her greatest protectors.
Powers:
Web Grenade High-Accuracy Ranged, Target Immobilize, -Recharge, -Fly
Upon impact, the Web Grenade expels a strong, tenuous, and very sticky substance that can Immobilize most targets. This non-lethal device deals no damage and does not prevent targets from attacking, although their attack rate is Slowed. The Web can bring down flying entities and halts jumping.
Thunder Kick Melee, Smash, Foe Disorient
You are Disoriented.
Storm Kick Melee, Smash
Unleashes a flurry of quick kicks to pummel your foe.
Cobra Strike Melee, Smash, Foe Disorient
You have been Disoriented.
Focus Chi Self, +Damage, +To-hit
Tapping into your inner Chi greatly increases the amount of damage you deal for a few seconds, as well as slightly increasing your chance to hit.
Eagles Claw Melee, Smash, Foe Disorient
You have been Disoriented.
Crane Kick Melee, High Damage(Smash), Foe Knockback
A slow, high damage kick that can send your target flying!
Dragons Tail Point Blank Area of Effect Melee, Moderate Damage(Smash), Foe Knockback
This low spinning kick deals the same damage as Thunder Kick, but has a chance to hit all enemies in melee range. Successful hits will trip and knock down your opponents. Damage: Moderate
Focused Fighting Auto, Self +Def( M20 R20 ), Resist(Confuse), +Perception
You become more evasive to melee and ranged attacks. Your Focus also offers you resistance to Confuse effects and allows you to perceive stealthy foes.
Inner Focus Auto, Self +Def( M20 R20 A20 ), Resist(Confuse), +Perception
You become more evasive to melee, ranged attacks, area effect attacks and cone shaped attacks. Your Focus also offers you resistance to Confuse effects and allows you to perceive stealthy foes.
Quickness Auto, Self +Recharge, +Speed, Resist(Slow)
Your Quick reflexes allow you to move faster than normal, as well as resist slow effects. This power is always on and permanently increases your attack rate and movement speed.
Elude Self +Defense, +Special
You can improve your reflexes, making yourself so quick you can Elude almost any attack, be it ranged, melee, or area effect. Your running speed and jumping height are also increased. When Elude wears off, you are left drained of all Endurance and unable to Recover Endurance for a while.
Impervium Armor Auto, +Res( S20 L20 E20 T30 ), +Def( P35 ), +ToHit, +Perception
Resistance
Resistance Res( S20 L20 F20 C20 E20 N-15 P-15 )
Archvillain Resistance.
When Apex reaches 50% HP, he loses all Martial Arts attacks and gains the following
Hack Melee, High Damage(Lethal), Foe -Defense
You Hack your opponent for a high amount of damage. This attack can reduce a target's Defense, making him easier to hit. Damage: High
Slash Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal), Foe -Defense
You perform a quick Slash that can reduce a target's Defense, making him easier to hit. This attack causes moderate damage, but has a quick recharge time. Damage: Moderate
Build Up Self +Damage, +To-hit
Greatly increases the amount of damage you deal for a few seconds, as well as slightly increasing your chance to hit.
Slice Melee (Cone), Moderate Damage(Lethal), Foe -Defense
You Slice your sword in a wide arc, attacking all enemies in front of you. Slice does less damage than Slash, but can hit multiple foes and reduce their defense. Damage: Moderate
Parry Melee, Minor Damage(Lethal), Self +Defense(Melee, Lethal)
You can use this power to Parry incoming melee attacks. The Parry itself does minor damage, but every successful hit will increase your Defense against melee and lethal attacks for a short while. Damage: Minor
Whirling Sword Point Blank Area of Effect Melee, Moderate Damage(Lethal), Foe -Defense
You perform a Whirling Sword maneuver, attacking all foes in melee range. This attack wounds your opponents, causing them to take minor damage over time and reduces their defense. Damage: Moderate
Disembowel Melee, Superior Damage(Lethal), Foe Knockup, -Defense
You perform a powerful Disemboweling maneuver that deals a great amount of damage, and can knock a target up into the air. This attack can reduce a target's Defense, making him easier to hit. Damage: Superior
Head Splitter Melee (Cone), Extreme Damage(Lethal), Foe Knockback, -Defense
You perform a devastating Head Splitter attack that deals a massive amount of damage and can even knock a foe down to the ground and reduce it's Defense. This attack has an exceptionally good critical hit capability, better than other Broadsword attacks, that can sometimes deal double damage. The power of this attack can actually extend a short distance through multiple foes. Damage: Extreme
Serpent Drummer
Main Article: Serpent Drummer
The enigmatic man called Serpent Drummer is the head of the Vanguard's Gauntlet division. The Gauntlet was originally Vanguard's offensive division, but changing events have seen it shift those responsibility to the Shield Division, while the Gauntlet concentrates on coordinating Vanguard's forces with the recent influx of super-powered volunteers. Even in the middle of such great changes, Serpent Drummer remains serene.
Powers:
Thunder Kick Disorient
You are Disoriented
Storm Kick Melee Smash
Unleashes a flurry of quick kicks to pummel your foe.
Shurikens Cone Lethal
Three thrown dagger that can hit multiple targets.
Cobra Strike Disorient
You have been Disoriented.
Focused Fighting Toggle: Self +DEF(Melee, Ranged), Res(Confuse), +Perception
You become more evasive to melee and ranged attacks. Your Focus also offers you resistance to Confuse effects and allows you to perceive stealthy foes.
Inner Focus Toggle: Self +DEF(Melee, Ranged, AoE), Res(Confuse), +Perception
You become more evasive to melee, ranged attacks, area effect attacks and cone shaped attacks. Your Focus also offers you resistance to Confuse effects and allows you to perceive stealthy foes..
Crane Kick Melee Smash, High DMG, Knockback
A slow, high damage kick that can send your target flying!
Exploding Shuriken Ranged (Targeted AoE), Moderate DMG(Lethal)
This small throwing star is rigged to explode on impact. You must have two other Weapon Mastery Powers before selecting this power.
Dragons Tail PBAoE Melee, Moderate DMG(Smash), Foe Knockback
This low spinning kick deals the same damage as Thunder Kick, but has a chance to hit all enemies in melee range. Successful hits will trip and knock down your opponents.
Quickness Auto: Self +Recharge, +SPD, Res (Slow)
Your Quick reflexes allow you to move faster than normal, as well as resist slow effects. This power is always on and permanently increases your attack rate and movement speed.
Elude Self +DEF, +Special
You can improve your reflexes, making yourself so quick you can Elude almost any attack, be it ranged, melee, or area effect. Your running speed and jumping height are also increased. When Elude wears off, you are left drained of all Endurance and unable to Recover Endurance for a while.
Eagles Claw Disorient
You have been Disoriented.
Resistance +Prot( Ho 50 St 50 Kb 100 Co 50 Fr 50 Rp 100 ), +Res( Rgn 85 Rcv 85 THt 85 Rech 85 Def 85 )
Auto, Self
Lady Grey
Main Article: Lady Grey (As Ally)
See also: The Lady Grey (As Task Force Contact)
Ever composed, ever mysterious, the powerful and otherworldly Lady Grey is rumored to be older than Statesman, and one of the most powerful meta-humans on the planet. She was instrumental in the founding of Vanguard, and runs the organization expertly. She takes a great interest in Vanguard's day-to-day operations, and knows all of her troops by name.
Powers:
Gloom Ranged, Moderate Damage over Time(Negative), Foe: -Accuracy
Gloom slowly drains a target of life, while reducing his accuracy. Slower than dark blast, but deals more damage over time.
Twilight Grasp Ranged, Foe -Accuracy -Damage, Team Heal
You channel Negative Energy from the Netherworld through yourself to a targeted foe. Twilight Grasp drains the power from that target and slowly transfers it to you and all nearby allies. The targeted foe's Accuracy and damage are reduced, while you and your nearby allies are healed.
Night Fall Ranged(Cone), Moderate Damage over Time(Negative), Foe: -Accuracy
Unleashes a cone shaped burst of particles from the netherworld. All targets within the modest range of this power take negative energy damage and have reduced accuracy.
Fearsome Stare Ranged(Cone), Foe Fear, -Accuracy
Instills tremendous Fear within a cone area in front of you, causing all affected targets to tremble in Terror uncontrollably.
Petrifying Gaze Ranged Hold
Petrifies a single targeted foe with a terrifying gaze. The victim is Held and defenseless.
Life Drain Ranged, Minor Damage (Negative), Self: Heal, Foe: -Accuracy
You can tap the power of the netherworld to steal some life from a target foe and reduce his accuracy. Some of that stolen life is transferred to you in the form of hit points.
Dark Servant Summon Dark Servant: Ranged Debuff Special
Summons a Dark Servant to your aid. The Dark Servant possesses an assortment of dark powers to weaken your foes. The summoned entity is not a willing servant, and it is only your power that binds it in this realm. The Dark Servant can be buffed and healed.
Powers
- Chill of the Night (Auto, PBAoE negative energy, foe -tohit)
Twilight Grasp (single target ranged heal, foe -tohit, -damage, -regen)
Petrifying Gaze (single target ranged hold)
Darkest Night (Toggle, AoE, -damage, -tohit)
Tenebrous Tentacles (Cone AoE, negative energy/DoT smashing, immobolize, -tohit)
Resistance (Auto, Res to negative energy, vulnerable to energy)
Blackstar Point Blank Area of Effect, Extreme Damage(Negative), Self: -Recovery, Foe: -Accuracy
You can unleash a devastating blast of negative energy around yourself, dealing massive damage and severely reducing affected foes' accuracy. This power leaves you drained of endurance and unable to recover endurance for a while.
Darkest Night Toggle: Ranged Targeted area of effect, Foe -damage, Foe -accuracy
While active, you channel Negative Energy onto a targeted foe. Darkest Night decreases the damage potential and Accuracy of the target, and all foes nearby, as long as you keep the power active.
Tenebrous Tentacles Ranged(Cone), Minor Damage over Time(Negative), Foe: Immobilize, -Accuracy
You can create a cone shaped rift to the netherworld that allows its native creatures to slip their oily tentacles into our reality. These creatures will snare all foes within range, immobilizing them while the tentacles drain their life and reduce their accuracy.
Resistance +Prot( Ho 50 St 50 Kb 100 Co 50 Fr 50 Rp 100 ), +Res( Rgn 85 Rcv 85 THt 85 Rech 85 Def 85 )
Auto, Self
Historical
This section contains information that no longer applies to the current version of City of Heroes/Villains. It is provided for historical purposes.
- Except for the gun models, Vanguard unlockable weapons were formerly called Talsorian weapons. This was changed on November 12, 2009.