Alignment Missions (Going Rogue)
With the Going Rogue expansion, players gain the unprecedented ability to shift their character's alignment, blurring the lines between Hero, Villain, and the various shades in between. This guide will walk you through the process of changing sides, whether you're a Hero looking to embrace villainy, a Villain seeking redemption, or a Praetorian making your first choice on Primal Earth.
Starting as a Praetorian
Praetorian characters offer a unique starting point for alignment shifts. Unlike Primal Earth characters, Praetorians begin in an alternate reality and make a pivotal alignment choice at Level 20. This is an excellent option for players who want to experience both sides of the conflict without the extensive alignment grind.
- Character Creation: Select the Praetorian origin during character creation. You will begin your journey in Praetoria.
- Leveling to 20: Progress through the Praetorian storyline and missions until your character reaches Level 20.
- The Choice: Upon reaching Level 20, you will be presented with a critical decision that determines your destination on Primal Earth:
- Paragon City: Choose this option to become a Hero, joining the ranks of those protecting the innocent.
- Rogue Isles: Opt for this path to embrace villainy and operate from the shadows.
- Transition: After making your choice, your Praetorian character will be transported to the chosen Primal Earth zone, ready to continue their adventures with their new alignment.
Shifting Alignment for Primal Earth Characters
For characters who began their journey on Primal Earth (either as a Hero in Paragon City or a Villain in the Rogue Isles), changing alignment is a more gradual process involving special "Tip Missions." These missions are designed to slowly shift your character's standing on the alignment spectrum.
Initiating the Alignment Shift
The ability to undertake alignment missions typically becomes available around Level 20. Keep an eye out for specific contacts or mission givers that offer these unique tasks.
- Heroes Seeking Villainy: Look for contacts in specific zones that offer missions with morally ambiguous choices or direct actions against Heroic ideals. These missions will gradually decrease your Hero rating and increase your Villain rating.
- Villains Seeking Redemption: Similarly, Villains will need to seek out contacts who offer missions that involve helping civilians, thwarting other villains, or performing actions that align with Heroic principles. These missions will decrease your Villain rating and increase your Hero rating.
Understanding Alignment Missions
Alignment missions are distinct from regular missions and are specifically designed to impact your character's alignment meter. They often involve:
- Moral Dilemmas: Choices within the mission that force you to pick between a "good" or "bad" outcome.
- Targeted Actions: Missions that require you to directly engage with or work against characters of a specific alignment (e.g., a Hero taking down a corrupt official, or a Villain protecting a neighborhood from a rival gang).
- Repetitive Nature: Shifting alignment is not a one-time event. You will need to complete several alignment missions to see a significant change in your character's standing.
Key Strategies for Alignment Shifts
- Consistency is Key: Don't expect a single mission to flip your alignment entirely. Dedicate time to consistently pursuing alignment-specific missions.
- Monitor Your Alignment: Keep an eye on your character's alignment meter (usually found in your character sheet) to track your progress.
- Explore All Contacts: Different contacts may offer different types of alignment missions. If one contact isn't providing the shift you desire, seek out others.
- Team Up Wisely: While you can complete alignment missions in a team, be mindful that your teammates' actions might also influence your alignment, or at least not contribute to your desired shift.
Whether you're a Mastermind Villain who wants to be a hero with demon minions, or a Paragon City Protector looking to explore the darker side, Going Rogue provides the tools to forge your own path in the City of Heroes universe.