Vanguard

Master the Vanguard class in Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous! Learn about its level progression, unique abilities like Vanguard Tactician and Vanguard's Bond, and how to best utilize its teamwork feats.

Hey there! So you're looking to understand the Vanguard in Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous? This class is all about being an experienced commander, buffing your allies and making sure everyone fights smarter. Let's break down how this class progresses and what makes it tick.

The Vanguard is essentially a Slayer with some really cool commander-like abilities. Think of it as a leader who can inspire and empower their whole squad. You'll be picking up feats, special abilities, and talents as you level up, making you a more potent force on the battlefield and a huge asset to your party.

Level Progression Breakdown:

Lvl	Feat	Special 1	Special 2
0	-	Slayer Proficiencies	-
1	Feat	-	Studied Target
2	-	Teamwork Feat	Vanguard Tactician
3	Feat	-	Sneak Attack
4	-	Vanguard's Bond	-
5	Feat	-	-
6	-	Slayer Talents	-
7	Feat	Uncanny Dodge	Studied Target (Swift)
8	-	Slayer Talents	-
9	Feat	-	-
10	-	Slayer Talents	Advanced Talents
11	Feat	-	-
12	-	Slayer Talents	-
13	Feat	-	Slayer's Advance
14	-	Slayer Talents	Quarry
15	Feat	-	-
16	-	Slayer Talents	-
17	Feat	-	-
18	-	Slayer Talents	-
19	Feat	-	Improved Quarry
20	-	Slayer Talents	Master Slayer

Key Abilities Explained:

• Teamwork Feat (Level 2): At level 2, you get to pick any teamwork feat you qualify for. This is huge because it means you can customize your character to synergize perfectly with your party right from the start. Think about what feats would benefit your companions the most!
• Vanguard Tactician (Level 2): This is where the Vanguard really shines as a commander. Once per day, you can grant any teamwork feat you possess to all allies within 30 feet for 3 rounds, plus half your class level. Later on, you can even get more uses of this as a Slayer talent. It's like giving your entire team a temporary superpower!
• Vanguard's Bond (Level 4): As a move action, you can grant half your studied target bonus to all allies within 30 feet. This bonus lasts for a number of rounds equal to your Intelligence modifier. This is another fantastic way to boost your party's effectiveness, especially when you're focusing down a tough enemy.
• Uncanny Dodge (Level 7): At level 7, you gain Uncanny Dodge. This means enemies can't easily surprise you or catch you flat-footed, and you don't lose your Dexterity bonus to AC even if an attacker is invisible. It's a solid defensive buff that makes you much harder to pin down. If you get this from another class, you'll get Improved Uncanny Dodge instead, which is even better.

Basically, the Vanguard is all about enabling your team. You'll be picking up feats and talents that not only make you stronger but also provide significant buffs and utility to your allies. It's a really rewarding class if you enjoy playing a supportive but still capable role on the battlefield!