Walkthrough - Guardhouse

Welcome, S.T.A.R.S. operative, to the Guardhouse. This area is a critical juncture, filled with new threats and essential items. Proceed with caution and follow these steps to navigate it successfully.

Entering the Guardhouse

Upon entering the Guardhouse from the Courtyard, you'll find yourself in a small antechamber. Immediately to your left, you'll spot a door. This leads to the first room of interest.

Action: Head through the door on your left.

The Dormitory & Bee Hive

This room serves as a dormitory, but your primary concern here is the giant bee hive hanging from the ceiling. It's teeming with mutant wasps, a new enemy type. These creatures are fast and can inflict poison, so be prepared.

Item Location: On the bed furthest from the door, you'll find a box of Shotgun Shells. Collect these, as the Shotgun is highly effective against the upcoming threats.
Strategy - Wasps: The wasps are best dealt with using a quick weapon like the Handgun or Shotgun. Aim for quick, decisive shots. If you're low on ammo, consider running past them, but be aware they will pursue you.
Action: After securing the Shotgun Shells, locate the door on the opposite side of the room.

The Bathroom & Control Room Access

The next room is a small bathroom. It's relatively safe, but don't let your guard down.

Item Location: On the sink, you'll find a Small Key. This key is crucial for unlocking a later area in the Guardhouse.
Action: Exit the bathroom and return to the dormitory. From there, proceed to the next door, which leads to a hallway.

The Guardhouse Hallway & Water Puzzle

This hallway connects several important rooms. Be wary, as a few Zombies may be patrolling here. Deal with them efficiently to conserve health.

Item Location: At the end of the hallway, you'll find a door leading to a small storage room. Inside, on a shelf, is a Grenade Launcher (for Jill) or Magnum Rounds (for Chris). Collect this powerful weapon/ammo.
Puzzle - Water Pressure: In the main hallway, you'll notice a control panel with a series of numbered buttons. This is the water pressure puzzle. The goal is to set the water pressure correctly to open the path forward. The correct sequence is usually 2-3-5, but if you're playing a randomized mode, you may need to experiment.
Action: Once the water pressure is set, a drain in the floor will open, revealing a ladder. Descend the ladder.

Underground Passage & Spider Encounter

This dark, damp passage leads to the next section of the Guardhouse. Be prepared for a new, terrifying enemy.

Enemy: A giant spider, the Black Tiger, will drop from the ceiling. This creature is formidable and can inflict poison.
Strategy - Black Tiger: The Shotgun or Grenade Launcher are your best options. Aim for its body. If you have the Magnum, now is a good time to use it. Try to keep your distance and circle strafe to avoid its attacks.
Item Location: After defeating the Black Tiger, search the area. You'll find a Crank. This item is essential for draining the water in a later area.
Action: Proceed through the passage until you reach another ladder. Ascend it.

The Second Floor & Bee Specimen

You'll emerge on the second floor of the Guardhouse. This area is relatively small but contains a key item.

Item Location: On a table, you'll find the Bee Specimen. This is a crucial puzzle item needed to progress further in the mansion.
Action: With the Bee Specimen in hand, you've completed your primary objectives in the Guardhouse. You can now backtrack to the mansion or explore any remaining areas if you wish.

Remember to manage your inventory and save your progress regularly, especially after major encounters or collecting key items. Good luck, S.T.A.R.S.!