Vaughn

Follow Vaughn's evolving journey in Tales from the Borderlands. See how your decisions impact Rhys's loyal, albeit timid, Hyperion accountant friend.

Vaughn: The Accountant with a Heart of Gold (or Fear)

Vaughn, Rhys's best friend and a Hyperion accountant, is a pivotal character whose journey is heavily influenced by your decisions throughout Tales from the Borderlands. Initially presented as timid, socially awkward, and prone to panic, Vaughn possesses an underlying fierce loyalty to Rhys. His character arc is one of the most dynamic in the game, directly reflecting the player's choices and their impact on his confidence and resolve.

Vaughn's Role and Character Arc

Vaughn serves as Rhys's primary confidant and moral compass (or lack thereof, depending on your choices) in the early stages of their adventure. He's often the voice of reason, or at least the voice of extreme caution, when Rhys's ambition threatens to lead them into danger. His transformation from a desk-bound accountant to a more capable (or utterly broken) individual is a central theme of the game, showcasing the power of friendship and the consequences of leadership.

Key moments where Vaughn's character is tested and shaped include:

• The Hyperion Heist (Episode 1: Zer0 Sum): Vaughn is thrust into the dangerous world of Pandora alongside Rhys. Your early interactions, particularly regarding the money and the initial confrontation with Bossanova's crew, begin to establish his trust in Rhys and his own self-worth.
• The Search for the Vault (Episode 2: Atlas Mugged): As the group delves deeper into Pandora's mysteries, Vaughn's anxieties are frequently triggered. How you choose to reassure him, or conversely, dismiss his fears, directly impacts his willingness to participate and his overall mental state.
• The Gortys Project (Episode 3: Catch a Ride): Vaughn's resourcefulness, particularly with his accounting skills, becomes surprisingly valuable. Supporting his ideas and giving him agency can significantly boost his confidence.
• Confronting Vallory (Episode 4: Escape Plan Bravo): This episode presents some of the most critical choices regarding Vaughn's safety and his role within the group. Your decisions here can have lasting consequences for his physical and emotional well-being.
• The Final Showdown (Episode 5: The Vault of the Traveler): Vaughn's ultimate fate and his contribution to the final battle are a culmination of all your previous interactions.

Player Choices and Their Impact on Vaughn

Your choices as Rhys directly influence Vaughn's confidence, his willingness to stand by you, and ultimately, his survival and character development. These choices generally fall into categories such as:

• Trust and Reassurance: Do you believe in Vaughn's abilities, even when he doubts himself? Offering words of encouragement, validating his concerns, or entrusting him with responsibilities can build his self-esteem.
• Prioritizing His Safety: In dangerous situations, do you put Vaughn's well-being first, or do you push him to take risks for the greater good (or your own)?
• Supporting His Ideas: Vaughn, despite his timidity, occasionally has genuinely good ideas. Listening to him and acting on his suggestions can empower him.
• Dismissal or Scolding: Conversely, ignoring his fears, scolding him for his cowardice, or making him feel incompetent can severely damage his confidence and make him more withdrawn or even resentful.

Example Scenarios and Their Outcomes:

Consider the following pivotal moments and how your choices can shape Vaughn:

Episode 1: Zer0 Sum - The Money Situation

After the initial heist, you have to decide what to do with the money. Your approach here sets the tone for your relationship with Vaughn.

• Option A: "We'll split it evenly." (Trusting, fair)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He'll be relieved and grateful, reinforcing his loyalty to Rhys. This choice builds a foundation of trust.
  • Impact: Increases Vaughn's confidence and willingness to follow Rhys's lead in future endeavors.
• Option B: "I'll hold onto it for now." (Slightly manipulative, less trusting)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He'll be hesitant and slightly suspicious, but likely won't openly defy Rhys.
  • Impact: Maintains a degree of skepticism in Vaughn, making him less likely to fully commit to Rhys's plans without question.
• Option C: "It's all mine, buddy." (Selfish, dismissive)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He'll be visibly upset and feel betrayed. This choice can severely strain your friendship.
  • Impact: Significantly lowers Vaughn's morale and trust, potentially leading to him being less cooperative or even attempting to distance himself from Rhys.

Episode 3: Catch a Ride - Vaughn's Plan for the Gortys Core

When faced with a technical challenge, Vaughn might propose a solution using his accounting knowledge. How you respond is crucial.

• Option A: "That's a great idea, Vaughn!" (Supportive, empowering)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He'll beam with pride and tackle the task with newfound vigor.
  • Impact: Boosts his confidence in his own abilities, making him more proactive and resourceful later on. He might even develop a "bro-like" persona.
• Option B: "Are you sure that'll work?" (Skeptical, but open)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He'll be slightly deflated but will still try his best to prove himself.
  • Impact: Doesn't significantly hinder his progress but doesn't empower him as much as full support.
• Option C: "Just stick to the numbers, Vaughn." (Dismissive, belittling)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He'll become withdrawn and doubt his own intelligence, potentially leading to errors or a refusal to offer ideas in the future.
  • Impact: Reinforces his timid nature and makes him less likely to contribute meaningfully to the group's efforts.

Episode 4: Escape Plan Bravo - The Vallory Confrontation

This episode often presents direct threats to Vaughn's safety. Your actions here are critical.

• Option A: Actively protect Vaughn. (Selfless, loyal)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He'll be incredibly grateful and feel a deep sense of loyalty to Rhys.
  • Impact: Strengthens your bond and ensures Vaughn's continued presence and support.
• Option B: Prioritize another objective over Vaughn's immediate safety. (Pragmatic, potentially cold)
  • Vaughn's Reaction: He might feel abandoned or expendable, leading to resentment.
  • Impact: Can lead to Vaughn questioning Rhys's leadership and his own place in the group.

Common Pitfalls and Missables

• Ignoring Vaughn's Cues: Vaughn often expresses his fears or doubts verbally and through body language. Ignoring these cues can lead to a less confident, more anxious Vaughn.
• Consistently Siding Against Him: While it's sometimes necessary to make tough choices, consistently undermining Vaughn or choosing options that put him in harm's way without remorse can lead to him becoming completely broken or even abandoning Rhys.
• Missing Opportunities for Encouragement: There are many small dialogue choices where you can offer a kind word or a vote of confidence. These seemingly minor interactions accumulate and significantly impact his overall demeanor.

By carefully considering your choices and aiming to build Vaughn's confidence and trust, you can guide him from a terrified accountant to a surprisingly capable and loyal ally, making his eventual contributions to the team far more impactful.