After being first revealed at the 2025 Game Awards, High guard It was finally released at the end of January. The free-to-play raid shooter has quite a few systems to discover. The game may seem simple at first, but once you start investing a few hours into it, it reveals many layers of complexity.
The tutorial is very helpful in learning basic concepts and moves, but you may feel lost on your first match since there is no real raid until you start playing with other players. That's why we've put together some useful tips for Highguard beginners in this guide.
Which character to pick up
There are 8 characters to find. At the time of Highguard's launch. They belong to different types such as offensive, defensive, reconnaissance, and support types. Most can be played offensively or defensively. Without much difficulty. Of course, all you need is the right equipment.
The problem is that they all have different abilities. However, the frequency of using the ability in the first match is not significantly different. You'll probably focus primarily on weapons.And abilities will become secondary. Just choose someone who looks cool to you. But if you want a quick tip, start with someone with a really easy ability, like Slade.
High Guard: List of Weapon Tiers
Our tier list guide ranks guns by their effectiveness in Highguard.
Always choose the recommended base
If you start playing on a team full of newcomers, Always select the recommended base at the start of a match.. This is pre-selected based on squad composition (archetypes and abilities).
You'll need to put in the time, as there's no other way to learn about all the bases other than playing matches. But surely Check out the information and layout When you're about to start a new game, you'll learn about the different parts, deployments, etc., and as you learn more about Highguard and its characters, you'll be able to make more informed choices.
What needs to be re-strengthened in the building?
The first stage of the match requires you to prepare your base and choose your loadout. In the former case, There are 5 pieces of equipment that can strengthen the wall. Each (15 total including team members)
There are a lot of possibilities for what you can do with this, but don't try too hard when you play your first match. Reinforce the five walls closest to each objective. (You can also strengthen both walls on the same column). This will block enemies for a while while they storm your base.
How to grow crystals or find chests?
There are two ways to obtain loot for your character in Highguard. crystal cultivation And use it on Trader Buy weapons or items Find the corresponding weapons and items in the chest You can receive random rewards on the map.
Both tasks require time, and while some areas have modifications next to the crates, you'll need to decide where to focus most of your time and what you plan to improve your gear. So which one is best?
The answer is There is no clear answer. From my experience, I'd say it's always useful. Destroy all possible crystals during the initial equipment enhancement phase. There is only one reason. Neither team will be able to find ultra-rare weapons at the start of the match, so the difference a weapon found in a chest can make may not be all that great, depending on your skills.
Therefore, it is better to save all the currency you can, spend some on armor and one weapon of your choice, and then focus on chests.
The minigame, where you smash crystals with an axe, always has the same timing, so take a few matches to get used to it and perform it perfectly every time. If you destroy one crystal without making a mistake, you can destroy the next crystal with a single hit.
When to use mounts
One of Highguard's unique features is its ability to: Summon and use your mount whenever you want. This can be used for a variety of purposes, but I recommend using it for two purposes: getting to places faster and escaping.
During the loot phase, you'll want to use loyal animals. To find the chests and crystals as quickly as possible. Here you should use it liberally every time. Then, when it's time to grab the Shieldbreaker, you'll need to summon your mount when you're ready to roll with your sword.
Of course, you may be an easier target while on a mount, but it is better to be on a mount if you want to get to a location faster.
When chasing enemies or fighting in general… I don't really recommend it. Dueling while riding a bear is disgusting and works better than expected, but you're always at a disadvantage.
Your beast doesn't have much health (unless you get the necessary items at a high level) and is too big to miss a shot. When knocked down, you remain immobile for a few seconds but are vulnerable..
If the enemy wants to grab the Shield Breaker and pursue it, it is better to just let it go unless it has an advantage in the field. Use free teleportation to get to your baseThen hide and wait outside where your enemies can't see you. It will work better than other plans.
Watch for supply drops
If your team or enemy group survives the raid: Supply drops will begin to appear on the map.One per loot tier. you will see Icon shown on mapAnd there's a timer to know when it will hit the ground.
That area can be problematic because a rival team may want the same thing as you, but the content in the pack is usually worth the trouble. In addition to several armor pieces, you can find the Big Rig.Probably the best weapon in the game. It's heavy, but its stability, bullet volume, and damage make it a no-brainer. This will win you many fights.
This is a one-time special weapon and will not respawn if you die.
Bait it with a bomb
Once inside the enemy base, it's time to plant the bomb. But should I go to generators A and B, or to the big anchor all at once?
One standard strategy is: 3 squad members move to the same spot Plant a bomb (as desired) and take cover next to or near the bomb. However, if you or your teammates already have some proficiency with guns and/or abilities, you should aim for: There are two wardens at one point and a third warden at another point..
You should always have at least one Thumper Charge in your inventory.
Thumper Charge is an explosive item. You can purchase it from Trader. you can use them blow down the walls of a building This is useful to stock up on, as you can get inside the enemy base in just a few seconds. but, You should always save at least one for a special loot site. On the map.
On most maps, you'll find a short area with several crystals and chests behind a reinforced locked door or barrier. This entrance cannot be destroyed with an axe. But do you know what items can help? Yes, it is a Thumper Charge. One will be enough to get you into the field and get some cool gear.
You can also damage these types of doors/entrances with a Rocket Launcher, but Thumper Charge is more effective.
Highguard: Episode 1 War Chest Guide
Here are the best ways to quickly earn all Episode 1 War Chest rewards and Vigil Tokens.
