Why Power Armor Training Matters: More Than Just a Suit
The Mojave Wasteland of Fallout: New Vegas is a dangerous place. Raiders, mutated creatures, and the scorching sun all conspire to make survival a constant struggle. One of the most coveted tools for overcoming these challenges is undoubtedly power armor. These imposing suits of metal and energy shields can transform you into a walking tank, capable of weathering almost any assault. However, simply climbing into a suit of power armor isn’t enough to unlock its full potential. You’ll need proper FNV power armor training. Without it, the armor becomes a burden, hindering your movement and combat abilities.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about FNV power armor training. We’ll explore why it’s essential, the different methods for acquiring it, and provide tips for maximizing your power armor experience in the Mojave. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to Fallout: New Vegas, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to become a true master of power armor.
You might be tempted to simply slap on a suit of power armor you find lying around, thinking you’ve instantly become invincible. However, without the necessary training, you’ll quickly realize that power armor is more of a handicap than a help. Wearing power armor without the proper training drastically reduces your Agility. This means slower movement speed, decreased accuracy, and a generally clunkier feel. Perhaps even worse, you will be unable to use the VATS system.
With FNV power armor training, however, things change dramatically. You unlock the armor’s true potential, enjoying all of its intended benefits. Your Strength is significantly boosted, allowing you to carry more loot and deal more damage in melee combat. You gain substantial damage resistance, making you far more resilient to enemy attacks. Most importantly, you retain your agility and the ability to use VATS in combat.
Obtaining power armor training early in your playthrough is highly recommended. It can significantly impact your survivability and effectiveness, especially in the tougher areas of the Mojave. Don’t wait until you’re facing hordes of Deathclaws to realize you’re fumbling around in an oversized metal box. Prioritize getting trained so you can dominate the wasteland.
Methods for Obtaining Power Armor Training: Two Paths to Mastery
Fortunately, Fallout: New Vegas offers two distinct avenues for acquiring FNV power armor training. Each path requires dedication and effort, but the rewards are well worth the investment.
The Brotherhood of Steel Method: Earn Your Stripes
This method involves aligning yourself with the enigmatic Brotherhood of Steel, a technologically advanced faction with a rigid code and a penchant for hoarding pre-war technology. They are also one of the only groups to possess the knowledge to properly teach the Courier how to use power armor.
Joining the Brotherhood of Steel
To initiate contact with the Brotherhood of Steel, you’ll first need to locate their Hidden Valley bunker. This bunker is concealed somewhere in the mountains, and finding it can be a challenge. Keep an eye out for suspicious cave entrances and be prepared to deal with hostile wildlife. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the Brotherhood’s sentries, who will likely be wary of outsiders. Completing the quest “Still in the Dark” will be essential to gaining their trust.
Completing “Still in the Dark”
“Still in the Dark” is a lengthy quest that requires you to investigate issues within the Brotherhood, prove your worth to the Elder, and demonstrate your loyalty to their cause. Some tasks might involve clearing out infested bunkers, repairing vital equipment, and dealing with external threats, like the NCR. Successfully navigating the complexities of this quest will earn you the Brotherhood’s respect, making you eligible for FNV power armor training. As you progress, you will be promoted to the rank of Paladin within the faction.
Gaining Approval from Elder McNamara/Hardin
Ultimately, power armor training is granted by the Brotherhood’s Elder, but there’s a catch. The current Elder might not be willing to share their knowledge with you. Depending on your actions and choices, you may need to influence the Brotherhood’s leadership, potentially even orchestrating a change in command to Elder Hardin.
Obtaining Training from Elder Hardin
Once Hardin is the Elder, he is more than willing to share his power armor knowledge with you. As long as you have become a Paladin, you will be granted the ability to wear any suit of power armor with out penalties.
Arcade Gannon Companion Method: A Legacy Unveiled
This method is a bit more personal and involves forming a strong bond with one of Fallout: New Vegas’s most intriguing companions, Arcade Gannon. Arcade is a former Enclave member.
Recruiting Arcade Gannon
You can find Arcade Gannon at the Old Mormon Fort in Freeside. He’s a skilled doctor and possesses a sharp intellect. While not a powerhouse in combat, his knowledge and dialogue are invaluable. Arcade’s stats focus on intelligence and science, making him a good companion for speech checks.
Increasing Arcade Gannon’s Affinity
To unlock Arcade’s personal quest and his potential to teach you, you’ll need to increase his affinity towards you. This is achieved by performing actions and making dialogue choices that align with his values. Arcade appreciates acts of kindness, scientific curiosity, and opposition to authoritarian regimes.
Triggering Arcade’s Personal Quest: “For Auld Lang Syne”
After spending enough time with Arcade and raising his affinity, his personal quest, “For Auld Lang Syne,” will eventually trigger. This quest delves into Arcade’s past and his connection to the remnants of the Enclave. To unlock this, you must progress far enough in the main questline and meet Mr. House.
Completing “For Auld Lang Syne”
The way you resolve “For Auld Lang Syne” will determine whether or not Arcade offers you FNV power armor training. To gain this training, you must convince Arcade and the Enclave Remnants to join the NCR’s cause. By helping Arcade confront his past and embrace a new future, you’ll earn his trust and unlock the coveted power armor training.
Armor Recommendations and Locations: Gear Up for Glory
Once you’ve acquired FNV power armor training, you’ll need a suit of power armor to put your newfound skills to the test. Fortunately, the Mojave Wasteland is home to several suits of varying quality and rarity.
The T-45d power armor can be found in several locations across the map, including in a building just north of Nelson, under the control of the Legion, and in the Nellis Air Force Base.
The Remnants Power Armor can be obtained at the end of Arcade Gannon’s personal quest.
Another location to get a suit of power armor is from the Brotherhood of Steel.
Armor repairs are a crucial aspect of maintaining your power armor. Damaged armor provides less protection, so keeping it in good condition is essential. You can repair armor yourself using scrap metal, duct tape, and a high Repair skill. Alternatively, you can pay vendors to repair your armor, although this can be expensive. Vendors who specialize in power armor repairs can often be found near Brotherhood of Steel outposts or in larger settlements.
Alternative Ways to Use Power Armor: Bending the Rules
While FNV power armor training is the intended method for utilizing power armor, there’s a little-known workaround for those who want to bypass the training requirement altogether.
The Advanced Riot Gear, a unique piece of armor obtained through the Lonesome Road DLC, allows you to wear power armor without penalty even without training. This is a glitch in the game and it might not always work.
Conclusion: Embrace the Power
FNV power armor training is a vital step in becoming a formidable force in Fallout: New Vegas. Whether you choose to earn the trust of the Brotherhood of Steel or forge a bond with Arcade Gannon, the rewards are well worth the effort. By acquiring power armor training, you’ll unlock the full potential of these iconic suits, transforming yourself into a veritable powerhouse capable of taking on any challenge the Mojave Wasteland throws your way. Don’t just survive in the Mojave, dominate it! Master the art of power armor combat, and become a legend whispered among the ruins.
