Suit Up! A Look at Power Armor, Locations, and Perks in New Vegas

Understanding the Basics

What is Power Armor?

In the unforgiving landscape of Fallout: New Vegas, where survival is a constant battle against scorching suns, mutated creatures, and ruthless gangs, one piece of equipment stands as a symbol of resilience and raw power: Power Armor. Ready to become a walking tank and face whatever the Mojave Wasteland throws your way? This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about power armor, making you a formidable force in your quest across the arid expanse.

Power armor in New Vegas is not just about looking cool; it’s a vital piece of equipment designed to turn the tide in any conflict. This advanced armor provides unparalleled protection, transforming you from a vulnerable explorer into a near-indestructible combatant. It’s a cornerstone of power, allowing you to shrug off the effects of gunfire, explosions, and even the harsh radiation that permeates the Mojave.

How does it work? Think of power armor as a second skin. It’s a bulky, heavily armored suit that fits over your existing clothing, offering exceptional damage resistance. This resistance is categorized to include general damage, ballistic damage, energy damage, and explosive damage. This means that when a laser beam hits you or an enemy fires a missile, your power armor absorbs a significant portion of the impact, allowing you to weather the storm of battle. But there are considerations to its use. Power armor relies on fusion cores, which are required to power the suit. You’ll have to carefully manage your stock of fusion cores if you plan on relying heavily on your protective gear. Furthermore, moving around in power armor comes with a significant increase to your carry weight. That extra carry weight is a lifesaver, allowing you to haul valuable loot back to your base, but power armor also adds to the total weight you are carrying.

Essential Requirements

Before you can even consider stepping into a suit of power armor, you need a little bit of training. In New Vegas, this training comes in the form of a single, critical perk: Power Armor Training. This perk allows you to wear and utilize all forms of power armor available in the game. Without it, you won’t be able to equip any power armor pieces. So, it’s a priority to obtain this perk, typically acquired around level 20.

Fusion Cores, the lifeblood of power armor, are the second requirement. These are large, cylindrical batteries that provide the power needed to operate your suit. Fusion cores drain over time as you wear the armor, use the armor’s special functions (like the helmet lights), and in some versions, are damaged as you are damaged. Make sure to maintain a decent supply of them. You’ll find fusion cores scattered throughout the wasteland, in containers, and sometimes sold by merchants. The amount of time a fusion core lasts varies depending on the suit and activity.

Finally, you need to take care of your power armor. As you wear the armor and get hit by enemy attacks, the armor suffers damage. The more damage the armor has taken, the less effective it will be at protecting you from harm. Keep an eye on the condition of your power armor and try to repair it as often as possible. The armor’s condition is represented as a bar, and the higher the bar the better the armor is at protecting you.

Exploring the Armored Options

Now, let’s delve into the various types of power armor you can find in the Mojave Wasteland, each with its unique stats, appearance, and locations.

The T-45d Power Armor

This is an earlier model of power armor. It’s a classic look, and if you can find one early in the game, it can be a great help to start out with. While not the most advanced, it offers solid protection against early-game threats. It features a bulky, segmented design and a helmet with a distinctive visor. The T-45d provides a good balance of protection and mobility, making it a versatile choice for various situations. The armor usually features a faded green or blue color scheme. Finding this armor involves exploring the area around Helios One, the REPCONN test site, and searching various military installations.

The T-51b Power Armor

This is a step up in terms of protection and durability. The T-51b is a step above the T-45d in terms of defensive capabilities. This armor is a favorite among experienced wasteland veterans. It boasts a sleek, streamlined design with a distinctive helmet shape. The T-51b typically features a polished metallic finish. The T-51b offers excellent damage resistance against all types of damage, making you a formidable opponent. To find this armor, you will need to explore the areas surrounding the Mojave Outpost, or as a reward for completing certain Brotherhood of Steel quests.

Advanced Power Armor Mk II

Often referred to as the Enclave Armor, this variant represents a significant leap in technology. This armor is sleek, modern looking, and is usually black or a dark grey color. It provides the best protection of the standard armor. While it may have limited availability in the Mojave, this armor is a formidable threat. Acquiring this armor usually involves siding with the Enclave remnants faction, and completing their respective quests.

Remnants Power Armor

This iconic armor offers superior protection and a unique appearance. The Remnants Power Armor, also known as the power armor of the veterans of the American Civil War is considered a superior armor. It’s a modified variant of the T-51b power armor. This armor is unique in appearance and offers unique stats. Getting this armor usually requires completing the “For Auld Lang Syne” quest for the Remnants.

Brotherhood of Steel Power Armor

While not the most advanced, Brotherhood armor is still a valuable asset. This armor is a common sight for followers of the Brotherhood of Steel. The armor is well-maintained, and provides excellent protection from energy weapons. If you’re aligned with the Brotherhood or willing to engage in combat with the Brotherhood, this armor can be found in various locations around the Mojave.

NCR Salvaged Power Armor

Another popular power armor. This armor is used by the NCR. This armor has been refurbished to bring it into the NCR army. This armor can be found around areas where the NCR are located, and is especially helpful if you are siding with the NCR in your playthrough.

Finding the Finest Armor

The Mojave Wasteland is filled with dangerous places, and those are where you’re most likely to find the best armor. Locations are key, and some strategic tips can help you find each armor type.

The T-45d Power Armor

The T-45d is scattered around early-game locations. Search military installations, such as the Black Mountain, or the REPCONN test site. Be sure to check the various containers in these areas for a chance to find parts of the T-45d armor.

The T-51b Power Armor

Finding the T-51b power armor takes a bit more effort. A full set can be found at the Mojave Outpost, but can also be found in areas where Brotherhood of Steel are located. Explore these locations with determination, but be ready for a fight!

Advanced Power Armor Mk II

This armor is exclusive to the Enclave Remnants. Complete the associated quests to earn your set. This is one of the best options for power armor.

Remnants Power Armor

Complete the “For Auld Lang Syne” quest with the Remnants to earn this amazing armor.

Brotherhood of Steel Power Armor

The Brotherhood of Steel is in the Hidden Valley. By doing quests for them, or by fighting them, you can get this armor.

NCR Salvaged Power Armor

This armor can be acquired by doing quests for the NCR. As you progress through the game, this armor can be found in areas that are under the control of the NCR.

Essential Perks and Character Builds

Perks and builds are key to maximizing your effectiveness with power armor.

Power Armor Training

This is the essential perk. Without it, you cannot wear any power armor.

Strong Back

Power armor has a high carry weight. By investing in Strong Back, you can further increase your carry weight.

Adamantium Skeleton

Reduces the chance of limb damage, increasing survivability.

Consider the following general character builds to maximize your power armor experience.

Combat-Focused

This build emphasizes direct combat. Invest in skills like Guns and Explosives to maximize your damage output. Perks like Toughness and Heavy Handed can further increase your combat effectiveness.

Tank Build

This build focuses on absorbing damage and enduring combat. Focus on high health, damage resistance, and perks like Lifegiver.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Power armor brings many advantages, but some disadvantages must be considered.

Advantages

• High damage resistance
• Enhanced carry weight
• A certain level of intimidation

Disadvantages

• Weight issues
• The need for fusion cores
• Restricted mobility
• The cost of repairs

Power Armor Maintenance

Keeping your power armor in top condition is essential.

Repairing

Use repair kits, find repair vendors, or invest in the repair skill.

Fusion Cores

Keep a healthy supply to keep your armor running.

Upgrades

While there aren’t many upgrades, painting the armor is possible.

Best Armor for the Situation

The best armor will change based on the scenario.

For long-range travel, the T-51b provides a good balance of protection and speed.

For combat, the Advanced Power Armor Mk II provides excellent protection.

For energy weapon protection, consider the Brotherhood of Steel armor.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some general tips.

Fusion Core Management

Carry extra cores.

Visibility

The heads-up display (HUD) of power armor can sometimes hinder vision.

Companions

Some companions can be made more useful while you are wearing power armor.

Conclusion

Power armor is a defining element of Fallout: New Vegas. It’s a symbol of survival in the wasteland and a tool that gives the player unparalleled protection. By understanding the different types of power armor, their locations, and the perks that enhance them, you can transform yourself into a walking tank, ready to face the dangers of the Mojave Wasteland. Power armor is more than just protection; it is a symbol of power, and a testament to your ability to survive.

Are there any power armor types you prefer? Or what strategies do you use when you’re in a suit of power armor? Share your experiences!