The Vanguard: Those seeking optimum fun need look no further.

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Arguably the best class in Mass Effect 2 is the Vanguard. At a glance they may seem either underpowered, or underwhelming.

Looks are deceptive in this case. Vanguards are a high-risk, high-reward, mid to close-range class. They are equipped initially with shotguns, SMGs, pistols, and biotics.

The unique vanguard ability in ME2 is "Biotic Charge," an ability that essentially turns the player into a human bullet, instantly charging you across the field to slam into a targeted enemy (or, post-upgrade, enemy group).

To make the most out of the vanguard on higher difficulties it's best to max out the class specific tree in order to maximize weapon damage, then focusing on either shockwave, or charge.

Spreading your points thin and attempting to level up too many abilities will leave you feeling under-powered. Focusing on a single ability at a time, then upgrading to the use of assault rifles will turn you into the most deadly being in the game.

Pro's.

-High damage, in your face combat. -Good battlefield control and movement. -Less reliance on NPCs to be combat effective. -With Assault Rifles, far more devastating than the Soldier.

Con's.

-Requires significant forethought in order to minimize risk. -Not for people who prefer to stay at range. -Early levels rely heavily on a good squad to be effective at high difficulty.

There are many arguments that the soldier is the best pure combat based class, but where you are left wanting there is in abilities. While adrenaline rush helps with accuracy, there is literally no other reason to pick the soldier over the Vanguard.

You are equipped with everything you need to face any opponent the game throws at you, and if you add an advanced training for the "Reave" specialization, you can use any opponent to heal yourself, and even stop the annoying health regen from Krogan and Vorcha enemy types.

In short, the vanguard takes advantage of all the most effective abilities from every class, while still allowing you to be flexible in the way you approach any battle.

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