Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 – Best Vanguard Build

Shodi Madian |  Published: September 09, 2024
img

In Space Marine 2, the Vanguard build represents the classic Primaris Marine, a powerful combat force introduced by Roboute Guilliman after the Ultramarines Primarch’s return. With the right weapons, perks, and a clear playstyle, this build transforms Titus into a deadly and efficient Vanguard. This guide details the best build for Vanguard in Space Marine 2, focusing on enhancing speed, precision, and close-quarters combat.

Best Vanguard Build – Weapons & Perks

The Vanguard build prioritizes swift movements and deadly combat, making use of both ranged and melee weapons. Below are the best weapons, perks, and equipment for the Vanguard Marine.

CategoryItem
Primary WeaponInstigator Bolt Carbine
Secondary WeaponBolt Pistol
Melee WeaponCombat Knife
GrenadeFrag Grenade
PerksMoving Target, Duellist, Melee Mastery, Conviction, Honed Reactions, Consecutive Execution, Emperor’s Blessing, Retribution
Best Vanguard Weapons – Space Marine 2

Primary Weapon – Instigator Bolt Carbine

Space Marine 2 Best Vanguard Weapon
Screenshot by GameWitted

The Instigator Bolt Carbine is the best choice for scouting missions, offering high damage and reload efficiency. Below are the best perks for this weapon:

PerkDescription
Head HunterHeadshots do 10% more damage.
Magazine RestorationAmmo refills when health drops below 30%.
Fast ReloadReload speed increases by 10%.
Adamant ReloadWeapon instantly reloads if health is below 30%.
Perpetual FireIncreases fire rate by 10%.
Fast RegenerationArmor regenerates 0.5 seconds faster after a kill.
Perpetual RangeWeapon range increases by 1 meter.
Extended MagazineMagazine size increases by 15%.
Instigator Bolt Carbine Perks

These perks focus on maximizing damage, speed, and ammo efficiency, allowing sustained combat without frequent reloads.


Secondary Weapon – Bolt Pistol

Space Marine 2 Best Vanguard Secondary Weapon
Screenshot by GameWitted

The Bolt Pistol acts as a reliable backup weapon. Its perks turn it into a deadly tool for finishing off enemies:

PerkDescription
Great Might10% more damage against Terminus enemies.
Retaliation25% more damage for 5 seconds after a perfect dodge.
Gun Strike ReloadInstantly reloads after a Gun Strike.
Perpetual PrecisionReduces maximum spread by 10%.
Head HunterHeadshots deal 10% more damage.
Elite HunterAfter killing a Majoris-level enemy, headshots deal 50% more damage for 5 seconds.
Extended MagazineIncreases magazine size by 15%.
Divine MightIncreases damage by 10%.
Bolt Pistol Perks

Melee Weapon – Combat Knife

Space Marine 2 Best Vanguard Melee Weapon
Screenshot by GameWitted

The Combat Knife delivers fast, precise strikes, excelling in close combat. However, its short reach requires tactical play. Here are the recommended perks:

PerkDescription
Armored Strength10% more melee damage when armor is full.
Sharp ImpactIncreases Skull Crusher AOE by 50%.
Perpetual StrengthIncreases melee damage by 5%.
Chaos Slayer10% more damage against Chaos enemies.
Reeling BlowEnemies hit by Whirlwind Slash deal 30% less damage.
Hard TargetReduces ranged damage by 15% while performing Light Combos.
Tyranid Slayer10% more damage against Tyranids.
Extremis Slayer10% more damage against Extremis-level enemies.
Kill StreakAfter killing 10 enemies, become immune to knockbacks for 5 seconds.
Combat Knife Perks

Best Grenade – Frag Grenade

The Frag Grenade is the most versatile explosive for Vanguard Marines. It’s ideal for crowd control and effective against both elites and slower enemies. Since it’s easy to restock, it should be used liberally throughout missions.

Best Vanguard Perks for Operations

The following perks enhance overall survivability and effectiveness in Operations:

PerkDescription
Moving TargetReduces ranged damage by 1% with each melee hit.
DuellistIncreases Perfect Parry window by 50%.
Emperor’s BlessingRestores all armor when taking lethal damage.
ConvictionReduces health damage by 15% when armor is depleted.
Melee MasteryIncreases melee damage by 10%.
Honed ReactionsDoubles Perfect Dodge window when health is below 50%.
Consecutive ExecutionKilling 10 enemies in rapid succession restores 1 Equipment Charge.
RetributionDeals 20% more melee damage after getting knocked back.
Space Marine 2 Best Vanguard Perks

Conclusion

The Vanguard build in Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 offers a well-rounded playstyle that balances melee and ranged combat. With the right combination of weapons, perks, and strategy, it becomes a powerful tool for any player.

Focus on agility, precise attacks, and efficient combos to stay ahead of enemies. Equip the recommended perks to enhance survivability and maximize damage. Mastering this build will allow you to dominate the battlefield and reach the ending with ease.

About Author

Shodi Madian is a lifelong gamer who cherishes time and space, among other Infinity Stones. He specializes in first-person shooter (FPS) games like Valorant, Counter-Strike, Rainbow Six Siege, and Overwatch 2. Shodi began writing in college, covering football news, and has since gone on to write professionally for GameLeap and Spiel Times, sharing his passion for gaming with a wider audience. In addition to gaming, he enjoys watching movies and series, and creating music.