Let's dive deep into the world of Vanguard Zombies and unravel the mystery of the Decimator Shield! This isn't just any shield; it's a game-changer, offering crucial protection and an offensive edge against the relentless undead hordes. If you're tired of being overwhelmed, or simply want to elevate your survival game, mastering the acquisition of the Decimator Shield is a must.
Are you ready to truly dominate the zombie apocalypse in Call of Duty: Vanguard?
If you answered yes, then you've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every single step to acquire the elusive and powerful Decimator Shield. We'll break down the process, offer valuable tips, and ensure you're well-equipped to face the horrors that await.
Step 1: Understanding the Basics of Der Anfang and Terra Maledicta
Before we can even think about the Decimator Shield, you need to understand the fundamental gameplay loop of Vanguard Zombies, particularly in the maps Der Anfang and Terra Maledicta. The shield is acquired through a series of specific objectives within these experiences.
1.1: Familiarize Yourself with Objectives:
Vanguard Zombies operates on a round-based objective system. You'll be tasked with completing various objectives like Transmit, Harvest, Blitz, and Defend. Each successful completion rewards you with Sacrifice Hearts and unlocks new areas or alters the map's state.
The Decimator Shield is not a random drop. It's earned through completing specific rituals and collecting parts.
1.2: Resource Management is Key:
Pay attention to your Essence (points) and Sacrifice Hearts. Essence is used for purchasing weapons, perks, and upgrades. Sacrifice Hearts are crucial for the Altar of Covenants, which provides powerful buffs. While not directly for the shield, good resource management allows you to survive long enough to complete the necessary steps.
1.3: Perk Acquisition and Weapon Upgrades:
Invest in perks that enhance your survivability and damage output. Stamina-Up, Fiendish Fortitude, and Demonic Frenzy are excellent choices.
Upgrade your weapons at the Pack-A-Punch machine as early as possible. This significantly increases your damage, making objectives easier and saving you from being overrun. A stronger arsenal means a better chance at getting the shield!
Step 2: Locating the Decimator Shield Parts – The Three Rituals
The Decimator Shield is not found as a single item. Instead, it's assembled from three distinct parts, each obtained by completing a specific ritual. These rituals are spread across the maps and require careful execution.
2.1: The Fountain Part (Der Anfang/Terra Maledicta – Varkolyn Ritual):
This is often the first part players encounter. You'll need to locate a specific fountain-like structure.
How to Activate: Interact with the prompt at the fountain. This will trigger a mini-event where Varkolyns (fast, agile zombies) will spawn relentlessly.
The Objective: Your goal is to kill a certain number of Varkolyns within the immediate vicinity of the fountain. The area of effect is usually indicated. If you stray too far, the progress will reset.
Tips for Success:
Stick together if playing co-op. Focus fire on the Varkolyns.
Use explosives or high-damage weapons to clear them quickly.
Be mindful of other zombie types that might also spawn.
Reward: Once enough Varkolyns are slain, the Fountain Part will appear on the ground near the fountain. Pick it up immediately!
2.2: The Statue Part (Der Anfang/Terra Maledicta – Sturmkrieger Ritual):
This part is associated with a specific large, often imposing statue.
How to Activate: Approach the statue and interact. This will summon a Sturmkrieger (a heavily armored, powerful mini-boss zombie).
The Objective: Defeat the Sturmkrieger. This creature has high health and can deal significant damage.
Tips for Success:
Aim for its weak points! The glowing red areas (often on its back or shoulders) are critical.
Use Pack-A-Punched weapons and abilities. Explosives are also very effective.
Maintain distance and kite the Sturmkrieger if necessary. Don't let it corner you.
Other zombies will continue to spawn, so be aware of your surroundings.
Reward: Upon the Sturmkrieger's defeat, the Statue Part will drop. Grab it!
2.3: The Crystal Part (Der Anfang/Terra Maledicta – Zaballa Ritual/Crystal Spire):
This part is typically found near a large, glowing crystal spire or similar energy source.
How to Activate: Interact with the crystal. This will initiate a Defend objective against a wave of zombies, often culminating in the appearance of a Zaballa (a fast, teleporter-like enemy).
The Objective: Defend the crystal from incoming zombies for a set amount of time or until a certain number of enemies are defeated. You may also need to defeat a Zaballa during or after the defense.
Tips for Success:
Position yourself strategically to cover all incoming lanes.
Use tactical equipment like Molotovs or grenades to control crowds.
Have your strongest weapons ready.
If a Zaballa appears, prioritize it as it can be a nuisance and teleports quickly.
Reward: After successfully defending the crystal and/or defeating the associated special enemy, the Crystal Part will materialize. Secure it!
Step 3: Assembling the Decimator Shield
Once you have all three parts – the Fountain Part, the Statue Part, and the Crystal Part – you are ready to assemble your Decimator Shield!
3.1: Locating the Crafting Table:
The crafting table for the Decimator Shield is usually found in a designated crafting area on the map. This area is typically marked on your mini-map once you have at least one part, or you can find it by exploring. In Der Anfang, it's often in the "Pawnshop" area or a similar central hub. In Terra Maledicta, it will be in a similarly accessible, clearly marked location.
3.2: Interaction and Assembly:
Approach the crafting table. You'll see a prompt to interact.
Hold the interaction button. Your character will then assemble the three parts into the completed Decimator Shield.
3.3: Equip and Dominate:
The Decimator Shield will automatically be equipped as your special weapon or tactical equipment, depending on the game's current mechanics.
Congratulations! You now wield the power of the Decimator Shield!
Step 4: Mastering the Decimator Shield's Abilities
The Decimator Shield isn't just for blocking; it has offensive capabilities that can turn the tide of battle.
4.1: Defensive Capabilities:
When held, the shield provides significant protection from incoming zombie attacks, particularly from the front. This is invaluable when reviving teammates, relocating, or simply holding a choke point.
It can absorb a substantial amount of damage before breaking.
4.2: Offensive Capabilities:
The Decimator Shield typically has an ability that can be activated, often by pressing your tactical ability button.
This ability usually unleashes a powerful blast or shockwave that can stagger, push back, or even damage multiple zombies in front of you. This is excellent for creating space or clearing hordes that get too close.
Experiment with its attacks! There might be a bash or melee attack as well.
4.3: Repairing the Shield:
Like other special equipment, the Decimator Shield has durability. Once it takes too much damage, it will break.
To repair it, you'll usually need to visit a crafting table again, or sometimes there are specific repair stations. You might need to spend Essence or Sacrifice Hearts to fully repair it. Don't wait until it's completely broken to repair it if you can help it!
Step 5: Advanced Tips for Decimator Shield Acquisition and Use
Even with the steps outlined, there are always ways to optimize your runs and make the process smoother.
5.1: Prioritize Early:
If your goal is the Decimator Shield, try to prioritize acquiring the parts as early as possible in your game. This allows you to benefit from its protection and offensive power for a longer duration.
5.2: Communication in Co-op:
If playing with a team, communicate clearly. Call out part locations, coordinate for ritual defense, and ensure everyone is on the same page. A coordinated effort makes getting the shield much easier.
5.3: Utilize Covenants:
At the Altar of Covenants, choose covenants that complement your playstyle and assist with the rituals. Brain Rot can turn zombies into allies, Death Blow provides bonus damage, and Aether Shroud offers an escape.
5.4: Know Your Spawns:
Over time, you'll learn the general spawn locations for the ritual sites. This knowledge will save you valuable time.
5.5: Don't Be Afraid to Sacrifice:
Sometimes, sacrificing a less essential perk or weapon upgrade to save for a quick Pack-A-Punch for a ritual can be worth it.
5.6: Practice Makes Perfect:
The more you play, the better you'll become at navigating the maps, recognizing ritual triggers, and efficiently completing objectives. Don't get discouraged if it takes a few tries!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to repair the Decimator Shield in Vanguard Zombies?
You can repair the Decimator Shield by interacting with a crafting table (the same one you used to build it) and spending Essence or sometimes Sacrifice Hearts.
How to find the Sturmkrieger for the Decimator Shield part?
The Sturmkrieger appears after activating a ritual at a specific large statue on the map, often found in various objective areas.
How to get all three Decimator Shield parts in one game?
You must complete three distinct rituals: the Varkolyn ritual (fountain), the Sturmkrieger ritual (statue), and the Zaballa/crystal defense ritual (crystal spire).
How to activate the Decimator Shield's special ability?
Typically, you activate the Decimator Shield's special offensive ability by pressing your tactical equipment button when the shield is equipped.
How to make the Decimator Shield last longer?
Avoid taking unnecessary damage while holding the shield, strategically use its offensive ability to create space, and repair it at crafting tables before it completely breaks.
How to know where the Decimator Shield crafting table is?
The crafting table is usually in a central hub or designated crafting area on the map, often marked on your mini-map once you've collected at least one shield part.
How to get Sacrifice Hearts to help with shield acquisition?
Sacrifice Hearts are earned by successfully completing objectives like Transmit, Harvest, Blitz, and Defend in Vanguard Zombies.
How to deal with the Varkolyns during the fountain ritual?
Focus fire on the Varkolyns with high-damage weapons, use explosives, and stay within the designated area of the fountain to ensure progress counts.
How to effectively use the Decimator Shield against special zombies?
Use the shield's defensive capabilities to block incoming attacks from specials, and its offensive ability to stun or damage them, creating an opening for weapon attacks.
How to tell if I'm near a Decimator Shield part ritual location?
Look for specific environmental cues: a distinctive fountain, a large statue, or a glowing crystal spire, and interact with them to trigger the associated ritual.