Fallout New Vegas: How to Get Power Armor Training and Why You Might Not Need It

In the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout: New Vegas, Power Armor is one of the most coveted pieces of equipment. It offers unparalleled protection and a significant boost to your character’s survivability. However, wearing Power Armor isn’t as simple as just picking it up and putting it on. You need Power Armor Training to use it effectively. This guide will walk you through how to obtain this training, explore alternative strategies for surviving without it, and discuss why Power Armor might not always be the best choice for your character.
How to Get Power Armor Training in Fallout: New Vegas
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Join the Brotherhood of Steel: The most straightforward way to get Power Armor Training is by aligning yourself with the Brotherhood of Steel. This faction is known for its advanced technology and military prowess. To join them, you’ll need to complete their initiation quests, starting with “Still in the Dark.” Once you’ve proven your loyalty, they will grant you access to Power Armor Training.
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Complete the Quest “Eyesight to the Blind”: This quest is part of the Brotherhood of Steel storyline. After completing “Still in the Dark,” you’ll be tasked with helping the Brotherhood secure their position in the Mojave. Successfully finishing this quest will reward you with Power Armor Training.
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Alternative Path: Enlist with the Enclave Remnants: If you’re not keen on joining the Brotherhood, there’s another way to get Power Armor Training. During the quest “For Auld Lang Syne,” you can work with the Enclave Remnants. If you convince them to join the fight at Hoover Dam, they will provide you with Power Armor Training as a reward.
Why Power Armor Might Not Be Necessary
While Power Armor is undeniably powerful, it’s not always the best choice for every playstyle. Here are some reasons why you might want to skip the training and focus on other strategies:
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Stealth Builds Don’t Need It: If you’re playing a stealthy character, Power Armor can be more of a hindrance than a help. Its bulky design and loud movements make it difficult to remain undetected. Instead, invest in light armor and perks like “Silent Running” to stay hidden.
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High Maintenance: Power Armor requires regular repairs and Fusion Cores to function. If you’re not prepared to invest time and resources into maintaining it, you might find yourself better off with lighter, more durable armor.
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Skill Investment: To make the most of Power Armor, you’ll need to invest in skills like Repair and Science. If your character isn’t built around these skills, you might struggle to keep your Power Armor in top condition.
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Alternative Armor Options: The Mojave offers plenty of high-quality armor options that don’t require special training. For example, the Elite Riot Gear provides excellent protection and bonuses without the need for Power Armor Training.
Creative Alternatives to Power Armor
If you decide to forgo Power Armor, here are some creative ways to stay alive in the harsh Mojave Wasteland:
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Companions: Use companions like Boone or Veronica to tank damage for you. They can wear heavy armor and draw enemy fire, allowing you to focus on dealing damage from a distance.
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Chems and Stimpaks: Stock up on chems like Med-X and Psycho to boost your damage resistance and damage output. Stimpaks can keep you alive in tight situations.
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Perks and Traits: Invest in perks like “Toughness” and “Life Giver” to increase your survivability. Traits like “Small Frame” can also help you avoid damage by increasing your agility.
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Environmental Awareness: Use the environment to your advantage. Take cover behind objects, use elevation to gain a tactical edge, and avoid open areas where you’re vulnerable to attacks.
Final Thoughts
Power Armor Training is a valuable asset in Fallout: New Vegas, but it’s not the only path to survival. Depending on your playstyle, you might find that lighter armor, strategic perks, and clever tactics are more effective. Whether you choose to pursue Power Armor Training or not, the Mojave Wasteland offers endless opportunities for creativity and exploration.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I get Power Armor Training without joining a faction?
A: No, Power Armor Training is tied to specific factions like the Brotherhood of Steel or the Enclave Remnants. You’ll need to complete their quests to gain access.
Q: Is Power Armor worth the effort?
A: It depends on your playstyle. If you’re a heavy combat-focused character, Power Armor can be a game-changer. However, stealth or agility-based builds might find it unnecessary.
Q: Can companions wear Power Armor?
A: Yes, companions like Veronica and Arcade Gannon can wear Power Armor, but they don’t require Power Armor Training to do so.
Q: Where can I find Power Armor in the game?
A: Power Armor can be found in locations like the Hidden Valley Bunker (Brotherhood of Steel) or during the quest “For Auld Lang Syne” with the Enclave Remnants.
Q: What happens if I don’t repair my Power Armor?
A: If your Power Armor breaks, it will lose its protective benefits. Regular repairs are essential to keep it functional.