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Civilian

2014-01-02T05:35:06Z

116.250.44.200: /* Trivia */

{{Era|AC|ACBL|AC2|ACB|ACR|AC3|AC3L|AC4|PL}}
[[File:Flying Machine 2.0 3.png|thumb|250px|Ezio Auditore blending with a crowd of civilians]]
'''Civilians''' are the [[Humans|human]] members of a nation's population, who could be found abundantly in cities and more scarcely in the countryside.

They are generally of no significance to either the [[Templars]] or the [[Assassins]], save for the fact that both were working to better the lives of humanity as a whole. [[The Creed]] forbid Assassins from the unnecessary killing of civilians. A number of types stood out from the general populace, and could either help or hinder the members of either order.

==History==
===Middle Ages===
[[File:AC1_Civilians.png|thumb|250px|Altaïr by a group of civilians in Acre]]
Civilians were the denizens of the cities and [[Kingdom|countryside]] of the Holy Land, and they generally posed no threat, though certain individuals reacted aggressively towards an Assassin's presence and actions.<ref name="AC">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref>

If a fight occurred, they would watch closely, make comments on those who [[Freerunning|free-ran]] throughout the city, gasped when anyone was killed, and collectively fled from a scene of bloodshed. They also acted as both a shield and a hindrance for Assassins, on the occasions that they needed to flee from their enemies.

Whenever they ran into a large group of civilians whilst sprinting, an Assassin would lose their balance and fall onto the ground, offending those around them. However, if the Assassin shoved their way through a crowd, they could maintain their running momentum, though it would be slower, in order to effectively barge through the civilians.<ref name="AC"/>

In accordance with the first tenet of [[The Creed|their Creed]], Assassins would neither kill nor harm civilians, seeing them as innocents.<ref name="AC"/>

===Renaissance===
[[File:AC2_Civilians.png|thumb|250px|left|Several civilians in Florence]]
Citizens during the [[Renaissance]] period behaved in a similar manner to those during the High Middle Ages, though they offered Assassins an added capability, since [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze]] was also able to [[blending|blend]] within all groups of civilians, as opposed to the Assassins of the [[Third Crusade]] like [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]], who could only hide among [[scholars]].<ref name="AC2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref>

Ezio also possessed the ability to throw florins onto the ground, causing a mob of civilians to crowd around him and excitedly pick up the coins. For Assassins, this served as a common means of distracting enemy guards, and entering restricted areas.<ref name="AC2"/> In [[Constantinople]], Ezio learned how to use [[Gold bombs|pyrite coin bombs]], and would throw them to the ground while being chased by [[guards]], attracting civilians that would form a blockade and behave aggressively to his pursuers.<ref name="Revelations">''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]''</ref>

===American Revolution===
[[File:ACIII-TriptoBoston 10.png|thumb|250px|Civilians gathering in Boston]]
The citizens of the early American colonies are represented in a wider demographic than previous. Small children and domestic animals were a common sight.

Colonial civilians could not be directly attacked, though they could still be harmed in the crossfire of ranged combat. [[Haytham Kenway]] and [[Ratonhnhaké:ton]] could blend with any pair of civilians, even if the civilians were not part of a larger group.<ref name="AC3">''[[Assassin's Creed III]]''</ref>
{{-}}
==Archetypes==
Several archetypes of citizens were intermixed with the populous, each bringing a unique form of interaction with their surroundings.

===Beggars===
[[File:AC1_Beggar.png|thumb|250px|left|A beggar in Acre harassing Altaïr]]
In the cities of [[Acre]], [[Damascus]], and [[Jerusalem]], desperate female beggars could be found along the streets, asking for money and claiming that their families were seriously ill and destitute.<ref name="AC"/>

They would often approach an Assassin and persistently run into their path until they either ignored them for long enough, ran from them, or attacked them. Should the Assassin attempt to climb a building to escape their nagging, the beggars would often throw rocks at them and yell their disappointment.

If the Assassin instead chose to draw any of their weapons or attacked the beggars, they would run away screaming and no longer bother them. Accompanying this, beggars could also alert the Assassin's targets of their approach, if threatened or hit.<ref name="AC"/>

In the Renaissance, beggars did appear in the [[Italy|Italian]] regions of [[Romagna]] and [[Tuscany]], but they did not chase or harass any passing people for money. They usually only leaned or sat against alleyway walls, with one hand extended. Should an Assassin throw money to them, they would pick it all up, and proceed to walk away.<ref name="AC2"/>

The cities of [[Rome]] and[[ Constantinople]] featured the calmer beggars of the previously visited Italian cities, as well as the persistent beggars of the High Middle Ages. The latter of these were always female, came in groups of three, and usually could only be found in the parts of the city still under [[House of Borgia|Borgia]] influence.<ref name="Brotherhood">''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''</ref> In Constantinople, beggars were always present in a district, regardless of whether [[Byzantine Empire|Byzantines]] or [[Ottoman Empire|Ottomans]] controlled the area.<ref name="Revelations"/>

===Carriers===
[[File:AC1_Jar_Carriers.png|thumb|250px|Altaïr passing by a group of jar carriers]]
In the three cities visited by the Assassins of the High Middle Ages, certain civilians could be found walking around carrying heavy objects. When Assassins bumped into them, they would drop their item and begin to scold them openly, causing a commotion that could potentially disrupt the Assassin's current mission or assassination. To avoid a scene, they could gently push them aside as they passed, not startling the civilian and keeping their object intact.<ref name="AC"/>

Carriers came in two variations, jar carriers and box carriers. Jar carriers were women holding a large clay jar on their heads, while box carriers were men holding a crate close to their chest. If an Assassin knocked either of these civilians over, nearby guards would exclaim a warning, and if they repeated their actions, the guards would attack.<ref name="AC"/>

[[File:AC2_Civilian_Box_Carrier.png|left|thumb|250px|A box carrier in Florence]]
During the Renaissance, box carriers and goat carriers could be found. They were seen walking the streets, carrying their merchandise from shop to shop. If an Assassin bumped into one or rode a [[Horses|horse]] too close to them, the carrier would drop their box, breaking it and causing a great deal of commotion, and any guards that witnessed the action would often approach and push the Assassin around in warning.<ref name="AC2"/>

Even in the event that a box carrier be the one to walk into the Assassin, they would drop whatever they were carrying and still scold the Assassin for the fault.<ref name="AC2"/> In Constantinople, two more variations appeared, being bread and drink carriers. The two types held trays for bread or bottles of drinks, and they would react the same way as box carriers if an Assassin bumped into one.<ref name="Revelations"/> In Colonial America, several types of carriers could be seen, wearing basket bags, carrying buckets or holding crates and barrels.<ref name="AC3"/>

===Scholars===
{{Main|Scholars}}
[[File:AC1_Altair_blending_with_Scholars.png|thumb|250px|Altaïr among a group of scholars]]
Scholars were holy men who walked slowly and silently through the three cities of the Holy Land. As they possessed robes similar to a scholar, Assassins could blend in with a group of them to escape guards, though it would only work with a group, and not with a single scholar.<ref name="AC"/> During Altaïr's visit to [[Alep]], individual scholars could be found walking around, but Altaïr could not blend with them.<ref name="Chronicles">''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]''</ref>

Though scholars were not present during the Renaissance, monks were comparatively similar in appearance to them. Their strategic importance was severely diminished, however, as Ezio was able to blend with any group of civilians.<ref name="AC2" />

===Thugs===
{{Main|Thugs}}
[[File:AC1_Altair_Thug_Pickpocket.png|left|thumb|250px|Altaïr pickpocketing a thug]]
Thugs were the only civilians in the High Middle Ages that would fight Altaïr, usually if they found him engaged in a [[Fists|fistfight]] with an [[interrogation]] target, or if they caught him attempting to [[Pickpocketing|steal]] [[throwing knives]] from their pouches. In response, they would engage the Assassin in a brawl, but if Altaïr drew a weapon, the thugs would immediately flee. Conversely, if guards happened to be watching the fistfight and witnessed Altaïr draw a weapon to scare the thugs away, they would immediately attack.<ref name="AC"/>

Whilst thugs did not appear in any other period, Renaissance civilians would fight Ezio similarly to thugs, should they witness him pickpocketing from them. Unlike thugs, however, they were easily beaten in a fight, and the courageous citizens usually only attacked Ezio alone. Only during two events in [[Forlì]] did gangs of civilians engage Ezio in much the same way as thugs, and they proved to be more difficult to defeat.<ref name="AC2"/>

===Troublemakers===
[[File:AC1 Troublemaker.png|250px|thumb|A troublemaker shoving Altaïr away]]
During the High Middle Ages, the three major cities that Altaïr visited contained madmen and drunkards. They were usually found babbling and walking along back alleyways or docks.<ref name="AC"/>

When approached, the troublemaker would shove an Assassin violently, causing them to stumble, as well as potentially breaking their cover during an assassination. Troublemakers in Acre could also push an Assassin into the water, instantly causing [[Synchronization|desynchronization]] for [[Desmond Miles]] in the [[Animus]].<ref name="AC"/>

Similar to beggars, when an Assassin punched, grabbed or shoved a troublemaker, they would flee. Such an act would not arouse suspicion with any guards, but nearby thugs would start a fistfight if they were close by.<ref name="AC"/>

During the Renaissance, numerous drunkards located in the cities resembled those in the High Middle Ages; however, they did not act aggressively.<ref name="AC2"/>

===Vigilantes===
{{Main|Vigilantes}}
[[File:ACB_Rome_Vigilantes.png|thumb|left|250px|A group of vigilantes in Rome]]
Vigilantes were groups of brave, tough men that assisted an Assassin after they saved citizens in distress. During the Third Crusade, these troubled citizens were usually female, presumably the wives, daughters, mothers, or various other close relatives of the vigilantes in question.

To show their gratitude, when an Assassin ran past a group of vigilantes whilst they were being chased by guards, the men would grab ahold of the soldiers, delaying them and aiding the Assassin's escape.<ref name="AC"/>

They were particularly helpful for stopping assassination targets who fled from Altaïr, notably the Templars [[Talal]], [[Jubair al Hakim]], [[Sibrand]], and [[Abu'l Nuqoud]].<ref name="AC"/>

In Rome during the 16th century, vigilantes appeared in areas where Ezio destroyed [[Borgia Towers|Borgia towers]], acting in the same manner as vigilantes in the High Middle Ages, though they would often heckle any nearby guards.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

===Minstrels===
[[File:AC2_Minstrel.png|thumb|250px|A Minstrel in Florence]]
Minstrels were performers who, during the Renaissance, could be found singing and playing their instruments in the streets. Lute players were most common, though minstrels with a variety of instruments could be seen in [[Venice]] during [[Carnevale]]. Should they catch sight of an Assassin, they would often run after them and block their way, before playing on their lutes and singing songs about them.<ref name="AC2"/>

Similarly to beggars, they could break the Assassin's cover, as well as call the attention of nearby guards should an Assassin attack them. Though they could prove irritating, or disruptive during a potential assassination, throwing florins could easily appease them.<ref name="AC2"/>

Alternatively, the Assassin could intercept a minstrel by attacking them, stealing money from them (around 3 or 4 florins), or by running into them. All of these would make minstrels drop their instruments and run off, lamenting that the Assassin was not satisfied with their singing. Should the Assassin do this near to guards, they would suffer a slight increase in their [[Social Stealth|notoriety]].<ref name="AC2"/>

Minstrels were also found in Rome and resembled those in other cities, even singing the same songs, though they wore different colored clothes. When an Assassin stole from a minstrel, it caused them to drop their instrument, but it yielded no coins.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

In Constantinople, Ezio and the [[Turkish Assassins|Ottoman Assassins]] encountered Italian minstrels preparing to perform at [[Topkapı Palace]], and subsequently beat them, before stealing their clothes for infiltration purposes.<ref name="Revelations"/>

===Pickpockets===
{{Main|Pickpocketing#Pickpockets|Pickpockets}}
[[File:Easy_go_2.png|thumb|left|250px|A pickpocket stealing from Ezio in Rome]]
Pickpockets in the Renaissance era were [[thieves]] that attempted to steal an Assassin's florins. If the pickpocket was successful in robbing money, or if the Assassin was in the pickpocket's sight, they would attempt to escape by the use of free-running.<ref name="AC2"/>

However, pickpockets were also subject to the same rules on rooftops as the Assassins, and they would be shot at on sight by an alerted [[Archers|archer]], [[crossbowmen|crossbowman]], or [[Arquebusiers|arquebusier]].<ref name="AC2"/><ref name="Brotherhood"/>

When an Assassin was pickpocketed, they could regain the money by chasing and tackling the pickpocket, or looting it from their corpse. In addition to the stolen money, an extra 500 florins could be gained, presumably from the pickpocket's previous victims.<ref name="AC2"/>

In Rome, pickpockets each carried one trade item that Ezio could use for the completion of [[shop quests]].<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

===Couriers===
{{Main|Borgia Messengers}}
[[File:ACB_Borgia_Messenger.png|thumb|250px|A typical Borgia messenger]]
Borgia messengers were couriers of the House of Borgia during the Renaissance, and they behaved in a similar manner to pickpockets, but did not steal from Assassins, and would flee upon catching sight of Ezio.<ref name="AC2"/>

They were adept free-runners, but again shared similarities to pickpockets in that they would be attacked by guards on the rooftops should they be seen. An Assassin could steal a sum of 1503 to 1505 florins from them, though killing a messenger would greatly increase notoriety.<ref name="AC2"/>

In Constantinople, [[Templar Tax Collectors|Templar tax collectors]] served the same function as Borgia messengers, and like their Italian counterparts, they would run away upon spotting Ezio. However, on killing a Templar tax collector, the Assassins would be made instantly aware to the Templars, potentially jeopardizing one of their [[Assassin Dens]].

===Citizens in distress===
{{Main|Save Citizen}}
[[File:AC1_Save_Citizen.png|left|250px|thumb|Altaïr defending a scholar]]
In the High Middle Ages, an Assassin could often discover citizens that required their attention within the Kingdom's three cities.

In these instances, they were often being harassed by guards for crimes they did not commit, and upon being rescued by the Assassin, they would tell their family or friends about the act of kindness. Subsequent to this, a group of scholars or vigilantes could be found in the area where the citizen had been rescued.<ref name="AC"/>

In Altaïr's visit to Alep, these citizens also thanked Altaïr for being rescued, but rewarded him with a monetary sum as opposed to potential assistance.<ref name="Chronicles"/>

[[File:People_5.png|thumb|250px|Ezio recruiting a rescued citizen]]
In Rome and Constantinople during the 16th century, an Assassin could save citizens that were being harassed by Templar guards.

Unlike those in the Third Crusade, many of them could be found openly committing acts of rebellion; these included engaging a group of guards in a [[swords and maces|sword fight]], or holding a guard hostage as others attempted to rescue their comrade.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

Should the Assassin come to their assistance, the citizen would join them in the duel, proving to be able fighters. Once saved, the civilians gave their lives to the Assassins' cause, becoming [[apprentices]] of the Order shortly thereafter.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

===Stalkers===
{{Main|Stalkers}}
[[File:ACR Stalker 1.png|thumb|left|250px|A stalker attacking Ezio]]
During Ezio Auditore's stay in [[Constantinople]], some Byzantine Templars disguised themselves among the populace to hunt down and kill the Assassin. These civilians were known as Stalkers, and they typically wore outfits that disguised themselves as lower class members of society, as they attempted to stealthily sneak up on Ezio and stab him with a [[short blades|short blade]].

Stalkers were rarely successful, and were usually killed by Ezio, who would turn their own daggers against them. In the chance that a stalker was successful, however, they would stab Ezio in the back, leaving him paralyzed for a few seconds and giving themselves the time to run off.<ref name="Revelations"/>

===Orphans===
[[File:AC3_Orphans.png|thumb|250px|A group of orphans harassing Ratonhnhaké:ton]]
During the American Revolution, groups of small children approached [[Haytham Kenway]] and [[Ratonhnhaké:ton]], seeking attention. These children always approached in groups of three, and sought only to get the attention with their impromptu street performances. Any nearby civilians would cheer the orphans on, however guards would rudely disperse the children, should they cross paths.

Like other civilians, Orphans could be distracted by throwing them some money. However, unlike the beggars or minstrels, drawing a weapon did not scare them away.<ref name="AC3"/>

==Trivia==
*When using [[Eagle Vision]], civilians were the only ones who did not glow any color. They were simply shown as a dull grey, being neither an ally nor an enemy.
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'', ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'', the social class of civilians could be distinguished based on their attire. As such, a richer civilian could be pickpocketed for more money.
*Prior to ''[[Assassin's Creed III]]'' there were extremely few instances of children appearing in-game, and none could be interacted within free roaming sequences.
**The only children present before ''Assassin's Creed III'' were Ezio's younger brother, [[Petruccio Auditore da Firenze|Petruccio]], [[Caterina Sforza]]'s children, [[Bianca Riario|Bianca]] and [[Ottaviano Riario]], a child in [[Monteriggioni]] upon Ezio's and [[Mario Auditore|Mario]]'s return from [[vaticano District|the Vatican]], and the lost boy whose mother was captured by [[Silvestro Sabbatini]].

;''Assassin's Creed''
*When Desmond had fully synchronized with Altaïr, and had relived through the memories desired by [[Abstergo Industries]], he could no longer be desynchronized by killing civilians.
*As seen in early [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2g-COZpMXs gameplay video], Altaïr was originally able to push civilians out of his way while standing still, instead of only while running.
*An [[assassin's Creed achievements|achievement]] called '''Enemy of the Poor''' could be obtained by throwing female beggars 25 times.
*The Animus interface referred to scholars as a mobile hiding spot.
*Interestingly, the only female characters within the Masyaf castle could be seen in the garden area.

;''Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines''
*Thugs could be found in the streets, usually with daggers tucked into their belts. However, they would not attempt to steal or cause any inconvenience, instead acting as normal civilians.
*Scholars lost most of their importance in the game, as Altaïr could blend simply by posing as one, rather than walking within groups of them. However, they could still be found in the streets. Among the civilians of the game, they would not reprimand Altaïr for any improper behavior. They would, however, turn to watch as the Assassin drew any weapon, and would flee at any sign of violence.
*Members of the Cypriot Resistance also wandered the streets. Though they carried swords, they would not attack the Templars, and would always flee if guards attacked Altaïr. Also, while the resistance was on Altaïr's side, they would still often complain and threaten Altaïr should he stumble into them.
*Civilian population in the game was severely limited, due to the PSP's system. This was explained in-game as the result of the Templars' harsh regime.
*Drunkards could be found in certain areas of Kyrenia's Harbor District, though they would nearly always be asleep on the streets, usually with a mug nearby.
*While escaping from pirates in a cutscene, Altaïr knocked a man into the sea. However, if he did the same afterwards, it would cause instant desynchronization.

;''Assassin's Creed II''
*In ''Assassin's Creed II'' and ''Brotherhood'', women would often find anything that Ezio did to be attractive, commenting on how strong, fast, or brave he was throughout the game.
*There was a rare glitch in ''Assassin's Creed II'' where a group of civilians listening to a [[Heralds|herald]] would not react to any violent acts Ezio committed. These civilians could be killed without penalizing Desmond, though on occasion, about a minute after the glitch, he could spontaneously be desynchronized.

;''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''
*In ''Brotherhood'', as Rome was renovated, civilians would begin to carry parasols, bread, scepters and fans, signifying their increased wealth.
*Potential Assassin recruits in Rome always had the same clothes as [[Duccio de Luca]], [[Claudia Auditore da Firenze|Claudia Auditore]]'s former fiancé.

;''Assassin's Creed: Revelations''
*Civilians were seen doing a greater variety of activities, such as smoking a hookah pipe, playing board games or browsing the shops. In some cases, a rowdy citizen would challenge Ezio to a brawl, and merchants would ask him for help in carrying boxes if their shipment was running late.
*Some civilians in [[Constantinople]] would speak using Italian accents and terms, representing the diverse culture of the city.
*In the E3 promotional video, a civilian could be seen carrying a barrel, however no such carrier was present in the final version of the game.

;''Assassin's Creed III''
*Adult civilians and domestic animals could be killed if they were manually targeted.
*Civilians tended to stare at Connor, and make comments about how aggressive he seemed even if he was just fast-walking.
*Connor and his father could automatically shove civilians when running, as opposed to falling over.

;''Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag''
*Unlike previous games, civilians could not be killed with regular weapons, though they were still susceptible to both sleep and berserk darts. If Edward was attacked by a civilian under the influence of a berserk dart, he would not be able to parry or counter attack.
*In the E3 promotional video, Edward could be seen naturally engaging in conversation with various civilians, though no such feature was present in the final version of the game.
*Civilians no longer drown upon falling into water.

==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{AC}}
{{AC2}}
{{ACB}}
{{ACR}}
{{AC3}}
{{AC3L}}
{{AC4}}
{{ACPL}}
[[Category:Assassin's Creed gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II: Discovery gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Revelations gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed III gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed III: Liberation gameplay]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag gameplay]]

Soldier

2014-01-02T05:09:37Z

116.250.44.200: /* Golden Age of Piracy */

{{Era|ACAC|AC|ACBL|AC2|AC2D|ACB|ACR|AC3|AC3L|AC4}}
[[File:Bad Politics 3.png|thumb|250px|Ezio Auditore fighting several Borgia guards]]
'''Guards''' were members of organized military forces that typically defended or controlled access to locations of interest, or protected certain individuals.

Typically comprised of members of a local militia or governing body's military services, the colors and styles of their uniforms varied, denoting rank, allegiance, and combat specialization.

==Factions==
===High Middle Ages===
[[File:BoA 4.png|thumb|250px|thumb|[[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]] fighting several Crusaders]]
During the [[Third Crusade]], soldiers wore the armor and colors of either [[Saracens]] or [[Crusaders]], with the latter subdivided into the personal guards of King [[Richard I of England]], or the Knights [[Templars|Templar]], [[Knights Hospitalier|Hospitalier]], and [[Knights Teutonic|Teutonic]].

Saracens spoke Turkish or Arabic, while Crusaders spoke mostly English, with some Captains and Sergeants speaking French or German. Templar Knights, however, spoke all of the dialects.

Saracens wore {{Wiki|Lamellar armour|lamellar armor}}, and either {{Wiki|Spangenhelm|spangenhelms}} or turbans. All Crusaders wore surcoats and chainmail, while some also wore spangenhelms or {{Wiki|Great helm|great helms}}.

[[File:Talal Assassination 3.png|250px|left|thumb|Altaïr fighting Talal's personal guard]]
The colors of Crusader surcoats differed with their affiliation, with King Richard's personal guard wearing red and white, Templars wearing white with red crosses, Hospitaliers wearing black with white crosses, and Teutonics wearing white with black crosses.

Guards for several smaller factions or individuals possessed their own uniforms as well, such as the black, gold-striped clothes of [[Talal]]'s men, or the short white robes and gray-hoods of the guards of [[Masyaf]].<ref name="AC">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref>
{{-}}
===Renaissance===
Throughout the [[Renaissance]], multiple factions of guards existed, as they were affiliated to either individual cities or people instead of armies. They bore unique colors, often along with the family or city crest.

[[File:NVS 5.png|thumb|250px|right|Four Pazzi guards]]
Guards for the [[House of Pazzi]] wore black caps, red sleeves with gold streaks, gold armour plates and the crest of the Pazzi. They could only be found in [[Florence]] and [[Tuscany]], during the height of the family's influence, until the end of the [[Pazzi conspiracy]].

Guards serving the [[House of Medici]] wore dark yellow caps, yellow and white striped sleeves, black armor plates, and the crest of the Medici. They were notably seen during and after the repression of the Pazzi Conspiracy in Florence, as well as in [[San Gimignano]].

Guards of the [[House of Borgia]] wore dark red caps, black sleeves with dark red streaks, steel gray armour plates and the crest of the Borgia. They often accompanied [[Rodrigo Borgia]], and could also be found around [[Basilica di Santa Maria Novella|Santa Maria Novella]] during the Templar meeting, in the [[Cannaregio District]] of [[Venice]],<ref name="AC2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref> or in Florence during the [[Bonfire of the Vanities]]. They were also charged with guarding the [[banks]] housing the [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad's Codex|Codex]] pages.

[[File:Florentine Fiasco 1.png|thumb|250px|left|[[Ezio Auditore da Firenze]] bypassing a line of Savonarola's guards]]
Guards of [[Girolamo Savonarola]] wore light gray caps, and black sleeves and black or silver armor plates. Instead of a coats of arms, they bore a small portrait of Savonarola himself, with three red beams shining down upon him. They were notably seen in Florence during the Bonfire of the Vanities, often repressing the Borgia guards attempting to take the [[Ezio's Apple of Eden|Apple of Eden]].<ref>''Assassin's Creed II'' - ''[[Bonfire of the Vanities (DLC)]]''</ref>

Guards serving the city of [[Forlì]] wore dark green caps and sleeves, as well as the coat of arms of said city.

The guards who served the city of Venice wore blue caps and blue, gold streaked sleeves, with gold armor plates bearing the coat of arms of the Italian city. The quality of their armor was significantly better than that of their counterparts in other cities, protecting them from much damage.

Those who served the [[Vaticano District|Vatican]] wore white caps, red and white sleeves, with yellow elements on their clothing, and the coat of arms of the city of [[Rome]]. Similarly to Venetian guards, their armor was more resilient than most.<ref name="AC2"/>

[[File:Gatekeeper 2.png|thumb|250px|right|A contingent of French soldiers]]
Guards and soldiers of [[France]] wore dark blue and white, as well as olive green. They were commonly seen in Rome after the alliance of [[Cesare Borgia]] and the French general [[Octavian de Valois]].

At that time, French soldiers were stationed in either the main camp in [[Castra Praetoria]], or in military guard posts throughout the [[Campagna District]] of Rome. They remained in the city throughout [[Liberation of Rome|its liberation]], often fighting the [[mercenaries]] of the [[Assassins|Assassin]] condottiero, [[Bartolomeo d'Alviano]], until the assassination of Valois in August 1503.

Guards from the town of [[Viana]] in Spain wore yellowish-green armor. They notably participated in the [[Siege of Viana]], as they defended [[Viana Castle]] from King [[John III of Navarre|John III]]'s invading Navarre troops, who wore red uniforms with yellow accents.<ref name="Brotherhood">''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''</ref>

[[File:Honor_lost_won_v_3.png|thumb|250px|left|Ottoman Elites in their camp]]
[[Constantinople]] in the Renaissance was divided into two distinct factions, the ruling [[Ottoman Empire|Ottomans]], and the remnants of the ancient [[Byzantine Empire]].

Though Constantinople was held and controlled by the former, guards of the latter constantly fought for control. The region of Cappadocia, particularly [[Derinkuyu]], remained in Byzantine hands.

Ottoman guards wore green uniforms with red accents, though the Janissaries wore more multicoloured robes, while Byzantines wore small gray capes, and dark red and brown uniforms, and distinctly wore the black eagle crest of the Byzantine Empire's [[Manuel Palaiologos|Palaiologos]] Dynasty. The [[Varangians]] and [[Almogavars]] also wore lamellar cuirasses that appeared to be made of gold, or some similar golden metal, with a cross engraved into each lamella in their cuirasses.<ref name="Revelations">''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]''</ref>

===Golden Age of Piracy===
During the Golden Age of Piracy, there were different types of encounterable soldiers, each with different allegiances. The first was the [[British Empire]]. Loyal to King George I, these soldiers wore red coats and fought with [[Firearms|Muskets]] and [[Cutlass]]es.

The Second Faction was the Spanish. Donning yellow outfits and loyal to Philip V of Spain, these men fought in a manner identical to the British.

A third faction in the Golden Age of Piracy were the [[Pirate Hunters]]. These self-sustaining soldiers wore clothes based heavily on brown, and pursued pirates who have obtained sizable [[Social Stealth#Notoriety system|Notoriety]]. Some pirate hunters owned and operated level 60 [[Man O' War]]s. Pirate Hunter ships had red sails.<ref name="Black Flag">''[[Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag]]''</ref>

During these times, Edward Kenway also encountered the rare Portuguese ships, whose defenders wore blue outfits.

===Enlightenment Age===
[[File:ACIII-LexingtonandConcord_16.png|thumb|250px|[[Ratonhnhaké:ton|Connor]] commanding militia in firing lines]]
During the Enlightenment age, guards were aligned with the [[British Army]] or [[Continental Army]], or worked as [[mercenaries]]. [[Firearms]] also became the mainstay of most western armies. All soldiers were armed with flintlock muskets or pistols.

British regulars and militia were easily denoted by their bright red uniforms. The British army also employed Hessian mercenaries such as the Jäger. German soldiers could be distinguished from their British counterparts by their green uniforms with red accents. Patriot soldiers wore mostly blue uniforms, except for Continental Grenadiers, who wore a khaki colored dress.

==Ranking==
===High Middle Ages===
====Regular====
[[File:Tamir Informer Escort 3.png|thumb|250px|left|Altaïr fighting regular Saracen guards]]
Regular guards were the most common, but lightest equipped of the guard ranks. Regular Crusader guards did not have helmets, and only wore leather armor, while Saracen ones wore turbans, and light lamellar armor.

In combat, they were not skilled enough to grab, counterattack, or perform a combo. They could only deflect attacks, with a 25% chance of dodging a light attack.<ref name="AC"/>
{{-}}
====Sergeant====
[[File:Sibrand Eavesdropping 2.png|thumb|250px|Two Teutonic sergeants talking]]
Sergeants were middle-ranked soldiers, and were equipped with helmets and heavier armor. Crusaders wore chainmail, and the Saracens possessed medium lamellar armor.

They could grab targets, and had a 50% chance of breaking a grab attack, as well as a 50% chance of countering or dodging a light attack. They also had a 25% chance of breaking defenses, but could not perform combo attacks.<ref name="AC"/>
{{-}}
====Captain====
[[File:Robert_Pickpocketing_1.png|thumb|left|250px|A Saracen captain talking with a Templar]]
Captains were the most powerful guards, with the exception of Templar Knights. Saracens wore Baidah helmets and heavy lamellar armor, while Crusaders wore chainmail, and varying knight helms.

Guards at this rank were also able to grab, and had a 75% chance of breaking a grab attack, as well as countering or dodging a light attack. They also had a 50% chance of breaking defenses. If a successful heavy attack was delivered, they could perform a combo attack.<ref name="AC"/>
{{-}}
===Renaissance===
====Militia====
[[File:Escape debt 2.png|thumb|250px|Three Militia guards cornering [[Egidio Troche]]]]
Militia were the lowest ranking guards, and wore very little armor. They also had the lowest morale, and were likely to flee a battle if they were losing.

Militia could be found almost everywhere, and wielded a large variety of [[Swords and maces|medium-ranged weapons]]. They were not especially agile, but could climb up to the rooftops, albeit slowly, in order to pursue a target Assassin.

Of the guard types, Militia were the only ones who could be fooled into picking up coins, should they be thrown as a distraction.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Elite====
[[File:With Friends 8 v.png|thumb|left|250px|Ezio restrained by two Elites]]
Elites were stronger than Militia, and wore a moderate amount of armor. They could withstand more damage, and were capable of dodging enemy attacks.

They were also more courageous than Militia, but could still be forced to retreat, especially if their Leader (or a high-ranking specialized guard) should be killed near them.<ref name="AC2"/>
{{-}}
====Leader====
[[File:He who waits 5.png|thumb|250px|A Leader speaking with an Agile]]
Leaders were the best fighters, and the most tenacious of all the regular guards. They wore slightly more armor than the Elites, and had distinct, full-faced helmets.

They were resilient, and could withstand several attacks before they could be killed. They were also harder to disarm, as well as resistant to being grabbed.<ref name="AC2"/>
{{-}}
====Captain====
[[File:Demilitarization 2.png|thumb|left|250px|[[Cesare Borgia]] speaking with his Captains]]
Captains of the Renaissance were usually found leading contingents of lower-ranked soldiers. They fought similarly to Leaders, but were more heavily and intricately armored, with full feathered helms.

Twelve [[Borgia Captains]] were particularly distinguished members of this rank, and led troops at each of Rome's twelve [[Borgia Towers]]. They were armored identically to other Captains, but wore white capes with the Borgia crest.

Though most were courageous and skilled enough to counter most attacks, some were cowardly, and would flee into their tower should it be attacked, until the next guard patrol was posted.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

===Enlightenment Age===
====Regulars====
[[File:ACIII-Teaparty 3.png|thumb|250px|Connor and Stephane Chapeau fighting the Regulars]]
The basic guards within the British and Continental armies were enlisted soldiers who wore regular battle-dress. They were equipped with muskets that held fixed [[bayonets]] and received training in forming firing lines. Regulars were susceptible to counter kills, throws, stuns, disarms and secondary weapon kills.

British Regulars wore a bright red tunic with white leggings and a black tricorn hat, and some took to wearing scarves around their faces. They had the ability to form a firing line quickly and efficiently and didn't run from battle due to the Army's severe discipline standards.

The Continental Army wore a blue battle-dress with a red accent down each lapel and a black tricorn hat. Although they were equally well-trained, they did not have the same discipline as their British counterparts. They would run after a sufficient amount of their comrades fell or when their leader was slain.

====Militia====
[[File:ACIII-LexingtonandConcord 18.png|thumb|left|250px|Continental militiamen in Concord]]
Militia of both the British and Continental armies could be found as guards on rooftops or inside forts, where they were being trained. Loyalist militia wore similar clothing to British Regulars, but instead featured an explorer's cap instead of a tricorn, as well as a backpack and dark spatterdashes. Onboard ships they were dressed as Royal Marines.

Patriot militia wore a white shirt and a blue vest, together with an explorer's cap. Miltia soldiers were not as well-trained as Regulars, as they could only attack once per a Regular's three times, though despite this, they took on almost identical roles.

==Ranged types==
As most standard guards only had medium or short-ranged weapons, they were often supplemented by ranged guard types, who could attack from a distance. More types were added over time, with the advancement of weapon technology.<ref name="AC"/><ref name="AC2"/>

===Renaissance===
====Archers====
{{Main|Archers}}
[[File:Romagna Holiday 8.png|thumb|250px|Borgia archers in the Apennine Mountains]]
Archers were guards armed with [[Bow|longbows]], who patrolled rooftops and watched for possible enemies below.<ref name="AC2"/> Outside of cities, they were posted on elevated watchtowers.<ref name="AC"/>

Crusader Archers wore the same uniforms as the standard guards of their faction, though they also had white hoods.<ref name="AC"/> In the Renaissance, Archers were usually of the Elite rank, and wore the same uniform as their standard counterparts.

Once provoked due to an enemy approaching within a meter or so, an archer would cease firing arrows, and draw his medium-ranged weapon, such as a sword or mace. Though accurate and deadly from a distance, Archers did not pose a serious threat in close combat.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Crossbowmen====
{{Main|Crossbowmen}}
[[File:ACB_Crossbowman.png|thumb|250px|left|A Borgia crossbowman]]
Similarly to Archers, Crossbowmen defended the rooftops or areas of interest, though the [[Crossbow]]s they wielded could be fired more quickly, and caused more damage.<ref name="Brotherhood"/> However, they did not completely replace Archers, as longbows were more accurate if used by a skilled guard.<ref name="Project Legacy">''[[Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy]]''</ref>

Unlike Archers, Crossbowmen had no melee weapon, and if their enemy drew too close, they would only back away and keep firing. They were also more vigilant, and possessed some [[Freerunning|free-running]] ability, which permitted them to more closely investigate intruders.

In Rome, Crossbowmen could be distinguished by their striped berets and light armor.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Arquebusiers====
{{Main|Arquebusiers}}
[[File:Vilified 11 v.png|thumb|250px|A line of arquebusiers]]
The Arquebusiers, also called Gunmen or Riflemen, were [[Firearms|firearm]]-wielding soldiers who patrolled rooftops, protected high-value locations, and guarded important individuals.

Though Arquebusiers did not have as great a range as Crossbowmen, what they lacked in distance, they made up for in power. Their shots dealt significant damage to both targets and enemy armor. In the Renaissance, they wore heavy armor and full helmets, as well as belts of gunpowder and ammunition.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Bombmen====
[[File:ACR_Ottoman_Bombardier.png|thumb|250px|left|Ezio facing an Ottoman Bombman]]
In Constantinople, Bombmen wielded [[thunder bombs]] and [[short blades]], and commonly guarded the rooftops in high traffic areas, such as the docks, arsenal, and harbor. They would also participate in the protection of [[Assassin Dens|Templar dens]], and would attack from the safety of reinforced sentry boxes.

Byzantine Bombmen wore uniforms similar to Almogavars, though with longer red capes.<ref name="Revelations"/>

==Specialized types==
Certain high-ranking guards possessed unique qualities, usually granting them an advantage in combat through added speed, strength, or defense skills. They would often act as leaders for patrols of standard guards, and possessed uncommon weapons or armor.<ref name="AC2"/>

===Renaissance===
====Agiles====
{{Main|Agile guards}}
[[File:NVS 12.png|thumb|250px|An Agile fleeing from Ezio]]
Agiles were lightly-armored, quick moving guards. They were one of the types capable of outrunning Assassins, and were also skilled free-runners. They more commonly fled to alert nearby guards, rather than face an enemy directly.

During pursuits alongside other guards, Agiles would usually catch up to a target first and injure them with the short blades they wielded. In battle, they were very light on their feet and could dodge nearly all attacks. Agiles wore the least armor of any guard, with only a light leather chest guard, and metal helmet and spaulders. Due to their increased vulnerability, they were also the most cowardly of the specialized types.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Brutes====
{{Main|Brutes}}
[[File:LMS 9 v.png|thumb|250px|left|A Pazzi Brute blocking Ezio's path]]
Brutes were the most heavily-armored guards during the Renaissance. They moved slowly due to the [[Heavy weapons|two-handed weapons]] they wielded, but compensated through resilience and power.

They were not very vigilant, and could not normally distinguish Assassins from anyone else in a crowd. In guard patrols, they often acted as the leader, as they had the highest morale of any guard type, fleeing only if they were disarmed and could not obtain another weapon. Brutes could be easily seen from their large, reinforced armor and closed helms.<ref name="AC2"/> Brutes in Rome had more intricate armor than those in other cities, with designs worked into the metal.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Seekers====
{{Main|Seekers}}
[[File:Benvenuto 15.png|thumb|250px|Seekers arresting a merchant]]
Seekers were guards who, as their name suggested, would search through [[Hiding spots|hiding places]], on the suspicion that an Assassin had taken refuge within one. They always wielded [[Long weapons|polearms]], such as spears and halberds.

Similarly to Brutes, they would lead patrols of guards, often halting the group to search any hiding spots they passed.<ref name="AC2"/> In battle, they had the second highest morale to Brutes, and were skilled enough to resist most attacks and counters.<ref name="Brotherhood"/> They were slightly more heavily-armored than a standard guard, though less so than Brutes, wearing a combination of chainmail and plate armor, as well as distinctive feathered helms.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Horsemen====
{{Main|Horsemen}}
[[File:ACB_Ezio_vs_Horseman.png|thumb|250px|left|Ezio fighting a horseman]]
Horsemen were mounted guards that possessed the ability to use a variety of weapons while on [[Horses|horseback]]. Their steeds allowed them to easily pursue targets, and strike preemptively.

Though they were vulnerable to long-ranged weapons such as [[throwing knives]] and crossbows, they could be easily dealt with after being knocked from the saddle, either by tripping their horse, or striking them from horseback.

Horsemen were equipped with both medium and long-ranged weapons, though none could wield polearms. They were armored similarly to Borgia Captains, albeit without the cape.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Almogavars====
{{Main|Almogavars}}
[[File:Piri_Reis_Datura_5.png|thumb|250px|Ezio throwing a bomb at an Almogavar]]
Almogavars were heavily-armored Byzantine guards, who wielded two-handed axes. They were stationed in Byzantine-controlled districts of Constantinople, as well as in Derinkuyu during the Renaissance.

Comparable to Brutes, they fought with heavy weapons, and were slower than all other enemies. Due to their thick armor, they were very resilient, and could not be killed with a single bullet or crossbow bolt. However, they possessed a profound weakness to the effects of [[datura bombs]].

They wore golden lamellar cuirasses with a [[Templar insignia|Templar cross]] engraved into each lamella, their armour was notably decorated with fur and was topped by particularly large metal pauldrons. They also wielded [[Almogavar Axe|unique axes]], with a pair of crescent-shaped blades.<ref name="Revelations"/>

====Varangians====
{{Main|Varangians}}
[[File:Cistern_14.png|thumb|250px|left|A Varangian speaking to two Militiamen]]
Varangians were the Byzantine equivalent of Seekers, and were stationed in both Constantinople and Derinkuyu. They were very skilled in battle, and could deflect nearly all strikes and counterattacks.

They wore the same golden lamellar as the Almogavars with short grey capes, as well as intricate winged helmets. They fought with halberds or spears, as well as short pistols.<ref name="Revelations"/>
{{-}}
===Enlightenment Age===
====Grenadiers====
{{Main|Grenadiers}}
[[File:ACIII-Wolcott_8.png|thumb|250px|A Loyalist and a Grenadier blocking Connor's path]]
Grenadiers were specialized units in the British and Continental armies during the American Revolutionary War. They were roughly comparable to the Italian Brutes and Byzantine Almogavars, being slower than other soldiers, and fighting with heavy weapons and muskets.

Grenadiers were recognizable by their miter caps, which were designed not to obstruct the throwing of grenades. While the British Army's Grenadiers wore green kilts, a dress top and sapper's gloves, the Continental Grenadiers wore khaki battle dress with black boots.
{{-}}

====Officers====
{{Main|Officers}}
[[File:AC3_Officer.png|thumb|250px|left|Connor hiding from an Officer]]
Officers in both armies led groups of other guards on patrols and were equipped with a sword and pistol. Whilst wielding their sword, they parried all of Connor's regular attacks, forcing him to either break their defense or disarm them first. They could also counter Connor's counter-kills even if disarmed, but were susceptible to throws, stuns, disarms and secondary weapon kills.

If any horses were nearby, Officers would mount them and attempt to attack Connor on horseback, either by charging or firing their pistol. Officers could see through disguises and would search hiding spots. When patrolling alone, they would be accompanied by guard [[dogs]], who would give away Connor's location if they got close enough.

====Scouts====
[[File:ACIII-Unconvinced 9.png|thumb|250px|A British Scout and two Loyalists provoking Haytham Kenway]]
Akin to the Agiles that served throughout the Renaissance, Scouts were fast-moving adversaries capable of free-running that wielded short blades and muskets. They would pursue any attackers that fled from battle, and could not be disarmed or have their defense broken.

They were, however, susceptible to all other forms of counterattacks. In combat, they would attempt to flip over Connor's back and attack him from behind, similar to the "[[Hookblade|hook and run]]" maneuver used by the [[Turkish Assassins]].

====Snitches====
{{Main|Snitches}}
[[File:AC3_Snitch.png|thumb|250px|left|Connor passing by a Snitch]]
Snitches were usually seen in large guard patrols carrying military drums. They never fought with an attacker, choosing to instead flee the scene and bring reinforcements. If they could not flee, they would brandish a dagger or cower.

The British drummers were usually seen wearing ceremonial bearksin hats and red coats, whereas the Continental Army equivalent were seen wearing yellow coats and similar headgear to British drummers.

===Golden Age of Piracy===
====Agiles====
Agiles made a return in black flag although some were referred to as officers. They were the only guards capable of catching Edward while he was running. They would block attacks until the player breaks their defense. They fought with throwing knives which could be obtained afterwards and appeared similar to normal guards without hats.

====brutes====
Brutes were large guards who wielded axes and threw grenades at pirates. They moved slowly and did not carry firearms but would do lots of damage and bowl an enemy over when attacking. They would also block attacks.

==Expert types==
Expert guards were high-ranking guards, who were the most skilled and well-equipped of their time. They often possessed several of the qualities of specialized guards, and were limited in number.<ref name="AC"/><ref name="AC2"/>

===High Middle Ages===
====Templar Knights====
[[File:AC1_Templar_Knight.png|250px|thumb|Altaïr standing next to a Templar Knight]]
Templar Knights were particularly skilled Crusaders, and were stationed throughout the [[Kingdom]] and its cities. They would often position themselves with a wall or cliff to their back, to prevent them from being attacked from behind.<ref name="AC"/>

They were particularly vigilant, and could identify an Assassin from a crowd almost immediately, subsequently attacking them. Other guards held the knights in high regard, and would always stand back should the Templar Knight engage in battle with an Assassin. They were similar to the Crusader Captains, but with unique armor. They wore chainmail and white surcoats with red crosses, as well as red lacquered great helms.<ref name="AC"/>

===Renaissance===
====Papal Guards====
{{Main|Papal Guard}}
[[File:Liquid Gold 10.png|thumb|250px|left|A Papal Guard holding Ezio at gunpoint]]
The Papal Guard were elite soldiers throughout the Renaissance and were commanded by the [[Papacy]], to serve and protect the pontiff during his tenure. They combined the best qualities of all the other specialized guards, being very powerful in battle, as well as quick on their feet.

They wore intricate black and gold armor, as well as long dark capes, metal face masks and plumed helmets. They also wore crests painted on their chest guards, either displaying the crossed keys of the Papacy, or (in the 16th century) the red bull of the Borgia. Papal guards could use a wide variety of weapons, including long or heavy ones, though they most commonly [[Dual-wielding|dual-wielded]] a pistol alongside a medium weapon.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Janissaries====
{{Main|Janissaries}}
[[File:TAG 4.png|thumb|250px|A pair of Janissaries harassing a merchant]]
Janissaries were highly-trained soldiers, and the elite of the Ottoman Empire, serving as the private guards to the Sultan. Similarly to the Papal Guard, they encompassed all the skills of the specialized guards.

Their uniforms consisted of colorful robes with embroidered patterns, as well as black headdresses and metal face masks. They all wielded [[Janissary Kijil|unique kijils]], as well as short pistols for long-ranged attacks.<ref name="Revelations"/>
{{-}}

===Golden Age of Piracy===
{{Main|Captains}}
'''Captains''' were an archetype of guard which were usually found at sea, but occasionally went to land. Every board-able ship had a captain, including [[Pirate Hunters]]. Captains stood out as the only type of enemy whose guard could not be broken. Also similar to seekers they would sometimes search through haystacks and bushes.

===Enlightenment Age===
====Jägers====
{{Main|Jägers}}
[[File:ACIII-MostWanted 7.png|thumb|250px|left|A Jäger searching for Connor]]
'''Jägers''', also colloquially referred to as '''Hessians''', were a detachment of German troops that were contracted by the British to fight in the American Revolutionary War. However, they operated independently of most British protocols.

Jägers specialised in deep forest and wilderness combat, tactics and reconnaissance, as well as unconventional warfare. As such, they were regarded as an elite scouting unit, used for surveying an area ahead of a body of troops or leading the way on the front lines.

The Jägers gained a fierce reputation as fearsome warriors and reliable, disciplined troops, and they were well respected within the ranks of the British Army. Like the other expert archetypes, Jägers combined the aspects of the basic archetypes. They patrolled in search of Connor, wielded a sword and pistol, and could fight on horseback, like Officers.

Being mainly skirmisher type troops, Jägers were rarely seen inside cities. However, due to their elite status and very honed tracking abilities, they were called into populated areas when Connor became a persistent danger to British and Patriot troops.

In combat, they were immune to direct attacks and would occasionally throw grenades, similar to the Grenadiers. While in pursuit, they could easily catch up to Connor, being one of the only archetypes to do so barring Scouts.

There were two types of Jäger located in Colonial America during the [[American Revolutionary War]]; Loyalist Jägers were found within the [[British Army]] and Patriot Jägers were found within the [[Continental Army]].
*Loyalist Jägers wore green coats with red trim, black boots and tricorn hats with a red feather.
*Patriot Jägers wore green coats with gold trim, black boots, and Tarletons with black horse hair trim.

==Trivia==
*The taunts Ezio said to Brutes were different from those he said to the other guards, mainly insulting them about their weight, as they were bulkier in stature.
*In the memory "[[Clothes Make the Man]]," [[Ugo]] told Ezio that the thieves were to impersonate the archers. Yet in the next memory, "[[Everything Must Go]]", after Ezio killed the archers on the rooftops, the thieves wore the armor of captain guards instead of archer armor.
*In the memory "[[Infrequent Flier]]", a Brute and a Seeker could be seen stationed on a rooftop, despite being the only guards who could not climb or free-run.
*In the memory "[[Play Along]]", Ezio assassinated an Agile so he could disguise himself as a guard, but instead of having an Agile's outfit, he wore the outfit of a Leader guard.
*Several other guard types were present only in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]'', such as Shield Guards, Duelists, and unnamed robed guards wielding maces.
*In the memory "[[French Kiss]]", Ezio killed twenty French guards of different archetypes to acquire their armor. However, in the following memories, Bartolomeo's mercenaries were equipped with only Leader armor, while Ezio wore armor similar to a Borgia Captain's.
**Additionally, though Ezio's Captain armor during the memory was in French colors, no such French guard could ever be encountered.
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'', an extremely rare glitch can occur with a group of four guards. They will stand in place and won't pay any attention to Ezio, even if he killed someone nearby. He's free to attack them, in which case an execution will be performed, but it won't kill them, leaving them to simply stand up again.
*In PlayStation Home, the design of a Seeker can be purchased for an avatar. Similarly, on Xbox Live, it is possible to purchase the outfit of an Agile guard.
*In ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'', even after the completion of Sequence 8 and the liberation of all [[Borgia Towers|Borgia towers]], all of the guards in Rome will still wear the colours of the Borgia family as well as their coat of arms.

==References==
{{GalleryBox|Guards}}
{{Reflist}}
{{ACAC}}
{{AC}}
{{ACBL}}
{{AC2}}
{{AC2D}}
{{ACB}}
{{ACR}}
{{AC3}}
{{AC3L}}
{{AC4}}
[[Category:Guards| ]]
[[Category:Occupations]]

Soldier

2014-01-02T05:05:27Z

116.250.44.200: /* Specialized types */

{{Era|ACAC|AC|ACBL|AC2|AC2D|ACB|ACR|AC3|AC3L|AC4}}
[[File:Bad Politics 3.png|thumb|250px|Ezio Auditore fighting several Borgia guards]]
'''Guards''' were members of organized military forces that typically defended or controlled access to locations of interest, or protected certain individuals.

Typically comprised of members of a local militia or governing body's military services, the colors and styles of their uniforms varied, denoting rank, allegiance, and combat specialization.

==Factions==
===High Middle Ages===
[[File:BoA 4.png|thumb|250px|thumb|[[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]] fighting several Crusaders]]
During the [[Third Crusade]], soldiers wore the armor and colors of either [[Saracens]] or [[Crusaders]], with the latter subdivided into the personal guards of King [[Richard I of England]], or the Knights [[Templars|Templar]], [[Knights Hospitalier|Hospitalier]], and [[Knights Teutonic|Teutonic]].

Saracens spoke Turkish or Arabic, while Crusaders spoke mostly English, with some Captains and Sergeants speaking French or German. Templar Knights, however, spoke all of the dialects.

Saracens wore {{Wiki|Lamellar armour|lamellar armor}}, and either {{Wiki|Spangenhelm|spangenhelms}} or turbans. All Crusaders wore surcoats and chainmail, while some also wore spangenhelms or {{Wiki|Great helm|great helms}}.

[[File:Talal Assassination 3.png|250px|left|thumb|Altaïr fighting Talal's personal guard]]
The colors of Crusader surcoats differed with their affiliation, with King Richard's personal guard wearing red and white, Templars wearing white with red crosses, Hospitaliers wearing black with white crosses, and Teutonics wearing white with black crosses.

Guards for several smaller factions or individuals possessed their own uniforms as well, such as the black, gold-striped clothes of [[Talal]]'s men, or the short white robes and gray-hoods of the guards of [[Masyaf]].<ref name="AC">''[[Assassin's Creed]]''</ref>
{{-}}
===Renaissance===
Throughout the [[Renaissance]], multiple factions of guards existed, as they were affiliated to either individual cities or people instead of armies. They bore unique colors, often along with the family or city crest.

[[File:NVS 5.png|thumb|250px|right|Four Pazzi guards]]
Guards for the [[House of Pazzi]] wore black caps, red sleeves with gold streaks, gold armour plates and the crest of the Pazzi. They could only be found in [[Florence]] and [[Tuscany]], during the height of the family's influence, until the end of the [[Pazzi conspiracy]].

Guards serving the [[House of Medici]] wore dark yellow caps, yellow and white striped sleeves, black armor plates, and the crest of the Medici. They were notably seen during and after the repression of the Pazzi Conspiracy in Florence, as well as in [[San Gimignano]].

Guards of the [[House of Borgia]] wore dark red caps, black sleeves with dark red streaks, steel gray armour plates and the crest of the Borgia. They often accompanied [[Rodrigo Borgia]], and could also be found around [[Basilica di Santa Maria Novella|Santa Maria Novella]] during the Templar meeting, in the [[Cannaregio District]] of [[Venice]],<ref name="AC2">''[[Assassin's Creed II]]''</ref> or in Florence during the [[Bonfire of the Vanities]]. They were also charged with guarding the [[banks]] housing the [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad's Codex|Codex]] pages.

[[File:Florentine Fiasco 1.png|thumb|250px|left|[[Ezio Auditore da Firenze]] bypassing a line of Savonarola's guards]]
Guards of [[Girolamo Savonarola]] wore light gray caps, and black sleeves and black or silver armor plates. Instead of a coats of arms, they bore a small portrait of Savonarola himself, with three red beams shining down upon him. They were notably seen in Florence during the Bonfire of the Vanities, often repressing the Borgia guards attempting to take the [[Ezio's Apple of Eden|Apple of Eden]].<ref>''Assassin's Creed II'' - ''[[Bonfire of the Vanities (DLC)]]''</ref>

Guards serving the city of [[Forlì]] wore dark green caps and sleeves, as well as the coat of arms of said city.

The guards who served the city of Venice wore blue caps and blue, gold streaked sleeves, with gold armor plates bearing the coat of arms of the Italian city. The quality of their armor was significantly better than that of their counterparts in other cities, protecting them from much damage.

Those who served the [[Vaticano District|Vatican]] wore white caps, red and white sleeves, with yellow elements on their clothing, and the coat of arms of the city of [[Rome]]. Similarly to Venetian guards, their armor was more resilient than most.<ref name="AC2"/>

[[File:Gatekeeper 2.png|thumb|250px|right|A contingent of French soldiers]]
Guards and soldiers of [[France]] wore dark blue and white, as well as olive green. They were commonly seen in Rome after the alliance of [[Cesare Borgia]] and the French general [[Octavian de Valois]].

At that time, French soldiers were stationed in either the main camp in [[Castra Praetoria]], or in military guard posts throughout the [[Campagna District]] of Rome. They remained in the city throughout [[Liberation of Rome|its liberation]], often fighting the [[mercenaries]] of the [[Assassins|Assassin]] condottiero, [[Bartolomeo d'Alviano]], until the assassination of Valois in August 1503.

Guards from the town of [[Viana]] in Spain wore yellowish-green armor. They notably participated in the [[Siege of Viana]], as they defended [[Viana Castle]] from King [[John III of Navarre|John III]]'s invading Navarre troops, who wore red uniforms with yellow accents.<ref name="Brotherhood">''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''</ref>

[[File:Honor_lost_won_v_3.png|thumb|250px|left|Ottoman Elites in their camp]]
[[Constantinople]] in the Renaissance was divided into two distinct factions, the ruling [[Ottoman Empire|Ottomans]], and the remnants of the ancient [[Byzantine Empire]].

Though Constantinople was held and controlled by the former, guards of the latter constantly fought for control. The region of Cappadocia, particularly [[Derinkuyu]], remained in Byzantine hands.

Ottoman guards wore green uniforms with red accents, though the Janissaries wore more multicoloured robes, while Byzantines wore small gray capes, and dark red and brown uniforms, and distinctly wore the black eagle crest of the Byzantine Empire's [[Manuel Palaiologos|Palaiologos]] Dynasty. The [[Varangians]] and [[Almogavars]] also wore lamellar cuirasses that appeared to be made of gold, or some similar golden metal, with a cross engraved into each lamella in their cuirasses.<ref name="Revelations">''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]''</ref>

===Golden Age of Piracy===
During the Golden Age of Piracy, there were different types of encounterable soldiers, each with different allegiances. The first was the [[British Empire]]. Loyal to King George I, these soldiers wore red coats and fought with [[Firearms|Muskets]] and [[Cutlass]]es.

The Second Faction was the Spanish. Donning yellow outfits and loyal to Philip V of Spain, these men fought in a manner identical to the British.

A third faction in the Golden Age of Piracy were the [[Pirate Hunters]]. These self-sustaining soldiers wore clothes based heavily on brown, and pursued pirates who have obtained sizable [[Social Stealth#Notoriety system|Notoriety]]. Some pirate hunters owned and operated level 60 [[Man O' War]]s. Pirate Hunter ships had red sails.<ref name="Black Flag">''[[Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag]]''</ref>

During these times, Edward Kenway also encountered the rare Portuguese ships, whose defenders wore blue outfits.

===Enlightenment Age===
[[File:ACIII-LexingtonandConcord_16.png|thumb|250px|[[Ratonhnhaké:ton|Connor]] commanding militia in firing lines]]
During the Enlightenment age, guards were aligned with the [[British Army]] or [[Continental Army]], or worked as [[mercenaries]]. [[Firearms]] also became the mainstay of most western armies. All soldiers were armed with flintlock muskets or pistols.

British regulars and militia were easily denoted by their bright red uniforms. The British army also employed Hessian mercenaries such as the Jäger. German soldiers could be distinguished from their British counterparts by their green uniforms with red accents. Patriot soldiers wore mostly blue uniforms, except for Continental Grenadiers, who wore a khaki colored dress.

==Ranking==
===High Middle Ages===
====Regular====
[[File:Tamir Informer Escort 3.png|thumb|250px|left|Altaïr fighting regular Saracen guards]]
Regular guards were the most common, but lightest equipped of the guard ranks. Regular Crusader guards did not have helmets, and only wore leather armor, while Saracen ones wore turbans, and light lamellar armor.

In combat, they were not skilled enough to grab, counterattack, or perform a combo. They could only deflect attacks, with a 25% chance of dodging a light attack.<ref name="AC"/>
{{-}}
====Sergeant====
[[File:Sibrand Eavesdropping 2.png|thumb|250px|Two Teutonic sergeants talking]]
Sergeants were middle-ranked soldiers, and were equipped with helmets and heavier armor. Crusaders wore chainmail, and the Saracens possessed medium lamellar armor.

They could grab targets, and had a 50% chance of breaking a grab attack, as well as a 50% chance of countering or dodging a light attack. They also had a 25% chance of breaking defenses, but could not perform combo attacks.<ref name="AC"/>
{{-}}
====Captain====
[[File:Robert_Pickpocketing_1.png|thumb|left|250px|A Saracen captain talking with a Templar]]
Captains were the most powerful guards, with the exception of Templar Knights. Saracens wore Baidah helmets and heavy lamellar armor, while Crusaders wore chainmail, and varying knight helms.

Guards at this rank were also able to grab, and had a 75% chance of breaking a grab attack, as well as countering or dodging a light attack. They also had a 50% chance of breaking defenses. If a successful heavy attack was delivered, they could perform a combo attack.<ref name="AC"/>
{{-}}
===Renaissance===
====Militia====
[[File:Escape debt 2.png|thumb|250px|Three Militia guards cornering [[Egidio Troche]]]]
Militia were the lowest ranking guards, and wore very little armor. They also had the lowest morale, and were likely to flee a battle if they were losing.

Militia could be found almost everywhere, and wielded a large variety of [[Swords and maces|medium-ranged weapons]]. They were not especially agile, but could climb up to the rooftops, albeit slowly, in order to pursue a target Assassin.

Of the guard types, Militia were the only ones who could be fooled into picking up coins, should they be thrown as a distraction.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Elite====
[[File:With Friends 8 v.png|thumb|left|250px|Ezio restrained by two Elites]]
Elites were stronger than Militia, and wore a moderate amount of armor. They could withstand more damage, and were capable of dodging enemy attacks.

They were also more courageous than Militia, but could still be forced to retreat, especially if their Leader (or a high-ranking specialized guard) should be killed near them.<ref name="AC2"/>
{{-}}
====Leader====
[[File:He who waits 5.png|thumb|250px|A Leader speaking with an Agile]]
Leaders were the best fighters, and the most tenacious of all the regular guards. They wore slightly more armor than the Elites, and had distinct, full-faced helmets.

They were resilient, and could withstand several attacks before they could be killed. They were also harder to disarm, as well as resistant to being grabbed.<ref name="AC2"/>
{{-}}
====Captain====
[[File:Demilitarization 2.png|thumb|left|250px|[[Cesare Borgia]] speaking with his Captains]]
Captains of the Renaissance were usually found leading contingents of lower-ranked soldiers. They fought similarly to Leaders, but were more heavily and intricately armored, with full feathered helms.

Twelve [[Borgia Captains]] were particularly distinguished members of this rank, and led troops at each of Rome's twelve [[Borgia Towers]]. They were armored identically to other Captains, but wore white capes with the Borgia crest.

Though most were courageous and skilled enough to counter most attacks, some were cowardly, and would flee into their tower should it be attacked, until the next guard patrol was posted.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

===Enlightenment Age===
====Regulars====
[[File:ACIII-Teaparty 3.png|thumb|250px|Connor and Stephane Chapeau fighting the Regulars]]
The basic guards within the British and Continental armies were enlisted soldiers who wore regular battle-dress. They were equipped with muskets that held fixed [[bayonets]] and received training in forming firing lines. Regulars were susceptible to counter kills, throws, stuns, disarms and secondary weapon kills.

British Regulars wore a bright red tunic with white leggings and a black tricorn hat, and some took to wearing scarves around their faces. They had the ability to form a firing line quickly and efficiently and didn't run from battle due to the Army's severe discipline standards.

The Continental Army wore a blue battle-dress with a red accent down each lapel and a black tricorn hat. Although they were equally well-trained, they did not have the same discipline as their British counterparts. They would run after a sufficient amount of their comrades fell or when their leader was slain.

====Militia====
[[File:ACIII-LexingtonandConcord 18.png|thumb|left|250px|Continental militiamen in Concord]]
Militia of both the British and Continental armies could be found as guards on rooftops or inside forts, where they were being trained. Loyalist militia wore similar clothing to British Regulars, but instead featured an explorer's cap instead of a tricorn, as well as a backpack and dark spatterdashes. Onboard ships they were dressed as Royal Marines.

Patriot militia wore a white shirt and a blue vest, together with an explorer's cap. Miltia soldiers were not as well-trained as Regulars, as they could only attack once per a Regular's three times, though despite this, they took on almost identical roles.

==Ranged types==
As most standard guards only had medium or short-ranged weapons, they were often supplemented by ranged guard types, who could attack from a distance. More types were added over time, with the advancement of weapon technology.<ref name="AC"/><ref name="AC2"/>

===Renaissance===
====Archers====
{{Main|Archers}}
[[File:Romagna Holiday 8.png|thumb|250px|Borgia archers in the Apennine Mountains]]
Archers were guards armed with [[Bow|longbows]], who patrolled rooftops and watched for possible enemies below.<ref name="AC2"/> Outside of cities, they were posted on elevated watchtowers.<ref name="AC"/>

Crusader Archers wore the same uniforms as the standard guards of their faction, though they also had white hoods.<ref name="AC"/> In the Renaissance, Archers were usually of the Elite rank, and wore the same uniform as their standard counterparts.

Once provoked due to an enemy approaching within a meter or so, an archer would cease firing arrows, and draw his medium-ranged weapon, such as a sword or mace. Though accurate and deadly from a distance, Archers did not pose a serious threat in close combat.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Crossbowmen====
{{Main|Crossbowmen}}
[[File:ACB_Crossbowman.png|thumb|250px|left|A Borgia crossbowman]]
Similarly to Archers, Crossbowmen defended the rooftops or areas of interest, though the [[Crossbow]]s they wielded could be fired more quickly, and caused more damage.<ref name="Brotherhood"/> However, they did not completely replace Archers, as longbows were more accurate if used by a skilled guard.<ref name="Project Legacy">''[[Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy]]''</ref>

Unlike Archers, Crossbowmen had no melee weapon, and if their enemy drew too close, they would only back away and keep firing. They were also more vigilant, and possessed some [[Freerunning|free-running]] ability, which permitted them to more closely investigate intruders.

In Rome, Crossbowmen could be distinguished by their striped berets and light armor.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Arquebusiers====
{{Main|Arquebusiers}}
[[File:Vilified 11 v.png|thumb|250px|A line of arquebusiers]]
The Arquebusiers, also called Gunmen or Riflemen, were [[Firearms|firearm]]-wielding soldiers who patrolled rooftops, protected high-value locations, and guarded important individuals.

Though Arquebusiers did not have as great a range as Crossbowmen, what they lacked in distance, they made up for in power. Their shots dealt significant damage to both targets and enemy armor. In the Renaissance, they wore heavy armor and full helmets, as well as belts of gunpowder and ammunition.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Bombmen====
[[File:ACR_Ottoman_Bombardier.png|thumb|250px|left|Ezio facing an Ottoman Bombman]]
In Constantinople, Bombmen wielded [[thunder bombs]] and [[short blades]], and commonly guarded the rooftops in high traffic areas, such as the docks, arsenal, and harbor. They would also participate in the protection of [[Assassin Dens|Templar dens]], and would attack from the safety of reinforced sentry boxes.

Byzantine Bombmen wore uniforms similar to Almogavars, though with longer red capes.<ref name="Revelations"/>

==Specialized types==
Certain high-ranking guards possessed unique qualities, usually granting them an advantage in combat through added speed, strength, or defense skills. They would often act as leaders for patrols of standard guards, and possessed uncommon weapons or armor.<ref name="AC2"/>

===Renaissance===
====Agiles====
{{Main|Agile guards}}
[[File:NVS 12.png|thumb|250px|An Agile fleeing from Ezio]]
Agiles were lightly-armored, quick moving guards. They were one of the types capable of outrunning Assassins, and were also skilled free-runners. They more commonly fled to alert nearby guards, rather than face an enemy directly.

During pursuits alongside other guards, Agiles would usually catch up to a target first and injure them with the short blades they wielded. In battle, they were very light on their feet and could dodge nearly all attacks. Agiles wore the least armor of any guard, with only a light leather chest guard, and metal helmet and spaulders. Due to their increased vulnerability, they were also the most cowardly of the specialized types.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Brutes====
{{Main|Brutes}}
[[File:LMS 9 v.png|thumb|250px|left|A Pazzi Brute blocking Ezio's path]]
Brutes were the most heavily-armored guards during the Renaissance. They moved slowly due to the [[Heavy weapons|two-handed weapons]] they wielded, but compensated through resilience and power.

They were not very vigilant, and could not normally distinguish Assassins from anyone else in a crowd. In guard patrols, they often acted as the leader, as they had the highest morale of any guard type, fleeing only if they were disarmed and could not obtain another weapon. Brutes could be easily seen from their large, reinforced armor and closed helms.<ref name="AC2"/> Brutes in Rome had more intricate armor than those in other cities, with designs worked into the metal.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Seekers====
{{Main|Seekers}}
[[File:Benvenuto 15.png|thumb|250px|Seekers arresting a merchant]]
Seekers were guards who, as their name suggested, would search through [[Hiding spots|hiding places]], on the suspicion that an Assassin had taken refuge within one. They always wielded [[Long weapons|polearms]], such as spears and halberds.

Similarly to Brutes, they would lead patrols of guards, often halting the group to search any hiding spots they passed.<ref name="AC2"/> In battle, they had the second highest morale to Brutes, and were skilled enough to resist most attacks and counters.<ref name="Brotherhood"/> They were slightly more heavily-armored than a standard guard, though less so than Brutes, wearing a combination of chainmail and plate armor, as well as distinctive feathered helms.<ref name="AC2"/>

====Horsemen====
{{Main|Horsemen}}
[[File:ACB_Ezio_vs_Horseman.png|thumb|250px|left|Ezio fighting a horseman]]
Horsemen were mounted guards that possessed the ability to use a variety of weapons while on [[Horses|horseback]]. Their steeds allowed them to easily pursue targets, and strike preemptively.

Though they were vulnerable to long-ranged weapons such as [[throwing knives]] and crossbows, they could be easily dealt with after being knocked from the saddle, either by tripping their horse, or striking them from horseback.

Horsemen were equipped with both medium and long-ranged weapons, though none could wield polearms. They were armored similarly to Borgia Captains, albeit without the cape.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Almogavars====
{{Main|Almogavars}}
[[File:Piri_Reis_Datura_5.png|thumb|250px|Ezio throwing a bomb at an Almogavar]]
Almogavars were heavily-armored Byzantine guards, who wielded two-handed axes. They were stationed in Byzantine-controlled districts of Constantinople, as well as in Derinkuyu during the Renaissance.

Comparable to Brutes, they fought with heavy weapons, and were slower than all other enemies. Due to their thick armor, they were very resilient, and could not be killed with a single bullet or crossbow bolt. However, they possessed a profound weakness to the effects of [[datura bombs]].

They wore golden lamellar cuirasses with a [[Templar insignia|Templar cross]] engraved into each lamella, their armour was notably decorated with fur and was topped by particularly large metal pauldrons. They also wielded [[Almogavar Axe|unique axes]], with a pair of crescent-shaped blades.<ref name="Revelations"/>

====Varangians====
{{Main|Varangians}}
[[File:Cistern_14.png|thumb|250px|left|A Varangian speaking to two Militiamen]]
Varangians were the Byzantine equivalent of Seekers, and were stationed in both Constantinople and Derinkuyu. They were very skilled in battle, and could deflect nearly all strikes and counterattacks.

They wore the same golden lamellar as the Almogavars with short grey capes, as well as intricate winged helmets. They fought with halberds or spears, as well as short pistols.<ref name="Revelations"/>
{{-}}
===Enlightenment Age===
====Grenadiers====
{{Main|Grenadiers}}
[[File:ACIII-Wolcott_8.png|thumb|250px|A Loyalist and a Grenadier blocking Connor's path]]
Grenadiers were specialized units in the British and Continental armies during the American Revolutionary War. They were roughly comparable to the Italian Brutes and Byzantine Almogavars, being slower than other soldiers, and fighting with heavy weapons and muskets.

Grenadiers were recognizable by their miter caps, which were designed not to obstruct the throwing of grenades. While the British Army's Grenadiers wore green kilts, a dress top and sapper's gloves, the Continental Grenadiers wore khaki battle dress with black boots.
{{-}}

====Officers====
{{Main|Officers}}
[[File:AC3_Officer.png|thumb|250px|left|Connor hiding from an Officer]]
Officers in both armies led groups of other guards on patrols and were equipped with a sword and pistol. Whilst wielding their sword, they parried all of Connor's regular attacks, forcing him to either break their defense or disarm them first. They could also counter Connor's counter-kills even if disarmed, but were susceptible to throws, stuns, disarms and secondary weapon kills.

If any horses were nearby, Officers would mount them and attempt to attack Connor on horseback, either by charging or firing their pistol. Officers could see through disguises and would search hiding spots. When patrolling alone, they would be accompanied by guard [[dogs]], who would give away Connor's location if they got close enough.

====Scouts====
[[File:ACIII-Unconvinced 9.png|thumb|250px|A British Scout and two Loyalists provoking Haytham Kenway]]
Akin to the Agiles that served throughout the Renaissance, Scouts were fast-moving adversaries capable of free-running that wielded short blades and muskets. They would pursue any attackers that fled from battle, and could not be disarmed or have their defense broken.

They were, however, susceptible to all other forms of counterattacks. In combat, they would attempt to flip over Connor's back and attack him from behind, similar to the "[[Hookblade|hook and run]]" maneuver used by the [[Turkish Assassins]].

====Snitches====
{{Main|Snitches}}
[[File:AC3_Snitch.png|thumb|250px|left|Connor passing by a Snitch]]
Snitches were usually seen in large guard patrols carrying military drums. They never fought with an attacker, choosing to instead flee the scene and bring reinforcements. If they could not flee, they would brandish a dagger or cower.

The British drummers were usually seen wearing ceremonial bearksin hats and red coats, whereas the Continental Army equivalent were seen wearing yellow coats and similar headgear to British drummers.

===Golden Age of Piracy===
====Agiles====
Agiles made a return in black flag although some were referred to as officers. They were the only guards capable of catching Edward while he was running. They would block attacks until the player breaks their defense. They fought with throwing knives which could be obtained afterwards and appeared similar to normal guards without hats.

====brutes====
Brutes were large guards who wielded axes and threw grenades at pirates. They moved slowly and did not carry firearms but would do lots of damage and bowl an enemy over when attacking. They would also block attacks.

==Expert types==
Expert guards were high-ranking guards, who were the most skilled and well-equipped of their time. They often possessed several of the qualities of specialized guards, and were limited in number.<ref name="AC"/><ref name="AC2"/>

===High Middle Ages===
====Templar Knights====
[[File:AC1_Templar_Knight.png|250px|thumb|Altaïr standing next to a Templar Knight]]
Templar Knights were particularly skilled Crusaders, and were stationed throughout the [[Kingdom]] and its cities. They would often position themselves with a wall or cliff to their back, to prevent them from being attacked from behind.<ref name="AC"/>

They were particularly vigilant, and could identify an Assassin from a crowd almost immediately, subsequently attacking them. Other guards held the knights in high regard, and would always stand back should the Templar Knight engage in battle with an Assassin. They were similar to the Crusader Captains, but with unique armor. They wore chainmail and white surcoats with red crosses, as well as red lacquered great helms.<ref name="AC"/>

===Renaissance===
====Papal Guards====
{{Main|Papal Guard}}
[[File:Liquid Gold 10.png|thumb|250px|left|A Papal Guard holding Ezio at gunpoint]]
The Papal Guard were elite soldiers throughout the Renaissance and were commanded by the [[Papacy]], to serve and protect the pontiff during his tenure. They combined the best qualities of all the other specialized guards, being very powerful in battle, as well as quick on their feet.

They wore intricate black and gold armor, as well as long dark capes, metal face masks and plumed helmets. They also wore crests painted on their chest guards, either displaying the crossed keys of the Papacy, or (in the 16th century) the red bull of the Borgia. Papal guards could use a wide variety of weapons, including long or heavy ones, though they most commonly [[Dual-wielding|dual-wielded]] a pistol alongside a medium weapon.<ref name="Brotherhood"/>

====Janissaries====
{{Main|Janissaries}}
[[File:TAG 4.png|thumb|250px|A pair of Janissaries harassing a merchant]]
Janissaries were highly-trained soldiers, and the elite of the Ottoman Empire, serving as the private guards to the Sultan. Similarly to the Papal Guard, they encompassed all the skills of the specialized guards.

Their uniforms consisted of colorful robes with embroidered patterns, as well as black headdresses and metal face masks. They all wielded [[Janissary Kijil|unique kijils]], as well as short pistols for long-ranged attacks.<ref name="Revelations"/>
{{-}}

===Golden Age of Piracy===
{{Main|Captains}}
'''Captains''' were an archetype of guard which were usually found at sea, but occasionally went to land. Every board-able ship had a captain, including [[Pirate Hunters]]. Captains stood out as the only type of enemy whose guard could not be broken.

===Enlightenment Age===
====Jägers====
{{Main|Jägers}}
[[File:ACIII-MostWanted 7.png|thumb|250px|left|A Jäger searching for Connor]]
'''Jägers''', also colloquially referred to as '''Hessians''', were a detachment of German troops that were contracted by the British to fight in the American Revolutionary War. However, they operated independently of most British protocols.

Jägers specialised in deep forest and wilderness combat, tactics and reconnaissance, as well as unconventional warfare. As such, they were regarded as an elite scouting unit, used for surveying an area ahead of a body of troops or leading the way on the front lines.

The Jägers gained a fierce reputation as fearsome warriors and reliable, disciplined troops, and they were well respected within the ranks of the British Army. Like the other expert archetypes, Jägers combined the aspects of the basic archetypes. They patrolled in search of Connor, wielded a sword and pistol, and could fight on horseback, like Officers.

Being mainly skirmisher type troops, Jägers were rarely seen inside cities. However, due to their elite status and very honed tracking abilities, they were called into populated areas when Connor became a persistent danger to British and Patriot troops.

In combat, they were immune to direct attacks and would occasionally throw grenades, similar to the Grenadiers. While in pursuit, they could easily catch up to Connor, being one of the only archetypes to do so barring Scouts.

There were two types of Jäger located in Colonial America during the [[American Revolutionary War]]; Loyalist Jägers were found within the [[British Army]] and Patriot Jägers were found within the [[Continental Army]].
*Loyalist Jägers wore green coats with red trim, black boots and tricorn hats with a red feather.
*Patriot Jägers wore green coats with gold trim, black boots, and Tarletons with black horse hair trim.

==Trivia==
*The taunts Ezio said to Brutes were different from those he said to the other guards, mainly insulting them about their weight, as they were bulkier in stature.
*In the memory "[[Clothes Make the Man]]," [[Ugo]] told Ezio that the thieves were to impersonate the archers. Yet in the next memory, "[[Everything Must Go]]", after Ezio killed the archers on the rooftops, the thieves wore the armor of captain guards instead of archer armor.
*In the memory "[[Infrequent Flier]]", a Brute and a Seeker could be seen stationed on a rooftop, despite being the only guards who could not climb or free-run.
*In the memory "[[Play Along]]", Ezio assassinated an Agile so he could disguise himself as a guard, but instead of having an Agile's outfit, he wore the outfit of a Leader guard.
*Several other guard types were present only in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles]]'', such as Shield Guards, Duelists, and unnamed robed guards wielding maces.
*In the memory "[[French Kiss]]", Ezio killed twenty French guards of different archetypes to acquire their armor. However, in the following memories, Bartolomeo's mercenaries were equipped with only Leader armor, while Ezio wore armor similar to a Borgia Captain's.
**Additionally, though Ezio's Captain armor during the memory was in French colors, no such French guard could ever be encountered.
*In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed: Revelations]]'', an extremely rare glitch can occur with a group of four guards. They will stand in place and won't pay any attention to Ezio, even if he killed someone nearby. He's free to attack them, in which case an execution will be performed, but it won't kill them, leaving them to simply stand up again.
*In PlayStation Home, the design of a Seeker can be purchased for an avatar. Similarly, on Xbox Live, it is possible to purchase the outfit of an Agile guard.
*In ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'', even after the completion of Sequence 8 and the liberation of all [[Borgia Towers|Borgia towers]], all of the guards in Rome will still wear the colours of the Borgia family as well as their coat of arms.

==References==
{{GalleryBox|Guards}}
{{Reflist}}
{{ACAC}}
{{AC}}
{{ACBL}}
{{AC2}}
{{AC2D}}
{{ACB}}
{{ACR}}
{{AC3}}
{{AC3L}}
{{AC4}}
[[Category:Guards| ]]
[[Category:Occupations]]