Highguard Mounts Guide
Master mounted combat in Highguard with our complete guide. Learn all 4 mount types, the saddle upgrade system, and strategic tips to dominate map traversal and Shieldbreaker fights.
Highguard Mount Basics
Mounts are essential for map traversal in Highguard. Understanding when and how to use them effectively can give your team a significant advantage in resource gathering and Shieldbreaker fights.
When to Use
- • Defense Phase - Quick base setup
- • Gear Up Phase - Fast loot collection
- • Shieldbreaker Phase - Race to objective
- • Raid Phase - NOT available
Key Mechanics
- • Mount destruction causes 2-second stun
- • Speed Gates boost speed near Shieldbreaker
- • Reduced accuracy while mounted
- • Mount noise reveals your position
Important: All 4 mounts have the same base stats at launch. The differences are primarily in their movement feel and cosmetic appearance. Saddles are the real differentiator for mount performance.
All Highguard Mounts
Highguard features 4 unique mounts. The first three (Horse, Panther, Bear) are free for all players. The Eldergryph is a premium mount available for purchase.
Horse
Balanced All-Rounder
The Horse offers reliable speed and power across all terrain types. Its balanced stats make it the safest choice for general traversal and combat.
Strengths
- +Easy to control
- +Consistent performance
- +Good for learning
Weaknesses
- -No specialized strengths
- -Outclassed in specific situations
Panther
Agility Specialist
The Panther excels in quick flanking maneuvers and mounted combat. Its high agility allows for rapid direction changes and aggressive plays.
Strengths
- +High agility
- +Best for mounted combat
- +Quick direction changes
Weaknesses
- -Less durable
- -Requires skill to maximize
Bear
Tank / Objective Carrier
The Bear is the tankiest mount in Highguard, capable of absorbing significant damage. Ideal for carrying the Shieldbreaker or pushing through enemy fire.
Strengths
- +Highest durability
- +Best for Shieldbreaker
- +Absorbs damage
Weaknesses
- -Slower than others
- -Less agile
Eldergryph
Vertical Mobility Expert
The Eldergryph offers advanced vertical mobility with a high skill ceiling. Premium mount that rewards experienced players with superior positioning options.
Strengths
- +Vertical mobility
- +Unique movement options
- +High skill ceiling
Weaknesses
- -Requires real money
- -Steep learning curve
Saddle Upgrade System
Saddles are collectible upgrades that enhance your mount's performance in Highguard. They can be found in loot drops or purchased from Merchants using Vesper currency. Higher tier saddles provide dramatic improvements to speed and durability.
| Saddle Tier | Effect | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Common (Green) | Basic stat boost to speed and durability | Common loot drops |
| Rare (Blue) | Moderate boost to speed and durability | Uncommon loot, merchants |
| Epic (Purple) | Significant boost to all mount stats | Rare loot drops, high-tier areas |
| Legendary (Gold) | Dramatically enhanced speed and durability | High-tier loot, Merchant (expensive) |
Pro Tip: Prioritize finding a saddle during Gear Up phase. A Gold Saddle on any mount outperforms a base mount significantly, making saddle hunting worth the investment.
Mounted Combat & Strategy Tips
Offensive Tips
- •Use continuous movement for map control — staying still makes you an easy target
- •Mounted shooting has reduced accuracy — use it for pressure, not precision
- •Race to Shieldbreaker with your team — coordinate who carries it (preferably on Bear)
- •Use Speed Gates near Shieldbreaker for temporary speed boosts
Defensive Tips
- •Be aware that mount noise reveals your position — dismount for stealth approaches
- •Quick remounting after damage prevents losing loot — don't fight on foot if you can escape
- •Protect your mount as a tactical asset — losing it means slower rotations
- •Designate a Shieldbreaker carrier and escort them with the team
Shieldbreaker Mount Strategy
The Shieldbreaker phase is where mount choice matters most. Here's the recommended team coordination:
Carrier
Bear mount - tanks damage while holding Shieldbreaker
Flanker
Panther mount - harasses enemies, creates openings
Escort
Horse mount - flexible support, protects carrier
Mount Skins & Cosmetics
Mount skins are purely cosmetic and don't affect gameplay. They can be unlocked through the Episode One War Chest using Vigil Tokens earned during matches.
Horse Skins
Panther Skins
Bear Skins
Eldergryph Skins
Free Skin: The Ursus Maximus legendary Bear skin can be unlocked without spending money. It's available in the Pit Fighters bundle for 1,500 Vigil Tokens (2,000 total to fully unlock).
Highguard Mounts FAQ
Which mount is the best in Highguard?
Can I use mounts during the Raid phase?
Is the Eldergryph worth buying?
How do I get better saddles in Highguard?
Sources & References
Information compiled from Deltia's Gaming, DTGRE, PlayerAuctions, Destructoid, Sportskeeda, and official Highguard resources.