The Iron Banner is no place for the faint of heart, and especially not for the under-geared. Each game plays out the same as any other crucible match but with one key difference, levels and gear matter.

In a normal crucible levels and gear are auto-adjusted so that all players no matter their helmet and gun are on an equal playing field. With the Iron Banner that system is turned off, so that exotic hand cannon you worked so hard to get can really show it’s worth.

To prepare you for the ultimate PvP challenge, we’ve put together some helpful tips that should hopefully keep you alive at least a little longer.

Get Geared Up

It probably goes without saying, and if you’ve every played a match of Iron Banners with less than stellar gear and/ or level you know, you should try to get as geared as you can before entering the Iron Banner. High 20’s is as low a light level as you want to be to stay competitive unless you’re amazing at dodging bullets.

The best way to gear up is of course playing regular crucible matches to get enough crucible points, or strikes for vanguard points.

You Only Get Reputation if You Win

Not only do you get the humiliation that comes with a loss, every time you lose an Iron Banner match you don’t even get any reputation as a consolation prize. That being said, losers of a match do receive an Iron Banner Medallion each loss that can be redeemed for reputation after your next win.

Only 5 medallions can be in your inventory at one time so try your best to win before you max out.

Iron Banner Bounties

Before you go rushing off into your first banner match make sure you visit Lord Saladin to pick up some of the Iron Banner bounties exclusive to the playlist. They may be difficult to fulfill, but they are by far the fastest way to level up your reputation with the faction.

Tempered Buff

Throughout the week of Iron Banner lord Saladin will offer a buff called the Tempered Buff that will increase all reputation gains incurred in the Iron Banner. This buff lasts 12 hours and can be reapplied multiple times throughout the week. Check back with Saladin when yours wears off to see if you can get a new one.

As the week progresses the buff becomes more powerful. This is perfect for players who didn’t have time to play all week and are looking to catch up. The buff will cost 1 Mote of Light each time you wish to purchase it.

Ranking Up

As you progress in reputation in the Iron banner you will rank up just like you do for the Vanguard and Crucible. Each rank tier will make new player emblems, shaders, and gear available for purchase from Lord Saladin.

The current ranks available and their required reputation are as follows:

• Rank 1  – 100 
• Rank 2 – 1200 
• Rank 3 – 2400 
• Rank 4 – 2400 
• Rank 5 – 2400