Papal Guard

"The Papal guards are basically the ultimate elite guards that we're gonna have in Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood."

- Ubisoft developer Christopher Weiler

The Papal Guard were elite soldiers commanded by the Papacy to serve and protect the pontiff during his tenure. By 1503, the Papal Guard protected Pope Alexander VI, and were commanded by the Pope's son and Papal Commander, Cesare Borgia. During that year, several guards were forced to confront several Assassins, including Ezio Auditore da Firenze, who had attacked the Papal Parade in Rome, although the intentions of the attack are unknown at this time. The sole purpose of the Papal Guards is to protect the Pope and his family with their lives.

They carry the best of all the abilities held by all other guard archetypes and can easily deflect and counter many of Ezio's attacks. They can wield matchlock firearms in one hand, with a sword in the other, making them deadly opponents in both short and long range. They can wield swords, long weapons, short weapons, and heavy weapons. A group of four or five of this enemy is dangerous and should be confronted with caution unless you are an experienced player.

Trivia

 * These guards were the precursor to the Swiss Guard, who have protected the pontiff since 1548.
 * The Papal guards may be less skilled than Ezio, however they are considerably stronger and have a larger build, being at least a head taller than Ezio.
 * The Papal guards are the most versatile and difficult enemies, possessing skills from all the guard archetypes and handling a variety of weapons. Depending on the weapon they are armed with, they are able to fight as a Brute, Agile or Seeker.