Factions are groups that Guardians can join and earn reputation with. Most factions are based within the City, but some are found elsewhere, such as the Reef. Joining and ranking up in a faction allows Guardians to earn rewards.
The Tower
Guardian Factions
These factions give reputation to Guardians by default.
- Vanguard: The default faction for all Guardians. The Vanguard advise Guardians on missions and see to the City's defense.
- Crucible: The City's competitive arena.
- Iron Banner: A special tournament in the Crucible.
- 'Cryptarch: Any Guardian who brings engrams for decoding are rewarded for their discoveries.
Consensus Factions
These factions form the City's government, the Consensus. They support Guardians who wear their colors during missions or in the Crucible.
- New Monarchy: A pro-City, legalistic faction dedicated to restoring the Golden Age.
- Dead Orbit: A survivalist faction dedicated to finding a new homeworld.
- 'Future War Cult: A religious faction dedicated to fighting the coming war.
Quest Factions
These individuals seek the help of Guardians for their own agendas.
- Eris Morn: A Guardian who is obsessed with stopping Crota, Son of Oryx.
The Reef
- Queen's Wrath: The Reef is hiring Guardians to eliminate dangerous members of the House of Wolves that have escaped into the wild. The Queen's Guard awards those who brings the Reef's enemies to justice.
- House of Judgment: The Queen wants the Prison of Elders cleared of its prisoners, and has tasked Guardians with this duty in exchange for treasures.
Other Factions
These factions are named, but cannot be joined by Guardians or have any reputation stat.
- Cult of Osiris: A cult dedicated to the teachings of Osiris. Players can interact with its representative, Brother Vance, but cannot earn reputation with them.
- Symmetry: A minor faction that was founded on the teachings of Ulan-Tan. Barred from the Consensus for being too dangerous.
- Concordat: A former Consensus member, ejected after its founder, Lysander, was exiled.