Chieftain

“	The Chieftain rank is achieved by Phyters who have proven their ability in the field and within the secretive conclaves of the Gatekeepers themselves. Seers who have 'crossed the abyss', Chieftains are promoted after passing three 'Gateways'. While the Gatekeepers are circumspect about the specifics of this test, it is understood that Chieftains themselves select the three core components.	”
	~ GATE Compendium

The Gatekeepers' unit leaders, Chieftains are enemies found in Reactors and Shadowgate.

Appearance

Chieftans share an identical build and outfit with Neophytes, with all the same military and occult accoutrements. What visibly sets a Chieftan apart from basic rank Gatekeepers is their most distinguishing feature: a painted ram's skull affixed to their helmet. They also carry a handgun instead of an automatic rifle.

Behavior

Chieftans can be found alone or near other Gatekeepers, sometimes making commentary to themselves. They are hostile to anything that isn't a Gatekeeper, Defense Robot or Corrupted Robot, and will alert other Gatekeepers if possible.

Besides using a more powerful weapon, their behavior is very similar to Neophytes.
When in combat, Chieftans will attempt to keep their distance from the player, and will use melee attacks if cornered.
Chieftans can deftly jump to the side or perform combat-rolls, either to dodge attacks or attack players behind cover.

Combat

Chieftans are a step above the rank-and-file Neophytes, with high-speed reflexes and an abundance of attacks to overwhelm players.

Attacks
- Handgun: Fires multiple times at a target. Can cause Severe Bleeding.
- Frag Grenade: Throws an explosive towards a target's position.
- Kick: Melee attack. The Chieftan attempts to kick at an enemy.
- Pistol Whip: Melee attack. The Chieftan attempts to strike an enemy with the butt of their gun.
- Headbutt: Melee attack. The Chieftan attempts to grab an enemy, viciously headbutting them if successful.

Strategy
- When entering combat, Chieftans will activate a Hardlight shield that covers their body, which must first be broken in order to harm them.
- Chieftans can be dealt damage (or even killed) before putting up shields if players can catch them off guard by successfully sneaking up on them.
- Null Grenades will disable Hardlight shields.
- Acid damage weapons (such as the Skink (Weapon) and Acid Bolts) will significantly harm a vulnerable Chieftan.