Is VSOH still "forced grouping"?

Vidharr

Like most gamers, I've done and seen it all in most games all the way back to UO.  Unlike a lot though, I never played Everquest and loved my time in AC, with the single biggest *social* reason being, I loath the idea of forced grouping. Besides it being Sony (ruined my CH and Jedi), that is also the biggest reason I never tried Vanguard when it first came out.

Now, I'm in a gaming rut, and all my buddies and I are in a "gaming downtime" in which we're really not doing anything, and I'm looking into Vanguard as a possibility, but if it still has forced grouping as part of its gameplay, then I don't want to try it.  My wife and I run our own business from home and work weird hours.  I'll be on at wierd times, so, I'd be playing alone for odd amounts of time etc.

I've looked all over for info and just can't find any good descriptions of the gameplay as it is *now* and I would appreciate any constructive feedback from current players here.

Unknown

As far as I can remember I don't think Vanguard ever had "forced" grouping. But grouping is "encouraged" and has certain advantages. But you can easily solo your way through the game if you want. I've done that, but I do prefer grouping, because there are so much great group content. 

mmoguy43

You loath grouping and you play MMORPGs? j/k

You may have heard that Vanguard is forced grouping because most of the fun and rewards are in the more challenging questlines. Usually they require a group but parts can be soloed with certain classes. You could probably get to 50 level with weak quested/looted gear or broker bought crafted gear but 51-55 you pretty much have to group. Not grouping, you miss out but it isn't forcued by any means.

SHOE788

No, you don't have to group.

The game is boring as hell though doing it solo. I wouldn't recommend it.