Guild Wars 2

Is it a viable option while leveling? I am looking for a pure sword and shield build and thinking that guard might not be the only option. Might be I am wrong…

(these are the only 2 classes for SnB,right?)

Has anyone tried both classes with SnB, and if so any input into the different playstyles it would bring? I am not looking to switch to dual or a 2-hander, ever.

Any input would be much appreciated.

Cheers

Hey there!

Thought I spare my 2 cents. I am primarily playing SnB Warrior. It is very viable! I mainly use SnB during dungeons.

Yes, from what I know only Warrior and Guardian can be SnB.

The classes depends what you want from yourself.
Warrior is more about damage prevention to yourself and can be used slightly more aggressive imo. Sword contains mainly combo finishers and has a cripple skill. Where Shield skills are shield bash and block. Not overlook it CAN be used in teamplay as the block will prevent damage to others standing behind the blocking warrior (from my experience)

A Guardian is specced more to protection to others but is very versatile. With Sword skills such as Zealot’s Defence able to deflect projectiles. There is an Aegis that allows blocking of one attack per 15 seconds(???)

Warrior and Guardian are your only SnB options. Feel free if you need more information on an SnB warrior however I do not a have sufficient knowledge of Guardian profession.

Engineers can use a shield too, but only with a pistol… as Glitch mentioned the playstyles vary a lot between the two s&b users so it’s up to you to decide which you like more, although many people are urging for a change in the Guardian shield to take the focus #5 skill so Guards could actually block with the shield as well.

Thanks for quick reply.

I am leaning toward a warrior but have a few more Questions.
Can both classes “specc” for health-return, um, passive healing. The sturdiest would be a guard?
Warrior is better to handle single mobs in quick succsession and guard have better aoe?

I am asking because I will be soloing for 95% of the leveling process and I have a very limited time to play.

Again. Cheers.

Yes both do have passive healing either through signets or virtues.
I know you can spec the war for Signet of this Healing granting health regen when not activated.

Guardians are more study BUT only if you use it’s full weapon set not just snb.

Wars have good survival from Endure Pain and Block etc.

Not sure at the last question but wars are good tackling mobs efficiently.
You can go for a full signet war build but IS NOT RECOMMENED FOR TEAMPLAY.

It is a selfish build only good for solo pve until lvl 50 to 60.

I would check the wiki and read up on the skill sets for sword/shield for both guardian and warrior. Then go with whichever weapon set seems more interesting.

Essentially Guardian Sword/Shield has:
1. Three hit combo, last hit cone of effect
2. Teleport to target, hit and blind (gap closer)
3. Block missiles, swing multiple times

4. Shield wave that damages enemies in front, gives Protection to you and allies
5. Bubble that pushed enemies back and blocks missiles. (Can detonate bubble if you want)

Warrior has:
1. 3 hit combo that bleeds
2. Jump and strike (gap closer)
3. Single-hit cripple

4. Stun
5. Block all attack for few seconds.

Also to keep in mind:
Guardians get virtues that have a passive effect or can be activated. These essentially grant some burning damage on hits, health regen, and a free block every so often. Activating looses the passive effect but usually helps allies.

Warrior gets an extra burst attack. For sword it is a multi-hit flurry that immobilizes the target.

Final note: do consider your alternate weapons set for each class. Because everything is regulated by CD, you’ll want to use a second weapon set for best effect.