[Introduction]
So I have seen many people who really want to make Sword + Shield work because of aesthetic reasons. While it could be argued that this build would not match the great sword or hammer, I do offer a build that in my opinion comes close in overall effectiveness, but it comes with a catch.
[Why Should I Play with Sword + Shield?]
The build lends itself to reactive game play. Which means with decent skill, you can be a very defensive oriented guardian despite your traits reflecting otherwise and your damage doesn’t suffer much for it.
The build rewards good reaction and correct timing usage of your weapon and utility skills.
[But this is boring, all you can do to deal the most damage is auto attack!]
There is a purpose for the sword functioning this way. Both other sword skills function well in a reactive manner, paired with the shield which has 2 skills that are definitely for reactive purposes.
By dealing damage with auto attack, you are free to focus on using your other skills in reaction during the correct times.
Consider the following:
-While Flashing Blade can be used proactively as a start of an attack, its blind functions well as a reaction to slow and powerful attacks, especially telegraphed ones.
-Zealots Defense is used to react to projectile attacks
-Shield of Judgment’s Protection Boon can be used in reaction when you suspect a huge burst of damage incoming.
-Shield of Absorption can be used in reaction to projectiles as well as an interrupt since it knocks opponents down.
[Why are reactive skills more effective with this setup? Can’t I do this with a Great Sword as well?]
You certainly can react with other weapons, however other weapons are built to be used proactively. You lose out on overall effectiveness of the weapon when you have to use a skill to react to something while you are in the middle of a combo or a slow attack.
Weapons like great sword and hammer have combos that is a huge part of why they are very effective weapons. Not to mention they have slow attacks or attacks with long animations like Whirling Wrath where you are unavailable to react with a skill other than shouts unless you cancel.
[Secondary Weapons]
Even if you prefer a certain set of weapons you have to use your secondary weapons to be an effective player in Guild Wars 2 regardless of profession.
It is recommended that you carry a weapon capable of better area of effect damage than that of the one handed sword. Choices can be Staff Great Sword or Hammer.
I use a staff in WvW and PVE because of the symbol of swiftness on top of my preference to support playstyle.
[The Build and Equipment]
This is the build I use
http://www.guildhead.com/skill-calc#mzcoMV0zMmGvrmmGvrm0xxa0oaqVsqM8kir7070m7kIa70m707ofD70m8ofY
Anything left blank for equipment is up to you depending on preference.
Utility skill #9 can be anything you prefer as well, I like condition removal but sometimes I put Stand your Ground! for stability.
[Conclusion]
Remember that fun is defined by you and only you. I Find reactive game play fun so I prefer the sword and shield. This Guide functions to inform those who wants a build to “work” with sword and shield. Its style of play is different to that of proactive great sword and hammers.
Any questions feel free to ask here or in Private Message if you prefer.