Guild Wars 2

Silberfisch.3046:

But thinking in PvE tems, a short duration block like that is most useful to react to a telegraphed attack. That usually leaves you with a very short reaction window though. And a 1/2 second cast makes the Shield of Judgement not entirely feasible for that task.
I would propose to reduce the cast time to 1/4 of a second or even remove it entirely. The latter might prove too strong though, which is why I included the 1/4 second suggestion.

It just requires a better knowledge of your encounter. In PvE, that’s something you can learn and predict. In pvp, it’s already prediction mindgames anyway.

Nike.2631:

Arcaedus.7290:

In terms of “fixing” shield, I think the next place we should turn our attention to is the trait. It’s honestly not very useful, and is redundant considering shields already provide additional toughness.

Yeah, agreed: the trait needs some attention. Only Item left I want for the Shield itself is 900 range on #4. That would let you pull some mad-skill saves on allies from the rear line.

The trait itself isn’t too terrible. It’s effectively 241 toughness (shield+trait) if you don’t need Communal Defenses, which helps if you’re running something like Marauders, or allows you to replace a Toughness based armor piece with something without any toughness.

But don’t get me wrong, I’d love to see something knew there, but I’m not complaining about the free Armor with reduced cooldowns.

Ghotistyx.6942:

Silberfisch.3046:

But thinking in PvE tems, a short duration block like that is most useful to react to a telegraphed attack. That usually leaves you with a very short reaction window though. And a 1/2 second cast makes the Shield of Judgement not entirely feasible for that task.
I would propose to reduce the cast time to 1/4 of a second or even remove it entirely. The latter might prove too strong though, which is why I included the 1/4 second suggestion.

It just requires a better knowledge of your encounter. In PvE, that’s something you can learn and predict. In pvp, it’s already prediction mindgames anyway.

Nike.2631:

Arcaedus.7290:

In terms of “fixing” shield, I think the next place we should turn our attention to is the trait. It’s honestly not very useful, and is redundant considering shields already provide additional toughness.

Yeah, agreed: the trait needs some attention. Only Item left I want for the Shield itself is 900 range on #4. That would let you pull some mad-skill saves on allies from the rear line.

The trait itself isn’t too terrible. It’s effectively 241 toughness (shield+trait) if you don’t need Communal Defenses, which helps if you’re running something like Marauders, or allows you to replace a Toughness based armor piece with something without any toughness.

But don’t get me wrong, I’d love to see something knew there, but I’m not complaining about the free Armor with reduced cooldowns.

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

Thanks Devs!! This is a great, refreshing, and much needed buff!

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

Well yes, but taking SiN won’t provide you with the cd reduction (which significantly affects uptime), and also doesn’t stack with any other SiN. Granted, in pvp you probably won’t run into this, and like I said, I support having a different effect. But until that change happens, it’s not the worst thing in the world.

Anyone made any cool builds taking the new guard shield skills into account? Always wanted to play with shield in PvP

Mikau.6920:

Buff did you say?

How going from 5 seconds of Protection to 4 is a buff? Also the Shield #4 already was weak. No word about the useless trait of shield as well. This weapon will continue to gather dust.

What I understand from the stream, it will now apply Aegis instead of Protection. So isn’t a real buff. (might even be a heavy nerf)

Sadly, no words about useless traits and weak skills as well (Wrathful Spirit, Healer’s Retribution, Radiant Retaliation, Battle Presence, Hallowed Ground, Sanctuary, Merciful Intervention, Signet of Mercy, Spirit Weapons and Signet of Courage)

Please explain how taking no damage from aegis along with that 4 seconds of protection is a nerf… Aegis alone has amplified the effectiveness of this skill by 10 fold. A short cd aegis cone effect cast.. And you are complaining about a 1 second loss of protection… Wow. Please log off the forums and never return, I have been waiting for this sheild buff for a looooonnnng time.

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The placement of the trait is terrible.

fixed

Ghotistyx.6942:

Silberfisch.3046:

But thinking in PvE tems, a short duration block like that is most useful to react to a telegraphed attack. That usually leaves you with a very short reaction window though. And a 1/2 second cast makes the Shield of Judgement not entirely feasible for that task.
I would propose to reduce the cast time to 1/4 of a second or even remove it entirely. The latter might prove too strong though, which is why I included the 1/4 second suggestion.

It just requires a better knowledge of your encounter. In PvE, that’s something you can learn and predict. In pvp, it’s already prediction mindgames anyway.
[…]

The better knowledge works fine for slow cast attacks and maybe medium cast attacks, like the Ettin’s in the uncategorized fractal for example, but for anything fast on the other hand, like Lupicus’ kick for example, even someone who knows the encounter inside and out will be hard pressed to bring up that aegis in time with the half second cast time.
And again this is where I think a skill like that is supposed to shine. But that’s my personal opinion and maybe in the upcoming HoT content the attacks that warrant the use of a shield and this skill will have cast times that allow a good use of it. So it might be this is what the change was made in mind with.

Silberfisch.3046:

Ghotistyx.6942:

Silberfisch.3046:

But thinking in PvE tems, a short duration block like that is most useful to react to a telegraphed attack. That usually leaves you with a very short reaction window though. And a 1/2 second cast makes the Shield of Judgement not entirely feasible for that task.
I would propose to reduce the cast time to 1/4 of a second or even remove it entirely. The latter might prove too strong though, which is why I included the 1/4 second suggestion.

It just requires a better knowledge of your encounter. In PvE, that’s something you can learn and predict. In pvp, it’s already prediction mindgames anyway.
[…]

The better knowledge works fine for slow cast attacks and maybe medium cast attacks, like the Ettin’s in the uncategorized fractal for example, but for anything fast on the other hand, like Lupicus’ kick for example, even someone who knows the encounter inside and out will be hard pressed to bring up that aegis in time with the half second cast time.
And again this is where I think a skill like that is supposed to shine. But that’s my personal opinion and maybe in the upcoming HoT content the attacks that warrant the use of a shield and this skill will have cast times that allow a good use of it. So it might be this is what the change was made in mind with.

it is a valid point but playing with it some more I think it is okay as it is. i wouldnt mind the improvement and really 1/4 of a sec is not that big of a deal (i would also take the instant application of aegis while casting the rest of the skill)

funny enough i found myself using F3 more actively with the new shield while testing a build on champs and vetrans. It has become an obsession to chain blinds and aegis even more efficiently so I do not get touched at all.

on a side note:
my favorite offensive rotation on S/T + S/S works better with #5 now more then ever.

Torch #4, Scepter #2, #3, swap, purging flames, JI, Shield #5, sword #3, #2, AA

I still think this change is an excellent example of how skills should work and encourage smart rotations for guardians. Give us more now.

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

fixed

No, not fixed. Even with Strength in Numbers aside, I’d still take a different trait over it.

Shield bubble being able to move and lasting 4 seconds is GREAT for PvP. Hello Warrior/Ranger LB, and LB 2…eat dirt. Plus Aegis. I am considering giving Shield a try over focus, due to onhit damage effects from Aegis.

Close Combat I am a bit curious about though as focus does block 3 hits, as opposed to aegis blocking 1. I can see shield being good on bunker guard though.

Chazza.9185:

Anyone made any cool builds taking the new guard shield skills into account? Always wanted to play with shield in PvP

I’ve been pretty much using meta bunker and just swapping Focus for Shield. Shield #4’s aegis is pretty strong in teamfights coupled with Aegis traits.

I’ve been looking into for a Shattered Aegis build, but I haven’t played around with the idea too much.

I gotta admit, shield 5 is better now, I can actually protect people with it in wvw, since duration bug is fixed and i can move the shield to where it should be.

Shield with shield trait, shattered aegis and pure of heart is very good support for you group in WvW. (Can take communal defenses instead of shield trait if you are in a BIG group)

Black Box.9312:

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

fixed

No, not fixed. Even with Strength in Numbers aside, I’d still take a different trait over it.

might wanna work on you train of thought then. you only pointd out how its in competition with another trait. that does not make a trait terrible. its not a really good trait but its a lot more solid then several other traits that have zero takers.

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

fixed

No, not fixed. Even with Strength in Numbers aside, I’d still take a different trait over it.

might wanna work on you train of thought then. you only pointd out how its in competition with another trait. that does not make a trait terrible. its not a really good trait but its a lot more solid then several other traits that have zero takers.

Got to agree with Asmodal. It wouldn’t be my favourit solution. But if they switched Focus Mastery with Stalwart Defender, people might consider taking it. It actually makes sense. Right now, there are 3 selfish traits on the Adept level but 3 supportive ones on the Master level. Why?

The only possible issue I see here is the indirect buff to Meditation Guards.

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

fixed

No, not fixed. Even with Strength in Numbers aside, I’d still take a different trait over it.

might wanna work on you train of thought then. you only pointd out how its in competition with another trait. that does not make a trait terrible. its not a really good trait but its a lot more solid then several other traits that have zero takers.

I used Strength in Numbers purely as reference. Even without it, I still think it’s a terrible trait in general. They were supposed to have done away with the boring “gain X bonus stat when this weapon is equipped” with the specialization update, and if you look at any other weapon-based trait you’ll see that the additional effects they bring are far superior.

Shield skills cause reflection instead of blocking? 4sec moving reflection bubble, and shield 4 would function like ft3 on an engi creating a 1/4 window where you can reflect specific attacks.

Honestly I think what we really need is something like this:

Replace the 180 toughness on Stalwart Defender with the effect of Strength in Numbers, thus merging the two traits. This functionality makes sense as the Shield, unlike the focus, is not a selfish weapon.

Next, the Devs could move Glacial Heart to fill the newly created gap in Valor. Glacial Heart just doesn’t really make sense where it is >.> (oh and can we please have this trait fixed so it doesn’t suck?).

Finally, they could do something like create a 25% movement speed trait to fill the space in Virtues created by moving Glacial Heart. Maybe they could come up with a more appropriate new trait to fill this slot, but I know we need some more mobility and Virtues seems like the appropriate place for it.

Maybe not everyone’s idea of an ideal change, but it would be relatively easy for them to do and wouldn’t cause any real balancing issues!

Shield is pretty useful now, especially in dungeons.
Trait is questionable

Xaylin.1860:

Got to agree with Asmodal. It wouldn’t be my favourit solution. But if they switched Focus Mastery with Stalwart Defender, people might consider taking it. It actually makes sense. Right now, there are 3 selfish traits on the Adept level but 3 supportive ones on the Master level. Why?

The only possible issue I see here is the indirect buff to Meditation Guards.

I actually really like that idea. 391 armor is available by taking traited shield plus SiN in that instance. That’s significant for a Marauder or Captains (?) Amulet.

Chazza.9185:

Anyone made any cool builds taking the new guard shield skills into account? Always wanted to play with shield in PvP

You could try this:
Shattered Aegis medi for pvp

Arctarius.2649:

Mikau.6920:

Buff did you say?

How going from 5 seconds of Protection to 4 is a buff? Also the Shield #4 already was weak. No word about the useless trait of shield as well. This weapon will continue to gather dust.

What I understand from the stream, it will now apply Aegis instead of Protection. So isn’t a real buff. (might even be a heavy nerf)

Sadly, no words about useless traits and weak skills as well (Wrathful Spirit, Healer’s Retribution, Radiant Retaliation, Battle Presence, Hallowed Ground, Sanctuary, Merciful Intervention, Signet of Mercy, Spirit Weapons and Signet of Courage)

Please explain how taking no damage from aegis along with that 4 seconds of protection is a nerf… Aegis alone has amplified the effectiveness of this skill by 10 fold. A short cd aegis cone effect cast.. And you are complaining about a 1 second loss of protection… Wow. Please log off the forums and never return, I have been waiting for this sheild buff for a looooonnnng time.

Sorry, I thought they would remove Protection and replace with Aegis, not both (their streaming was confuse). But indeed I said “instead” in my post.

I still need to test the weapon to see if it is at least viable now.

As for such a slight buff, it’s amazingly useful in both PvP and PvE. Now we could use a good touch to shield trait, perhaps something like instead of toughness a few seconds protection and regen boon when we get critically hit every 10 seconds. Cause why not ? OP MUCH ?!

Black Box.9312:

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

fixed

No, not fixed. Even with Strength in Numbers aside, I’d still take a different trait over it.

might wanna work on you train of thought then. you only pointd out how its in competition with another trait. that does not make a trait terrible. its not a really good trait but its a lot more solid then several other traits that have zero takers.

I used Strength in Numbers purely as reference. Even without it, I still think it’s a terrible trait in general. They were supposed to have done away with the boring “gain X bonus stat when this weapon is equipped” with the specialization update, and if you look at any other weapon-based trait you’ll see that the additional effects they bring are far superior.

well, not on the guardian class

but you are right. except for our sword CD reduction trait I find most “side effect” underwhelming shield being the worst of all. I think its the nature of passivs.

just browsed through warrior weapons traits. We really do have the short end of the stick in several aspects.

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

Asmodal.6489:

Black Box.9312:

The shield trait, granting180 self-toughness only while shield is out, is in direct competition with a trait that gives 150 toughness to yourself AND nearby allies AT ALL TIMES while in combat.

The trait is terrible.

fixed

No, not fixed. Even with Strength in Numbers aside, I’d still take a different trait over it.

might wanna work on you train of thought then. you only pointd out how its in competition with another trait. that does not make a trait terrible. its not a really good trait but its a lot more solid then several other traits that have zero takers.

I used Strength in Numbers purely as reference. Even without it, I still think it’s a terrible trait in general. They were supposed to have done away with the boring “gain X bonus stat when this weapon is equipped” with the specialization update, and if you look at any other weapon-based trait you’ll see that the additional effects they bring are far superior.

well, not on the guardian class

but you are right. except for our sword CD reduction trait I find most “side effect” underwhelming shield being the worst of all. I think its the nature of passivs.

just browsed through warrior weapons traits. We really do have the short end of the stick in several aspects.

Even other Guardian weapon-based traits are more enticing. GS gives you extra damage and heal per hit (although those could use increased numbers), staff gives you bonus boon duration, hammer gives you chill on crit, sword gives you +15% crit chance with ANY one handed weapon, mace gives you healing power per block, focus gives you protection on skill use, and torch gives you extra burn duration AND an extra proc of Zealot’s Flame/Fire. The only one missing is scepter, which has a trait but it doesn’t reduce cooldowns and suffers from directly competing with Fiery Wrath anyway.

Now lets talk about why the focus, a magic casting item is better for close range and shield, a short range physical weapon is better for ranged.

Seriously, I never feel nice using a scepter+shield and sword/mace with focus, it just doesn’t make any sense for me.

Bear on the job.6273:

They still need to buff the shield trait though.

My recommendation is to combine the current shield trait with communal defenses into a single trait. Then fill in the gap with a new trait, or bring back one we lost.

I hope they do this. With the changes to shield skills and a trait like this it would really make the shield a valuable support weapon.

Bear on the job.6273:

They still need to buff the shield trait though.

My recommendation is to combine the current shield trait with communal defenses into a single trait. Then fill in the gap with a new trait, or bring back one we lost.

This is a great idea. In the meantime, sounds like there is enough of a reason to keep working on getting The Flameseeker Prophecies now.

Thanks Anet!

After testing the shield, I can now say that is FINALLY at level of Focus. Compared to it, it loses DPS, but the #4 of Shield is very close to #4 of Focus, and #5 has no damage, but has utility.

And yes, the Shield trait is useless. There is no reason at all to use it. Compared to Strength in Numbers it only add a reduced cooldown and doesn’t add armor with the other weapon setup. This trait is useless. Suggestion: Remove the +180 toughness when shield is equiped and add 4~5 seconds of regen when using Shield skills.