Originally named “Rings on My Fingers” and alternative named “Ringbearer” (I couldn’t think of better names during those times).
Signet builds for mesmer are very uncommon, in fact, rare and not in good standings. Sure, one signet in a build is nice, but having all utility skills as signets? Well, can’t hurt to try making it, right? The idea started about sometime late last month and only had little publicity (only 1 or 2 posts but often overlooked at). I was working on it along with my other 3 builds (Flowing Images, Flustered Fragments, and Fata Morgana Conditions). I’d given the build a try during Scarlet’s invasion events and was surprised how decent it handled in open world PvE. I’ve only taken it to 1 dungeon and it was all right (need more testing).
I should have posted this build the same time as the others, but I’ll be honest – I was hesitant. I wasn’t sure if this build could be as good as the others and I’ll admit that Kaamau’s Evasive Signets build seem more superior than mine. We’ve talked with each other ingame several times about our signet builds and how they were doing. What made me decided to post this build now is that I inspired Kaamau’s build. I did not know this until last night when I was checking the OMFG BotM Sept. thread and noticed that was mentioned in it. That surprised me since I know I’m still learning and improving. So that gave me the boost needed to go ahead and present the build, so here it is!
Ignis Fatuus Rings
The term ignis fatuus means something misleading and similar how will-o’-the-wisps can lead people to a deceptive hope/goal; it also refers to a phosphorescent light hovering over swampy grounds at night, possibly due to combustion of gases emitting from rotting organic matter (giving off light in a way how torch does). When I read up about this, I figured it was a perfect title for this build, hence why I scratch off the previous names. Here is the build setup:
As I had mentioned in other builds’ threads, first link is up-to-date while the second one provides a guide/explanation. The last 10 points were difficult to decide where to put. I could put them in Chaos to also get PU or Cleansing Inscriptions, but Cleansing Conflagration boosts the torch skills greatly.
Note: There’s a trick with using Signet of Midnight. While it is a stunbreaker/boon buff/AoE blind, it is instant cast and provides distortion (thanks to Blurred Inscriptions). Use it before casting an important skill (i.e. – elite skills). This way, you won’t get interrupted or take damage from range; the AoE blind will also prevent melee attackers from harming you. Not only that, The Prestige also provides a nice escape.
Pros:
- High condition spec with various conditions
- Has stunbreaker and several evasive techniques (Blurred Inscriptions, Distortion shatter, The Prestige, Illusionary Counter)
- Condition removal (iMage can remove a condition from each bounce with allies)
- Bunker build with high boon duration and more defense with each illusions
- Decent support (Signet of Inspiration, Chaos Storm, iMage, and illusions to give enemies more target to pick)
- Some interrupts (Signet of Domination, Diversion, Chaos Storm)
Cons:
- Little to no shatter
- Slow killing
- No guarantee swiftness (random from Signet of Inspiration)
- Limited mobility other than Phase Retreat
- May proved challenging to professions that can remove conditions easily
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I don’t expect this to be everyone’s playstyle. It is rare and not many use pure signet builds. Feel free to give it a try and the Signet of Midnight trick may take some time to pull off correctly (I know it took me a bit). Thank you all for reading and I hope I’ve been an inspiration with any of my builds! bows