Guild Wars 2

By now, I think everyone knows the problems with the GS in that #4 phantasm can’t crit for much more than 3-4K. Overall, the GS damage just kind of sucks (from my experience). With that in mind, what “power” based builds are viable these days? I’m not much of a fan of the normal shatter builds that we see but that’s probably due to my lack of understanding on the class.

As for gear, I’m running a full Knight’s set as I was hoping to have a more survival DPS play style. Other than this, I was using S/P and hoping to replace this GS problem. Sad because I love the range/animation of the GS.

So, with the current state of the class, what builds/weapon sets should I consider?

Well if you largely run in brawler groups, you might as well play Sword/Focus + Sword/Pistol or even Sword/Sword. For PvE that is also very viable. Bit tricky because you lack a ranged option.

I’d say sure, Scepter being a power-weapon that could work, but the Scepter is so clunky that it’s not truuuuly worth it. You’ll just rage at the slow autoattack.

Have a read on my new build Generally Knight’s and Cavalier’s without using a great sword.
https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/professions/mesmer/New-Build-of-mine-Multi-Build/first#post1946006

Henrik.7560:

Have a read on my new build Generally Knight’s and Cavalier’s without using a great sword.
https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/professions/mesmer/New-Build-of-mine-Multi-Build/first#post1946006

I actually didn’t see that yet. Hmm, so you typically run with the staff and then S/P for most battles? Do you have any vids on YouTube?

FinalPatriot.8034:

Henrik.7560:

Have a read on my new build Generally Knight’s and Cavalier’s without using a great sword.
https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/professions/mesmer/New-Build-of-mine-Multi-Build/first#post1946006

I actually didn’t see that yet. Hmm, so you typically run with the staff and then S/P for most battles? Do you have any vids on YouTube?

Not yet, Don’t know any free and easy to use recording programs, provide me some links so I can get to it.

Anyway sword/pistol with staff is great to be offensive and defensive at the same time, containing 3000 attack and over 3300 defense.

@Henrik

I use www.bandicam.com which is a fraps alternative. The free version (which I use) allows you to record up to 10 minute videos but it does leave a watermark at the top of the screen. The paid version removes the watermark and allows infinite length recordings.

It works very well.

@Xavi, ty i will give it a try.

As a tip, Afterburner is much better for recording, no watermark and no 10 minute limit.

FinalPatriot.8034:

By now, I think everyone knows the problems with the GS in that #4 phantasm can’t crit for much more than 3-4K. Overall, the GS damage just kind of sucks (from my experience). With that in mind, what “power” based builds are viable these days? I’m not much of a fan of the normal shatter builds that we see but that’s probably due to my lack of understanding on the class.

As for gear, I’m running a full Knight’s set as I was hoping to have a more survival DPS play style. Other than this, I was using S/P and hoping to replace this GS problem. Sad because I love the range/animation of the GS.

So, with the current state of the class, what builds/weapon sets should I consider?

I personally do not have an issue with the Great Sword, but I understand it is not my main source of attack damage. I run a phantasm build, and use the iBerserker as a cripple rather than a massive damage dealer, granted the damage is a perk.

Shatters are part of being a mesmer and when you look at the damage that’ll come from a mind wrack + blurred frenzy just after you immobilize your target from your sword #3 you’ll learn to appreciate shattering a bit more. (tip: you can also throw a hit from Mantra of Pain for more damage) With that said, I do not have my shatters on constant CD but when I need to spike damage on my target it is useful.

I am currently running http://tinyurl.com/bv6shmc. It allows me to utilize the reflect from my focus skills for damage to zergs, while keeping the utility of yanking my foes away from the now devastating arrow carts. I also grab feedback bubbles for the same reasoning – nothing is better than watching a inexperienced range kill him self, plus timed correctly you’ll force a dodge roll out of your target.

A great sword definitely is not the best weapon we have, but it is useful in many ways. Also, my build is not the “best” but it works for me and I enjoy it. Many other can share their builds and play styles, but in the end playing any class is about having fun while being effective.

Fay has a fantastic and in-detail list of guides here: https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/professions/mesmer/List-Find-your-Mesmer-Build-Guides/first

One of the categories is power builds.

Thanks everyone! My Mesmer was my first character and though I hate how slow she is when it comes to roaming, I would really like to become better at the class. All these answers really help!