Guild Wars 2

Anyone using this one? Looks abit underwhelming to me. Ranged enemies aint that common, and it seems to work during combat, ..um, melee combat, and blocks 1 out of 5 ranged attack. Seems like extremely… extremely situation specific. Even if somehow you got stuck in a den full of archers, if you are melee, if you are not attacking, don’t expect for that 1 out of 5 block.

I think it was supposed to be a WvW trait. But ya, I don’t know of a single ranger using this, even in WvW.

Seems like it would be quite good in Diablo II…

A suggestion I saw in another thread (can’t remember who unfortunately) was to change the trait to have a 100% chance on dodge to reflect projectiles. Seems like a strong trait that would attract players to the tree for something other than traps. Could even add things to it like gain 10 seconds of swiftness when dodging.

Atherakhia.4086:

A suggestion I saw in another thread (can’t remember who unfortunately) was to change the trait to have a 100% chance on dodge to reflect projectiles. Seems like a strong trait that would attract players to the tree for something other than traps. Could even add things to it like gain 10 seconds of swiftness when dodging.

that would be me in this thread, thanks for the support ^^.

The “new” Striders Defense

https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/professions/ranger/the-new-Striders-Defense/first#post4359983

it is pretty useless trait. hardly anyone in pvp or wvw use projectiles, and its just aoe madness and melee.

Just gonna throw this out there, cause I’ve used this traits a multitude of times pre patch cause it’s hilarious (or at least was I’ll be testing it this weekend), it destroys projectiles, so if it would pierce or cause an AoE (like Nades or combustion shot) instead the whole projectile ends at you and does absolutely nothing, also the projectile just has to fly through a radius around you (Melee range) and not even be aimed at you AT ALL.

Also, in WvW and other big cluster kittens it procs significantly more, to the point where you’re a walking AoE projectile denial field for you and your allies.

It’s an interesting trait, that much I can say, but imo I’d rather them change it to be something more reliable like maybe, “after dodging reflect/destroy projectiles for the next X seconds.” I feel that’d be more interesting by far, and wouldn’t be significantly broken in areas of the game where Striders defense shines.

Durzlla.6295:

Just gonna throw this out there, cause I’ve used this traits a multitude of times pre patch cause it’s hilarious (or at least was I’ll be testing it this weekend), it destroys projectiles, so if it would pierce or cause an AoE (like Nades or combustion shot) instead the whole projectile ends at you and does absolutely nothing, also the projectile just has to fly through a radius around you (Melee range) and not even be aimed at you AT ALL.

Also, in WvW and other big cluster kittens it procs significantly more, to the point where you’re a walking AoE projectile denial field for you and your allies.

It’s an interesting trait, that much I can say, but imo I’d rather them change it to be something more reliable like maybe, “after dodging reflect/destroy projectiles for the next X seconds.” I feel that’d be more interesting by far, and wouldn’t be significantly broken in areas of the game where Striders defense shines.

If what you say is true, not doubting but I’d need to see it to believe it, this would open up some potential in WvW.

Durzlla.6295:

Just gonna throw this out there, cause I’ve used this traits a multitude of times pre patch cause it’s hilarious (or at least was I’ll be testing it this weekend), it destroys projectiles, so if it would pierce or cause an AoE (like Nades or combustion shot) instead the whole projectile ends at you and does absolutely nothing, also the projectile just has to fly through a radius around you (Melee range) and not even be aimed at you AT ALL.

Also, in WvW and other big cluster kittens it procs significantly more, to the point where you’re a walking AoE projectile denial field for you and your allies.

It’s an interesting trait, that much I can say, but imo I’d rather them change it to be something more reliable like maybe, “after dodging reflect/destroy projectiles for the next X seconds.” I feel that’d be more interesting by far, and wouldn’t be significantly broken in areas of the game where Striders defense shines.

That’s assuming that you happen to be in melee combat at the time when it happens that someone uses missile and that missile happens to go straight at you. But yah, even Anet notice that just maybe …just maybe it’s not that good, so they upped the chance from the 15% to an super generous 20%!!! Take that, you evil ranged folks! beware of my Strider’s defense!

It isn’t necessarily the effect chance that’s underwhelming, it’s the effect and effect specifics. For instance, if it was just a straight up 20% chance to destroy projectiles at all times with no ICD, people might call it OP (I still wouldn’t since so much damage in the game is melee but still).

Mostly because it fits the Continuity of the traitline, I want the effect changed to a weapon swap effect of some sort. Then again, that might just be my OCD telling me that it makes the most sense because every traitline has some sort of not discussed theme for every class and traits usually very on track with that theme.

Like Jc, I would much rather have it changed to some sort of buff on weapon swap to match the traitline. Something like gain 3 stacks on Might for 5s and Protection for 3s. That would be much nicer :P

just to add, its this while executing a melee attack and being in combat.

it does not need to be in Melee range or hitting a target , just using a auto with no target can Proc it.
so Gs is Perfect for this, also axe+axe.

edit
i was going on the off hand axe as skill 5 is melee , but then remembered as you posted Kiwi , why do i want to destory instead of reflect projectiles.
but then using striders is a Fail safe if Whirling defence gets inturrpted and in addition to gs , Axe+Axe it makes for a great anti range build without being forced into Full Melee.

HAHAHA I don’t need striders defense. I get 20% obstruction on projectiles already :P
Jokes aside, can you really AA the air and proc the trait? Also, I though axe mainhand counts as ranged?

kiwituatara.6053:

HAHAHA I don’t need striders defense. I get 20% obstruction on projectiles already :P
Jokes aside, can you really AA the air and proc the trait? Also, I though axe mainhand counts as ranged?

also yes you can Prot on the air , it don’t work like Sigils where you need to hit stuff, all you have to do Is execute the melee attack, aka Press a Button.

Zenos Osgorma.2936:

kiwituatara.6053:

HAHAHA I don’t need striders defense. I get 20% obstruction on projectiles already :P
Jokes aside, can you really AA the air and proc the trait? Also, I though axe mainhand counts as ranged?

also yes you can Prot on the air , it don’t work like Sigils where you need to hit stuff, all you have to do Is execute the melee attack, aka Press a Button.

LOLOLOL. Need to try it out. But Axe/axe?

kiwituatara.6053:

Zenos Osgorma.2936:

kiwituatara.6053:

HAHAHA I don’t need striders defense. I get 20% obstruction on projectiles already :P
Jokes aside, can you really AA the air and proc the trait? Also, I though axe mainhand counts as ranged?

also yes you can Prot on the air , it don’t work like Sigils where you need to hit stuff, all you have to do Is execute the melee attack, aka Press a Button.

the Axe/axe is a Fail safe if you need Range and control over the target , using Whirling defence will Relfect and Destory 20% of the Projectiles so you won’t get 20% Retal Return if the Reflected Projectile hits a Retaliation boon.

though yes it may seem odd but its a Range option just incase you can’t chase down a Kiting target , so its a Side Set if using a gs or S/D , S/H, gs as a main weapon.

When I’m on my Mesmer, I just laugh at projectile reflect/destruction … Greatsword pew pew.

It’s garbage because while it is a grandmaster trait it:

• has a much less than 50% chance to even work
• only works against a small subset of abilities … few scenarios

Look at grandmaster traits that people actually take for any class and you’ll see:

• They are reliable
• They are powerful and/or synergistic
• They work in several scenarios

jcbroe.4329:

It isn’t necessarily the effect chance that’s underwhelming, it’s the effect and effect specifics. For instance, if it was just a straight up 20% chance to destroy projectiles at all times with no ICD, people might call it OP (I still wouldn’t since so much damage in the game is melee but still).

Mostly because it fits the Continuity of the traitline, I want the effect changed to a weapon swap effect of some sort. Then again, that might just be my OCD telling me that it makes the most sense because every traitline has some sort of not discussed theme for every class and traits usually very on track with that theme.

But there is no ICD….

quaniesan.8497:

Durzlla.6295:

Just gonna throw this out there, cause I’ve used this traits a multitude of times pre patch cause it’s hilarious (or at least was I’ll be testing it this weekend), it destroys projectiles, so if it would pierce or cause an AoE (like Nades or combustion shot) instead the whole projectile ends at you and does absolutely nothing, also the projectile just has to fly through a radius around you (Melee range) and not even be aimed at you AT ALL.

Also, in WvW and other big cluster kittens it procs significantly more, to the point where you’re a walking AoE projectile denial field for you and your allies.

It’s an interesting trait, that much I can say, but imo I’d rather them change it to be something more reliable like maybe, “after dodging reflect/destroy projectiles for the next X seconds.” I feel that’d be more interesting by far, and wouldn’t be significantly broken in areas of the game where Striders defense shines.

That’s assuming that you happen to be in melee combat at the time when it happens that someone uses missile and that missile happens to go straight at you. But yah, even Anet notice that just maybe …just maybe it’s not that good, so they upped the chance from the 15% to an super generous 20%!!! Take that, you evil ranged folks! beware of my Strider’s defense!

As it turns out (at least from the video they showed) you don’t NEED to be in Melee, just swinging your sword. And also it’s not straight at you, it’s Melee range around you, so like 160 radius.

If rather than this chance BS they just made it 100% but put an ICD on it, I think it could be much better. It would effectively allow Sword/Greatsword to have an extra dodge/evade versus projectiles.

I don’t know why game makers feel the need to put RNG into games. Human beings provide enough entropy/randomness/variation.

RNG can detract from skill … meh.

Sebrent.3625:

If rather than this chance BS they just made it 100% but put an ICD on it, I think it could be much better. It would effectively allow Sword/Greatsword to have an extra dodge/evade versus projectiles.

I don’t know why game makers feel the need to put RNG into games. Human beings provide enough entropy/randomness/variation.

RNG can detract from skill … meh.

I personally would like a way to trigger a reflect via Striders Defense than its current iteration tbh, less RNG on defensive things the better.

Sounds like we’re on the same page

… I blame your build I’ve been experimenting with … liking it more and more … must be invading my brain …

Is this how you work?! You must secretly be a Necro/Mesmer infecting me.

Durzlla.6295:

quaniesan.8497:

Durzlla.6295:

Just gonna throw this out there, cause I’ve used this traits a multitude of times pre patch cause it’s hilarious (or at least was I’ll be testing it this weekend), it destroys projectiles, so if it would pierce or cause an AoE (like Nades or combustion shot) instead the whole projectile ends at you and does absolutely nothing, also the projectile just has to fly through a radius around you (Melee range) and not even be aimed at you AT ALL.

Also, in WvW and other big cluster kittens it procs significantly more, to the point where you’re a walking AoE projectile denial field for you and your allies.

It’s an interesting trait, that much I can say, but imo I’d rather them change it to be something more reliable like maybe, “after dodging reflect/destroy projectiles for the next X seconds.” I feel that’d be more interesting by far, and wouldn’t be significantly broken in areas of the game where Striders defense shines.

That’s assuming that you happen to be in melee combat at the time when it happens that someone uses missile and that missile happens to go straight at you. But yah, even Anet notice that just maybe …just maybe it’s not that good, so they upped the chance from the 15% to an super generous 20%!!! Take that, you evil ranged folks! beware of my Strider’s defense!

As it turns out (at least from the video they showed) you don’t NEED to be in Melee, just swinging your sword. And also it’s not straight at you, it’s Melee range around you, so like 160 radius.

good to know, but you know… i’d rather move around or dodge than just swing aimlessly in hope that i will get that proc …

@quaniesan: if you look at the latest posts, that’s what we’re wanting … it to be reliable. Get rid of the RNG and just give it an ICD so that it can be reliably used.

I’d have to say that they intentionally low-balled the effect for the grand master tier, I would like to believe that it was to give the room to improve without having it too good and needing to be brought back down instead, but from what I have experienced so far is that Ranger traits are (generally) weak for the tier of placement. Possible this is a by-product of the original trait system that was changed in beta weekend 3.

“Grants you and your pet 20% chance to ignore projectiles and AOE damage”

…then it would be worth taking.

Ahh Skirmishing…such great stats, such crap traits…

I’d prefer this GM trait to be another offensive option. Specifically a melee offensive option. MoC is too weak and hard to proc. You could arguablly merge those two traits and add a new one.

Or maybe something with condition removal to open up the option of avoiding EB and SotF.

Moment of Clarity is actually pretty amazing strong as a GM. Not even factoring in sigil procs, a Longbow interrupt with LB 4 can cause the next autoattack to hit almost as hard as a Maul crit (I hit a 3.4k autoattack today). Not to mention it can skyrocket Mauls damage into the 8-9k range.

BUT, I’d take anything so even if the merging of the two doesn’t make sense to me, I’d take it over having Strider’s Defense as a standalone trait.

New idea: How about we merge the idea for a weapon swapping related traits with the current effect? “Weapon swapping grants vigor for 5 seconds and causes you to destroy incoming projectiles for a short time period after weapon swapping.”

That to me sounds very Skirmishing related and attractive compared to the current effect.

No RNG.
Something useful outside of just extreme corner-cases.
Preferably some synergy with other skills/traits.

Done.

Strider’s Defense – getting hit by a projectile performs Whirling Defense around you for 2 seconds. (150 radius) (character able to move) Cooldown 9 seconds.

AEFA.9035:

Strider’s Defense – getting hit by a projectile performs Whirling Defense around you for 2 seconds. (150 radius) (character able to move) Cooldown 9 seconds.

LMAO … hard counter to the current FOTM :-p

One problem I have with it though is that it doesn’t specify any weapon requirements. That’d be pretty darn strong on a shortbow or longbow build.

Sebrent.3625:

AEFA.9035:

Strider’s Defense – getting hit by a projectile performs Whirling Defense around you for 2 seconds. (150 radius) (character able to move) Cooldown 9 seconds.

LMAO … hard counter to the current FOTM :-p

One problem I have with it though is that it doesn’t specify any weapon requirements. That’d be pretty darn strong on a shortbow or longbow build.

imagine 2 LB rangers with this trait going at it lolol

They could use this as the trait to fix Ranger WvW

Ranger and Pet recieve 20% damage reduction vs AOE while wielding a melee weapon

Boom…. useful

sendaf.8375:

They could use this as the trait to fix Ranger WvW

Ranger and Pet recieve 20% damage reduction vs AOE while wielding a melee weapon

Boom…. useful

That’s not a bad idea either.

I’d, selfishly, want it to be higher (primarily for the pet). I’ve always thought that if people didn’t want to die from a pet missile that they need to target the pet … not run into the nearest concentration of allied AOE spam.

20% (or less, even) for me while 50% (or more) for my pet.

“Miracle Reflexes”:

“You gain Protection and Retaliation for 10 seconds (40s cooldown) if you lose more than 25% of your health in one blow.
Your pet is fully healed (1s cooldown) if it loses 50% or more of it’s maximum health in less than 1,5 seconds.”

The “1,5 seconds” needs fine-tuning. It can either be separated for pet families or just tuned so that it works for dungeons/zergs but can still be bursted to death.

But when thinking about zergs, the simple fix would be to simply place the pet as the lowest priority for any attack in wvw.

Nice, but then you have to ask yourself, “Do I really want to pay 6 trait points for this?”.

You also have to ask yourself, “Why is this beast-centric trait in Skirmishing?”.

Now, if you were to add something like that as part of the current Beastmastery Grandmaster trait, “Natural Healing” … yes, please. That’s 6 trait points invested in buffing a pet and so it would make sense that you wanted to keep it alive … possibly even make Beastmaster viable for WvW at that point (that’d be a nice change).