http://intothemists.com/calc/?build=-sFw7B0-NKkP0X4cL-60;9;4J-J-T49;248;229A5RV45;1KJG4KJG45Ba
This is a soloqueue roamer build. I’ve played this build almost exclusively since the last leaderboard changes, and it’s got me to top 25. I’m not the best warrior ever, nor is this any kind of super-secret sauce op build. It’s just a kitten fun, non-meta build that’s proven to be successful in soloqueue.
First:
I made this build because I missed my burst warrior. Meta warrior builds provide better aoe, and can have a bigger presence in teamfights. This build however, is a true roamer; mobility and single target burst dps/lockdown are the strengths. If I don’t think the team comp needs that (maybe some thieves on the team already), I reluctantly switch to GS/LB* or another class.
Traits/gear:
I’m not going to bore you with a lot of trait explanations, just point out the big ones.
- Burst mastery and mobile strikes are central to the concept of the build. You get on demand immob breaks with both weapons, and frequent eviscerates.
- Power line is a solid investment for your axe damage, and it grants the very underrated minor: “building momentum”.
- Cleansing Ire vs more damage. I tested both, but the added sustain from taking cleansing ire + healing signet wins out. Most fights aren’t won in one burst rotation, this trait keeps you in the game longer. If you want to play man mode though, switch to healing surge + 30/0/0/10/30**.
- Lyssa runes supply much needed precision and a big condi clear. I typically try to save my lyssa proc to be my condi clear when I can’t get a cleansing ire off, then pop zerk stance and do my dps rotation.
- Shield reflecting is just awesome to use. Try to reflect pin down vs LB warriors, rapid fire vs. power rangers, illusionary duelist vs mesmers, scepter spam vs guardians.
- Sigils are up to personal preference. I put a suggestion up there, but you can use others. I’ve been playing around with more crit chance, not sure if it’s worth it.
How to play:
The most crucial part of this build is playing against your enemy, this isn’t a faceroll build. You’re going to get creamed if you try to burst while blinded or weakened, or waste skills on a prot/stab/aegis opponent. The good news is you have the dps to take out any class/build in the game, as long as you land your hits.
The second most crucial part of this build is managing CDs. Every stun and utility is precious, use them to accomplish a goal, not just because they’re off cd. Fear me in particular has huge teamfight impact, and while it can be used to deliver dps, it should be a last resort. Ideally you try to win a fight without using any of these tools, so they’re available for down state management. Zerk stance is great for rezes against condi pressure, stab for safe stops, fear for rupting stompers/rezers, etc.
What else?
- Only use final thrust on a <50% opponent
- Your standard burst juggle is Mace #5 -> Axe burst-> Swap -> Shield #4 -> Sword #3
- Sword is a great tool for engaging and disengaging, use it. Leap to los cover if you’re getting lit up, start your eviscerate from behind LOS so it doesn’t get dodged.
- Eviscerate during enemy dodges/evades (practice your timing), for nearly unavoidable damage.
- Really there’s lots of combos and set-ups to be done if you get creative. Flurry can be used to land final thrust, or axe autoattacks. While in melee range, axe 3 to cripple then fear to land big axe AA dmg.
That’s about it. Not always easy to play, but fun, rewarding, and something different. Let me know questions/criticism, I love discussing stuff.
-Briggz
‘*I shouldn’t say reluctantly, I love gs/lb. Never been a huge fan of hambow gameplay though.
**Playing 30/0/0/10/30 is so unforgiving that it forced me to get much better at playing this spec, and it’s fun.