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Should I put any points into willpower?


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#51
Elhanan

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Nice cop out.
 
The numbers illustrate a point that applies to all warriors,  Attempting to be "well rounded" nerfs your offense.
 
If you want to focus on party buffs and CC, maybe you would rather play a mage.


Or perhaps I like having the defensive character more able to use Defense. You say cop out; I say playing as intended.

#52
Blazomancer

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^Fair enough, but investing in WILL and CON is questionable even if you are playing a defensive warrior for the following main reasons:

1. Bonus that you get from legendary gear (+health/mana regen, dodge%, +health/stamina, +attribute) and with each level up

2. Low cost of replenishing spells of a Creation mage, especially if that mage is an augmented Wynne

3. Deathblow - granted it's available relatively late and might not be of much use to a defensive warrior, but free is free

4. Better returns from an investment in DEX


What this means is that unless one have no support characters in their party, or forced to use generic gear for some reason, the investment that one makes in WILL and CON (say ~20-30 points like you suggested) is sub-optimal. Those additional 20-30 points, if invested in DEX would have paid larger dividends when it comes to making a defensive character better at defense. Using a lot of talents is not necessary for a defensive warrior, having high Defense sort of is if one doesn't want to spam healing options.

As for avoiding 'min-max'ing, moving away from STR/DEX builds, playing as intended, these are all nice - after all it's an RPG. But given the way things are in this particular RPG, a 'min-max'ed warrior is the most efficient offensive/defensive warrior, unless as stated above, one is playing with imposed handicaps.

And 'versatility' is not an argument against 'min-max'ing either. A full STR Sten, with health regen and %dodge gear, together with Heroic Defense, Glyph of Warding, Regeneration is a nigh-immortal tank. Similarly, a full DEX Alistair hasted (Haste+Swift Salve) with a dagger enchanted with elemental runes, multiple elemental weapon spells, poisons, is a good damage dealer.

Lastly, there is enough gold to be earned in the game to take a fortune to Awakening even after spending freely. So opportunity cost for crafting potions, poultices, salves, and poisons is just an excuse.
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#53
Elhanan

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^Fair enough, but investing in WILL and CON is questionable even if you are playing a defensive warrior for the following main reasons:

1. Bonus that you get from legendary gear (+health/mana regen, dodge%, +health/stamina, +attribute) and with each level up

2. Low cost of replenishing spells of a Creation mage, especially if that mage is an augmented Wynne

3. Deathblow - granted it's available relatively late and might not be of much use to a defensive warrior, but free is free

4. Better returns from an investment in DEX


What this means is that unless one have no support characters in their party, or forced to use generic gear for some reason, the investment that one makes in WILL and CON (say ~20-30 points like you suggested) is sub-optimal. Those additional 20-30 points, if invested in DEX would have paid larger dividends when it comes to making a defensive character better at defense. Using a lot of talents is not necessary for a defensive warrior, having high Defense sort of is if one doesn't want to spam healing options.

As for avoiding 'min-max'ing, moving away from STR/DEX builds, playing as intended, these are all nice - after all it's an RPG. But given the way things are in this particular RPG, a 'min-max'ed warrior is the most efficient offensive/defensive warrior, unless as stated above, one is playing with imposed handicaps.

And 'versatility' is not an argument against 'min-max'ing either. A full STR Sten, with health regen and %dodge gear, together with Heroic Defense, Glyph of Warding, Regeneration is a nigh-immortal tank. Similarly, a full DEX Alistair hasted (Haste+Swift Salve) with a dagger enchanted with elemental runes, multiple elemental weapon spells, poisons, is a good damage dealer.

Lastly, there is enough gold to be earned in the game to take a fortune to Awakening even after spending freely. So opportunity cost for crafting potions, poultices, salves, and poisons is just an excuse.


Even when I take a min/max approach of Attributes (eg; armor), I do not use items in the figures. Items may be taken, stolen, removed, etc (eg; Silverite Mine in DAA), and I prefer to have my characters ready, without gear being required.

I only use Heal in that specific line; the others are beyond secondary in importance (saving everyone at Redcliffe is a possible exception). Re-spec Wynne every time now.

Deathblow is helpful when there are multiple foes; not so much when encountering a Boss.

I utilize DEX for both DW and Archery, though I prefer a Rogue to a Warrior.

The yield is not sub-optimal when the character can do more overall. And I avoid a lot of crafting at all in such a build; prefer to use gold to purchase other useful goods. Now I have utilized a lesser CON, but much prefer to add WILL to have enough fuel for the road ahead.

#54
Blazomancer

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Even when I take a min/max approach of Attributes (eg; armor), I do not use items in the figures. Items may be taken, stolen, removed, etc (eg; Silverite Mine in DAA), and I prefer to have my characters ready, without gear being required.

Except for the Silverite Mines, when is gear ever removed to any considerable length? I'm not sure why you are bringing Awakening up; given how unbalanced gameplay is in it, a warrior might as well play the whole campaign with fists and in underclothes. Not to mention that talents and spells are still retained.

 

 

I only use Heal in that specific line; the others are beyond secondary in importance (saving everyone at Redcliffe is a possible exception). Re-spec Wynne every time now.

Not true at all; just because it doesn't suit your playstyle, doesn't mean a spell is useless. I mean a spell can be useless, but the criterion is not "because I don't like it" or "I've never used it". For example, I detest Mana Clash and never use it, doesn't mean it's not a great spell to have. FWIW, 'Regeneration' and 'Rejuvenation' are extremely useful for aiding in sustaining demanding talents and spells like the 'Power of Blood' talents and Shimmering Shield. Still I'd like to know why you think the creation spells are beyond secondary.

 

Re-specing is non-vanilla. At any rate, good for you.

 

 

Deathblow is helpful when there are multiple foes; not so much when encountering a Boss.

True. But a warrior don't need excessive stamina against a single boss. For instance, against a revenant, a tank just need to stand next to it with the occasional Taunt.

 

 

The yield is not sub-optimal when the character can do more overall.

Can do more overall what exactly?

 

 

And I avoid a lot of crafting at all in such a build; prefer to use gold to purchase other useful goods.

Swift Salves mean +25% DPS, poultices and potions mean freeing up points from CON and WILL or helping to keep up sustainables that boost damage or survivability, and poisons too with their subtleties; fail to see how they are any less useful than the 'other useful goods'. Even cheap Lesser Health Poultices practically mean an infinite mana pool for a Blood Mage which ultimately benefits the whole party.

 

That's not to say I like using crafting much. In fact I pretty much don't, I sell all the Potions-Poultices I loot. But it doesn't mean it can't be a solid investment of funds for someone.



#55
Elhanan

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Except for the Silverite Mines, when is gear ever removed to any considerable length? I'm not sure why you are bringing Awakening up; given how unbalanced gameplay is in it, a warrior might as well play the whole campaign with fists and in underclothes. Not to mention that talents and spells are still retained.
 
 
Not true at all; just because it doesn't suit your playstyle, doesn't mean a spell is useless. I mean a spell can be useless, but notthe criterion is "because I don't like it" or "I've never used it". For example, I detest Mana Clash and never use it, doesn't mean it's not a great spell to have. FWIW, 'Regeneration' and 'Rejuvenation' are extremely useful for aiding in sustaining demanding talents and spells like the 'Power of Blood' talents and Shimmering Shield. Still I'd like to know why you think the creation spells are beyond secondary.
 
Re-specing is non-vanilla. At any rate, good for you.
 
 
True. But a warrior don't need excessive stamina against a single boss. For instance, against a revenant, a tank just need to stand next to it with the occasional Taunt.
 
 
Can do more overall what exactly?
 
 
Swift Salves mean +25% DPS, poultices and potions mean freeing up points from CON and WILL or helping to keep up sustainables that boost damage or survivability, and poisons too with their subtleties; fail to see how they are any less useful than the 'other useful goods'. Even cheap Lesser Health Poultices practically mean an infinite mana pool for a Blood Mage which ultimately benefits the whole party.
 
That's not to say I like using crafting much. In fact I pretty much don't, I sell all the Potions-Poultices I loot. But it doesn't mean it can't be a solid investment of funds for someone.


I do not always take the option, but one can be tossed into prison after killing Howe. While the occasions are rare, in most games I do not bank on having items make up the slack when designing a character. And I play DAA frequently; the criterion is not "because I don't like it".

Did not say useless; have tried and used them, but find my games without any except Heal go much smoother. I also do not utilize Haste; that line is not worth the investment. And I find the Power of Blood talents for a Warrior are better unused.

Not knocking play styles, but I have also used solo play a bit. If the Warden is a Warrior, they had better be able to do more than stand there. And as a rule, I do not use Taunt and other threat mechanics; prefer characters designed to actually do something.

My hybrid Rogues are death dealers at range or melee, can stealth and disable a room full of traps, and can use a variety of their Skills and Talents; also typically wear heavy armor. Mages cover many varied spell possibilities, and I oft use the Respec Mod as sort of a spellbook from which to alter the spells depending on the changing environs. Warriors tend to be 2H, as I find the S&S rather dull, but they also may use a bow or crossbow at distances; not simply stand next to foes yelling at them.

And poultices and the like may be worthy for many that need the supplements. I do not require or use many as a rule; Health, Lyrium, Stamina, and Greater Salves are about it.

Some may prefer to build designs that require additions and supplements; some prefer to be able to do more on their own. Do I recommend higher WILL for a character? Yep; up to 30 in DAA for Rogues and Warriors, and 40 for some Mage designs.

#56
capn233

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Personally haven't seen that solo characters need any Will or Con investment, regardless of class.

 

If you are going to invest in those, early game is where it is the most beneficial.  You can make the argument that doing this is simply trading some late game power for a small early game benefit.  Of course investing in either early game slows progression down talent trees and meeting milestones to equip gear.



#57
Elhanan

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Personally haven't seen that solo characters need any Will or Con investment, regardless of class.
 
If you are going to invest in those, early game is where it is the most beneficial.  You can make the argument that doing this is simply trading some late game power for a small early game benefit.  Of course investing in either early game slows progression down talent trees and meeting milestones to equip gear.


Again, I try not to knock play styles (much), but in all my games, whether solo or not, my Warriors do stuff; not stand about and yell insults. And the Respec mod allows changes as early as Ostagar, as I recall.

#58
Snowdog65

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Again, I try not to knock play styles (much), but in all my games, whether solo or not, my Warriors do stuff; not stand about and yell insults. And the Respec mod allows changes as early as Ostagar, as I recall.

 

It looks more like you are the dissenting opinion, much as I first stated, when I said there was consensus on this. You are free to disagree with the consensus, but don't pretend that your position is more than a minority opinion.

 

This "Do Stuff" that you keep referring to, is simply a case of spam a few more talents. Everyone has the same talents and gets to use them. You just get a couple more uses out of them, by trading away some offensive power.

 

BTW , "Stand and Yell insults" is one of those things that requires Stamina, that would fall under the "Do Stuff" category.

 

I guess not doing stuff would mean, attacking, which I prefer my warriors do well.

 

I get to do all the same "stuff" and I seldom run out of Stamina. It isn't worth trading away some offense 100% of the time, to increase my talent spam on a minority of occasions.



#59
Mike3207

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Certain of the Warrior abilities-like Holy Smite and some others- are more effective with increased points into Willpower-but that only comes into play in Awakening.



#60
Elhanan

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Certain of the Warrior abilities-like Holy Smite and some others- are more effective with increased points into Willpower-but that only comes into play in Awakening.


I find that Holy Smite is useful tool in many locations in DAO: the Brecilian Forest, Denerim, Orzammar, The Deep Roads; many places that have Mages in groups or singles. Of course, these are latter locations in my sessions, while other paths may find use in the Circle Tower, Redcliffe, etc.

#61
Elhanan

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It looks more like you are the dissenting opinion, much as I first stated, when I said there was consensus on this. You are free to disagree with the consensus, but don't pretend that your position is more than a minority opinion.
 
This "Do Stuff" that you keep referring to, is simply a case of spam a few more talents. Everyone has the same talents and gets to use them. You just get a couple more uses out of them, by trading away some offensive power.
 
BTW , "Stand and Yell insults" is one of those things that requires Stamina, that would fall under the "Do Stuff" category.
 
I guess not doing stuff would mean, attacking, which I prefer my warriors do well.
 
I get to do all the same "stuff" and I seldom run out of Stamina. It isn't worth trading away some offense 100% of the time, to increase my talent spam on a minority of occasions.


My voice could be in the minority (admitted to bias), but it is far from a lone one. And if by spamming, you mean using Talents as they are needed, then I find the extra WILL quite pleasing.

I and others choose not to use Threat mechanics; prefer to do something of a greater importance. And I guess I prefer versatility in design over basic designs and Recommended Buttons.

#62
Snowdog65

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My voice could be in the minority (admitted to bias), but it is far from a lone one. And if by spamming, you mean using Talents as they are needed, then I find the extra WILL quite pleasing.

I and others choose not to use Threat mechanics; prefer to do something of a greater importance. And I guess I prefer versatility in design over basic designs and Recommended Buttons.

 

I hate MMO inspired threat mechanics as well. But that really has nothing to do with needing more stamina, in fact it's an argument for needing less, since they consume it.

 

Again, you don't have more versatility, you can just do a few more of the same talents we all have.



#63
Elhanan

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I hate MMO inspired threat mechanics as well. But that really has nothing to do with needing more stamina, in fact it's an argument for needing less, since they consume it.
 
Again, you don't have more versatility, you can just do a few more of the same talents we all have.


More activated talents, and possibly more and longer uses of Sustained ones. That seems to indicate more versatility than not having such a choice. I prefer defense to offense, too.

#64
capn233

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Again, I try not to knock play styles (much), but in all my games, whether solo or not, my Warriors do stuff; not stand about and yell insults. And the Respec mod allows changes as early as Ostagar, as I recall.

 

Right, and I am not knocking playstyles here either.  It was simply a statement that I didn't find Will or Con necessary on solo characters.  Anybody is free to add points there if they want, and I posted some tradeoffs for doing this.



#65
Aren

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Focus on dodge(which is influenced by dexterity) if you want to create the ultimate warrior and when it is available unlock the SW.



#66
Blazomancer

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I do not always take the option, but one can be tossed into prison after killing Howe. While the occasions are rare, in most games I do not bank on having items make up the slack when designing a character. And I play DAA frequently; the criterion is not "because I don't like it".

That is your choice, but not taking advantage of the most powerful items a game has to offer by building your character around it to maximize a certain aspect(s) of gameplay is certainly sub-optimal in that particular aspect; like it or not you have to deal with that fact. To put it lightly, regardless of the extra willpower or health a bloated character might have, things like it's raw damage output, survivability, etc. will never be as high as it's 'min-max'ed counterpart, period! BTW, the prison break is not a suitable example - the equipments are just outside the cell.

 

 

 

Did not say useless; have tried and used them, but find my games without any except Heal go much smoother. I also do not utilize Haste; that line is not worth the investment. And I find the Power of Blood talents for a Warrior are better unused.

What you personally think and find in your games is always going to be vague to others unless you provide citations and predictions to back them up. Unless of course you want your recommendations to have no credibility or want people to think of you as a muppet that is. Harsh? Maybe, but true.

 

 

 

Not knocking play styles, but I have also used solo play a bit. If the Warden is a Warrior, they had better be able to do more than stand there. And as a rule, I do not use Taunt and other threat mechanics; prefer characters designed to actually do something.

Eh, but 'knocking playstyles' is exactly what you are doing. Why would you otherwise suggest that a warrior that primarily uses Taunt and sustainables, then proceeds with basic attacks is not "actually doing something"? It is clear, if it weren't already, that you are coming from a biased standpoint on this. Sorry.

Also, no one in their right mind will use Taunt with a solo character, heh, good one.

 

 

 

My hybrid Rogues are death dealers at range or melee, can stealth and disable a room full of traps, and can use a variety of their Skills and Talents; also typically wear heavy armor. Mages cover many varied spell possibilities, and I oft use the Respec Mod as sort of a spellbook from which to alter the spells depending on the changing environs. Warriors tend to be 2H, as I find the S&S rather dull, but they also may use a bow or crossbow at distances; not simply stand next to foes yelling at them.

I don't see anything in this list that a 'min-max'ed character can't do, except for a rogue wearing heavy armor; what you do fail to mention is the trade off - higher fatigue, missing out on Felon's Coat, Battledress, Red Jenny Seekers, Cadash Stompers, et al. So there.

 

 

 

And poultices and the like may be worthy for many that need the supplements. I do not require or use many as a rule; Health, Lyrium, Stamina, and Greater Salves are about it.

Some may prefer to build designs that require additions and supplements; some prefer to be able to do more on their own....

Yeah Health Poultices are the only poultices, duh. Anyway, just becuase you don't need or use them doesn't mean someone who does has a character less efficient than yours. It might just mean that they are investing on them to allow themselves to focus on something else.

 

 

PS: I find it interesting that you prefer "playing as intended", and at the same time do not care about threat mechanics, give Heavy Armor to rogues, and use respec mod on Wynne. Is it just me or it does really reek of irony?



#67
Elhanan

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That is your choice, but not taking advantage of the most powerful items a game has to offer by building your character around it to maximize a certain aspect(s) of gameplay is certainly sub-optimal in that particular aspect; like it or not you have to deal with that fact. To put it lightly, regardless of the extra willpower or health a bloated character might have, things like it's raw damage output, survivability, etc. will never be as high as it's 'min-max'ed counterpart, period! BTW, the prison break is not a suitable example - the equipments are just outside the cell. 
 
What you personally think and find in your games is always going to be vague to others unless you provide citations and predictions to back them up. Unless of course you want your recommendations to have no credibility or want people to think of you as a muppet that is. Harsh? Maybe, but true. 
 
Eh, but 'knocking playstyles' is exactly what you are doing. Why would you otherwise suggest that a warrior that primarily uses Taunt and sustainables, then proceeds with basic attacks is not "actually doing something"? It is clear, if it weren't already, that you are coming from a biased standpoint on this. Sorry.
Also, no one in their right mind will use Taunt with a solo character, heh, good one. 
 
I don't see anything in this list that a 'min-max'ed character can't do, except for a rogue wearing heavy armor; what you do fail to mention is the trade off - higher fatigue, missing out on Felon's Coat, Battledress, Red Jenny Seekers, Cadash Stompers, et al. So there. 
 
Yeah Health Poultices are the only poultices, duh. Anyway, just becuase you don't need or use them doesn't mean someone who does has a character less efficient than yours. It might just mean that they are investing on them to allow themselves to focus on something else. 
 
PS: I find it interesting that you prefer "playing as intended", and at the same time do not care about threat mechanics, give Heavy Armor to rogues, and use respec mod on Wynne. Is it just me or it does really reek of irony?


I do not recall saying that I do not utilize powerful items; simply do not figure them into a build, as they are a bonus. Foils may play min/max if they wish, but I prefer versatility in designs.

Because I do not use Tech to record data, streams, pics, etc, there will likely be no info to recite other than common sources such as a Wiki, forums, etc. But my experiences are known to me personally, and I find other spells to be of more help than the Heal line, Haste line, etc. Try my tips if one desires; how I got folks on board with Rogues in heavy armor back then.

Believe I said I do not knock play styles much, but standing around and doing nothing but using Threat on a AI appears exploitive; prefer other tactics and Talents.

Higher STR does not prevent wearing lighter armors; generally utilize the Battledress from Leliana's DLC in early game. And wearing Wade's Superior Dragon scale & Evons's chest piece can help prevent fatigue; also prevents dying from special attacks. So can other item possibilities.

Using crafting and resources is a viable way to play; a good method I use in DAI. But for DAO, I avoid them except for a few exceptions and rather invest the gold elsewhere.

Playing as intended is my intention as the Player; not Bioware or others. If someone wants to play another way; great, but I do not have to rely on gear, items, and other resources with the builds I have played.

Perhaps one should give more time to comprehension....

#68
Blazomancer

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I do not recall saying that I do not utilize powerful items; simply do not figure them into a build, as they are a bonus. Foils may play min/max if they wish, but I prefer versatility in designs.

I don't recall accusing you of not using powerful items, and my comprehension skills are lacking?!! All I said is that you aren't making your character taking into consideration the bonuses provided by these items, which is incidentally an aspect of metagaming. You keep throwing the term 'versatility' as if a character having stamina for three or so additional use of talents is somehow doing something drastically different than a character that doesn't. Warriors do gain stamina every level even if they don't invest in WILL - this is not Elder Scrolls - they do get to use talents, and when they are 'min-max'ed, battles end quicker, obviating the need to use the same talent multiple times.

 

 

Because I do not use Tech to record data, streams, pics, etc, there will likely be no info to recite other than common sources such as a Wiki, forums, etc. But my experiences are known to me personally, and I find other spells to be of more help than the Heal line, Haste line, etc. Try my tips if one desires; how I got folks on board with Rogues in heavy armor back then.

The thing is if someone claims that something is not worth it or is less useful than something else, the burden of proof/reasoning lies on them. It is not for me or anybody else to verify your tips for you.

 

 

Believe I said I do not knock play styles much, but standing around and doing nothing but using Threat on a AI appears exploitive; prefer other tactics and Talents.

So using basic attacks and a couple of talents less in a given time frame is "doing nothing"?

 

I fail to see how using spells and talents that the enemies don't get access to is any less exploitative than using Taunt. I fail to see why anybody who plays a video game should have the right to use the world exploit. AI is always exploited, one way or the other, clearly or subtlely.

 

 

Higher STR does not prevent wearing lighter armors; generally utilize the Battledress from Leliana's DLC in early game. And wearing Wade's Superior Dragon scale & Evons's chest piece can help prevent fatigue; also prevents dying from special attacks. So can other item possibilities.

There are other ways to prevent death from special attacks than wearing Heavy Armor. And it is not even the best. And please spare me the 'solo' argument. Soloing is a self imposed handicap not something imposed by the game.

 

 

Using crafting and resources is a viable way to play; a good method I use in DAI. But for DAO, I avoid them except for a few exceptions and rather invest the gold elsewhere.

Again, good for you, but not an argument for why one is better than the other.

 

 

Playing as intended is my intention as the Player; not Bioware or others.

I'm sorry, what? My lacklustre comprehension skills fail me here. If you mean your own defined intentions, why should those intentions mean anything to somebody else?

 

 

If someone wants to play another way; great, but I do not have to rely on gear, items, and other resources with the builds I have played.

Being reliant doesn't make anybody inferior in a party based RPG.

 

You keep going on as if legendary equipments are just like an icing on the cake for a well-rounded attribute distribution; so here's a challenge for you - if you are so sure of your wardens' sulf-sufficiency, beat nightmare difficulty with any solo warrior using generic arms and armor, and without using accessories and consumables.

 

 

 

Perhaps one should give more time to comprehension....

Perhaps one should learn to have perspective....



#69
Elhanan

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I don't recall accusing you of not using powerful items, and my comprehension skills are lacking?!! All I said is that you aren't making your character taking into consideration the bonuses provided by these items, which is incidentally an aspect of metagaming. You keep throwing the term 'versatility' as if a character having stamina for three or so additional use of talents is somehow doing something drastically different than a character that doesn't. Warriors do gain stamina every level even if they don't invest in WILL - this is not Elder Scrolls - they do get to use talents, and when they are 'min-max'ed, battles end quicker, obviating the need to use the same talent multiple times. 
 
The thing is if someone claims that something is not worth it or is less useful than something else, the burden of proof/reasoning lies on them. It is not for me or anybody else to verify your tips for you. 
 
So using basic attacks and a couple of talents less in a given time frame is "doing nothing"?
 
I fail to see how using spells and talents that the enemies don't get access to is any less exploitative than using Taunt. I fail to see why anybody who plays a video game should have the right to use the world exploit. AI is always exploited, one way or the other, clearly or subtlely. 
 
There are other ways to prevent death from special attacks than wearing Heavy Armor. And it is not even the best. And please spare me the 'solo' argument. Soloing is a self imposed handicap not something imposed by the game.  
 
Again, good for you, but not an argument for why one is better than the other. 
 
I'm sorry, what? My lacklustre comprehension skills fail me here. If you mean your own defined intentions, why should those intentions mean anything to somebody else? 
 
Being reliant doesn't make anybody inferior in a party based RPG.
 
You keep going on as if legendary equipments are just like an icing on the cake for a well-rounded attribute distribution; so here's a challenge for you - if you are so sure of your wardens' sulf-sufficiency, beat nightmare difficulty with any solo warrior using generic arms and armor, and without using accessories and consumables. 
 
Perhaps one should learn to have perspective....


You said that I was not taking advantage of powerful items; incorrect. I do; just do not use them as a foundation for the build. To do so leaves a character in peril should they lose an item like switching weapons, or other loss. And versatility is more than adding WILL; it is seen when being able to do more than what is available on the min/max track.

Have nothing TO prove. The topic still remains the question of adding WILL, and in my experience, it is worth it.

Threat mechanics of having a Warrior standing around spewing insults to take a pounding that should be intended for the Mage is an exploit I try to avoid. Rather have said Warrior doing damage, and/ or using talents and Sustains.

Solo gameplay is a part of gameplay, whether it is acknowledged or not. I do not always use it, as I prefer the dialogue in Bioware games. But I use it here occasionally, and in most games because Follower AI is so poor (eg; Skyrim).

Yes; there are many ways to survive, and spreading the Attribute points beyond a couple of choices is a way to do so. CON adds durability, WILL adds fuel, MGC increases potency of crafted resources, and CUN can improve dialogue, improves AP, and helps Lock picking. Increasing STR for a Rogue allows for a wider range of armor and weaponry, including a shield if desired. Lots of ways to improve versatility; simply avoiding the two Attribute mantra is a good start.

One way uses gold and time to make and take the resources; the other saves gold for other choices, and uses the time to do something else more useful.

I believe DAO is a single Player game, so my designs only have to please me. But seeing as I have tested said designs many times, toss the poor ones, make improvements or alter for variety, etc. the ones I recommend may also please others. Those that wish to stick to the usual builds are welcome to do so. Again, I prefer versatility, variety, and something more enjoyable.

I already play on Nightmare, party and solo, and only have to please myself. One poster played a 2H Rogue, and posted that design. It pleased him that it worked, but I found it rather dull due to the lack of Talents. Same for a low WILL Warrior; lacks fuel and becomes addicted to Deep Mushrooms.

As for perspective, wider is generally better; more WILL recommended....

#70
dainbramage

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I took my 20th level Min-Maxed Alistair, and wasted the stat points to give him 30 Will and 20 Con. Here is how it changed the character:


            Min-Max            Well-Rounded?

HP          289                329               14% more HP for WR        
Stam        210                295               40% more Stam for WR
Attack      103                 91               13% more Attack for MM
Dam          62                 40               55% more damage for MM

With the same equipped gear, His Attack dropped from 103 to 91, his damage took a massive drop from 62 to 40.

 

Alistair's hit rate with 103 is only 82%, imagine how much worse it would be if made more well rounded as you suggest, but even worse is the to damage.

 

You pick up some small amount of HP and a lot more stamina.

 

You trade a huge amount of offense to spam a few more talents.

 

In my experience cooldowns are usually not refreshed before the fights are over, so stamina is not much of an issue, but that is with characters optimized to do damage. 

 

If you can't hit stuff, or damage it, I can see why the fights last long enough for cooldowns to expire and require more stamina. ;)

 

Hit rate formula is simple: if you lose 12 attack you lose 12 percentage points. So it'd be a 70% hitrate. Combined with damage that's an overall 80% increase in damage output with all strength.

 

Also, if you compare the stamina you gain to the damage you lose - even completely ignoring stamina regen and deathblows, exhausting your stamina pool results in more damage from the all-strength build. With stamina regen and deathblows, strength becomes more favoured.

 

On the plus side, you get... 42 hit points. Killing enemies faster probably saves you at least that much.



#71
dainbramage

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Also, what's up with the "solos need will/con" stuff? None of my nightmare solos - mage, rogue or warrior - have ever put a point into either.


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#72
Blazomancer

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You said that I was not taking advantage of powerful items; incorrect. I do; just do not use them as a foundation for the build. To do so leaves a character in peril should they lose an item like switching weapons, or other loss.

God do I have to give English lessons in a gaming forum now, and I'm not even a native English speaker or live in a western country. I said "not taking advantage of the most powerful items a game has to offer by building your character around it to maximize a certain aspect(s) of gameplay". It's not the same as saying "not taking advantage of the most powerful items a game has to offer by not using them". Correct me if I'm wrong though if there's any English teachers/scholars here.

 

 

 

And versatility is more than adding WILL; it is seen when being able to do more than what is available on the min/max track.

Yes you have repeated that for the umpteenth time, and I keep asking what exactly is it that they do more. Heavy Armor for rogues is one that you pointed out which I conceded to, while at the same time I said it it not the best way to survive autohit attacks for rogues, which is true.

 

 

 

Have nothing TO prove. The topic still remains the question of adding WILL, and in my experience, it is worth it.

I am superman; I know it from experience, and I don't have to prove it to anybody. Don't dare send me to the funny farm.

 

 

 

Threat mechanics of having a Warrior standing around spewing insults to take a pounding that should be intended for the Mage is an exploit I try to avoid. Rather have said Warrior doing damage, and/ or using talents and Sustains.

You or anybody else who pleases can keep avoiding that; others are not bound to do so. Irrelevant point.

 

 

 

Solo gameplay is a part of gameplay, whether it is acknowledged or not. I do not always use it, as I prefer the dialogue in Bioware games. But I use it here occasionally, and in most games because Follower AI is so poor (eg; Skyrim).

OK, soloing is a way to play the game. But when a poster asks a gameplay related question, presuming that that person is about to solo and answering accordingly is a bit lame. Especially since folks who are new to the game and/or haven't had much experience with it is more often than not not looking to solo.

 

 

 

 

Yes; there are many ways to survive, and spreading the Attribute points beyond a couple of choices is a way to do so. CON adds durability, WILL adds fuel, MGC increases potency of crafted resources, and CUN can improve dialogue, improves AP, and helps Lock picking. Increasing STR for a Rogue allows for a wider range of armor and weaponry, including a shield if desired. Lots of ways to improve versatility; simply avoiding the two Attribute mantra is a good start.

The point was about Heavy Armor on rogues and it's use for surviving special attacks. Don't know why you are bringing the rest up here.
Avoiding the 'two Attribute mantra' is not a way to improve versatility, it is a way to mediocrity. Nothing inherently wrong with that, only when people start pretending otherwise.

 

And using a shield for a rogue is possibly the dumbest idea I have heard in a while. Doing things just because is not versatility; even a rogue who has invested in STR to wear massive armor then dumped the rest in DEX will have more defense and faster attack than a rogue carrying a shield.

 

 

 

 

One way uses gold and time to make and take the resources; the other saves gold for other choices, and uses the time to do something else more useful.

Again, not an argument for why one is better than the other. 'More useful' is a subjective term and have no meaning as such, without number crunching at any rate.

 

 

 

 

I believe DAO is a single Player game, so my designs only have to please me. But seeing as I have tested said designs many times, toss the poor ones, make improvements or alter for variety, etc. the ones I recommend may also please others. Those that wish to stick to the usual builds are welcome to do so. Again, I prefer versatility, variety, and something more enjoyable.

Glad you cleared that "playing as intended" comment.

 

 

 

I already play on Nightmare, party and solo, and only have to please myself. One poster played a 2H Rogue, and posted that design. It pleased him that it worked, but I found it rather dull due to the lack of Talents. Same for a low WILL Warrior; lacks fuel and becomes addicted to Deep Mushrooms.

Nightmare with generic stuff and without consumables, don't you get it? I used it as an argument against your claim that "I do not have to rely on gear, items, and other resources with the builds I have played." Don't "cop out".

 

 

 

 

As for perspective, wider is generally better; more WILL recommended....

Yeah you can keep recommending, will do [...] to convince people.


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#73
Blazomancer

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Also, what's up with the "solos need will/con" stuff? None of my nightmare solos - mage, rogue or warrior - have ever put a point into either.

Apparently you are not allowed to rely on any legendary stuff or consumables. Think you can do it dain, solo with generic gear as a warrior. I sure can't.



#74
Elhanan

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Also, what's up with the "solos need will/con" stuff? None of my nightmare solos - mage, rogue or warrior - have ever put a point into either.


May not need it, but then I prefer to have fuel in the Tank; not rely on Death Blow and Deep Mushrooms for a needed breather.

#75
Elhanan

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... do I have to give English lessons in a gaming forum now, and I'm not even a native English speaker or live in a western country. I said "not taking advantage of the most powerful items a game has to offer by building your character around it to maximize a certain aspect(s) of gameplay". It's not the same as saying "not taking advantage of the most powerful items a game has to offer by not using them". Correct me if I'm wrong though if there's any English teachers/scholars here. 
 
Yes you have repeated that for the umpteenth time, and I keep asking what exactly is it that they do more. Heavy Armor for rogues is one that you pointed out which I conceded to, while at the same time I said it it not the best way to survive autohit attacks for rogues, which is true. 
 
I am superman; I know it from experience, and I don't have to prove it to anybody. Don't dare send me to the funny farm.
 
You or anybody else who pleases can keep avoiding that; others are not bound to do so. Irrelevant point.
 
OK, soloing is a way to play the game. But when a poster asks a gameplay related question, presuming that that person is about to solo and answering accordingly is a bit lame. Especially since folks who are new to the game and/or haven't had much experience with it is more often than not not looking to solo. 
 
The point was about Heavy Armor on rogues and it's use for surviving special attacks. Don't know why you are bringing the rest up here.

Avoiding the 'two Attribute mantra' is not a way to improve versatility, it is a way to mediocrity. Nothing inherently wrong with that, only when people start pretending otherwise.
 
And using a shield for a rogue is possibly the dumbest idea I have heard in a while. Doing things just because is not versatility; even a rogue who has invested in STR to wear massive armor then dumped the rest in DEX will have more defense and faster attack than a rogue carrying a shield.
 
Again, not an argument for why one is better than the other. 'More useful' is a subjective term and have no meaning as such, without number crunching at any rate. 
 
Glad you cleared that "playing as intended" comment. 
 
Nightmare with generic stuff and without consumables, don't you get it? I used it as an argument against your claim that "I do not have to rely on gear, items, and other resources with the builds I have played." Don't "cop out". 
 
Yeah you can keep recommending, will do *nothing* to convince people.


I do not use the items to figure into the build for various reasons, one of them being that I may not have them yet. And I utilize the Respec mod to aid my builds coming out of the Circle Tower, but if one has to plan the min/max ahead of time, that is also something I avoid. If someone wants to meta-game the Attributes and items for min/max, go for broke, but it is not worth it for me.

Adding pts to those other Attributes yields varied bonuses; up to each Player to balance the +/- of the takeaway from the other Attribute. I prefer higher WILL and CON for Warriors, as the versatility of being able to use another Talent, or keep one Sustain running longer outweighs the low fuel auto-attacks from a min/max build.

Hey Supes; stay away from the Red Kryptonite. It seems to be killing grey cells. And elephants have nothing to do with the topic.... ;)

I had no experience with Skyrim the first time; went solo. Played solo in NWN1 games and mods a lot, too. DAO is one of the first games that I utilized Companions initially. And look! I still like higher WILL and CON....

Perhaps one has not found the right shield for a Rogue, for placing a shield with good bonuses and using a dagger for speedy DPS works very well indeed. But given the lack of imagination needed for min/max builds, it is not surprising that one has not noticed this.

And with this, we are done. Thanks for playing!