R10 Bard

[Fivetigers33]

Here's my favorite build. If you don't have enough Racial AP, you can be any race you want and just use Sickles. Swap Weapon Focus: Bludgeoning for Swords to Plowshares. Or you can just use Labrythine Edge.


Classes: 18 Bard, 1 Cleric, 1 Fighter
Race: Aasimar Scourge · · ·Alignment: Neutral Good

Abilities
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· · ·· · Start Tome
Str:· · · 8· · 8
Dex:· · 14· · 8
Con:· · 16· · 8
Int:· · · 8· · 8
Wis:· · 14· · 8
Cha:· · 18· · 8
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Class and Feat Selection
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Level Class · · · · · ·Feats
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Level 1 Requires a +1 Heart of Wood to switch out of Iconic Class
1 · · Bard(1) · · · · ·Standard: Single Weapon Fighting
2 · · Fighter(1)· · · ·Fighter Bonus: Precision
3 · · Bard(2) · · · · ·Standard: Shield Mastery
4 · · Bard(3) · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
5 · · Bard(4) · · · · ·
6 · · Bard(5) · · · · ·Standard: Completionist
7 · · Bard(6) · · · · ·
8 · · Bard(7) · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
9 · · Bard(8) · · · · ·Standard: Improved Single Weapon Fighting
10· · Bard(9) · · · · ·
11· · Bard(10)· · · · ·
12· · Bard(11)· · · · ·Standard: Improved Critical: Bludgeoning Weapons
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
13· · Bard(12)· · · · ·
14· · Bard(13)· · · · ·
15· · Cleric(1) ·Standard: Improved Shield Mastery
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Follower of Faith: Favored by Helm
16· · Bard(14)· · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
17· · Bard(15)· · · · ·
18· · Bard(16)· · · · ·Standard: Greater Single Weapon Fighting
19· · Bard(17)· · · · ·
20· · Bard(18)· · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
21· · Epic(1) · · · · ·Epic Feat: Overwhelming Critical
22· · Epic(2) · · · · ·
23· · Epic(3) · · · · ·
24· · Epic(4) · · · · ·Epic Feat: Inspire Excellence
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
25· · Epic(5) · · · · ·
26· · Epic(6) · · · · ·Epic Destiny Feat: Perfect Two Weapon Fighting
27· · Epic(7) · · · · ·Epic Feat: Improved Shield Bash
28· · Epic(8) · · · · ·Epic Destiny Feat: Elusive Target
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
29· · Epic(9) · · · · ·Epic Destiny Feat: Dire Charge
30· · Epic(10)· · · · ·Epic Feat: Weapon Focus: Bludgeoning Weapons
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Legendary: Scion of the Feywild
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Skills
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https://i.imgur.com/0eoMv3A.png


Enhancements: 80 APs, Racial 15, Universal 1
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Aasimar: Scourge of the Undead - Points spent: 18
1 Core ·(1) Stronger Bonds I
2 Core ·(2) Ability I: +1 Charisma
3 Core ·(1) Stronger Bonds II
4 Core ·(2) Ability II: +1 Charisma
5 Core ·(1) Stronger Bonds III
6 Tier1 (1) Scourge Weapons
7 Tier2 (1) Improved Scourge Weapons
8 Tier1 (2) Improved Recovery I
9 Tier3 (1) Greater Scourge Weapons
10 Tier3 (2) Improved Recovery II
11 Tier3 (1) Blessing
12 Tier4 (2) Destroyer of the Dead
13 Tier4 (1) Divine Form
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Warchanter - Points spent: 45
1 Core ·(1) Skaldic Rage / Skaldic Constitution: Skaldic Constitution
2 Tier1 (2) Enchant Weapon
3 Tier1 (1) Rough and Ready
4 Tier1 (1) Rough and Ready
5 Tier1 (1) Rough and Ready
6 Core ·(1) Weapon Training
7 Tier2 (1) Iced Edges
8 Tier2 (1) Iced Edges
9 Tier2 (1) Iced Edges
10 Core ·(1) Song of Heroism
11 Tier3 (1) Frozen Fury
12 Tier3 (1) Frozen Fury
13 Tier3 (1) Balad Melody: Ironskin
14 Tier3 (1) Frozen Fury
15 Tier3 (1) Balad Melody: Ironskin
16 Tier3 (1) Balad Melody: Ironskin
17 Tier3 (2) Ability I: +1 Charisma
18 Tier3 (1) High Spirits
19 Core ·(1) Fighting Spirit
20 Tier4 (2) Northwind
21 Tier4 (2) Northwind
22 Tier4 (2) Northwind
23 Tier4 (1) Ballad Melody: Recklessness
24 Tier4 (1) Ballad Melody: Recklessness
25 Tier4 (1) Ballad Melody: Recklessness
26 Core ·(1) Victory Song
27 Tier5 (1) Spinning Ice
28 Tier5 (1) Spinning Ice
29 Tier5 (1) Spinning Ice
30 Tier5 (2) Howl of the North
31 Tier5 (1) Chant of Power
32 Tier5 (1) Chant of Power
33 Tier5 (1) Chant of Power
34 Tier5 (1) Kingly Recovery
35 Tier5 (1) Kingly Recovery
36 Tier5 (1) Kingly Recovery
37 Tier4 (2) Ability II: +1 Charisma
38 Tier2 (1) Action Boost: Sprint
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Swashbuckler - Points spent: 16
1 Core ·(1) Confidence
2 Tier1 (1) Tavern Shanties
3 Tier1 (1) Tavern Shanties
4 Tier1 (1) Tavern Shanties
5 Tier1 (1) Limber Up
6 Core ·(1) Swashbuckling
7 Tier2 (2) Fast Movement
8 Tier2 (2) Deflect Arrows
9 Tier3 (2) Different Tack: Smooth Flourishes
10 Tier3 (1) Swashbuckling Style: Skirmisher
11 Core ·(1) Uncanny Dodge
12 Tier3 (2) Ability I: +1 Charisma
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Kensei - Points spent: 10
1 Core ·(1) Kensei Focus: Kensei Focus: Maces and Clubs
2 Tier1 (2) Weapon Group Specialization I: Kensei Focus: Maces and Clubs
3 Tier1 (1) Action Boost: Haste Boost
4 Tier1 (1) Action Boost: Haste Boost
5 Tier1 (1) Action Boost: Haste Boost
6 Tier1 (2) Extra Action Boost
7 Tier1 (2) Extra Action Boost
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Warpriest- Points spent: 4
1 Core ·(1) Smite Foe: Smite Foe (Melee)
2 Tier1 (1) Divine Might
3 Tier1 (1) Divine Might
4 Tier1 (1) Divine Might
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Feydark Illusionist - Points spent: 3
1 Core ·(1) Find Familiar (Pseudodragon)
2 Tier1 (2) Familiar's Flourish
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Active Destiny Tree
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Fatesinger - Points spent: 24
1 Core ·(0)· Repertoire
2 Core ·(0) Glitter of Fame
3 Core ·(0) Harmonic Resonance
4 Core ·(0) Intoxicating Presence
5 Core ·(0) Grandeur
6 Core ·(0) Majesty
7 Tier1 (1) First Harmonic Chord
8 Tier1 (1) First Harmonic Chord
9 Tier1 (1) First Harmonic Chord
10 Tier1 (2) Ability I: +1 Charisma
11 Tier2 (1) Bound Fate
12 Tier2 (1) Bound Fate
13 Tier2 (1) Bound Fate
14 Tier3 (1) Grim Fate
15 Tier3 (1) Grim Fate
16 Tier3 (1) Grim Fate
17 Tier2 (1) Reign
18 Tier4 (2) Martial Hymn
19 Tier2 (2)· Ability II: +1 Charisma
20 Tier5 (1) Bladesong
21 Tier5 (1) The Fith Chord
22 Tier3 (2) Ability III: +1 Charisma
23 Tier6 (1) Turn of the Tide
24 Tier3 (1) Aria
25 Tier4 (2) Ability IV: +1 Charisma
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Twists of fate - 40 of 40 Fate points spent.
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Twist 1 - Tier 4: Fury of the Wild: Sense Weakness
Twist 2 - Tier 3: Shadowdancer: Meld Into Darkness
Twist 3 - Tier 2: Unyielding Sentinel: Legendary Shield Mastery
Twist 4 - Tier 2: Divine Crusader: Confront Any Foe
Twist 5 - Tier 1: Grandmaster of Flowers: A Dance of Flowers

Spells
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Bard Spells
L1: Enchant Weapons
L1: Feather Fall
L1: Focusing Chant
L1: Grease
L1: Merfolk's Blessing
L1: Sonic Blast
L2: Blindness
L2: Blur
L2: Glitterdust
L2: Invisibility
L2: Rage
L3: Crushing Despair
L3: Displacement
L3: Good Hope
L3: Haste
L3: Remove Curse
L4: Cure Critical Wounds
L4: Dimension Door
L4: Freedom of Movement
L4: Otto's Sphere of Dancing
L5: Cure Light Wounds, Mass
L5: Greater Dispel Magic
L5: Greater Heroism
L5: Shadow Walk
L6: Cure Moderate Wounds, Mass
L6: Heroes' Feast
L6: Otto's Irresistible Dance
Cleric Spells
L1: Divine Favor
L1: Protection from Evil

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Equipped Gear Set : Legendary Part of the Family, Eminence of Winter (4), Wild Fortitude, Alluring Elocution
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Helm · · · · Titania's Glory
Cloak· · · · Legendary Cloak of Winter
Belt · · · · Direwolf Belt
Bracers· · · · Legendary Cold Iron Bracers
Boots· · · · Legendary Deepsnow Boots
Armor · · · · Legendary Wildcard
Gloves· · · · Legendary Hammerfist
Goggles · · · Legendary Collective Sight (Constitution / Insightful Charisma)
Necklace· · · The Family's Blessing
Ring1 · · · · Stolen Signet of ir'Wynam
Ring2 · · · · Legendary Celestial Ruby Ring (Dexterity)
Trinket · · · Legendary Five Rings (Sheltering, Armor Piercing, Intimidate, Quality Charisma)
Quiver· · · Epic Quiver of Alacrity
Weapon· · · · Lightning Coil / Labrythine Edge
Shield· · · · Legendary Alchemical Buckler (Resonance/Charisma/Water) / Epic Swashbuckler (ML28)

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfh_vXf2u0M&t=10s

[Fivetigers33]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6kv_1Zb5w4


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVefCz48-W0&t=960s


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rUJwAV3xBs

[choco1212]

Nevermind, i see why now. Good vid's btw

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

First off, thanks for making your build information so accessible! As a fellow Bard lover but with less resources, I find it very helpful. I've actually been working on a really similar idea. I can't quite make out the critical profile on your Mace in the video but if I'm calculating correctly, Swashbuckling + Improved Critical + Destroyer of the Dead + Howl of the North + Overwhelming Critical + Bladesong brings it to (15-18 x4) and (19-20 x7). I'm looking at a Hand Axe-wielding Scoundrel build that would end up with the same profile but only if it had 6 levels of Fighter for the third Kensei core Strike with No Thought. The build would theoretically be 13/6/1, since I think I lose too much if I drop the Cleric level.

Anyway, I can tell you put a lot of thought into your Bard build so I was wondering if I could pick you brain a bit and ask if this axe build looks comparable to your light mace build. I originally planned to be in Dreadnaught to squeeze one extra multiplier on (19-20) rolls but I'm not sure if it's worth giving up on all the Fatesinger stuff. I'm sure there is some weakness to the build that I'm not considering. I know losing the level 18 Warchanter core is unfortunate but on the other hand, the Scoundrel tree appears to synergize with Bard a little better than Scourge, and Tornado (while not amazing) does have more relevant stats than your prized Lightning Coil xD. Anyway, I'm dragging on, thanks again for posting your videos. They've been a real inspiration. Hope you're doing well. Cheers.

[Fivetigers33]

First off, thanks for making your build information so accessible! As a fellow Bard lover but with less resources, I find it very helpful. I've actually been working on a really similar idea. I can't quite make out the critical profile on your Mace in the video but if I'm calculating correctly, Swashbuckling + Improved Critical + Destroyer of the Dead + Howl of the North + Overwhelming Critical + Bladesong brings it to (15-18 x4) and (19-20 x7). I'm looking at a Hand Axe-wielding Scoundrel build that would end up with the same profile but only if it had 6 levels of Fighter for the third Kensei core Strike with No Thought. The build would theoretically be 13/6/1, since I think I lose too much if I drop the Cleric level.

Anyway, I can tell you put a lot of thought into your Bard build so I was wondering if I could pick you brain a bit and ask if this axe build looks comparable to your light mace build. I originally planned to be in Dreadnaught to squeeze one extra multiplier on (19-20) rolls but I'm not sure if it's worth giving up on all the Fatesinger stuff. I'm sure there is some weakness to the build that I'm not considering. I know losing the level 18 Warchanter core is unfortunate but on the other hand, the Scoundrel tree appears to synergize with Bard a little better than Scourge, and Tornado (while not amazing) does have more relevant stats than your prized Lightning Coil xD. Anyway, I'm dragging on, thanks again for posting your videos. They've been a real inspiration. Hope you're doing well. Cheers.

You are correct about my crit profile. 15-20 x4, 19-20 x7

You can get the same crit profile multiclassing with Fighter like you plan to. You can get even better multiclassing with Barbarian (T5 Frenzied Berserker).

I have tried Fatesinger vs LD several times. Fatesinger is the clear winner for burst damage. From my testing they are roughly equal on non-burst damage, though LD might be a little better in long boss beatdowns, but I've never done a proper test of that scenario. The big bonuses for LD is the extra helpless damage and the 20 second action boost cooldown, so if you are mostly grinding reaper XP, it's possible that LD might be better. You can always try them both and see what you like better, but I like Fatesinger. And remember, I was getting 14-20 x4 Crit profile with light maces in LD, and I still prefer Fatesinger. Being able to turn it up to 11 on demand with Turn of the Tide is perfect for Doom Reapers and bosses and you don't have to worry about keeping Blitz up.

Feel free to ask whatever.

[Tilomere]

Excellent play skills and timing in videos. Might want to swap that FvS to cleric though for turn undead charges to keep Dance of Flowers twist instead of Bane of Undeath?

Edit: Nvm Sense Weakness works now.

[Fivetigers33]

Excellent play skills and timing in videos. Might want to swap that FvS to cleric though for turn undead charges to keep Dance of Flowers twist instead of Bane of Undeath?

Also, since Sense Weakness was disabled, have you considered swapping it out for Grim Precision?

Thanks for pointing out that typo, lol you'd think I know what class I am (it's cleric). I've updated my original post.

I thought they fixed Sense Weakness. I'll have to check it out in game.


Edit: According to the Character sheet, it is giving me 30% helpless damage. I didn't do any in quest testing though.

[Tilomere]

Ooh, it was fixed two months ago, I just missed it in patch notes for Feywild.

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

You are correct about my crit profile. 15-20 x4, 19-20 x7

You can get the same crit profile multiclassing with Fighter like you plan to. You can get even better multiclassing with Barbarian (T5 Frenzied Berserker).

I have tried Fatesinger vs LD several times. Fatesinger is the clear winner for burst damage. From my testing they are roughly equal on non-burst damage, though LD might be a little better in long boss beatdowns, but I've never done a proper test of that scenario. The big bonuses for LD is the extra helpless damage and the 20 second action boost cooldown, so if you are mostly grinding reaper XP, it's possible that LD might be better. You can always try them both and see what you like better, but I like Fatesinger. And remember, I was getting 14-20 x4 Crit profile with light maces in LD, and I still prefer Fatesinger. Being able to turn it up to 11 on demand with Turn of the Tide is perfect for Doom Reapers and bosses and you don't have to worry about keeping Blitz up.

Feel free to ask whatever.

Hey, thanks so much for the quick reply! Good to hear from the expert that LD is not far behind Fatesinger. I also concluded that Fatesinger was better but I wasn't able to process how big the difference was. You made the difference very easy to understand. It's still funny to me since I started playing Swash in the era where LD was by far the better choice. The tables have certainly turned.

Anyway, people always bring up the T5 Berserker-Swash build because the crit profile is amazing but even though I keep wanting to try it, everything in Berserker that's under T5 just seems so underwhelming for a Swashbuckler, as opposed to what Kensei provides on the way to Strike With No Thought. Have you ever tried this Barb splash yourself?

[Fivetigers33]

Anyway, people always bring up the T5 Berserker-Swash build because the crit profile is amazing but even though I keep wanting to try it, everything in Berserker that's under T5 just seems so underwhelming for a Swashbuckler, as opposed to what Kensei provides on the way to Strike With No Thought. Have you ever tried this Barb splash yourself?

I have tried it. Barb spash gets better DPS, but locks you out of T5 Warchanter. The Fighter splash can still take T5 Warchanter, so it gets spinning ice and all those other goodies. If you play mostly with other people that have CC covered, Barb is probably better. If you solo a lot, or generally do most of the CC for your party, you're going to want T5 Warchanter. There isn't really a clear winner. Both are good. It just depends on what you want for your build.

To get the most out of the Barb version you need to Rage though, which comes with it's own set of limitations. It can be done without raging, but that's where you end up with a lot of "wasted" AP.

[Tilomere]

How about this:

https://i.postimg.cc/BSGSs6F7/bard.png

Edit, oh nvm, can't accept sentience... No gain in damage, but it is cheaper to make maybe it has close to same damage.

[Fivetigers33]

How about this:

This should also give you better leveling because you get your end game weapon at level 24, and beast mode heroic version of weapon right when you start as an iconic to reset FTB at 15.

That's a really good guess! Had to log on and see what my actual numbers were, and here they are in reaper with Ascendant Bond.

https://i.imgur.com/JDvpUba.png

The Brush Hook would be an awesome weapon, however it suffers the same fate as all the other awesome N/H/E weapons of Eveningstar and Gianthold, in that it doesn't accept sentience. Taking off my sentient weapon, I lose 3% Doublestrike, 8 Damage, 34 Melee Power, Shattered Device debuff, Prowess, and a handful of other small bonuses. I've tried something similar on paper with the Drow Light Mace of the Weaponmaster, but my math still put it behind a weapon with legendary weapon die. Maybe I'm wrong though and should actually try it?

Edit: I've been using ML 14 Skullsmasher for heroics and Drown Light Mace of the Weapon Master for 21-27.

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

How about this:


This should also give you better leveling because you get your end game weapon at level 24, and beast mode heroic version of weapon right when you start as an iconic to reset FTB at 15.

Super true. It's not a great endgame weapon though, since it doesn't deal great damage and can't accept sentience.

[Tilomere]

Super true. It's not a great endgame weapon though, since it doesn't deal great damage and can't accept sentience.

Oh right, Loss of sentience cancels increased base crit profile. Pros and cons though. That makes it a really cheap build to make since it doesn't involve sentience tool kits or +1 hearts.

[Fivetigers33]

That makes it a really cheap build to make since it doesn't involve sentience tool kits or +1 hearts.

Another option for people that want to do the build but not buy a heart is they can just keep the level of ranger and either twist Haste Boost or get it from Vistani. The Fighter level is 90% for haste boost, the extra action boosts and feat are just icing on the cake.

[therobb]

Awesome write up and impressive videos! I say this as a fellow bard lover who's doing more and more R10 solo runs on my swashbuckler lately.

I'm doing something similar to your build but my split is 16 bard, 3 rogue, 1 cleric. Running in Fatesinger as well. Compared to your split, mine loses 1 feat from dropping the fighter level, but gains evasion, trap skills and more skill points and a little sneak damage. Evasion and trap skills plus stealth skills really give the build a batman feel that it can do anything reasonably well.

11 points in Vistani for haste boost, deflect arrows and I take melee power to throwing weapons so you have at least a little ranged DPS option when needed. (Sometimes swap to throwing dagger and Wallwatch set and toggle on the Doubleshot epic past life for ranging in certain situations.)

Also I'm doing a Tiefling Scoundrel with the short sword from Too Hot to Handle for 20% vulnerability plus Fiendish Arpeggio for another solid CC and debuff option on an already strong tactical build. Slightly worse crit profile than the light mace you're using, but the vulnerability stacks and fort reduction more than make up for it.

Congrats on the awesome bard build. :)

[therobb]

On my bard instead of the 4 winter set items, I'm going more DPS oriented. Pretty similar to your setup but swapping in these items:

Belt: Belt of Sure Strikes
Bracers: Brightlord
Trinket: Battleworn Medal
Cloak: Shadowhail Cloak (sneak damage plus stealth skills always on)
Rings: Celestial Ruby & Sapphire (Dex and Con crafted)
Buckler: Crabshell or Moonguard (guardbreaking is good)

Overall this gear set gets less tankiness (hp, heal amp, PRR)... but more fort bypass, better tactics DCs, higher to-hit, more action boosts, and a little higher doublestrike (100% standing on my setup).

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

Awesome write up and impressive videos! I say this as a fellow bard lover who's doing more and more R10 solo runs on my swashbuckler lately.

I'm doing something similar to your build but my split is 16 bard, 3 rogue, 1 cleric. Running in Fatesinger as well. Compared to your split, mine loses 1 feat from dropping the fighter level, but gains evasion, trap skills and more skill points and a little sneak damage. Evasion and trap skills plus stealth skills really give the build a batman feel that it can do anything reasonably well.

11 points in Vistani for haste boost, deflect arrows and I take melee power to throwing weapons so you have at least a little ranged DPS option when needed. (Sometimes swap to throwing dagger and Wallwatch set and toggle on the Doubleshot epic past life for ranging in certain situations.)

Also I'm doing a Tiefling Scoundrel with the short sword from Too Hot to Handle for 20% vulnerability plus Fiendish Arpeggio for another solid CC and debuff option on an already strong tactical build. Slightly worse crit profile than the light mace you're using, but the vulnerability stacks and fort reduction more than make up for it.

Congrats on the awesome bard build. :)

Your build can solo R10s too? That's awesome. How are you able to trap while you're Charisma based, though? Especially on higher difficulties.

[Fivetigers33]

Awesome write up and impressive videos! I say this as a fellow bard lover who's doing more and more R10 solo runs on my swashbuckler lately.

I'm doing something similar to your build but my split is 16 bard, 3 rogue, 1 cleric. Running in Fatesinger as well. Compared to your split, mine loses 1 feat from dropping the fighter level, but gains evasion, trap skills and more skill points and a little sneak damage. Evasion and trap skills plus stealth skills really give the build a batman feel that it can do anything reasonably well.

11 points in Vistani for haste boost, deflect arrows and I take melee power to throwing weapons so you have at least a little ranged DPS option when needed. (Sometimes swap to throwing dagger and Wallwatch set and toggle on the Doubleshot epic past life for ranging in certain situations.)

Also I'm doing a Tiefling Scoundrel with the short sword from Too Hot to Handle for 20% vulnerability plus Fiendish Arpeggio for another solid CC and debuff option on an already strong tactical build. Slightly worse crit profile than the light mace you're using, but the vulnerability stacks and fort reduction more than make up for it.

Congrats on the awesome bard build. :)


Good stuff! There are lots of viable splits for bard, this just happens to be my favorite. Evasion would be nice though, I just really like the level 18 core for Warchanter. Always happy to see other people playing bard well. I recently tried a TWF dagger vistani bard with pain and suffering, but in the end I didn't like it quite as much as scourge/light mace.

[therobb]

Your build can solo R10s too? That's awesome. How are you able to trap while you're Charisma based, though? Especially on higher difficulties.

Only 12 base dex, max skill ranks in spot/search/disable. With one ring swap (keylock ring with 12 intelligence augment slotted) I'm at 100 search and disable which has been enough for everything.

[therobb]

Good stuff! There are lots of viable splits for bard, this just happens to be my favorite. Evasion would be nice though, I just really like the level 18 core for Warchanter. Always happy to see other people playing bard well. I recently tried a TWF dagger vistani bard with pain and suffering, but in the end I didn't like it quite as much as scourge/light mace.

I tried a THF falchion version with 5 barb and 1 cleric splash and that was really fun too. Higher DPS for sure but not as versatile.

Cool - why the 18 Warchanter core? For the BaB? Does it help that much?

[Fivetigers33]

Cool - why the 18 Warchanter core? For the BaB? Does it help that much?

Base Attack Bonus affects attack speed. Without the 18th core, you will never have full attack speed unless you are constantly using Tensor's scrolls. That said, doing a fighter or barb splash will definitely be more DPS than just getting the 18th core from warchanter, I just prefer as many bard levels as possible for longer spells, more bard stuff, etc.

I would be a pure bard if I could, but bard as a class is already on the lower end of the spectrum and pure it just can't compete with splashing 1 cleric. Then the more you splash, the better it gets.

[Belhera]

Why do you have intim? and is does it come in handy?

[Fivetigers33]

Why do you have intim? and is does it come in handy?

In groups I intimidate stuff all the time. For instance if a boss gets loose in Project Nemesis, I can Intimidate it and take it back to it's proper tank, or just tank it myself for a bit. Same thing goes in high reaper, if a doom reaper spawns I can get it's aggro so it doesn't wreck other people. Intimidate + Meld is a staple of higher difficulty DDO.

[thunir]

If you dip 4 point into Spell singer you can get magical training.

[Fivetigers33]

If you dip 4 point into Spell singer you can get magical training.

Auto-granted from my 1 level of Cleric.

[Belhera]

In groups I intimidate stuff all the time. For instance if a boss gets loose in Project Nemesis, I can Intimidate it and take it back to it's proper tank, or just tank it myself for a bit. Same thing goes in high reaper, if a doom reaper spawns I can get it's aggro so it doesn't wreck other people. Intimidate + Meld is a staple of higher difficulty DDO.

Thankyou for the response! I hadn't considered that, but it does make sense. I usually just dip my feet into reaper and hangout at r1, but intim+meld would be really useful. Thanks for the clarity.

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

Good stuff! There are lots of viable splits for bard, this just happens to be my favorite. Evasion would be nice though, I just really like the level 18 core for Warchanter. Always happy to see other people playing bard well. I recently tried a TWF dagger vistani bard with pain and suffering, but in the end I didn't like it quite as much as scourge/light mace.

Hey Stratis, if you were to splash two levels of Rogue into this style of build for evasion + trapping, would you drop the fighter level or the cleric level? Or would you just go 18 Bard? I know any of these options can be viable but I'm trying to decide which would result in losing the minimal amount of perks from the multiclassing. Just wanted to pick your brain again. :p

[Fivetigers33]

Hey Stratis, if you were to splash two levels of Rogue into this style of build for evasion + trapping, would you drop the fighter level or the cleric level? Or would you just go 18 Bard? I know any of these options can be viable but I'm trying to decide which would result in losing the minimal amount of perks from the multiclassing. Just wanted to pick your brain again. :p

Drop fighter for sure. Fighter is mostly for Haste Boost, and Divine Might is too good to give up. You can get Haste Boost as a twist or via the Vistani tree. Another option for Haste Boost would be to swap /1 Cleric for /2 Favored Soul if you don't mind losing Confront Any Foe. I suppose you could also get Haste Boost in the Thief-Acrobat tree. It all just depends on what you want the build to do.

[Scope333]

Monster build and performance. Thanks for posting it. Quick question, why Scion of Feywild over Scion of Arborea? Does the sonic damage outweigh the +20 melee power and if so, do you slot sonic spellpower anywhere on your gear set? Thanks.

[Fivetigers33]

Monster build and performance. Thanks for posting it. Quick question, why Scion of Feywild over Scion of Arborea? Does the sonic damage outweigh the +20 melee power and if so, do you slot sonic spellpower anywhere on your gear set? Thanks.

Feywild does a bit more damage for me than Arborea would. I'm at 697 sonic spell power fully buffed though, so you need the spell power to get decent damage numbers from it. Roughly 167 (feywild) vs 110 (arborea) per hit outside of reaper. Plus Fatesinger gives the stacking sonic vulnerability that can push the sonic damage up to 251 on average. Feywild also gives heal amp, which is a big part of self healing in R10s. I have sonic spell power on my alchemical buckler, but you can always toss an augment into a weapon or shield.

[therobb]

Feywild does a bit more damage for me than Arborea would. I'm at 697 sonic spell power fully buffed though, so you need the spell power to get decent damage numbers from it. Roughly 167 (feywild) vs 110 (arborea) per hit outside of reaper. Plus Fatesinger gives the stacking sonic vulnerability that can push the sonic damage up to 251 on average. Feywild also gives heal amp, which is a big part of self healing in R10s. I have sonic spell power on my alchemical buckler, but you can always toss an augment into a weapon or shield.

You'll get way more DPS and overall value out of Scion of Ethereal.

[therobb]

Base Attack Bonus affects attack speed. Without the 18th core, you will never have full attack speed unless you are constantly using Tensor's scrolls. That said, doing a fighter or barb splash will definitely be more DPS than just getting the 18th core from warchanter, I just prefer as many bard levels as possible for longer spells, more bard stuff, etc.

I would be a pure bard if I could, but bard as a class is already on the lower end of the spectrum and pure it just can't compete with splashing 1 cleric. Then the more you splash, the better it gets.

Have you tested the DPS with partial BaB and full BaB on this build to see the difference? My testing found that auto attacking with Tensor's for full BaB (19/30 on my split) was about 12% more DPS than non-Tensors on my 16 bard, 3 rog, 1 clr split (19 BaB). That is a nice chunk for sure. I'm willing to give trade that damage for more utility and survivability from 3 rogue. Plus I can scroll Tensor's if I really need to max out DPS.

[Fivetigers33]

Have you tested the DPS with partial BaB and full BaB on this build to see the difference? My testing found that auto attacking with Tensor's for full BaB (19/30 on my split) was about 12% more DPS than non-Tensors on my 16 bard, 3 rog, 1 clr split (19 BaB). That is a nice chunk for sure. I'm willing to give trade that damage for more utility and survivability from 3 rogue. Plus I can scroll Tensor's if I really need to max out DPS.

No I havent tested it specifically. Twitch fighting should increase DPS too though. I have noticed that make a difference, and any SWF build can do it.

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

According to the Lammania notes, Perfect SWF would now grant an additional 25% ability score modifier to damage, and 10 melee power. This would good enough to use over Perfect TWF, right? Neither might be necessary since Shield Mastery feats will also count toward Epic Defensive Fighting now, but I think Perfect SWF might be the best Destiny feat at levels 26/28 if these changes go through.

[Fivetigers33]

According to the Lammania notes, Perfect SWF would now grant an additional 25% ability score modifier to damage, and 10 melee power. This would good enough to use over Perfect TWF, right? Neither might be necessary since Shield Mastery feats will also count toward Epic Defensive Fighting now, but I think Perfect SWF might be the best Destiny feat at levels 26/28 if these changes go through.

Yeah I'd go PSWF now if those changes go live and make up the missing doublestrike via gear. It'd be a gear shuffle for sure but definitely worth it. Might end up having to change 4 piece winter to 2 piece LGS to fit everything in.

[MaeveTuohy]

First up, my thanks for the time you have taken to post your build and respond to questions.

When I eventually pursue this build I will have only 5 racial AP, 10 fewer overall. Where would you suggest I reduce my AP spending?

[Fivetigers33]

The easiest answer is just don't be Scourge. Use a Sickle or the Labrythine Edge.

If you want the full Light Mace experience though let me see if I can find 10 AP.


4 Kensai - Extra Action Boost
2 Kensai - Weapon Group Specialization
2 Warchanter - Charisma
2 Swashbuckler - Charisma
1 Warpriest - Divine Might (only train 2 ranks)
1 Warchanter - Kingly Recovery (only train 2 ranks)
1 Swashbuckler - Uncanny Dodge
1 Scourge - Divine Form


You can mix and match those options to fit your needs.

[MaeveTuohy]

The easiest answer is just don't be Scourge. Use a Sickle or the Labrythine Edge.

If you want the full Light Mace experience though let me see if I can find 10 AP.


4 Kensai - Extra Action Boost
2 Kensai - Weapon Group Specialization
2 Warchanter - Charisma
2 Swashbuckler - Charisma
1 Warpriest - Divine Might (only train 2 ranks)
1 Warchanter - Kingly Recovery (only train 2 ranks)
1 Swashbuckler - Uncanny Dodge
1 Scourge - Divine Form


You can mix and match those options to fit your needs.

Thank you for the quick and helpful response.

I'll likely try the build in heroics first with some racial PLs, but I do like the scourge iconic, so I will aim for that in epics.

Regards

[therobb]

The easiest answer is just don't be Scourge. Use a Sickle or the Labrythine Edge.

If you want the full Light Mace experience though let me see if I can find 10 AP.


4 Kensai - Extra Action Boost
2 Kensai - Weapon Group Specialization
2 Warchanter - Charisma
2 Swashbuckler - Charisma
1 Warpriest - Divine Might (only train 2 ranks)
1 Warchanter - Kingly Recovery (only train 2 ranks)
1 Swashbuckler - Uncanny Dodge
1 Scourge - Divine Form


You can mix and match those options to fit your needs.

The problem with the maces is there aren't any really good ones. The lightning coil is really a caster item. None of the other options such as Ferrocrystal or Nightmothers, etc have the important +2W from keen. If you're not going scourge, might as well go with shortswords instead and use an easy-to-get Moonwillow which at least has +2W and some nice DR breaking properties.

PDK with a shortsword also saves a ton of AP (nothing needed in Feydark tree) and gives even higher DCs on stun and freeze attacks.

[Fivetigers33]

The problem with the maces is there aren't any really good ones. The lightning coil is really a caster item. None of the other options such as Ferrocrystal or Nightmothers, etc have the important +2W from keen. If you're not going scourge, might as well go with shortswords instead and use an easy-to-get Moonwillow which at least has +2W and some nice DR breaking properties.


Yeah there aren't any good melee light maces for end game, but that +1 crit multiplier is going to well out DPS anything any other swashbuckling weapon has going for it with the exception of vulnerability (and even that is super close), but other party members often have vuln which make it a wasted effect on your weapon. Plus now with the augment revamp, augment slots are a hot commodity, which makes a raid weapon that much more appealing. I'm not saying Light Mace is the only bard choice, just explaining my reasoning for using one.

I hardcore petitioned the devs for months, update after update for a melee endgame light mace and then I got trolled with the Legendary Alchemical Light Mace that doesn't accept sentience.

[BestName]

The Broken Blade of Constellation - fetters, imp dest, proc dust, ash, ooze, salt, and +.5w but loses crit x1

[Komradkillingmachine]

I hardcore petitioned the devs for months, update after update for a melee endgame light mace and then I got trolled with the Legendary Alchemical Light Mace that doesn't accept sentience.

Pray that Handaxe makes it to live environment LOL. First good swash weapon in EONS...

[Fivetigers33]

The Broken Blade of Constellation - fetters, imp dest, proc dust, ash, ooze, salt, and +.5w but loses crit x1

I've heard the proc rate on the dust/ash/ooze/salt is pretty low. So it's basically just a shortsword with vuln.



Pray that Handaxe makes it to live environment LOL. First good swash weapon in EONS...

The handaxe looks good, but it wouldn't help this build at all. Hand axe is more of a /5 Barbarian split weapon. Plus there's already the Legendary Forgotten Axe in the game, but as it's name implies, must have been forgotten about. There are plenty of good swash weapons though. Labrythine Edge is a beast. Timeshard is hands down the best CC weapon. Flow is a decent all around pick. Sickles in general + Swords to Plowshares (Brilliant Crescent, Flicker, Hook). And can't forget daggers, Pain and Keeper of the Crimson Covenant are both great.

The problem was never the lack of good swashbuckling weapons, it was the inherently low ceiling for bard.

[Carpone]

The handaxe looks good, but it wouldn't help this build at all. Hand axe is more of a /5 Barbarian split weapon.
Yep. The new handaxe will be hot for a STR-based Horc 12 Barb/5 Cleric/3 Bard, with +2 crit range from swashbuckler and +2 crit multiplier from Frenzied Berserker. For trash you can use Tornado and a guardbreaking buckler.

[Tobril]

I've heard the proc rate on the dust/ash/ooze/salt is pretty low. So it's basically just a shortsword with vuln.




It's super low even at a high attack speed.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHNaom_eZ4E

[therobb]

Pray that Handaxe makes it to live environment LOL. First good swash weapon in EONS...

Vistani with a dagger for +1W and 20 melee power. I'm planning a potential rebuild of my swashbuckler to use https://ddowiki.com/page/Item:Keeper_of_the_Crimson_Covenant

[unhappymeal]

Would this build work as a second life? I'm trying to decide between this or a Favoured Soul for my next life. Also, how do you counter the abysmal chance to hit before taking your Cleric life at 15 and getting Magical Training? You cannot use the Feydark Illusionist CHA-to-hit Enhancement without Magical Training.

[Fivetigers33]

Would this build work as a second life? I'm trying to decide between this or a Favoured Soul for my next life. Also, how do you counter the abysmal chance to hit before taking your Cleric life at 15 and getting Magical Training? You cannot use the Feydark Illusionist CHA-to-hit Enhancement without Magical Training.

You can make this work without all the past lives, it's just going to be a lot squishier. Hitting things in heroics should never be a problem, just gear an Accuracy item. You can get magical training fairly low in spellsinger too though if you feel you really need it before you take the cleric level. You could also swap the order that you take fighter and cleric.

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

I assume Confront Any Foe is no longer a twist for this build after it took some heavy nerfs this update. How significant was it for this build's overall DPS in high reaper?

[Fivetigers33]

I assume Confront Any Foe is no longer a twist for this build after it took some heavy nerfs this update. How significant was it for this build's overall DPS in high reaper?

It's still AOE, I'd still take it. Hitting an entire group is still better than just hitting 1 mob. CAF was only used for AoE though. You could twist it out for raids, or if you're in a decent group. I needed it for soloing. SWF attacks so fast on its own, I didn't really notice any significant single target DPS differences using or not using CAF.

[Redclaw1992]

Hi, I'm a returning player and I'm trying to base my bard build upon this one. As I'm first life and have no bonus ap, I'm tweaking a couple of things. I have no access to feydark illusionist, so no cha to dmg and hit. So I opted for dex, swashbuckler and finesse. I would end up with 41 warchanter with medium armor, swashbuckler 13 for skirmisher and and different tack, vkf 22 for single dagger, warpriest 4 for divine might. Adds up to 80 ap. As I already get the Attackspeed boost from vkf, dropping fighter level for cleric 2 and war domain. I know it's not optimal, but do you think it would still be viable at mid reaper epics? I think it's pretty much the best I could do with what I have.

[cru121]

Hi, I'm a returning player and I'm trying to base my bard build upon this one. As I'm first life and have no bonus ap, I'm tweaking a couple of things. I have no access to feydark illusionist, so no cha to dmg and hit. So I opted for dex, swashbuckler and finesse. I would end up with 41 warchanter with medium armor, swashbuckler 13 for skirmisher and and different tack, vkf 22 for single dagger, warpriest 4 for divine might. Adds up to 80 ap. As I already get the Attackspeed boost from vkf, dropping fighter level for cleric 2 and war domain. I know it's not optimal, but do you think it would still be viable at mid reaper epics? I think it's pretty much the best I could do with what I have.

So, this is an entirely different build.
- First of all, you cannot use Swashbuckling with medium armor. Is this an intentional decision or an oversight?
- Switching to dex as main stat loses two perks of this build: On-demand Freeze from warchanter (requires high charisma investment) and high temporary HP from warchanter's 4th core.
- Viability in mid reaper epics is questionable. Do you have excellent gear? Or excellent guildies to drag you through content?

You don't need Feydark Illusionist for cha to dmg and hit. Charisma to damage comes from Swashbuckler, and Charisma to hit can come from Sorcerer Eldritch Knight. (I think there's still a bug in the Sorc EK tree and Charisma to hit requires 4 Sorcerer levels despite being a Tier 3 ability.) I recently ran six lives as a Bard 13 / Sorc 6 / FvS 1 (with T5 in EK), and it's very solid.

[Redclaw1992]

So, this is an entirely different build.
- First of all, you cannot use Swashbuckling with medium armor. Is this an intentional decision or an oversight?
- Switching to dex as main stat loses two perks of this build: On-demand Freeze from warchanter (requires high charisma investment) and high temporary HP from warchanter's 4th core.
- Viability in mid reaper epics is questionable. Do you have excellent gear? Or excellent guildies to drag you through content?

You don't need Feydark Illusionist for cha to dmg and hit. Charisma to damage comes from Swashbuckler, and Charisma to hit can come from Sorcerer Eldritch Knight. (I think there's still a bug in the Sorc EK tree and Charisma to hit requires 4 Sorcerer levels despite being a Tier 3 ability.) I recently ran six lives as a Bard 13 / Sorc 6 / FvS 1 (with T5 in EK), and it's very solid.

Thank you very much for the answer, oversights dictated by the inexperience. Character building can get kind of overwhelming, there are so many different ways to do stuff, it's hard to keep track of them.

[Amisadai]

Currently running this build and I like it immensely! How would this work as a THF build dropping SB and focusing on WC; maybe Horc?

[Fivetigers33]

Currently running this build and I like it immensely! How would this work as a THF build dropping SB and focusing on WC; maybe Horc?

You'd probably want to drop 1 fighter and do 5 barbarian instead. Use Falchion and take Frenzied Berzerker tier 5, only go up to T4 in Warchanter. You'd lose Spinning Ice, but the AoE from your falchion with Frozen Fury and Northwind would make up for it. Race could be Horc, Wood Elf or Aasimar.

For reference, I did a Greatsword/PDK version of the main 18/1/1 build and I didn't like it nearly as much as the Swashbuckling version. It was good at killing groups, but it's single target DPS was too low.

[Komradkillingmachine]

You'd probably want to drop 1 fighter and do 5 barbarian instead. Use Falchion and take Frenzied Berzerker tier 5, only go up to T4 in Warchanter. You'd lose Spinning Ice, but the AoE from your falchion with Frozen Fury and Northwind would make up for it. Race could be Horc, Wood Elf or Aasimar.

For reference, I did a Greatsword/PDK version of the main 18/1/1 build and I didn't like it nearly as much as the Swashbuckling version. It was good at killing groups, but it's single target DPS was too low.


1) Lack of crit profile support (at least +1/+1 or +2 multi) for THF weapons in Warchanter
2) Tactical attacks not using highest of STR or CHA (even though STR based is partially supported via Skaldic rage and stat selectors)

If they updated Warchanter tree with just these 2 things, it would make for a fun THF Bard that's just decent enough considering the lack of MP and Strikethrough support.

[Rull]

Have you considered Offhand Versatility instead of the Shield Masteries?

It would get:
+1% doublestrike (-8% iSM, -7% LSM, +6% Running with Wind, +10% dashing)
-20 PRR (-5 iSM, -15 LSM)
-10% dodge (skirmisher) arguably not so important because of cap
+17 damage (+11 from 0.25 cha, +6 dashing)
- whatever stats the buckler gives
+ whatever the one extra feat gives

I mean it looks like a pretty sweet deal except for the "- whatever stats the buckler gives"...

[Fivetigers33]

Have you considered Offhand Versatility instead of the Shield Masteries?

It would get:
+1% doublestrike (-8% iSM, -7% LSM, +6% Running with Wind, +10% dashing)
-20 PRR (-5 iSM, -15 LSM)
-10% dodge (skirmisher) arguably not so important because of cap
+17 damage (+11 from 0.25 cha, +6 dashing)
- whatever stats the buckler gives
+ whatever the one extra feat gives

I mean it looks like a pretty sweet deal except for the "- whatever stats the buckler gives"...


Offhand Versatility is the best option for DPS, but you lose too much versatility in my option. Bard needs all the PRR it can get and that 10% dodge saves having to gear it, plus having a shield opens up a lot more gearing options with gear Tetris. You're also losing shield bashes, which if you use the cane you're getting about 1 every second. Not a ton, but every little bit helps. If you are playing in a vacuum with a perfect tank and healer so that you never have to worry about anything besides left-clicking enemies, Offhand Versatility is definitely the best choice. When things get messy in R10s I'd much rather have my build.

[unhappymeal]

You can make this work without all the past lives, it's just going to be a lot squishier. Hitting things in heroics should never be a problem, just gear an Accuracy item. You can get magical training fairly low in spellsinger too though if you feel you really need it before you take the cleric level. You could also swap the order that you take fighter and cleric.

Good point about Spellsinger. That's a cheap way to get it quickly and then dump it later. Last question for you: where does the Cleave damage come from before Spinning Ice? I assume you just fire off some of the Bardic evocation spells until then?

[Fivetigers33]

Good point about Spellsinger. That's a cheap way to get it quickly and then dump it later. Last question for you: where does the Cleave damage come from before Spinning Ice? I assume you just fire off some of the Bardic evocation spells until then?

This was mostly a level 30 build. All my AoE was melee. I had Dire Charge, Spinning Ice, and Confront Any Foe. Generally I'd dire charge in first and then use 1-2 CAFs. If stuff was still alive when the stun wore off I'd do spinning ice and finish them off.

In heroics, things should die pretty quickly. Just make sure you have Silent Avenger/Part of the Family then Spinning Ice a group and they should each die in a few hits. You might be able to get Sonic Blast up to a workable DC for a quick stun too if Spinning Ice wears off.

[unhappymeal]

This was mostly a level 30 build. All my AoE was melee. I had Dire Charge, Spinning Ice, and Confront Any Foe. Generally I'd dire charge in first and then use 1-2 CAFs. If stuff was still alive when the stun wore off I'd do spinning ice and finish them off.

In heroics, things should die pretty quickly. Just make sure you have Silent Avenger/Part of the Family then Spinning Ice a group and they should each die in a few hits. You might be able to get Sonic Blast up to a workable DC for a quick stun too if Spinning Ice wears off.

Ah, I see. I guess leveling on Heroics is easy enough that it doesn't really matter.

[Razor_Wit]

Yep. The new handaxe will be hot for a STR-based Horc 12 Barb/5 Cleric/3 Bard, with +2 crit range from swashbuckler and +2 crit multiplier from Frenzied Berserker. For trash you can use Tornado and a guardbreaking buckler.

Please elaborate I'm interested....

5 Cleric for DM, Ameliorating Strike and a Domain. Did I miss something else that was obvious?

So, Animal Domain for +150 hp's at 30?
or Destruction for raged casting + 2 melee power ?
or Strength for +2 STR when Turning + STR to reflex?
Or is just more because nothing good comes from Barb 16 or Bard 4 ?

Enhancements: Inflame, Toughness, Wall of Steel, Action Boost melee power, Holy Striker (10% doublestrike)

All points into Strength, Build Attributes would be STR > CHA > Con ?
Thanks!

[PrinceOfAsphodel]

Please elaborate I'm interested....

5 Cleric for DM, Ameliorating Strike and a Domain. Did I miss something else that was obvious?

So, Animal Domain for +150 hp's at 30?
or Destruction for raged casting + 2 melee power ?
or Strength for +2 STR when Turning + STR to reflex?
Or is just more because nothing good comes from Barb 16 or Bard 4 ?

Enhancements: Inflame, Toughness, Wall of Steel, Action Boost melee power, Holy Striker (10% doublestrike)

All points into Strength, Build Attributes would be STR > CHA > Con ?
Thanks!

I've been experimenting with this theory. I think the 5 Cleric is for a combination of you first and last suggestions. Animal Domain hp and because more than 12 Barb levels or 3 Bard levels grants you very few things. Yeah, I would go str based for most swf builds that aren't Warchanters. I'm also messing around with 12/5/3 or Rogue/Barb/Bard for extra sneak attack and fort bypass (loses Divine Might though) and some kind of 16/3/1 Fighter/Bard/FVS, which has more melee power but less crit multiplier. Trying to find the best home for the magmatic reaver is fun.

[Aung]

That's a really good guess! Had to log on and see what my actual numbers were, and here they are in reaper with Ascendant Bond.

https://i.imgur.com/JDvpUba.png

The Brush Hook would be an awesome weapon, however it suffers the same fate as all the other awesome N/H/E weapons of Eveningstar and Gianthold, in that it doesn't accept sentience. Taking off my sentient weapon, I lose 3% Doublestrike, 8 Damage, 34 Melee Power, Shattered Device debuff, Prowess, and a handful of other small bonuses. I've tried something similar on paper with the Drow Light Mace of the Weaponmaster, but my math still put it behind a weapon with legendary weapon die. Maybe I'm wrong though and should actually try it?

Edit: I've been using ML 14 Skullsmasher for heroics and Drown Light Mace of the Weapon Master for 21-27.





Any chance you could break down your melee power?

[Fivetigers33]

Any chance you could break down your melee power?

I'm not in that build anymore but I can give you the general gist of things.

60 Fatesinger
10 Martial Hymn
4 Remnant Tomes
50 Prowess
30 Epic levels
48 sentient weapon
24 Reaper AP
20 Scourge Divine Form (whatever the T4 toggle is, Ascendant Bond maybe?)
10 Titania's Glory
25 Part of the Family
6 random reaper/mythic gear bonuses (pretty sure this was in the 4-8 range)

That all comes out to 287, so maybe the screen shot was outside of reaper or without Ascendant Bond or something.

[polymath]

Hey there,

Which destiny split you are running or which would you suggest after the epic destiny pass? Curious to see what you put together!

[Dat_Boi]

Hey there,

Which destiny split you are running or which would you suggest after the epic destiny pass? Curious to see what you put together!

I second this- fresh off the lvl 20 boat and went for Dire Charge to get started, but things in fate singer have changed, interested to know your thoughts too

[deochii]

Great build/guide thank you very much!

[Whitering]

You can use Swords to Plowshares with Sickles and use Flicker to 15-20

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

For anyone interested, I have been running this build for a while, and it has been a lot of fun. Pretty good in almost all circumstances.
I wish somehow I could fit in the ability to Unlock Doors, but you can't have everything.

Here is how I have adapted since the ED and Dire Charge changes:
Note: I have Triple Completionist and 21 Reaper Points, but not all the Raid Gear or Filigrees.

Gear is included below as what I am actually wearing (Had to hand-create the Leg. Alchemical Buckler, as it doesn't exist in DDO Builder)

Open to constructive suggestions on how to improve

Fatesinger 34 / Legendary Dreadnought 16 / Unyielding Sentinel 14



Character name:
Classes: 18 Bard, 10 Epic, 1 Cleric, 1 Fighter
Race: Aasimar Scourge · · ·Alignment: Neutral Good

· · ·Start Tome Final · · ·Incorp:· · 10% · · ·Displacement:· · 20%
Str:· · ·8· · 8 · ·28 · · ·HP:· · · ·2334 · · ·AC:· ·179
Dex:· · 14· · 8 · ·50 · · ·PRR: · · · 207
Con:· · 16· · 8 · ·62 · · ·MRR: · · · ·83 · · ·+Healing Amp:· ·273
Int:· · ·8· · 8 · ·28 · · ·Dodge: · 27/27 · · ·-Healing Amp:· · 55
Wis:· · 14· · 8 · ·51 · · ·Fort:· · ·213% · · ·Repair Amp:· · · 55
Cha:· · 18· · 8 · ·85 · · ·SR:· · · · · 0 · · ·BAB: · · · · · · 30
DR: 1\-, 6\-
Immunities: Charisma Damage, Fear, Most forms of Knockdown, Fear, Death Effects, Freedom of Movement, Falling damage, Death Effects, Fear

Class and Feat Selection
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level Class · · · · · ·Feats
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Level 1 Requires a +1 Heart of Wood to switch out of Iconic Class
1 · · Bard(1) · · · · ·Standard: Single Weapon Fighting
2 · · Fighter(1)· · · ·Fighter Bonus: Precision
3 · · Bard(2) · · · · ·Standard: Shield Mastery
4 · · Bard(3) · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
5 · · Bard(4) · · · · ·
6 · · Bard(5) · · · · ·Standard: Completionist
7 · · Bard(6) · · · · ·
8 · · Bard(7) · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
9 · · Bard(8) · · · · ·Standard: Improved Single Weapon Fighting
10· · Bard(9) · · · · ·
11· · Bard(10)· · · · ·
12· · Bard(11)· · · · ·Standard: Improved Critical: Bludgeoning Weapons
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
13· · Bard(12)· · · · ·
14· · Bard(13)· · · · ·
15· · Cleric(1) · · · ·Standard: Improved Shield Mastery
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Follower of Faith: Favored by Helm
16· · Bard(14)· · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
17· · Bard(15)· · · · ·
18· · Bard(16)· · · · ·Standard: Greater Single Weapon Fighting
19· · Bard(17)· · · · ·
20· · Bard(18)· · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
21· · Epic(1) · · · · ·Epic Feat: Overwhelming Critical
22· · Epic(2) · · · · ·Epic Destiny Feat: Doublestrike
23· · Epic(3) · · · · ·
24· · Epic(4) · · · · ·Epic Feat: Inspire Excellence
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
25· · Epic(5) · · · · ·Epic Destiny Feat: Crush Weakness
26· · Epic(6) · · · · ·
27· · Epic(7) · · · · ·Epic Feat: Greater Shield Mastery
28· · Epic(8) · · · · ·Epic Destiny Feat: Perfect Single Weapon Fighting
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Charisma: +1 Level up
29· · Epic(9) · · · · ·
30· · Epic(10)· · · · ·Epic Feat: Weapon Focus: Bludgeoning Weapons
· · · · · · · · · · · ·Legendary: Scion of the Feywild

Enhancements: 80 APs, Racial 15, Universal 1
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Aasimar: Scourge of the Undead - Points spent: 20
Core1 Stronger Bonds I
Core2 Ability I: +1 Charisma
Tier1 Improved Recovery I
Tier1 Scourge Weapons
Core3 Stronger Bonds II
Core4 Ability II: +1 Charisma
Core5 Stronger Bonds III
Tier2 Improved Scourge Weapons
Tier2 Divine Purpose
Tier3 Improved Recovery II
Tier3 Greater Scourge Weapons
Tier4 Destroyer of the Dead
Tier4 Improved Recovery III
Tier4 Divine Form
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Warchanter - Points spent: 42
Core1 Skaldic Rage / Skaldic Constitution: Skaldic Constitution
Tier1 Enchant Weapon
Tier1 Rough and Ready - 3 Ranks
Tier1 Focused - 3 Ranks
Core2 Weapon Training
Tier2 Iced Edges - 3 Ranks
Tier3 Frozen Fury - 3 Ranks
Tier3 Ability I: +1 Charisma
Core3 Song of Heroism
Tier3 Balad Melody: Ironskin - 3 Ranks
Tier4 Ability II: +1 Charisma
Core4 Fighting Spirit
Tier4 Northwind - 3 Ranks
Tier4 Ballad Melody: Recklessness - 3 Ranks
Tier5 Movement Booster: Expeditious Chant - 3 Ranks
Tier5 Chant of Power - 3 Ranks
Tier5 Howl of the North
Tier5 Spinning Ice - 3 Ranks
Core5 Victory Song
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Swashbuckler - Points spent: 21
Core1 Confidence
Tier1 On Your Toes - 3 Ranks
Tier1 Tavern Shanties - 3 Ranks
Core2 Swashbuckling
Tier2 Deflect Arrows
Tier2 Fast Movement
Core3 Uncanny Dodge
Tier3 Different Tack: Smooth Flourishes
Tier3 Resonant Arms - 3 Ranks
Tier3 Swashbuckling Style: Skirmisher
Core4 Panache
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Kensei - Points spent: 6
Core1 Kensei Focus: Kensei Focus: Maces and Clubs
Tier1 Weapon Group Specialization I: Kensei Focus: Maces and Clubs
Tier1 Action Boost: Haste Boost - 3 Ranks
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Warpriest - Points spent: 4
Core1 Smite Foe: Smite Foe (Melee)
Tier1 Divine Might - 3 Ranks
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Feydark Illusionist - Points spent: 3
Core1 Find Familiar: White Cat
Tier1 Familiar's Flourish I
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Epic Destinies: 40 APs + 24 permanent Destiny Points
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Fatesinger - Points spent: 34
Core1 Fate Singer's Repertoire
Tier1 Epic Strike: The Sword Sings
Tier1 Harmonic Resonance
Tier1 Tune of the Weave - 3 Ranks
Core2 Intoxicating Presence
Tier2 Mantle of Sound and Fury
Tier2 Discord: Blade of Discord
Tier2 Master the Acoustics - 3 Ranks
Core3 Glitter of Fame
Tier3 Reign - 3 Ranks
Tier3 The Sonata to Serve - 3 Ranks
Tier4 Great Ballads of War - 3 Ranks
Tier4 Majesty
Tier4 Resonance of Fate: Martial Resonance
Tier4 Metamagics Attunement: Extend
Tier5 Ballad of the ages
Tier5 Blade Song
Tier5 Turn the Tide
Tier5 Cut the Strings
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Legendary Dreadnought - Points spent: 16
Core1 Fearless
Tier1 Epic Tactics - 3 Ranks
Tier1 Shrug Off Punishment - 3 Ranks
Core2 Weaponmaster
Tier2 Extra Action Boosts - 3 Ranks
Tier2 Life and Death - 3 Ranks
Core3 Thick Skinned
Tier3 Strike Twice - 3 Ranks
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Unyielding Sentinel - Points spent: 14
Core1 Ever Watchful
Tier1 Brace for Impact - 3 Ranks
Tier1 Attack and Defend - 3 Ranks
Tier2 Renewal
Tier2 Shield Prowess - 3 Ranks
Core2 Ward Against Darkness
Core3 Stand Against the Tide
Tier3 Legendary Shield Mastery - 3 Ranks
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Equipped Gear Set: Standard
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Armor · · · · Legendary Wildcard· ·Drops in: Quest: Security Detail
· · · · · · · +15 Enhancement Bonus
· · · · · · · Fortification +142%
· · · · · · · Physical Sheltering +33
· · · · · · · Healing Amplification +53
· · · · · · · False Life +50
· · · · · · · Green: Topaz of Deathblock
· · · · · · · Mythic: +4 Mythic Shield Boost
· · · · · · · Legendary Part of the Family
Belt· · · · · Direwolf Belt · Drops in: U48: Feytwisted Chest
· · · · · · · Superior Reinforced Fists
· · · · · · · Deception +10
· · · · · · · Insightful Seeker +6
· · · · · · · Shield Bonus +13
· · · · · · · Green: +5 Diamond of Insightful Wisdom
· · · · · · · Eminence of Winter
Boots · · · · Legendary Deepsnow Boots· ·Drops in: U48 Quest: A Frosty Reception
· · · · · · · Insightful Constitution +6
· · · · · · · Quality Constitution +3
· · · · · · · Freedom of Movement
· · · · · · · Fortitude Save +10
· · · · · · · Green: +12 Diamond of Wisdom
· · · · · · · Eminence of Winter
Bracers · · · Legendary Cold Iron Bracers · Drops in: U48 Quest: Immortality Lessons
· · · · · · · Ghostly
· · · · · · · Protection +10
· · · · · · · Vitality +44
· · · · · · · Quality False Life +12
· · · · · · · Green: Topaz of Feather Fall
· · · · · · · Eminence of Winter
Cloak · · · · Legendary Cloak of Winter · Drops in: U48 Quest: Comabtting Corruption
· · · · · · · Cold Absorption +34%
· · · · · · · False Life +50
· · · · · · · Legendary Ice Barrier
· · · · · · · Lifesealed 34%
· · · · · · · Green: Sapphire of Good Luck + 3
· · · · · · · Eminence of Winter
Gloves· · · · Legendary Hammerfist· ·Drops in: Quest: Blown Deadline
· · · · · · · Insightful Doublestrike +6%
· · · · · · · Cannith Combat Infusion
· · · · · · · Seeker +13
· · · · · · · Insightful Deadly +4
· · · · · · · Blue: +2 Sapphire of Armored Agility
· · · · · · · Mythic: +1 Mythic Power Boost
· · · · · · · Legendary Part of the Family
Goggles · · · Legendary Collective Sight· ·Drops in: Quest: Blown Deadline
· · · · · · · Quality Resistance +2
· · · · · · · Temperance of Belief
· · · · · · · Nearly Finished (SDCIWC): +13 Constitution
· · · · · · · Nearly Finished (Ins SDCIWC): +6 Insightful Charisma
· · · · · · · Blue: +10 Sapphire of Resistance
· · · · · · · Mythic: +1 Mythic Power Boost
Helmet· · · · Titania's Glory · Drops in: U48: Feytwisted Chest
· · · · · · · Crown of Summer
· · · · · · · Extra Smites
· · · · · · · Hallowed +13
· · · · · · · Eternal Holy Burst
· · · · · · · Green: +2 Festive Charisma
· · · · · · · Mythic: +1 Mythic Shield Boost
· · · · · · · Eminence of Summer
Necklace· · · Legendary Family Recruit Sigil· ·Drops in: Quest: House of Pain
· · · · · · · True Seeing
· · · · · · · Armor-Piercing +20
· · · · · · · Deadly +10
· · · · · · · Relentless Fury
· · · · · · · Yellow: +261 Topaz of Wizardry
· · · · · · · Legendary Part of the Family
Ring1 · · · · Stolen Signet of ir'Wynam · Drops in: Raid: Too Hot to Handle, Masterminds of Sharn Saga reward
· · · · · · · Charisma +14
· · · · · · · Exceptional Alluring Skills +10
· · · · · · · Quality Potency +26
· · · · · · · Electric Absorption +37%
· · · · · · · Blue: Globe of True Imperial Blood
· · · · · · · Green: +12 Sapphire of Dodge
· · · · · · · Yellow: Draconic Soul Gem
· · · · · · · Filigree 1: Prowess: Attack and Damage
· · · · · · · Filigree 2: Sanctified Fervor/Reverberation: +2 Charisma
· · · · · · · Filigree 3: To Hell and Back/Embraced by Light: +2 Charisma
Ring2 · · · · Legendary Celestial Ruby Ring · Drops in: Quest: The Same Old Song
· · · · · · · Stunning +15
· · · · · · · Accuracy +20
· · · · · · · Ghostly
· · · · · · · Nearly Finished (SDI): +13 Dexterity
· · · · · · · Green: Topaz of Fear Immunity
· · · · · · · Mythic: +1 Mythic Power Boost
Trinket · · · Legendary Five Rings· ·Drops in: Quest: Against the Slavelords
· · · · · · · Legendary Slavelords Prefix: Sheltering +33
· · · · · · · Legendary Slavelords Suffix: Armor Piercing +20
· · · · · · · Legendary Slavelords Extra: Intimidate +20
· · · · · · · Legendary Slavelords Bonus: Quality Charisma +3
· · · · · · · Legendary Slavelords Set Bonus: Empty augment slot
· · · · · · · Yellow: Essence of the Epic Litany of the Dead
Weapon1 · · · Legendary Syranian Light Mace · Drops in: Sharn: Crafting Station
· · · · · · · Damage and Type 5[1d6+2] + 15 Bludgeon, Good, Adamantine, Magic
· · · · · · · Critical Threat Range 20 x2
· · · · · · · +15 Enhancement Bonus
· · · · · · · Electrifying 6
· · · · · · · Holy 6
· · · · · · · Construct Bane 6
· · · · · · · Adamantine
· · · · · · · Red: Ruby of +8d6 Electric Damage
· · · · · · · Filigree 1: Prowess: Melee Power
· · · · · · · Filigree 2: Prowess: Attack and Damage(Rare Version)
· · · · · · · Filigree 3: Prowess: Critical Attack and Damage(Rare Version)
· · · · · · · Filigree 4: Prowess: MRR
· · · · · · · Filigree 5: Shattered Device: Melee Power
· · · · · · · Filigree 6: Shattered Device: Attack and Damage
· · · · · · · Filigree 7: Shattered Device: Armor Piercing
· · · · · · · Filigree 8: Shattered Device: MRR
· · · · · · · Filigree 9: Sanctified Fervor/Reverberation: +2 Charisma
· · · · · · · Filigree 10: To Hell and Back/Embraced by Light: +2 Charisma
Offhand: Legendary Alchemical Buckler
Adamantine
Sonic Lore +22%
Resonance +148
Alchemical Charisma +2
Spellcasting Implement +29
+15 Enhancement Bonus
Tier 1: Air
Tier 2: Cold/Cold
Red: Ruby of Devotion 139


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[IlmerSilverhilt]

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Warchanter - Points spent: 42
Core5 Victory Song
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Epic Destinies: 40 APs + 24 permanent Destiny Points
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Fatesinger - Points spent: 34
Tier5 Ballad of the ages
[/FONT]

Hey, I ran into a problem with these two cores on my build. Seems Victory Song suppresses Insp Transcendance buff from Ballad of the Ages, have you noticed?

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Hey, I ran into a problem with these two cores on my build. Seems Victory Song suppresses Insp Transcendance buff from Ballad of the Ages, have you noticed?

Good catch. It looks like the +2 Damage from Ballad of the Ages is being added, but I am not seeing the +1 Spell DC's, +1 DC to Tactical Feats, and I am not certain on the True Seeing (too many effects to tell right at the moment). So there does look to be a bug here ;)

Glad to hear someone else is running a version of this. I recently swapped it around to take Rogue at L1, dropping the Fighter level, and upping INT to 12 instead of WIS to get the skill points needed. Losing the feat stinks, but I am solo and duo-running a lot of content and need the Rogue skills. Losing Haste Boost also sucks, but I grabbed Sprint Boost in Warchanter for now, as movement is key to survive for this build.

Looking at the L32 updates, Perfected Shield Mastery is my target, as well as T4 in Fatesinger and Legendary Dreadnought. I keep wanting to get Shadowdancer in place of Unyielding Sentinal, but I haven't found a layout I like yet. Also, Killing Time sucks as Lighting Coil still evades me, so still sporting a Legendary Syranian Light Mace for now. Haven't looked hard enough at the Dino Bone Light Mace to see if it's worth switching, or the other new gear. But there are a few things of possible interest, including Leg. Wreckage of the Tabernack Buckler, some new Augments, etc... more to come.

[Dworkin_of_Amber]

Good catch. It looks like the +2 Damage from Ballad of the Ages is being added, but I am not seeing the +1 Spell DC's, +1 DC to Tactical Feats, and I am not certain on the True Seeing (too many effects to tell right at the moment). So there does look to be a bug here ;)

Glad to hear someone else is running a version of this. I recently swapped it around to take Rogue at L1, dropping the Fighter level, and upping INT to 12 instead of WIS to get the skill points needed. Losing the feat stinks, but I am solo and duo-running a lot of content and need the Rogue skills. Losing Haste Boost also sucks, but I grabbed Sprint Boost in Warchanter for now, as movement is key to survive for this build.

Looking at the L32 updates, Perfected Shield Mastery is my target, as well as T4 in Fatesinger and Legendary Dreadnought. I keep wanting to get Shadowdancer in place of Unyielding Sentinal, but I haven't found a layout I like yet. Also, Killing Time sucks as Lighting Coil still evades me, so still sporting a Legendary Syranian Light Mace for now. Haven't looked hard enough at the Dino Bone Light Mace to see if it's worth switching, or the other new gear. But there are a few things of possible interest, including Leg. Wreckage of the Tabernack Buckler, some new Augments, etc... more to come.

Interim Update. L31 feat selection is really underwhelming. Looking at Perfected Shield Mastery, unless I am missing something, +5PRR, 20% Shield AC (not a lot using a Buckler), and +1W on the shield... not feeling that at the moment. Trying out Deific Warding at the moment. Open to other thoughts and suggestions.

As for Dino crafting, I haven't seen much to convince me to re-gear other than likely a weapon. It is disappointing that there aren't Sonic damage procs on the new weapons, but I am thinking about Sparkscale (Silver + 15d6 Lightning) + Icefang (Cold DOT Proc) + +2 Exceptional CHA Claw + Icehorn (Freeze Enemy Solid Proc). And for a second one, probably something more anti-Red Named, with Shadowfang/Brightfang (Curse+Untyped Damage Proc or Untyped Damage Proc) and Shadowhorn/Sparkhown (Proc Reduce Enemy PRR & MRR / Proc stacks of Vulnerability)

Also, if anyone is better at Gear Tetris and Enhancement/ED optimizations, please chime in. I like this build a lot, and I can do decent gear layouts, but not fully optimized.