Ballista Sniper

[Sedona]

Ballista Sniper
32 pt Drow 14 Paladin 5 Artificer 1 Fighter

Will add code shortly but, for starters, here are the specifics on a ranged build I will be running on my character Six. Right now, as it stands, Six has 2 ranger past lives, 2 monk past lives, and 1 fighter past life. I am creating this build for him, to service him through epic reincarnations for epic past lives, through epic completionist. With intentions of keeping him in this configuration for farming, EE, and end-game content. I have several other characters with more heroic past lives in efforts toward completionist or other specific roles, but this guy will be my "Ranged" character.

As an experienced veteran of the game, my knowledge of the game mechanics, gameplay and, resources, I am making this build optimized for veteran players. However, it also allows for newer players to work towards what is required to truly optimize the capabilities of this build.
This build can be run as a 28 point Drow with 10 base CON and re-distributing INT points from MAX to DEX and no tomes, with Level up stats being applied to INT and DEX for Combat Archery prerequisite, but I advise against it personally, and recommend working on Ranger past lives to get to 32 point Drow at least, first.

Also needed for this build are; access to Drow, Artificer, and Harper making this build one that is NOT REALLY meant for a player brand new to the game per se.

I have tried several different racial variants however, Drow is solidly the leader stat-wise for this build. The bonus' to INT, DEX, and CHA and the role those stats play with this build make for a build that utilizes the very strengths of what the Race has to offer. No other race really came close, as far as stats go. However, some variants that I worked with, included; Shadar-Kai (with and without +1 Lesser heart swapping out of Rogue) as 14 Paladin/6 Artificer w/out Force of Personality and 14 Paladin/5 Artificer/1 Rogue again w/out FoP. Also, tried Bladeforged as 14 Pal/4 Art/2 Ftr or Mnk and was very unhappy with the stat point distribution and feat allotment overall. Also, worked with Sun Elf, (with +1 Lesser Heart of Wood) but, again, I was unhappy with stats distribution.

I currently have a full set of +5 Tomes and build with that in mind concerning prerequisites.



STARTING STATS:

STR 8
DEX 16 (Need 21 DEX for Combat Archery, w/+6 DEX tome start at 15 DEX for full optimization allocating stat points to CHA and/or CON depending mostly on gameplay experience. Everything in this write up is set to allow for this change concerning stat and BAB prereqs for Feats.)
CON 13 (32 pt. Drow)
INT 20 (All level ups here, as it is the builds primary stat; DPS, trapping, skills, Ref. Save and, trapmaking DC's)
WIS 8
CHA 12 (Personal choice here for save bonus' from Divine Grace and Force of Personality, I could put more points here instead of CON but, it seems like the right thing to do to maintain HP and stat point costs. I will undoubtedly play with those numbers in future epic reincarnations to find the "Sweet Spot".)



FEATS:

1. Point Blank Shot
1. Artificer auto granted Feats/Abilities of note: Rapid Reload, Weapon Proficiency: Great Crossbow; Heavy and Light Repeaters, Trapfinding, Class Skills: Search; Disable Device; Open Lock; UMD; Spellcraft; Repair; Spot; Concentration, Level 1 Spells, Iron Defender (For hitting switches and opening doors as needed).
Drow Traits of note: Spell Resistance equals 10+Character Level, Shuriken Proficiency, Shuriken Expertise, +2 Search, Spot, Listen, +2 bonus to saves vs. Enchantments.

2.
1. Paladin auto granted Feats/Abilities of note: Follower of the Silver Flame, Aura of Good, Heavy Armor Proficiency, Martial Weapon Proficiency, Class Skills: Heal; Diplomacy; Intimidate.

3. Rapid Shot
2. Paladin auto granted Feats/Abilities of note: Divine Grace, Lay on Hands.

4.
3. Paladin auto granted Feats/Abilities of note: Fear Immunity, Divine Health, Aura of Courage.

5.
4. Paladin auto granted Feats/Abilities of note: Turn Undead, Level 1 Spells.

6. Insightful Reflexes
7.
6. Paladin auto granted Feat/Ability of note: Unyielding Sovereignty

8. Manyshot
1. Fighter auto granted Feats/Abilities: Fighter Bonus Feat; Manyshot (as listed above), Class Skills: Jump; Repair.

9. Improved Critical Ranged
10.
8. Paladin auto granted Ability of note: Level 2 Spells.

11.
12. Precise Shot
13.
11. Paladin auto granted Ability of note: Level 3 Spells.

14.
15. Improved Precise Shot
16.
14. Paladin auto granted Ability of note: Level 4 Spells HOLY SWORD!!

17.
2. Artificer auto granted Feat/Ability of note: Rune Arm Use.

18. Force of Personality
3. Artifice auto granted Ability of note: Level 2 Spells.

19. Construct Essence (Required for Battle Engineer Tier 5: Weapon Attachment)
4. Artificer auto granted Feats/Abilities of note: Artificer Bonus Feat: Construct Essence (as listed above), Trapmaking.

20.
5. Artificer auto granted Feat of note: Retain Essence.

21. Epic Feat: Overwhelming Critical

24. Epic Feat: Combat Archery

26. Epic Destiny Feat: Toughness/Flavor or the month Feat depending on gameplay.

27. Epic Feat: Blinding Speed

28. Epic Destiny Feat: Doubleshot



ENHANCEMENTS:

31 Battle Engineer most notable enhancements:

Tier 5 Weapon Attachment, Endless Fusillade, +2 INT, Weapon Training IV total +4 to hit and +6 to damage with Great Crossbow or +4 to hit and +2 to damage with repeaters, Infused Weapon: +1 to weapon enchantment bonus, Wracking Shot, +3 Extra Action Boosts, Field Engineer: +3 DD, OL, +1 Reflex Save vs. Traps, Disable Construct.

24 Harper most notable enhancements:

Know the Angles (Gain Insight bonus to damage=1/2 INT modifier), +4 INT, Strategic Combat I and II (Uses INT modifier for ATTACK and DAMAGE with Missile and Melee weapons), Highly Skilled +3 to all skills, Harper Enchantment: +1 to weapon enchantment bonus, Agent of Good II +2 to hit and damage vs. Evil, Versatile Adept II: +6 Ranged/Melee/Spell power total, and more.

17 Drow Most notable enhancements:

Envenomed Blades +1D6 Poison Damage/hit with weapon, +2 INT, Nothing is Hidden @-8, Keen Senses: +3 Search, Spot, Listen, +4 SR, Venom Lore: +2 Heal, Saves against Poison, and +4 Poison Resistance.

72 Total with 8 AP remaining for Optional/Situational/Optimal load-outs.

1-8 Knight of the Chalice most notable enhancements:

+1D4 to +1D8 Light Damage per hit Scales with 100% Melee Power, Divine Light 18D6 Light Damage to nearby undead; scales with 200% Melee Power.

1-7 Kensei most notable enhancements:

30% Fighter Haste Boost (to supplement and maintain very fast Rate of Fire,and for use with Manyshot), up to +3 Extra Action Boosts.



I will follow up on this build, as I lost several hours of work writing it up in depth. Stay tuned, this is one sick build.

[Sedona]

THE USE OF BOWS

Yes, Manyshot and 10k Stars are very effective for ranged users making them prevalent with many people playing ranged characters in DDO. Combining Manyshot with Fury of the Wilds Adrenaline Overload making it so that, with 1 attack, you launch a volley of 4 arrows all charged to Auto Crit at +400% damage also combined with an active attack such as Sniper Shot or Pin or Arrow of Slaying or etc...you get the idea...making for an incredible amount of "BURST DPS". This technique can further be expanded upon with the effectiveness of Improved Precise shot. There is absolutely no doubt that very few builds can match that kind of raw damage output potential.

For that reason alone I have added the Manyshot feat in this build and plan to use it as such. However, lets not forget that there is a "Cooldown" that comes along with it.

Monkchers often supplement their DPS while Manyshot is on "Cooldown" with 10K Stars and in doing so gain similarly potent effectiveness for a more consistent % of time in a state of "Bursting DPS". Even still, there is a "Cooldown" for 10k Stars and in this time there is a significant loss of DPS over melee builds in there hammering away at enemies while the Monkcher is attacking roughly 50% less than the melee attacking party members. Or perhaps, the ranged character enters into the fray himself, meleeing to build up Ki for the next 10k stars after its off "Cooldown". I have no problems with any of that as many Monkchers are perfectly suited for that defensively and, perhaps with some Monkcher builds featwise with a balance of Ranged and Melee feat selections.

The only problem I do see with it is, the investment into Wisdom to fully maximize their 10k Stars. Wisdom is currently and, long has been, a very difficult stat to "Pump up". A Monkcher can be using Ultimate Ocean Stance to raise its Wisdom to 56+ in efforts of getting a 4th additional projectile off, or perhaps more commonly 42+ for 3rd additional projectile. With that being said, there are two things to note. First, Wisdom does nothing to add base damage to the weapon with exception to the chance of adding an additional projectile. Also, Mountain Stances are often the preferred stance for many Monkchers because of the +1 crit multiplier on 19's and 20's, to go along with significant boosts to HP, AC%, and PRR defensively.

So, in maintaining Wisdom to be high enough to stay out of Ultimate Ocean Stance while using 10k stars a build has to more evenly distribute stats upon creation and level up points away from STR and/or CON. As I have stated, WIS is a very difficult stat to "Pump Up", in most cases. Meaning, there are no Races that give bonus to WIS upon creation and only Human and Half Elf that offer +1 to +5(for HE) in enhancements (which does happen to be very nice for those builds gaining from Human Adaptability WIS, Action Boost Surge;WIS, and perhaps Half Elfilettante Ability Score; Cleric, FVS, or Druid). Strength is often the primary stat for Monkchers because of Bow Strength. With that in mind, STR conversely is an abundantly easy stat to "Pump Up". With spells such as: Tenser's Transformation, Ram's Might, and Rage/Primal Scream and, abilities such as: Barbarian Rage, Power Surge and Bladesworn Transformation, and from items; Gloves of Titans Grip among many other exploitative (in a good way) means of increasing this stat. Therein lies the beauty that is the Monkcher, in balancing all things considered to maintain a super effective build that excels in Burst DPS, Defense, and Survivability whilst maintaining a buffer of range between his foe should avoidance be necessary and still be shooting it. Furthermore, in many cases providing moderate self healing with a buffer of range to buy time as needed. There truly is no doubt why well built Monkchers have solidified themselves as popular build kits to be played by the masses for certain.

Yet, there are major limitations and less optimization with many these builds. First and foremost, I will mention that I don't like the pigeon holing that we have been put into with character creation for much of the several major game play styles in game.

Meaning,
Spell Caster: Shiradi FVS/Wiz/Monk of some variant or FVS Evoker.
Melee: Swashbuckling Bard multiclass or Pure, Paladins w/Zeal and Holy Sword, Plain Jane Monks, and Broken DRUNKS using Greater and Perfect Single Weapon Fighting and Greater and Perfect Two Weapon Fighting.
Ranged: Some form of Monkcher. Using Fury of the Wild with Adrenalized Manyshot or 10k attacks stars giving them superior Burst DPS.
Specialist: 18 Wizzy/2 Rog or Harper Artificer and/or Rogue mostly because EE trap DC's have become increasingly difficult on anything but an INT build.
Healer: Not enough people enjoy playing this in today's game and is a lost art.

The character dynamics this game presents are far too enjoyable to develop, to limit the player base to a select few variants that excel so overwhelmingly compared to the remaining 95% of the games possible character variations. Not investing in your primary stat in level ups and creation is only a minor issue. For many Rogue Monkcher types Epic Elites may pose a big problem for them with Intelligence skills if they have issued stats to WIS for 10k star effectiveness. Among other notable limitations include the use of Longbows outside of Manyshot and 10k Stars and the subsequent loss of doubleshot%.

Now I'll get down to the nitty-gritty in comparison of the dynamic of this build.

For this build to deliver competitive DPS it will use crossbows and take other actions such as setting Deadly Mines and Magical Traps etc... while awaiting Manyshot Cooldown. The benefits of using a crossbow for this build lies in it's Rune Arm Use, Fusilade, bonus' from Crossbow Training IV and, relying on its doubleshot% when available.

CONSIDER THE GREAT CROSSBOW

The Great Crossbow is not a vastly desired weapon in DDO. Reasons for this include; a lack of "Named" and "Superior Named" Special Great Crossbows in game, Slow rate of fire (Slower than Repeaters anyhow, but on par with Bows), and lastly proficiency. However, this weapon in a base line amid all other weapons naturally has the highest Base Damage Rating, period. The natural damage formula for this weapon is [2D8] 18-20x2. It really hasn't been the most effective weapon in DDO despite that nonetheless. Where things really get exciting for the Great Crossbow is Crafting Groups for weapons such as Greensteel or Thunderforged Weaponry. The reason I say this is because, all the weapons in those groups reflect their natural damage profiles. Yes, there are "Special" weapons in the game that give incredible potential to the wielders specialized in that kind of weapon. There are plenty of examples of this throughout the game. The Great Crossbow has never been given its "Special" weapon. For this reason it has sat in the closet getting dusty. With the advent of Thunderforged Weaponry and its proven effectiveness in the current state of the game, beyond much if not all of the "Special Named" weapons available.

I ask you this...Have you seen the BDR on the Complete Thunderforged Great Crossbow?

It is 60.38 in the bank @+12 Great Crossbow- 4.5[2D8] 18-20x2. That is, to my knowledge, the highest Base Damage Rating in the game on any weapon without the "Keen or Impact" property on it.

As for what this build does with that, I am giddy with excitement to find out!!

Holy Sword: +1[2D8], +1 Critical Threat Range, +1 Critical Multiplier
Weapon Attachment: .5[2D8]
Guild Airship Buff: .25[2D8]
Harper Enchantment: +1 to weapon Enchantment Bonus
Infused Weapon: +1 to weapon Enchantment Bonus

+14 Great Crossbow- 6.25[2d8] 17-20x3 That's what would reflect on the weapon self buffed on its BDR. I for one, really want to see what the BDR says for that.

BDR *as displayed on weapon, if my calculations are correct, which are almost certainly off as I'm currently reworking my BDR formula to match more precisely with DDO:
99.58

*This number is getting closer to being accurate but, I still don't have the formula at 100% as displayed in game, and am only trying to closely forecast for comparison purposes.
*If anyone can help with this with actual in-game Complete Thunderforged Heavy Repeater/Great Crossbow numbers under the same or similar circumstances I would greatly appreciate it.

Now, continue through what the weapon actually will become:

Improved Critical Ranged

+14, 6.25[2d8] 13-20x3 which will not be displayed on the weapon for BDR

Deadly Weapons Artificer buff making

+14, 7.25[2D8] 13-20x3

The expansion of this weapons damage in this builds configuration continues:

Overwhelming Crit: +1 to Crit Multiplier on attack rolls of 19 and 20.
Combat Archery: +1[2D8] When in Range.
Point Blank Shot: +1[2D8] When in Range.

MAXIMUM

+14, 9.25[2d8] 13-18x3, 19-20x4 When in Point Blank Shot Range.

That effectively makes the BDR [Or, in other words, average actual base damage per hit (assuming 1's always miss and 2's always hitting), and accounting for its true Critical Threat profile from Imp Crit Ranged, which would not be displayed on the weapon but, given here to sum up the what the weapon actually does for comparison purposes vs. 0%Fort]... ...

xxx Piercing Damage

Let's cypher numbers against helpless:

W/out Sense Weakness;

xxx Piercing Damage

W/Sense Weakness;

xxx Piercing Damage

Keep in mind those numbers do not apply any bonus' to weapon received from INT. Those are strictly the numbers based on what the weapon itself is able to do alone as a Great Crossbow would do under that MAXIMUM circumstance without using the INT modifier for damage. Then consider what will happen with a 60+ INT, Know the Angles, Endless Fusilade, additional weapon effects, and further standard damage weapon techniques to expand DPS, etc...

*to all the mathematicians out there, please correct me if I am wrong and have made an error in my math as presented.


ADDITIONAL WEAPON EFFECTS

Rune Arms Like:
Toven's Hammer Lightning Strike and +2d8 Electrical damage/hit

Other effects:
Envenomed Blades: +1d6 Poison damage/hit
Quiver of Poison: +1D10 Poison damage/hit
Knight of the Chalice: +1D4 to +1D8 Scaling Light damage/hit
Flame Arrow: +1D6 Fire Damage/hit
Elemental Weapons: +1D6 XXX Damage/hit (Only if not self Buffed with Enchant Weapon or Artificer Buffed with Deadly Weapons)

and more...

All while using MAX INT to Attack and Damage, Endless Fusilade, Know the Angles, and active attacks such as Pin, Otto's Whistler, and others complimented quite nicely with Improved Precise Shot. One Last thing to consider with the Great Crossbow. A very special property of the weapon that on vorpal Knocks down enemies with no save. This is a great utility for EE content and may frankly put its utility and effectiveness over the top.

All in all I believe the over all damage that the Great Crossbow offers will truly make this build live up to its name in being a BALLISTA SNIPER!!

I will not entirely rule out the option of using Heavy Repeaters because of their proven effectiveness. But, for starters, I will aim down the sights of the Great Crossbow to expedite superior DPS on the enemy in efforts of "ONE SHOT, ONE KILL". Making this build among the top Ranged DPS builds in the game. Not to mention that this build is set up for Maximum Trapsmithing Skill, Superior Saves, and Survivability.

[Sedona]

Reserved for future use.

[Blackheartox]

Uhm if you alrdy want to do that kind of build, then either sun elf or bladeforged offer way better things for you.
I would suggest sun elf due to ability to totaly ignore horrible artie tree and focus on aa and knight.
Overall a odd build that really isnt ee focused.
Fun flavor build tho

Also, force of personality? What for?

[Sedona]

Uhm if you alrdy want to do that kind of build, then either sun elf or bladeforged offer way better things for you.

I had noted above that I tried to work those races up, on paper, and some of the reasons I decided not to use them. The only thing I can say is you would have to try fitting the stat points in, on a character generator yourself to see what I'm saying about it. In efforts to do this general build in other racial configurations, I wanted to MAX INT, meet 21 DEX requirement for Combat Archery, and maintain a serviceable CHA for Divine Grace. Have a go at it and compare it in a character generator and, I think you will agree too.

I would suggest sun elf due to ability to totaly ignore horrible artie tree and focus on aa and knight.

Admittedly the Battle Engineer tree is not the very best DDO has to offer. However, with Weapon Attachment (+.5[2D8] with Great Crossbows), Fusillade, Infused Weapons, +2 INT, +4 to hit and +6 damage with Great Crossbow from Crossbow Taining IV, and +3 Extra boosts for Fusilade it makes for an incredible supplement for this build. Whereas the majority of the phenomenal firepower comes from the Harper Tree with enhancements such as Know the Angles, +4 INT, Harper Enchantment, Agent of Good, and Versatile Adept.

Also, force of personality? What for?

Protection of course. There are a number of reasons but will just list a few. Spell wards; as they threaten you with Will Saves, spells like Electric Loop and Static Shock, for when the builds SR fails, and not having to slot a Wisdom item.

As for:

Overall a odd build that really isnt ee focused.
Fun flavor build tho

I assure you, this build is all about efficiency and effectiveness in EE "End Game Content" and less about flavor. I will post more in depth in the reserved posts above, about the DPSing thoughts for this build. However, what I will tell you now is the DPS will be there and be very effective.

Secondly, I'll tell you that EE's are exactly why this build has made such a significant investment into Saves through Palladin, Insightful Reflexes, and Force of Personality. Also, there still are deadly traps and more xp to be gained in EE content to deal with and attain. This characters trapping skills are par excellence and made very efficient and fast through Nothing is Hidden and having enhancements and INT to boost those skills. Self healing is also a critical feature for creating a character to deal with the onslaught of damage that can come in EE's and, this character will have a significant amount available for it with LoH's, Cocoon (boosted by solid positive Spell Power), a generous spell point pool, and Scroll use. Not to mention being a ranged character also provides a significant buffer to buy time to self heal whilst still dishing out damage at range. Lastly, this build is set up to wear Heavy Armor in Fury of the Wild, or wearing Light Armor in Shadowdancer with Evasion. All in effort to maintain higher PRR and MRR values for defensive properties.

In conclusion, I feel this is a State of the Art character build made specifically for Epic Elite content and doing so in an efficient and effective manner.



I wrote up a bit more in detail but again lost it, thus why I don't post much.

[Tilomere]

Have you considered ED effects? It would seem that combining Adrenaline, Sniper Shot or Slaying Shot, Manyshot when available, and Holy Sword together on a 14 Pali 6 ranger would seem epic for a sniper.

If you stick with arti, I would suggest runearm and 2 arti much earlier, as a Hand of the Tombs crafted down 2 levels gives you disruption on your weapon starting at level 7. I saw manyshot, but shurikens would also recharge adrenaline fairly fast on a drow, especially on a dex/int build. 6 ranger would also provide manyshot. Skeletal undead which are resistant to piercing damage are very quickly dispatched with +++ shuriken/Hand of Tombs/frozen tunic combo while leveling.

Edit: sadface on Divine Sacrifice.

Ranger should also let you start in primal ED, if needed.

[Krelar]

Have you considered ED effects? It would seem that combining Adrenaline, Sniper Shot, Divine Sacrifice, and Holy Sword together on a 14 Pali 6 ranger would seem more fitting for a sniper.

Divine Sacrifice doesn't work with ranged weapons.

[Tilomere]

Divine Sacrifice doesn't work with ranged weapons.

Well, I guess that would free up AP for Slaying-Adrenaline-Holy Sword - Ballista or Manyshotted Arrow hits.

[Sedona]

Have you considered ED effects? It would seem that combining Adrenaline, Sniper Shot or Slaying Shot, Manyshot when available, and Holy Sword together on a 14 Pali 6 ranger would seem epic for a sniper.

If you stick with arti, I would suggest runearm and 2 arti much earlier, as a Hand of the Tombs crafted down 2 levels gives you disruption on your weapon starting at level 7. I saw manyshot, but shurikens would also recharge adrenaline fairly fast on a drow, especially on a dex/int build. 6 ranger would also provide manyshot. Skeletal undead which are resistant to piercing damage are very quickly dispatched with +++ shuriken/Hand of Tombs/frozen tunic combo while leveling.

Edit: sadface on Divine Sacrifice.

Ranger should also let you start in primal ED, if needed.

I am continuing to write up this build in an effort to give more detailed specifics of what is going on with it. Last night I had several hours wiped out by a save malfuntion and lost all my detailed specifics on ED's, appropriate Twist of Fate, and choices concerning them.

Yes, Fury of the wild is a major player in this build but the build also allows for use of Shadowdancer, Fatesinger, and Unyeilding Sentinel/Divine Crusader. I am very excited about the extra rune arm damage and many extra bonus the build will be tacking on to the weapon it uses.

It is currently a work in progrerss and will take me some time to complete in depth but I do intend on giving more detailed info in the near future.

[Blackheartox]

How about human?
Dual action boost?
Pretty sure that tops anything drow offers a free feat and possible racial amp.
I always count in +6 tomes when building for prereqs heh, so my bad if i offer some bad advice about classes, but both sun elf and bf offer more then drow imo

[Oxarhamar]

Currently Running

14 Paladin 4 Artificer 2 Monk

Full time Repeater Build

It's capable and has been capable of EE with only 4-6 Arti levels splashed with other ranged classes on any class for PL and on any Race prior to Harper and Holy Sword in any Sphere of you know how to build play a full ranged repeater. (for those questioning EE validity)

[Oxarhamar]

Harper Overlord


14 Paladin 4 Artificer 2 Monk

Enhancements


38 Harper
(Core)
Agent of good I
INT
Agent of Good II
INT
Agent of Good III
(Tree)
Harper Enhancement
Strategic Combat I
Know The Angles (3/3)
Versatile Adept I (3/3)
Highly Skilled (2/3)
Versatile Adept II (3/3)
Strategic Combat II
INT
Versatile Adept III (3/3)
Magic of Austerity
INT
Enhancement of Deception
Versatile Adept IV (3/3)

24 Battle Engineer
(Core)
Battle Engineer
Infused Weapons
(Tree)
Crossbow Training
Field Engineer (3/3)
Crossbow Training
Ranged Wrack Construct (1/3) < mostly taken over Damage Boost to spend 1 point vs. 2 and advance to the next tier
Crossbow Training
Extra Action Boost (3/3)
INT
Crossbow Training
Endless Fusilage

18 Bladeforged
(Cores)
Improved Fortification
Warforged Constitution
Improved Fortification
Warforged Constitution
(Tree)
Healers Friend (1/3) < prefer having both moderately strong Recon & Positive Healing to one or the other.
Inscribed Armor (1/3) < no more 5% failure on Scrolls Composite Body Plating (Inscribed Armor in Battle Engineer requires 6 Artificer levels)
Communion of Scribing (3/3)
Weapon Attachment
Communion of Handling
Power of the Forge


Feats (Not listed in leveling order as I don't have them charted out I just choose them as I go I've built using the same feats since ~U18 for every Artificer based life save special lives like Kensei or no Monk I prefer Rogue etc.. but this is the basic concept )
Point Blank Shot
Completionist
Dodge (monk Bonus)
Precision (monk bonus)
Precise Shot
Improved Precise shot
Insightful Reflexes
Quicken (Artificer Bonus)
Improved Critical Ranged
Rapid Shot
Bladesworn Transformation (Bladeforged Paladin freebie)

Epic
Combat Archery
Overwhelming Critical
Holy Strike
Blinding speed
Double Shot


The build is a bit of a glass cannon. I choose DPS options on about every bit of gear/enhancement/feats I can over defense in most cases but, I've enjoyed it even before Holy Sword it played basically the same just with different buffs dependent on class splits.

This is a Full time Repeater No offensive casting or Runearm firing all SP is used for self buffs & Healing.


(Before Harper Tree)
I've taken any class split with 4-6 Artificer Levels into EE content using this basic framework in EVERY Sphere for ETR purposes (Fatesinger Being the weakest)
I have also used this framework to play every Iconic race it doesn't really matter things change here and there but 24 points in Battle Engineer in the basic starting point on all my lives.

[Sedona]

How about human?
Dual action boost?
Pretty sure that tops anything drow offers a free feat and possible racial amp.
I always count in +6 tomes when building for prereqs heh, so my bad if i offer some bad advice about classes, but both sun elf and bf offer more then drow imo

The Drow offers a significant amount to this build surprisingly. I haven't played a Drow in at least 4 years and really tried everything I could in avoiding doing so. I have been working on this build for almost 4 months to be honest. All in an effort, to set up my character, with a top notch ranged build that I "created" to keep him in that profile for an extended period of time for Epic Reincarnations. I wanted something to call my own while maximizing all the tools the game had to offer. I really didn't want to risk it with a Drow, thinking, Bladeforged or Human can put out more DPS than Drow for sure. I have several Bladeforged characters and love them. I have played countless humans and loved them too. Not to mention that I currently run.

Mois- Sun Elf 8Ftr/6Monk/6Clr Multi-class (Current-"Hawkgirl" Flavor Build-W/3 Sorc PL, 1 FVS-Evoker PL, 2 Epic PL's-Arcane Alacrity and is generally my "Caster")
Xisix- PDK Swashbuckler Multi-class (Main Character with 9 heroic PLs and 6 Epic PLs, 3 Iconic, +6 Tomes yada yada)
Sixis- Pure Bladforged Paladin (#2 Main- W/3 FTR PL, 1 BRB PL and 3 Martial Doublestrike PL's, +6 Tomes)
Six- Bladeforged 9Monk/8FTR/3Pal Centered ESoS user (2 Ranger PLs, 2Monk PLs, 1 Fighter PL)

...among others but those are My "Mains".

I have been playing since Feb 2006 and have rarely taken extended breaks, but for short periods of time. I know this game in and out and always seek to learn more about it's intricacies. With that said, I know what I'm doing and am generally respected and known on my server Khyber. In being so, I don't want to put a character out there that will be less than very successful and efficient, but it does happen from time to time. I think through my character builds thoroughly and do what i can to generally maximize effectiveness and efficiency. I really do think that Drow is the best choice for this specific build and general duties I will require of it. I am certain however, that another skilled player can make a similar build using different races and/or class options with major focus' on Holy Sword, Harper, Trapping Duties, Ranged DPS in general, Excellent Saves, Survivability.

But for me, the major difference lied in the synergy Drow offers with this builds requirements for Stats, Trapping Duties (Nothing is Hidden is an "Easy Button" for trapping and once you use it trapping without it just isn't the same), Harper, Extra damage from Envenomed Blades, and some minor flexibility if I so desired to swap to a DEX focus and throw Shuriken. But to be honest my jaw dropped several times while working this build up and seeing how much of a difference Drow made concerning its STAT distribution.

Thank you for your feed back and I welcome any and all to offer advice and I will take in and test any good info I get.

-Six

[Sedona]

Currently Running

14 Paladin 4 Artificer 2 Monk

Full time Repeater Build

It's capable and has been capable of EE with only 4-6 Arti levels splashed with other ranged classes on any class for PL and on any Race prior to Harper and Holy Sword in any Sphere of you know how to build play a full ranged repeater. (for those questioning EE validity)

Thank you Ox. Your build looks extremely fun as well, and I'm sure it is very effective. I do have a couple questions for you if you don't mind answering them for me. Concerning the repeater, when you use Adrenaline and you fire your repeater does the effect apply to all 3 bolts? I really don't have much experience using a repeater and am sadly ignorant to them aside from seeing their effectiveness from party members.

Precision is also another feat that I desired that I wasn't able to fit in but could swap out Force of Personality with this build but, am not quite sure of which benefits this build more. How have you liked it and how do you feel about it when you aren't fighting Constructs and Undead.

I am not ruling out Heavy Repeater and, will likely use them while leveling through heroics and some epic levels, after I stop going sword and board and have Rune arm use as I am partly aware of the damage that can be done with them. However, I would like to test my Complete Thunderforged Great Crossbow I have sitting in the bank, and I do have enough resources saved should the event arise to build a repeater if the Great Crossbow doesn't live up to what I hope from it. Ultimately DPS is the name of the game and I aim to utilize every bit that the game has to offer.

I mostly made this character for epic reincarnating purposes and ultimately created the build focusing on that alone. I am going to read your write up on your build you have posted and get back to you thanks in advance, for any info you can offer.

[Oxarhamar]

Thank you Ox. Your build looks extremely fun as well, and I'm sure it is very effective. I do have a couple questions for you if you don't mind answering them for me. Concerning the repeater, when you use Adrenaline and you fire your repeater does the effect apply to all 3 bolts? I really don't have much experience using a repeater and am sadly ignorant to them aside from seeing their effectiveness from party members.

Precision is also another feat that I desired that I wasn't able to fit in but could swap out Force of Personality with this build but, am not quite sure of which benefits this build more. How have you liked it and how do you feel about it when you aren't fighting Constructs and Undead.

I am not ruling out Heavy Repeater and, will likely use them while leveling through heroics and some epic levels, after I stop going sword and board and have Rune arm use as I am partly aware of the damage that can be done with them. However, I would like to test my Complete Thunderforged Great Crossbow I have sitting in the bank, and I do have enough resources saved should the event arise to build a repeater if the Great Crossbow doesn't live up to what I hope from it. Ultimately DPS is the name of the game and I aim to utilize every bit that the game has to offer.

I mostly made this character for epic reincarnating purposes and ultimately created the build focusing on that alone. I am going to read your write up on your build you have posted and get back to you thanks in advance, for any info you can offer.

It can proc on multi bolts but, its not 100% unless you heavily invest in the stacking ranged alacrity effects to get those shots out faster. (I think Blackheart has the skinny on that)

I like DC & LD the most never like Fury but, that's more of a person play style thing than DPS

as for undeads and construst that's why I like Precision as well ase maybe twisting more fort bypass and wearing items for that situational.

[Sedona]

It can proc on multi bolts but, its not 100% unless you heavily invest in the stacking ranged alacrity effects to get those shots out faster.

I like DC & LD the most never like Fury but, that's more of a person play style thing than DPS

Fury of the Wild would be a great destiny for this build mostly for Manyshot usage which is one significant difference between our builds. The utility of pulling out the bow for those instances when Manyshot is ready is a major player in the Ballista Sniper arsenal for DPS. Then supplementing with Fusilade when Manyshot is on "Cooldown" in order to continue to punish the enemy. Fighter haste boost is also a consideration to supplement Manyshot and or extend available action boosts needed for the Crossbow to be more effective. Furthermore, the Adrenaline shots can be added to the crossbow to quickly vanquish any foe that may choose to get in your face (I especially like the promise of the Great Crossbow for this reason). It is however like you said more of a player personal preference as opposed to a major difference in DPS.

Does Fusilade and LD Haste boost stack? Meaning, can you run them simultaneously?

Also, have you used Consume from Shadowdancer much and how do you like the results? It would seem to me that with Shadow Manipulation, Consume, Executioners Shot, and Shrouding Shot, that there would be a considerable amount of effectiveness to be had from an INT based ranged attacker. Which also benefits from Shadowform offering 25% Incorporeal bonus.

[Oxarhamar]

Fury of the Wild would be a great destiny for this build mostly for Manyshot usage which is one significant difference between our builds. The utility of pulling out the bow for those instances when Manyshot is ready is a major player in the Ballista Sniper arsenal for DPS. Then supplementing with Fusilade when Manyshot is on "Cooldown" in order to continue to punish the enemy. Fighter haste boost is also a consideration to supplement Manyshot and or extend available action boosts needed for the Crossbow to be more effective. Furthermore, the Adrenaline shots can be added to the crossbow to quickly vanquish any foe that may choose to get in your face (I especially like the promise of the Great Crossbow for this reason). It is however like you said more of a player personal preference as opposed to a major difference in DPS.

Does Fusilade and LD Haste boost stack? Meaning, can you run them simultaneously?

Also, have you used Consume from Shadowdancer much and how do you like the results? It would seem to me that with Shadow Manipulation, Consume, Executioners Shot, and Shrouding Shot, that there would be a considerable amount of effectiveness to be had from an INT based ranged attacker. Which also benefits from Shadowform offering 25% Incorporeal bonus.

no to the boosts


I did not like shadowdancer but, it ha been ages since I have tried it

all "shot type" attacks are rather buggy with a repeater

[Sedona]

no to the boosts


I did not like shadowdancer but, it ha been ages since I have tried it

Concerning Shadowdancer, I suspect it may be worthwhile to test its effectiveness. Although, it may alter some of your current playstyle and ease of solely shooting off volleys of bolts with the repeater while passively gaining significant bonus' to damage. In doing so, you may find more satisfaction in the active gameplay aspects and increased efficiency through greater incorporeality benefits and insta-kill properties of Consume, Shadow Manipulation, and Executioners Strike all the while gaining more Dodge, and significant Backstab damage on the back end, among other goodies that ED has to offer for you.

all "shot type" attacks are rather buggy with a repeater

For me, that fact alone may continue to push me towards Great Crossbows over Heavy Repeaters, depending on actual gameplay and testing.

Thanks again Ox for the info. I am generally pretty active on the keyboard when I play and take pleasure in active attacks for additional DPS. Honestly, I probably am a bit of a professional kill stealer when it comes to that in real gameplay. Not that I didn't earn the kill just solidifying the kill for myself with those active attacks. I look forward to adding as many active attacks as possible, through ToF, considering that this build does not have any active ranged attacks available to it (with exception to Wrack Construct as the situation would present itself against Constructs) in its enhancement trees or feats. Whereas, a Ranger multi-class may use Sniper Shot or Slaying Arrow to additionally charge its Adrenalized Manyshot attack to fully optimize its Burst DPS, or for any other attack it may choose while on "Cooldown" of Manyshot or 10k Stars to supplement it's DPS.

[Oxarhamar]

Concerning Shadowdancer, I suspect it may be worthwhile to test its effectiveness. Although, it may alter some of your current playstyle and ease of solely shooting off volleys of bolts with the repeater while passively gaining significant bonus' to damage. In doing so, you may find more satisfaction in the active gameplay aspects and increased efficiency through greater incorporeality benefits and insta-kill properties of Consume, Shadow Manipulation, and Executioners Strike all the while gaining more Dodge, and significant Backstab damage on the back end, among other goodies that ED has to offer for you.




For me, that fact alone may continue to push me towards Great Crossbows over Heavy Repeaters, depending on actual gameplay and testing.

Thanks again Ox for the info. I am generally pretty active on the keyboard when I play and take pleasure in active attacks for additional DPS. Honestly, I probably am a bit of a professional kill stealer when it comes to that in real gameplay. Not that I didn't earn the kill just solidifying the kill for myself with those active attacks. I look forward to adding as many active attacks as possible, through ToF, considering that this build does not have any active ranged attacks available to it (with exception to Wrack Construct as the situation would present itself against Constructs) in its enhancement trees or feats. Whereas, a Ranger multi-class may use Sniper Shot or Slaying Arrow to additionally charge its Adrenalized Manyshot attack to fully optimize its Burst DPS, or for any other attack it may choose while on "Cooldown" of Manyshot or 10k Stars to supplement it's DPS.

think that all crossbows suffer the same fate its in the reload animation if you don't fire the "shot attack" at the correct moment it is put on timer but, does not go off.

for me I prefer sustainable passive DPS I want all my shots to be doing the most they can without managing more and more single attacks, clickies, etc.. ( the reason I dislike Adrenaline it feels like I get nothing in-between the big spikes)

I did take another look at Shadow Dancer and still don't like it. Haven't tested it but, I respec my points up the tree.

only thing it really give me is a lot of unneeded skills I can already get every trap or door in game, 6 INT, 2 shots (which are buggy and I find to be no fun in heavy combat) for me managing not to waste my PIN is enough "shots" for me

not convinced I could ever kill anything with Executioners insta kill either I wouldn't;'t have the DC's Dex is bare minimums.


though I think that Shadow Dancers biggest pitfall for me is the fact it shares a Sphere with Legendary Dreadnaught and there is no contest once Blitz is stacked up.


* I build a Slayer Shot Artificer in my many lives Ranger/Rogue/Artificer of some mix... I dumped Slayer Shot and all that for Mechanic. Its just play style preference really.

[Sedona]

think that all crossbows suffer the same fate its in the reload animation if you don't fire the "shot attack" at the correct moment it is put on timer but, does not go off.

for me I prefer sustainable passive DPS I want all my shots to be doing the most they can without managing more and more single attacks, clickies, etc.. ( the reason I dislike Adrenaline it feels like I get nothing in-between the big spikes)

I did take another look at Shadow Dancer and still don't like it. Haven't tested it but, I respec my points up the tree.

only thing it really give me is a lot of unneeded skills I can already get every trap or door in game, 6 INT, 2 shots (which are buggy and I find to be no fun in heavy combat) for me managing not to waste my PIN is enough "shots" for me

not convinced I could ever kill anything with Executioners insta kill either I wouldn't;'t have the DC's Dex is bare minimums.


though I think that Shadow Dancers biggest pitfall for me is the fact it shares a Sphere with Legendary Dreadnaught and there is no contest once Blitz is stacked up.


* I build a Slayer Shot Artificer in my many lives Ranger/Rogue/Artificer of some mix... I dumped Slayer Shot and all that for Mechanic. Its just play style preference really.

I can fully understand the desire for the consistent passive bonus' that both LD and DC give in terms of DPS and the "Raw Power'" of "Blitzing" in LD and, the added self sufficiency and bonus DPS from Consecrated Ground and the tremendous power added through Zeal of Righteousness and Celestial Champion in DC. For which, I will not argue against in the slightest.

But again, for purposes directly related to Manyshot and the massive "Burst" damage output it offers in Fury of the Wild. However, for this Ballista Sniper build I do beleive that Fury will be an excellent ED to be in while not only gaining Karma for Epic Past Lives in the Primal Sphere but, for situationally eliminating EE bosses swiftly and exactly as needed. All the while still using Adrenaline shots sporadically to supplement DPS through out quests. Also of note while in Fury of the Wild, additional weapon effect damage will continue to aid in DPS output and some moderate self healing with Fast Healing and a significant amount of additional HP through Innate Abilities and CON will be very welcome bonus' for the build as well.

As for what I will do with the Martial sphere leveling I am slightly undecided now after discussing it with you I was figuring on Shadowdancer for all the previously mentioned reasons knowing full well, the capabilities of LD but, looking toward additional defenses gained through Evasion, Dodge, Shadow Form and playing around with Consume, Shadow Manipulation, and the active attacks for both Manyshot and the Crossbow. Only personal gameplay and testing will answer this one for me, I would suppose. It is very hard for me to put values on strictly non-DPS abilities and effects without actually realizing it in gameplay through, Death equals 0 DPS, for which I'm not a big fan of taking part in often.