Low Level Cleric Basic Strategy Advice

[Swimms]

I have a lvl 1 fighter/lvl 5 cleric that I have been playing with and would love some advice on the most efficient way to quest. First, I play solo almost exclusively so I will typically bring along a same level fighter hireling and buff with bulls str, bears end, prot from evil and divine shield and then just go wading into the monsters and heal as needed. So far I have not had much issue with quests but I am wondering if I am missing somthing from a strategy standpoint? For example, I almost never use any debuffs. Are there any spells or strategies I should be employing during these lower levels? Are there any "must use" spells that I am missing out on?

thanks

[der_kluge]

If it's not broke, why fix it?

[Angelus_dead]

Debuffs would hardly be useful, especially if you haven't felt a need for them so far. Note that the standard conclusion is that debuffs are far less valuable than the equivalent buffs in a game where the players are greatly outnumbered by the enemy.

You might consider replacing the Fighter hireling with a Cleric who helps heal (and DV) you, because it's probable that the amount of damage your current Fighter hireling inflicts is hardly worth your cost to keep it up.

But obviously, if you're doing fine now then keep going.

[Octavi]

Assuming that you are going the batle cleric path (which your 1 level of fighter seems to suggest). I would suggest you gear yourself for combat, take thf for the glancing blows, wade into the baddies and have a cleric hireling to heal and DV you when you need it. At your current level focus on AC, HPs and getting the best fort item you can. Later focus on damage reduction instead of AC.

Dont waste time on debuffs. Depending on your focus as to what spells you should take. If you are melee focused healing and buffs are all you need, blade barrier is usefull at later levels.

[JollySwagMan]

Also consider Wizard hirelings, especially the Warforged ones. Mostly for Haste, but you can also set up ambushes with Web.

[Rusty_Can]

So far I have not had much issue with quests but I am wondering if I am missing somthing from a strategy standpoint?

You might start using some Crowd Control spells; at your level, Soundburst (multiple targets) and Command (single target) work great.

[vVAnjilaVv]

If u wanna add a little bit of DC to ur spell u can also use bane right before a soundburst......it's an AoE debuff.

Also turn in your "Wavecrasher" Cargo Manifest collectibles if you have any, the collector will give you partially charged cure mod wands.