Uzy VI - 10k stars, manyshot, and enless fusillade on a full AA with decent melee

[savingsoul]

[EDIT: PLEASE SEE http://forums.ddo.com/showthread.php?t=361322 for the latest discussion on the Uzy builds.]

This build is perhaps the ultimate in ranged combat versatility on a utility platform, a full Arcane Archer with manyshot and 10k stars on longbow and endless fusillade on crossbow; naturally, it has (optional) trapping skills; it also has decent melee (GTWF), modest buffing ability, and some nice defenses like evasion, reasonable AC, disease immunity, and still mind. It started out as a joke, but the proof of concept turned out so nicely that I decided to post it.

Comments welcome.

[edit: updated build w/ notes
Futher notes:
*Since Uzy has quick draw, swapping between weapons is nearly instantaneous, and
**as long as you have conjured bolts or arrows, gameplay will automatically load the corresponding ammo of either xbow or longbow** meaning
***there is really no need to fiddle with opening inventory, opening, unloading/loading quivers, etc.*** and
****switching weapons is a breeze***
*Because **Uzy can conjure bolts and arrows, or use a fire arrow wand/spell to bring about fire bolts and arrows, **
***managing ammo is a breeze***
*conjured arrows are infinite and can be imbued with force, acid, fire, fear, and slaying, so there is rarely need or reason to use fire arrows (though, where optimal, there's nothing preventing you from using them).*
*fire arrows will automatically load/reload when arcane arrows are removed from your inventory.*
*conjured bolts are finite, and if you bring about fire bolts via wand/spell, they will automatically load when you fully exhaust your conjured bolts* which means that
*you should simply not conjure bolts when you expect good procs from fire bolts (you enter the troll lair), then bring about several fire bolts via wand/spell, and gameplay will automatically load the fire bolts--this can all be done without ever opening up inventory.*
*Uzy switches to handwraps to build ki and to provide blunt damage on oozes and skellies, and in such cases you may need to reenter a stance in order to capitalize on monk stances; however, your reasoning should simply be that using xbows is like another monk stance that grants you xbow use and costs all of your existing ki; it's really as simple as that; use this stance when ki is <=7; when you reason that way you will also appreciate that it is merely one click on the xbow icon to enter that "stance" fully equipped with an xbow.
*You can use kamas for slash damage while in monk stances to build ki; or if you are a rebel, you can pull out scimitars or a greatsword, just consider using them like another monk stance [see point above] that costs you all your ki* as **Uzy has full martial weapon proficiency; use it to your advantage** and ***I guess what I'm trying to say here is that pulling out a repeater on a monkcher should be no more controversial than pulling out a greatsword (or even a couple of scimitars) on a <20 monk (or monk splash), which I've seen many times before.***
*Uzy can cast the Byeshk Weapons or Adamantine Weapons spells on any weapon, which should facilitate overall inventory management.
*The training dummy takes on a whole new meaning with Uzy. You can use it to optimize and practice your cycles between longbow, xbow, or melee. It will help you put your clickies in the ideal place. The dummy is now your friend! The next option, of course, is to do slayers, where you can put theory into practice.
*If you are concerned about Uzy VI's intitial int of 12 you should consider that (1) Uzy doesn't get insightful damage until level 18, and (2) the well-established economic theory of diminishing marginal utility states that the more you have of any one category of good -- like a particular stat -- the less each unit of that stat is worth. In this context, that simply means that *as you approach endgame both initial and ultimate differences in stats become less and less significant*. The more buffs and the more awesome items there are, the higher all stats become, and the less significant initial and ultimate differences in stats become. That's solid reasoning from a PhD (ABD) in economics. Think about it. Don't worry. You're going to be able to get int relatively high, and at endgame the repeater will be the least used weapon out of longbow, melee, and xbow.*

I give you, Uzy VI:

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 03.12.01
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Uzy VI (6M-6Rr-8A)
Level 20 Lawful Good Half-Elf Female
(6 Monk \ 6 Ranger \ 8 Artificer) 
Hit Points: 296
Spell Points: 556 
BAB: 16\16\21\26\26
Fortitude: 15
Reflex: 17
Will: 19

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             14                    16
Dexterity            16                    21
Constitution         14                    16
Intelligence         12                    16
Wisdom               14                    22
Charisma              8                     8

Tomes Used
+2 Tome of Strength used at level 7
+2 Tome of Dexterity used at level 7
+2 Tome of Constitution used at level 7
+2 Tome of Intelligence used at level 7
+2 Tome of Wisdom used at level 7

Level 1 (Artificer)
Feat: (Half-Elf Dilettante) Half-Elf Dilettante: Barbarian
Feat: (Selected) Point Blank Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Construct Mastery
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Scrolls
Feat: (Automatic) Attack
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Great Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Heavy Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Light Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Keen Senses
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Mixed Heritage
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Social Graces (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Heroic Durability
Feat: (Automatic) Inscribe Artificer Scroll
Feat: (Automatic) Light Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Magical Training
Feat: (Automatic) Medium Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Reload
Feat: (Automatic) Revive Iron Defender
Feat: (Automatic) Simple Weapon Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Sneak
Feat: (Automatic) Trapfinding
Feat: (Automatic) Unleash Iron Defender
Spell (1): Conjure Bolts
Spell (1): Enchant Armor
Spell (1): Enchant Weapons


Level 2 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Toughness
Feat: (Automatic) AC Bonus
Feat: (Automatic) Defensive Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Breezes
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Candles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Pebbles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Puddles
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kama
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Shuriken
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves
Feat: (Automatic) Flurry of Blows
Feat: (Automatic) Martial Weapon Proficiency: Handaxe
Feat: (Automatic) Unarmed Strike


Level 3 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Dodge
Feat: (Selected) Skill Focus: Use Magic Device
Feat: (Automatic) Evasion
Feat: (Automatic) Meditation
Feat: (Automatic) Sunder
Feat: (Automatic) Trip


Level 4 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Construct
Feat: (Automatic) Bow Strength
Feat: (Automatic) Martial Weapon Proficiency (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Shield Proficiency (General)
Feat: (Automatic) Wild Empathy


Level 5 (Ranger)
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Two Weapon Fighting


Level 6 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Weapon Focus: Ranged Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Diehard


Level 7 (Ranger)
Spell (1): Camouflage
Spell (1): Jump
Spell (1): Longstrider
Spell (1): Merfolk's Blessing
Spell (1): Ram's Might
Spell (1): Resist Energy
Spell (1): Summon Nature's Ally I
Spell (1): Tumble


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider


Level 9 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Quick Draw
Feat: (Automatic) Improved Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Manyshot


Level 10 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Path) Path of Inevitable Dominion: Fists of Darkness
Feat: (Automatic) Fast Movement
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Harmonious Balance (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Inevitable Dominion (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Still Mind


Level 11 (Monk)
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Magic
Feat: (Automatic) Slow Fall


Level 12 (Monk)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Ranged Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Damage
Feat: (Automatic) Purity of Body


Level 13 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Zen Archery


Level 14 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Potions
Feat: (Automatic) Rune Arm Use
Spell (1): Grease


Level 15 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Greater Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Wands
Spell (2): Flame Arrow


Level 16 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Precise Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Trapmaking
Spell (2): Elemental Weapons


Level 17 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Arms and Armor
Feat: (Automatic) Retain Essence
Spell (2): Byeshk Weapons


Level 18 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Bludgeoning Weapons
Spell (3): Insightful Damage


Level 19 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge (ALL)
Spell (3): Adamantine Weapons


Level 20 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Improved Precise Shot
Spell (3): Curative Admixture: Cure Serious Wounds
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost I
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost II
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Acid Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Explosive Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Force Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Slaying Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Terror Arrows
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Attack I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage II
Enhancement: Artificer Battle Engineer I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Human Versatility I
Enhancement: Human Versatility II
Enhancement: Human Versatility III
Enhancement: Ten Thousand Stars
Enhancement: Porous Soul
Enhancement: Monk Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Monk Ninja Spy I
Enhancement: Adept of Wind
Enhancement: Adept of Rock
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +2 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +3 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +4 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +5 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer I
Enhancement: Improved Jump I
Enhancement: Improved Jump II
Enhancement: Improved Tumble I
Enhancement: Improved Tumble II
Enhancement: Improved Use Magic Device I
Enhancement: Improved Use Magic Device II
Enhancement: Artificer Energy of Creation I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence I
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence II
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom I
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom II
Enhancement: Half-Elf Barbarian Toughness I
Enhancement: Half-Elf Barbarian Toughness II
Enhancement: Artificer Wand and Scroll Mastery I
Enhancement: Artificer Wand and Scroll Mastery II

Two suggested ways of allocating skill points on this build are:
[note: these are points allocated, not total mod.]
(1) Concentration - 18, Disable Device - 23, Search - 23, Spot - 10, Use Magic Device - 23, Balance - 6, Jump - 3, Tumble - 1.
(2) Concentration - 18, Disable Device - 23, Search - 23, Spot - 23, Balance - 13, Jump - 8, Tumble - 1.

If you take the second option, effectively giving up UMD, then you will also gain a feat by dropping Skill Focus:UMD and free up a couple action points by dropping the UMD enhancements.

Gameplay can vary according to your style, however my experience suggests optimal results during levels 1-12 involve (i) using longbow only when manyshot is available, (ii) using the heavy repeater for normal ranged combat, and (iii) switching to melee when enemies are near or to provide blunt or slash damage. At level 13 and beyond, gameplay should then focus on the longbow using manyshot and 10k stars in mountain stance, using the repeater only when endless fusillade is available and total ki <= 7, then switch to melee if necessary to build ki for 10k stars, and perhaps to provide blunt or slash damage, etc.

You have the option of using the following leveling strategy:
1. Because Uzy does not need wis to be high until she gets zen archery/10k stars at level 13, Uzy's intitial stats could be 16str, 16dex, 14con, 8int, 14wis, 8cha (if you like using the repeater and having slightly higher AC, will saves, and total ki); 17, 16, 14, 8, 11, 8 (if you like a balanced build); or maybe even 18, 16, 14, 8, 8, 8 (if you like brutal buck-naked melee and/or use of the longbow). Optimize the spot skill, then put remaining points into balance, etc. At level 4, put ability point into dex; at level 8 and 12, put ability point into str. Take enhancements like Kensei I in your preferred weapon.
2. Then at level 13, when you get zen archery/10k stars, you can lesser reincarnate to the initial stats and build above, taking Kensei I in the longbow, etc. Get concentration to 20, then put remaining points into balance, spot, umd, etc.
]


/original post and build starts here/

I know from playing my unarmed "beastly archer" build that it's not a huge problem to lose ki when switching to and from a longbow (as the original unarmed beastly archer I played had no zen archery feat). Uzy VI assumes the same regarding heavy repeaters; when repeaters are used you lose center but do not lose the wisdom bonus to AC. However, to take advantage of the 10k stars enhancement, you do need ki, so what do you do? First of all, you max out concentration. But seriously, I'm being an optimist here and am willing to bet that one can find a rhythm of alternating endless fusillade, manyshot, 10k stars, and melee that works. Rune arms are more of a problem, as they are like shields or armor that remove your wisdom bonus to AC. Even here, however, one might find it possible to use rune arms alongside repeaters on this build when enemies are far enough away.

(The build as proposed may be kinda squishy in melee, but it's glory is in ranged combat, so perhaps that is not a huge issue; also, someone TRing is going to be able to put more points into Con [or whatever else], and make it all the more viable. I'm surprised and delighted that this build is even possible as a 32 pointer. I decided to put all ability points into dex because it is the common denominator between finessed handwrap, longbow, and xbow attack. Also, you could go dark monk, squeeze in Ninja I and finesse shortswords; i personally like the attack on handwraps even though the crit is weak. Start with the artificer class if you want trap skills; so you would basically swap ranger for artificer at level 1, and vice versa at level 4.)

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 03.12.01
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Uzy VI (6M-6Rr-8A)
Level 20 Lawful Good Half-Elf Female
(6 Monk \ 6 Ranger \ 8 Artificer) 
Hit Points: 256
Spell Points: 511 
BAB: 16\16\21\26\26
Fortitude: 14
Reflex: 19
Will: 16

                  Starting            Ending          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats         Base Stats         Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)          (Level 20)           (Level 20)
Strength             14                 14                   14
Dexterity            16                 21                   25
Constitution         14                 14                   14
Intelligence         14                 14                   16
Wisdom               12                 14                   16
Charisma              8                  8                    8

Tomes Used
+1 Tome of Wisdom used at level 3
+2 Tome of Wisdom used at level 19

Level 1 (Ranger)
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Undead
Feat: (Half-Elf Dilettante) Half-Elf Dilettante: Rogue
Feat: (Selected) Toughness
Feat: (Automatic) Attack
Feat: (Automatic) Bow Strength
Feat: (Automatic) Defensive Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Keen Senses
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Mixed Heritage
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Social Graces (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Heroic Durability
Feat: (Automatic) Light Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Martial Weapon Proficiency (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Shield Proficiency (General)
Feat: (Automatic) Simple Weapon Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Sneak
Feat: (Automatic) Sunder
Feat: (Automatic) Trip
Feat: (Automatic) Wild Empathy


Level 2 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Weapon Finesse
Feat: (Automatic) AC Bonus
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Breezes
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Candles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Pebbles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Puddles
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kama
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Shuriken
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves
Feat: (Automatic) Flurry of Blows
Feat: (Automatic) Unarmed Strike


Level 3 (Monk)
Feat: (Selected) Point Blank Shot
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Power Attack
Feat: (Automatic) Evasion
Feat: (Automatic) Meditation


Level 4 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Construct Mastery
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Scrolls
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Great Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Heavy Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Light Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Inscribe Artificer Scroll
Feat: (Automatic) Magical Training
Feat: (Automatic) Medium Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Reload
Feat: (Automatic) Revive Iron Defender
Feat: (Automatic) Trapfinding
Feat: (Automatic) Unleash Iron Defender


Level 5 (Ranger)
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Two Weapon Fighting


Level 6 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Weapon Focus: Ranged Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Diehard


Level 7 (Ranger)
Spell (1): Camouflage
Spell (1): Jump
Spell (1): Longstrider
Spell (1): Merfolk's Blessing
Spell (1): Ram's Might
Spell (1): Resist Energy
Spell (1): Summon Nature's Ally I
Spell (1): Tumble


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Lawful Outsider


Level 9 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Weapon Focus: Bludgeoning Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Improved Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Manyshot


Level 10 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Path) Path of Harmonious Balance: Fists of Light
Feat: (Automatic) Fast Movement
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Harmonious Balance (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Inevitable Dominion (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Still Mind


Level 11 (Monk)
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Magic
Feat: (Automatic) Slow Fall


Level 12 (Monk)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Ranged Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Damage
Feat: (Automatic) Purity of Body


Level 13 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Zen Archery


Level 14 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Potions
Feat: (Automatic) Rune Arm Use


Level 15 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Greater Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Wands


Level 16 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Precise Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Trapmaking


Level 17 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Arms and Armor
Feat: (Automatic) Retain Essence


Level 18 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Bludgeoning Weapons


Level 19 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge (ALL)


Level 20 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Improved Precise Shot
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost I
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost II
Enhancement: Artificer Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Acid Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Explosive Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Force Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Slaying Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Terror Arrows
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Attack I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage II
Enhancement: Artificer Battle Engineer I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity II
Enhancement: Improved Rogue Dilettante I
Enhancement: Improved Rogue Dilettante II
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery II
Enhancement: Ten Thousand Stars
Enhancement: Monk Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Adept of Wind
Enhancement: Adept of Rock
Enhancement: Adept of Flame
Enhancement: Adept of Rain
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +2 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +3 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +4 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +5 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer I
Enhancement: Artificer Energy of Creation I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence I
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence II
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom I
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom II
Enhancement: Artificer Wand and Scroll Mastery I

[FengXian]

I think artificer is overkill. Your str is not very high so you lose some bow damage; your wisdom is not very high so you lose some 10k stars damage; you int is not very high so you lose fusilade damage (not very keen on artificers, they use int for damage right?). Melee is not that great either :/

If you want a build that spends most time shooting, manyshot and 10k stars are enough, you'll want to melee sometimes for ki purposes, and you have to boost str as much as you can for ranged damage anyway, so your melee to-hit and damage will still be decent.

Also in end game being ranged does not mean you can avoid being hit, you need as many hp as you can get even on ranged toons...I feel squishy sometimes at 550ish and trying to get more, and if they nerf madstone it'll become even harder.

[Thrudh]

However, to take advantage of the 10k stars enhancement, you do need ki, so what do you do? First of all, you max out concentration. But seriously, I'm being an optimist here and am willing to bet that one can find a rhythm of alternating endless fusillade, manyshot, 10k stars, and melee that works.

It won't be easy to find such a rhythm.

[savingsoul]

I think artificer is overkill. Your str is not very high so you lose some bow damage; your wisdom is not very high so you lose some 10k stars damage; you int is not very high so you lose fusilade damage (not very keen on artificers, they use int for damage right?). Melee is not that great either :/

If you want a build that spends most time shooting, manyshot and 10k stars are enough, you'll want to melee sometimes for ki purposes, and you have to boost str as much as you can for ranged damage anyway, so your melee to-hit and damage will still be decent.

Also in end game being ranged does not mean you can avoid being hit, you need as many hp as you can get even on ranged toons...I feel squishy sometimes at 550ish and trying to get more, and if they nerf madstone it'll become even harder.

Yeah, you're making some valid points, but the build does offer a lot ("overkill"--music to my ears ). Think comparatively. Arcane casters tend to have lower hit points; how do they survive? Also, I know the prepackaged builds on DDO are often weak, but I think it's important to consider that the pure ranger AA build they suggest starts out with only 14 str (and they also put all ability points into dex); to be clear, I think that's a mistake, but I don't think it qualifies as a total failure (except for the fact that they don't take the weapon finesse feat). Likewise, many a dex monk starts out with 14 str. Your point regarding wisdom is moot in light of the high dex of the build (even with zen archery, if you have a higher dex mod it will be used instead of your wis mod). Lastly, the int is leveraged by allowing not just for xbow damage, but for trap skills and the artificer buffing ability. Many rogue mechanics have 14 or 16 int, use repeaters with int mod for dmg, and put all points into dex rather than int; does anybody complain about that? Having said all that, as the OP suggested, I think someone with more ability points on their 3rd life or so could possibly make it work (even better).

Ironically, the name of the toon I already created to try this out is named monkcher--a tip of the hat to the very build you're applauding.

[JasonJi72]

I was trying to imagine how this build would play out, and I got a headache. Swapping weapons, swapping ammo, going in and out of stance, losing Ki extrememly fast, getting back into stance, watching timers, re-swapping weapons and ammo, maneuvering into position to damage multiple targets, watching your health, switching to fire stance and try to generate a lot of ki to get you through the next phase, and not doing meaningful damage in the process. Yeah, I got a headache. Sorry.

If you want to use a bow and a repeater, I would suggest a pure arty with manyshot and bow strength. You really have to almost max wisdom for stars to be effective. The 1200 crit blade barrier is also kinda nice for a ranged toon. The arty capstone is pure awesome sauce btw.

[savingsoul]

I was trying to imagine how this build would play out, and I got a headache. Swapping weapons, swapping ammo, going in and out of stance, losing Ki extrememly fast, getting back into stance, watching timers, re-swapping weapons and ammo, maneuvering into position to damage multiple targets, watching your health, switching to fire stance and try to generate a lot of ki to get you through the next phase, and not doing meaningful damage in the process. Yeah, I got a headache. Sorry.

If you want to use a bow and a repeater, I would suggest a pure arty with manyshot and bow strength. You really have to almost max wisdom for stars to be effective. The 1200 crit blade barrier is also kinda nice for a ranged toon. The arty capstone is pure awesome sauce btw.

The Uzy III and IV builds are pure arty with manyshot and bow str. http://forums.ddo.com/showthread.php?t=359878 Uzy III is a Half-Elf Arcane Archer, which is more controversial than Uzy IV, which simply has manyshot.

Anyway, Uzy VI can be optimized as soley a 10k star with manyshot build without ever pulling out a xbow, and it would still have some nice features. Artificer still synergizes because it gives you the precise shot and improved precise shot feat along with some nice buffs and skills including umd and trapping capability. Endless fusillade is fairly inexpensive in terms of action points; so it's like, why not add it? I'm playing devils advocate because the build started out as the basis for a joke, but I don't want to let go.

[savingsoul]

Here is an update of Uzy VI:

It's better focused as a utility monkcher counterpart to the rogue mechanic.

I chose the barbarian dilly feat for more hp, added quick draw for quick swapping and cooldowns, and optimized starting ability points for monkcher focus.

In terms of gameplay, you start out with primarily a repeater, switch to cycling melee with manyshot and 10k stars when you get them, then optionally add endless fusillade into the mix near endgame. You can easily opt out of using endless fusillade by dropping the battle engineer PreE and taking Ninja instead; that way you have the option of finessing shortswords and synergizing the shadow effect. The build will still have much to offer merely as a utility variation on the monkcher without ever pulling out a repeater.

I also suggest some of the more useful arty spells (and a fun one: grease )

Comments/critiques welcome and appeciated.

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 03.12.01
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Uzy VI (6M-6Rr-8A)
Level 20 Lawful Good Half-Elf Female
(6 Monk \ 6 Ranger \ 8 Artificer) 
Hit Points: 276
Spell Points: 539 
BAB: 16\16\21\26\26
Fortitude: 14
Reflex: 18
Will: 19

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             14                    14
Dexterity            16                    23
Constitution         14                    14
Intelligence         12                    14
Wisdom               14                    22
Charisma              8                     8

Tomes Used
+1 Tome of Wisdom used at level 3
+2 Tome of Dexterity used at level 7
+2 Tome of Wisdom used at level 7

Level 1 (Artificer)
Feat: (Half-Elf Dilettante) Half-Elf Dilettante: Barbarian
Feat: (Selected) Toughness
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Construct Mastery
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Scrolls
Feat: (Automatic) Attack
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Great Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Heavy Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Light Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Keen Senses
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Mixed Heritage
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Social Graces (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Heroic Durability
Feat: (Automatic) Inscribe Artificer Scroll
Feat: (Automatic) Light Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Magical Training
Feat: (Automatic) Medium Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Reload
Feat: (Automatic) Revive Iron Defender
Feat: (Automatic) Simple Weapon Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Sneak
Feat: (Automatic) Trapfinding
Feat: (Automatic) Unleash Iron Defender
Spell (1): Conjure Bolts
Spell (1): Enchant Armor
Spell (1): Enchant Weapons


Level 2 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Power Attack
Feat: (Automatic) AC Bonus
Feat: (Automatic) Defensive Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Breezes
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Candles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Pebbles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Puddles
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kama
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Shuriken
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves
Feat: (Automatic) Flurry of Blows
Feat: (Automatic) Martial Weapon Proficiency: Handaxe
Feat: (Automatic) Unarmed Strike


Level 3 (Monk)
Feat: (Selected) Point Blank Shot
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Weapon Finesse
Feat: (Automatic) Evasion
Feat: (Automatic) Meditation
Feat: (Automatic) Sunder
Feat: (Automatic) Trip


Level 4 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Construct
Feat: (Automatic) Bow Strength
Feat: (Automatic) Martial Weapon Proficiency (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Shield Proficiency (General)
Feat: (Automatic) Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Wild Empathy


Level 5 (Ranger)
Feat: (Automatic) Diehard


Level 6 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Weapon Focus: Ranged Weapons


Level 7 (Ranger)


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider
Feat: (Automatic) Improved Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Manyshot


Level 9 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Quick Draw
Feat: (Automatic) Improved Wild Empathy


Level 10 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Path) Path of Harmonious Balance: Fists of Light
Feat: (Automatic) Fast Movement
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Harmonious Balance (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Inevitable Dominion (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Still Mind


Level 11 (Monk)
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Magic
Feat: (Automatic) Slow Fall


Level 12 (Monk)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Ranged Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Damage
Feat: (Automatic) Purity of Body


Level 13 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Zen Archery


Level 14 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Potions
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Wands
Feat: (Automatic) Rune Arm Use
Spell (1): Grease


Level 15 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Greater Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Trapmaking
Spell (2): Flame Arrow


Level 16 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Precise Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Arms and Armor
Feat: (Automatic) Retain Essence
Spell (2): Elemental Weapons


Level 17 (Artificer)
Spell (2): Byeshk Weapons


Level 18 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Bludgeoning Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge (ALL)
Spell (3): Insightful Damage


Level 19 (Artificer)
Spell (3): Adamantine Weapons


Level 20 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Improved Precise Shot
Spell (3): Curative Admixture: Cure Serious Wounds
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost I
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost II
Enhancement: Artificer Skill Boost I
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Acid Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Explosive Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Force Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Slaying Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Terror Arrows
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Attack I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage II
Enhancement: Artificer Battle Engineer I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity II
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery II
Enhancement: Human Versatility I
Enhancement: Ten Thousand Stars
Enhancement: Monk Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Adept of Wind
Enhancement: Adept of Rock
Enhancement: Adept of Flame
Enhancement: Adept of Rain
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +2 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +3 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +4 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +5 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer I
Enhancement: Artificer Energy of Creation I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity II
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence I
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence II
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom I
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom II
Enhancement: Half-Elf Barbarian Toughness I
Enhancement: Half-Elf Barbarian Toughness II
Enhancement: Artificer Wand and Scroll Mastery I
Enhancement: Artificer Wand and Scroll Mastery II

[savingsoul]

See this thread http://forums.ddo.com/showthread.php?t=360721 for more on managing ki and synergizing MS, EF, and 10k stars using Uzy VII and VI.

[savingsoul]

Character Plan by DDO Character Planner Version 03.12.01
DDO Character Planner Home Page

Uzy VI (6M-6Rr-8A)
Level 20 Lawful Good Half-Elf Female
(6 Monk \ 6 Ranger \ 8 Artificer) 
Hit Points: 296
Spell Points: 556 
BAB: 16\16\21\26\26
Fortitude: 15
Reflex: 17
Will: 19

                  Starting          Feat/Enhancement
Abilities        Base Stats          Modified Stats
(32 Point)       (Level 1)             (Level 20)
Strength             14                    16
Dexterity            16                    21
Constitution         14                    16
Intelligence         12                    16
Wisdom               14                    22
Charisma              8                     8

Tomes Used

+2 Tome of Strength used at level 7
+2 Tome of Dexterity used at level 7
+2 Tome of Constitution used at level 7
+2 Tome of Intelligence used at level 7
+2 Tome of Wisdom used at level 7

Level 1 (Artificer)
Feat: (Half-Elf Dilettante) Half-Elf Dilettante: Barbarian
Feat: (Selected) Point Blank Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Construct Mastery
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Scrolls
Feat: (Automatic) Attack
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Great Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Heavy Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Repeating Light Crossbow
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Keen Senses
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Mixed Heritage
Feat: (Automatic) Half-Elven Social Graces (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Heroic Durability
Feat: (Automatic) Inscribe Artificer Scroll
Feat: (Automatic) Light Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Magical Training
Feat: (Automatic) Medium Armor Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Reload
Feat: (Automatic) Revive Iron Defender
Feat: (Automatic) Simple Weapon Proficiency
Feat: (Automatic) Sneak
Feat: (Automatic) Trapfinding
Feat: (Automatic) Unleash Iron Defender
Spell (1): Conjure Bolts
Spell (1): Enchant Armor
Spell (1): Enchant Weapons


Level 2 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Toughness
Feat: (Automatic) AC Bonus
Feat: (Automatic) Defensive Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Breezes
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Candles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Pebbles
Feat: (Automatic) Disciple of Puddles
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Kama
Feat: (Automatic) Exotic Weapon Proficiency: Shuriken
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves
Feat: (Automatic) Flurry of Blows
Feat: (Automatic) Martial Weapon Proficiency: Handaxe
Feat: (Automatic) Unarmed Strike


Level 3 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Dodge
Feat: (Selected) Skill Focus: Use Magic Device
Feat: (Automatic) Evasion
Feat: (Automatic) Meditation
Feat: (Automatic) Sunder
Feat: (Automatic) Trip


Level 4 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: DEX
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Construct
Feat: (Automatic) Bow Strength
Feat: (Automatic) Martial Weapon Proficiency (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Shield Proficiency (General)
Feat: (Automatic) Wild Empathy


Level 5 (Ranger)
Feat: (Automatic) Rapid Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Two Weapon Fighting


Level 6 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Weapon Focus: Ranged Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Diehard


Level 7 (Ranger)
Spell (1): Camouflage
Spell (1): Jump
Spell (1): Longstrider
Spell (1): Merfolk's Blessing
Spell (1): Ram's Might
Spell (1): Resist Energy
Spell (1): Summon Nature's Ally I
Spell (1): Tumble


Level 8 (Ranger)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Favored Enemy) Favored Enemy: Evil Outsider


Level 9 (Ranger)
Feat: (Selected) Quick Draw
Feat: (Automatic) Improved Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Manyshot


Level 10 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Path) Path of Inevitable Dominion: Fists of Darkness
Feat: (Automatic) Fast Movement
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Harmonious Balance (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Finishing Moves: Path of Inevitable Dominion (ALL)
Feat: (Automatic) Still Mind


Level 11 (Monk)
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Magic
Feat: (Automatic) Slow Fall


Level 12 (Monk)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Ranged Weapons
Feat: (Automatic) Ki Strike: Damage
Feat: (Automatic) Purity of Body


Level 13 (Monk)
Feat: (Monk Bonus) Zen Archery


Level 14 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Potions
Feat: (Automatic) Rune Arm Use
Spell (1): Grease


Level 15 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Greater Two Weapon Fighting
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Wands
Spell (2): Flame Arrow


Level 16 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Precise Shot
Feat: (Automatic) Trapmaking
Spell (2): Elemental Weapons


Level 17 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge: Arms and Armor
Feat: (Automatic) Retain Essence
Spell (2): Byeshk Weapons


Level 18 (Artificer)
Feat: (Selected) Improved Critical: Bludgeoning Weapons
Spell (3): Insightful Damage


Level 19 (Artificer)
Feat: (Automatic) Artificer Knowledge (ALL)
Spell (3): Adamantine Weapons


Level 20 (Artificer)
Ability Raise: WIS
Feat: (Artificer Bonus) Improved Precise Shot
Spell (3): Curative Admixture: Cure Serious Wounds
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost I
Enhancement: Artificer Damage Boost II
Enhancement: Ranger Sprint Boost I
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Acid Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Explosive Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Force Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Slaying Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Imbue Terror Arrows
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Attack I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage I
Enhancement: Artificer Crossbow Damage II
Enhancement: Artificer Battle Engineer I
Enhancement: Elven Dexterity I
Enhancement: Human Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Human Versatility I
Enhancement: Human Versatility II
Enhancement: Human Versatility III
Enhancement: Ten Thousand Stars
Enhancement: Porous Soul
Enhancement: Monk Improved Recovery I
Enhancement: Monk Ninja Spy I
Enhancement: Adept of Wind
Enhancement: Adept of Rock
Enhancement: Racial Toughness I
Enhancement: Racial Toughness II
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +2 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +3 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +4 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer: Conjure +5 Arrows
Enhancement: Elven Arcane Archer I
Enhancement: Improved Jump I
Enhancement: Improved Jump II
Enhancement: Improved Tumble I
Enhancement: Improved Tumble II
Enhancement: Improved Use Magic Device I
Enhancement: Improved Use Magic Device II
Enhancement: Artificer Energy of Creation I
Enhancement: Ranger Dexterity I
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence I
Enhancement: Artificer Intelligence II
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom I
Enhancement: Monk Wisdom II
Enhancement: Half-Elf Barbarian Toughness I
Enhancement: Half-Elf Barbarian Toughness II
Enhancement: Artificer Wand and Scroll Mastery I
Enhancement: Artificer Wand and Scroll Mastery II

Two suggested ways of allocating skill points on this build are:
[note: these are points allocated, not total mod.]
(1) Concentration - 18, Disable Device - 23, Search - 23, Spot - 10, Use Magic Device - 23, Balance - 6, Jump - 3, Tumble - 1.
(2) Concentration - 18, Disable Device - 23, Search - 23, Spot - 23, Balance - 13, Jump - 8, Tumble - 1.

If you take the second option, effectively giving up UMD, then you will also gain a feat by dropping Skill Focus:UMD and free up a couple action points by dropping the UMD enhancements.

See updated OP for further notes on this update.

[Thrudh]

It's spelled Uzi, by the way.

[savingsoul]

It's spelled Uzi, by the way.

I know, I really need to work on my spelling problem

[Zyerz]

Too much of a complex build. Why get fusillade if youre gonna go AA? It makes no sense to me. Id simply go AA with monk splashes. Thats my opinion on the subject.

My plan would be to take ranger levels for the AA and spells, while going dark monk to use shortswords (with finesse). You'd get decent melee dmg and great ranged as well.

[Thrudh]

I think 6 Monk \ 6 Ranger \ 8 Artificer is an interesting level split, but I think you may be trying to do too much in one character.

Crossbow bolts and arrows automatically switch when you switch weapons, right?

[savingsoul]

Too much of a complex build. Why get fusillade if youre gonna go AA? It makes no sense to me. Id simply go AA with monk splashes. Thats my opinion on the subject.

I think 6 Monk \ 6 Ranger \ 8 Artificer is an interesting level split, but I think you may be trying to do too much in one character.?

Gamplay on this build is pretty complex, and it is not for everyone; it is definitely not recommended for beginners. I have levelled Uzy VII to 19, which is pretty similar, though I've dropped trap skills on it. It has been very fun to play; it's an asset to parties not only in terms of damage, often with a good to top kill count, but also in terms of UMD such as raise dead, healing, remove disease, blindness, curse, etc. People appreciate elemental weapons too when a full arty is not around. For example, I was on Rainbow in the Dark with a full party including some TR'd level 20's--one a sorc--and I still had the top kill count, and you can't even see **** from a distance in that quest.

Fusillade is only used from levels 18-20, and even then, it is only used when ki is low and manyshot and 10k stars are unavailable. However, it is such an awesome boost that I still tend to use it whenever I can. The cooldown on it is only 30 secs, even if it is only a few seconds long. I can easily take down a few stragglers or a small group with a single click of it. It is also great while taking down bosses. With regards to AA, slaying arrows only work on living enemies. Of course, you will want to use them whenever appropriate. Naturally, which weapon you use will also depend on what you have available; for example, IIRC I currently don't have a longbow of disruption, but I do have a heavy repeater of disruption. I'm sure I'll have all my bases covered eventually, but I've leveled the toon so quickly it is far from fully geared. In the meantime, the versatility in terms of weaponry has been a great asset.

At the end of the day, the build doesn't seek to achieve much more than wax_on's earlier 2 rogue/12 ranger/ 6 monk build or the 3 arti/ 11 ranger/ 6 monk build he is currently working on http://forums.ddo.com/showthread.php?t=351118, which I like to call the "Asian Exploitation" project Reintroducing the repeater with endless fusillade on Uzy VI towards endgame adds another level of complexity, but it is still a considerable asset. Of course, I highly recommend having a basic hack and slash build on standby to relax and bask in some simplicity every now and then.

Crossbow bolts and arrows automatically switch when you switch weapons, right?

Yes, they automatically switch. However, you do have to click once with the weapon equipped--like you are attacking--to load the ammo. You will get a text message overhead confirming that the appropriate ammo has loaded.