Good Horizon Walker build for returning player?

[darkniteyogi]

Hi. Took a break from the game for about a year.

It doesn't have to be pure ranger. I really am deep out of the game so it will take me quite a long time to research the new metas for Horizon walker.

Please advise, thanks!

[unbongwah]

https://www.ddo.com/forums/showthrea...ide-to-Bow-DPS

As presented it's a 96-AP build but you can still learn from its example.

[Oliphant]

^^^ Very happy at endgame with Carpone's build unbongwah linked. Was fun to level too. Note that horizon walker has aptly named Tier 1 Opening Shot that is very helpful early on. My toon is pretty advanced so mileage may vary.

This build likely will do better for you at endgame than leveling. Endgame would mean hanging out at 30 for reaper points and raids. The oversimplified reason is that this build is focused on maximum single target dps for toughest, highest priority targets; during leveling its often better to just mow down as many targets fast as possible. I recommend trying to stick to Carpone's build ultimately but its not too hard to experiment with feats along the way. Consider having IPS for a while and seeing how well it works during your leveling. When Horizon Walker starts to synergy with Archer's Focus, IPS is significantly weaker. You can switch feats later. You can also lean heavier into DWS enhancement tree for some earlier levels if it feels better since changing enhancements is cheap and easy. Expect to keep finding new aspects and getting better for several months of play. Is fun!

[Marshal_Lannes]

Check out my thread here in the Ranger section, Analysis of an Elven Ranger for a deep dive (and realistic) breakdown and use of Horizon Walker.

[darkniteyogi]

Thank you for the replies.

So, looks like Rogue is still the best bow build, similar to before with Deepwood Sniper + Sneak attack damage.
Now, I guess it will just be Horizon Walker + Sneak attack damage.