Quick swashie question

[Taubin]

    I rolled a swash as an alt, because they seem to be a fun class to play.  So far, I have having a blast, even though he is only a youngin right now (sub 20).  I do have one big question though, I have read the boards a bit, and want some constructive opinions on sword and board vs dw.  My ranger always dw's, but, that's a ranger not a swashie.  I plan on soloing a bit for the next 30 or so levels, so I am thinking a sword and board.  Second question, which AA line is best for either option?  I am leaning towards sword and board.  Any advice woudl be great = )~Icheha - Teen Swashie of Everfrost~Taubin Darscrios - 70 Ranger of Everfrost<div></div>

[Shiverr]

<P>Just think of allllllll those swashy jokes you cracked on me . . . </P> <P>I knew you would see the light, eventually.  :smileywink:</P> <P>They are a fun class indeed.  As far as dw/ sword and board go . . . you can solo very well still with the dual-wield options through those levels.  The sword/board may give you some advantages in some encounters, and you can decently tank and off tank with that combo, so its handy to have that setup to switch to, if not using full time.  I still prefer to dual wield at those levels in particular, but plan on going 1h with my brig alt when I get the AA's and levels.</P> <P>With the AA's <U>definately</U> go STR, then if you still want to stay sword/board spec out the STA line for tanking (required shield equipped) or go WIS for damage with a 1h equipped.  AGI is another decent option for walk the plank, etc.</P> <P>All in all, swoard and board is viable and effective (if its your style) and you should spec out the STA/STR lines for it.</P> <P>Welcome aboard.</P> <P> </P> <P> </P>

[Taubin]

Dangit, I figured you would be the LAST person to respond to this post (yeah right).  Good to see ya bro.  As for the swashie jokes, um, yeah, sorry about that, really I am <span>:smileytongue:</span><div></div>

[Zygwen]

My Troubador goes Sword and Board. IMHO a soloing Troubador definately benefits from using a shield. You loose about 25% auto attack damage but you get approximately 8% more avoidance before you add AAs. So, if the total amount of dps gained by that 25% auto attack damage is less than 8% then Sword and Board is a better option. Currently, all 3 styles, Freehand, Sword and Board or Dual Wield are viable. Sword and Board is best for tanking. Freehand has best dps and second best tanking at the expence of stats from one gear slot. Dual Wield is the middle of the road option. <div></div>