Veteran returning

[MXGinge]

<p>So I am a long time eq fan, played eq1 for many years and then eq2 for a long time.  i quit shortly after sf came out after obtaining level 90 on my dirge and bruiser and doing a few raids.  I used to play on a PVP server but have recently switched to a non pvp server.  I never got an SK higher than 50 before but in starting fresh i decided to finally bite the bullet and make one as they are a class that really fits my style.  </p><p>i have scoured many of the recent posts but its hard to tell whats new and whats old info from before i left.  </p><p>since SF what has changed about the SK, and coming from a dirge and bruiser (also alt of a brigand) how badly should i brace myself for DPS loss?  i know sks can put out some decent numbers and thus far i have had no problem killing mobs (only level 25) but i get very discouraged if i do low dps and i am very competitive during raids trying to maximize my potential.</p><p>any information or insight would be appreciated, also any tips and tricks for a seasoned player yet new SK would also be appreciated.  thanks all.</p><p>(side note) my dirge insticts of buffing up the group have kicked in while looking at AAs,  and the WIS line is really appealing to me.  I have read the post about all the AAs to get and i do plan on getting WIS line, is it a mistake to get it before reaver?</p>

[Jaremai]

<p>For me, my AA order was Battle Hardening (shadows fighter line), then Reaver, then the WIS line for the group ward.  At lower levels Battle Hardening = a lot of "xxx hits you but does no damage" or whatever the message is.</p><p>That was my experience going up to 39 where I locked him for BGs.  Two of my friends rolled up to 90 and the addition of reaver + the ward = a lot of solo goodness not needing much in the way of a healer.</p><p>Others may have differing opinions - that was my experience at least.</p>

[Sir Darrack]

<p>I levelled pre Shadows (and for most of it pre AA!) but if i had my time again Battle hardening would be my first choice of skill.</p><p>Reaver is the next item on your list even though it got hit with the nerf bat and all his mates a while back.</p><p>Those skills aside when your levelling you may want to put points into anything that is going to improve your mellee dps and crits.</p><p>You will notice less dps than pure dps classes, we are afterall a hybrid 'jack of all trades - master of none'.</p><p>But every once in a while you will surprise a few group members when everything clicks together, normally when your the main tank and all buffs are concentrated on you.</p><p>Levelling should be a breeze as we are prolly the fastest, easiest class to level (just keep on top of buying those Mastercrafted swords and decent armor).</p><p>Also if its any help i found it easier levelling with a slow one hander and decent shield - just personal preference.</p><p>Be Safe</p>