Couple of questions...

[zerfall]

I'm looking to be a Monk type character in game, but really like the idea of being Iksar (having played an Iksar Monk in EQ1).  Now, I suppose my question is this... is it actually worth doing the Betrayal Quest to become a Monk, or is Bruiser similar enough, just evil? As well, are Monks hindered by weight restrictions, a la EQ1 where I think 30 was the magic number where weight started affecting your Armor rating? Finally, what sort of fun/fluff abilities do Bruisers get?  I know Monks get the Kata ability at 20 to show off some moves, and I believe at 50 they get the twinkling lights around them, but I've looked around and haven't seen anything for what Bruisers get... Thanks in advance!<div></div>

[Kitos]

I would personally be a Bruiser. There isn't a huge difference between Monk and Bruiser, but those I talk to about it agree that Bruisers have the advantage. There are no weight/AC penalties. Your weight restrictions are based on your strength, so it increases as you level. As for fun spells, well... There is a Dreadnaught Kata, which makes it look like we're showing off our moves. Then there is Wooden Skin Style and Iron Skin Style. This are both pretty lame. Just makes you look like you're toon has rolled in mud. <div></div>

[Redbed]

<DIV>I really think you should go through the skills lists of both classes and see what things the one class has that the other doesnt.  Monks get invis, Bruisers dont.  Bruisers get mez and fear, Monks dont (I could be wrong but I dont think I am).  Bruiser heal is self only and recycles faster then Monk which can target other players.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>We are not as alike as some people think we are.  Its like saying SKs and Pallys are the same.  Theyre not, the way they do things are different.  So are Bruisers and Monks.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> You can be an iksar monk, you have to jump through some hoops to get there but if thats what you want, if thats the vision you have for your character you should see it through.  Thats what makes the game fun, bringing your character to life, so to speak.</DIV>

[Turb]

Betrayal to Qeynos is easier than to Freeport. It's a minor annoyance compared to later big quests <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" /> There's now only one mob you need a group for I think, and that's easyish in Antonica. But you must begin betrayal before you ding 18. Starting at 16 is cool.Go with what you want... there are differences, as the posts above mention, or see the FAQ.Good luck!