I have decided to make a thread for exploring Laser Sword (LS) as a set. Just gonna be listing some basic attack and mechanical info, and some bare-bones builds for now. If you have novel ideas w/ the set, or ur own builds/advice, then feel free to chime in.
Some Basic Mechanics:
- Plasma Burn- a Particle dmg DoT effect that can be stacked upto 5 times. Can interact w/ other mechanics in the LS set, and is typed as a 'Radiation' effect. Note that some Power Armor (PA) attacks can also apply PBurn. - Disintegrate- a debuff that boosts Particle dmg by a larger amount and Energy dmg (Particle, Electric, Sonic) by a smaller amount. Most easily accessed by the PAcceleration adv on Lightspeed Strike (formerly the Laser Sword combo), but can also be accessed by consuming at least one PBurn stack w/ Particle Smash. Is typed as a 'Radiation' effect. - Burn Through- a Particle dmg and Crushing dmg debuff that is accessed via some PA powers. For LS sets wanting to use this debuff, that's gonna likely be via Chest Beam, as the other methods of getting this debuff are w/ PA toggles that lockout other powers. Is also typed as a 'Radiation' effect. - Unity- toggle/form buff given from Particle Accelerator, LS's new toggle/form. Each buff of this grants a stacking damage bonus (double for melee vs. ranged) and grants energy when applied- both effects scaled on Int. Having at least 1x Unity also doubles the chance to apply PBurn w/ Lightspeed Strike. - Download- a special adv that considerably reduces costs for various tech powers for 8 sec, including LS powers. Most useful for LS builds using Luminescent Slash ('Lume Slash', for simplicity) to make spamming it more affordable. - Overheat- the main 'rupture' mechanic from using charged Plasma Cutter w/ PBurn stacks. Removes all PBurn stacks and stops them from being applied for ~6sec, and in return after those 6 sec the target and those nearby it will take a moderately-high amount of Particle dmg (based on the number of stacks consumed). Counts as a 'Radiation' effect. - Light Ray- Particle Smash's 'rupture' mechanic, which is basically an added minor AoE burst dmg effect that scales on the number of PBurn stacks consumed.
Power Review:
- Laser Edge = just ur typical melee energy builder. Has a chance to apply PBurn, which can be improved w/ its special adv. Generally I don't advise ranking end builders up, unless your build revolves around using them regularly. - Lightspeed Strike = was the old Laser Sword combo. Used to be high energy and high base dmg single-target dps combo, now is the opposite: low cost and low base dmg w/ a cone AoE element. Can apply PBurn w/ each hit, and w/ at least one stack of Unity (from Particle Accelerator as a toggle) this chance is doubled such that one combo will always give at least one PBurn stack. Best used as cheap filler or to setup for other attacks by stacking PBurn, applying Disintegrate, and/or procing combo-related things in specs (like Warden Mastery). Can also knockdown on its final strike with a special adv (Legacy Code). - Particle Accelerator = is now a melee-dps toggle that scales primarily w/ Int. Grants stacks of Unity, which can give a large boost to melee dmg, grants half that bonus to ranged dmg, and returns energy w/ each proc. Although it is neat to have a melee dps toggle that scales w/ Intelligence, keep in mind that PAccelerator's buff only procs from interacting w/ 'Radiation' effects (see Unified Theory's notes below). - Quantum Stabilizer = LS's 'new' slotted passive. Boosts all Energy dmg (Particle, Electric, Sonic) by a large amount, gives you a large amount of Particle dmgRes, gives a quite smaller amount of all dmgRes, boosts ur knock resistance moderately, and gives minor energy when hit w/ inc Energy dmg. QS is a dps (offensive) passive, and can also be used well by any build that heavily takes Energy dmg (Electricity, Particle-based PA, Gadgeteering, Hyper Voice/SWave in Might, etc) and wants some extra defense and knock resistance. - Unified Theory = now is LS's energy unlock. Gives a decent amount of energy each time a 'Radiation' effect is applied, refreshed, or ruptured. Radiation effects are: PBurn, Disintegrate, Burn Through (via Chest Beam), and Overheat (Plasma Cutter's rupture). Energy return scales mostly with Endurance, and slightly with Rec. - Glance = a basic, no-cd melee-range stun; similar to what can be found in other melee sets. Can apply Trauma w/ a special adv, and also has a Download adv. - Luminescent Slash = your go-to attack if you want high single-target dps from the new LS set. If you liked the simple high-energy, high-dps aspect of the old LS set, then this attack is your key. Has a short charge time and steep energy cost for heavy use. Its unique special adv (End of the Line) grants it 30%/35% extra base dmg if your energy level is >70%/95% at the time of use. Also snares innately and can Root w/ a special adv. Can create some interesting build options that focus on high energy generation to make it work. - Lightwave Slash = was a pretty unremarkable conal charged AoE attack. Now its a 10ft pbAoE sphere that can be cast at any time, and also knocks down innately. Can fill the role of light AoE CC w/ low-medium dmg, and/or to refresh things like PBurn and Download. Notable for being the only LS power w/ an adv to refresh Disintegrate on use (Light Mend). - Cybernetic Tether = a short-range knock-to power that has a chance (100% on full charge) to apply a stack of PBurn, and can have various other utility depending on its advs taken. Can function as a short-cd self-heal w/ the Restoration adv, refresh PBurn stacks (charge only) w/ Burn Bright, have a chance to stack extra PBurn stacks w/ Radiate, and/or can apply Download. - Lightspeed Dash = LS's basic lunge. Hasn't really changed much aside from having a Download adv avail (prob the most convenient way to get Download w/o taking normal ranks out from other powers to do the same). Snares innately, and Roots if the target is >20ft away. - Laser Deflection = a block enhancer that is similar to Parry in returning a portion of inc dmg when hit, but has a clone of Energy Shield's Laser Knight adv (Data Conversion) as well- lowering melee dmg (at all times when slotted) but considerably increasing dmgRes and knock resist for a short time after using any melee attack. Data Conversion is best for melee tank builds or melee dps builds that want to be more sturdy (at the cost of some melee dps). The block has the single-blade anim from Ego Blade Frenzy, but (despite looks) it doesn't deal dmg unless you are attacked. - Particle Smash = a short-range AoE dps cd that can apply Disintegrate if its used on targets w/ PBurn already applied. It can also auto-refresh Disintegrate if the debuff is already up, meaning it can replace the Disintegrate adv on Lightspeed Strike if you have other means of putting up PBurn first. Particle Smash also has a Rupture effect (Light Ray) that does minor-medium extra AoE dmg for each PBurn stack consumed. Can be used as a small burst dps boost, but does have extra utiltiy w/ its special advs (Light Everlasting for a small HoT around you, and/or Null Value which can stun and knockdown). Normal ranks do not boost the dmg of the rupture effect, but instead raise the base, upfront dmg. - Particle Wave = a short-cd 50ft instant cone AoE; knocks targets towards you and applies PBurn if they are not already afflicted by it. Can be used as an opener to setup PBurn quickly and funnel in enemies for close-range AoE follow-ups. Also has some potential support utility w/ its special advs that can have it apply Disorient and Illuminate on targets. Overall, it can be a pretty nifty setup attack. - Plasma Cutter = used to be a small cylinder melee AoE w/ a rupture effect ripped right from Single Blade. Now is a short-cd, single-target charged attack that triggers the normal Rupture mechanic for LS, and the effect is.. unique, at least. Charging Plasma Cutter on a mob w/ PBurn stacks eats those stacks to apply Overheat. Overheat (see notes above) is basically a ticking time bomb mechanic, but (usually) takes much setup and time to actualize, and w/ its 10ft reach that somewhat limits its applicability. Perhaps its best timed tactically to have the 'bomb' detonate in fights where new melee adds are summoned at a predictable interval, and/or in fights where tough melee adds are being tanked close together to get hit by Lightspeed Strike's cone AoE reliably (and are also sturdy enough to be alive for a good while). For single-target dps, Lume Slash is more direct and simple (but costly). Since Overheat disables applying PBurn, the best filler dps attack during this time is Lume Slash, though this can be tricky to afford. Cutter also has special advs that can apply Root (charge only) and Download. Also, note that Overheat only crits if the Plasma Cutter that triggered it was a crit, and that normal ranks of Cutter do not boost the dmg of the Overheat effect. - Meltdown = LS's new ultimate, and has a rel short cd (for an ultimate). Its a charged attack that does a large amount of AoE dps upfront, and can stack PBurn on affected targets quickly. Note that the PBurn stacking effect will not work on targets affected by Overheat. Can be used as a close-up burst dps cd that can setup multiple targets for 5x PBurn, which can be capitalized on by Particle Smash or Plasma Cutter's ruptures for more AoE burst dmg. Some AoE dps openers to consider w/ this ult: Particle Wave -> Meltdown -> 1-2x Lightspeed Strike w/ PA adv -> Particle Smash, -or- Particle Wave -> Particle Smash -> Meltdown -> 1-2x Lightspeed or Lightwave Slash -> Plasma Cutter.
All of the LS attacks listed above are flagged as melee, aside from Particle Wave (which is ranged). Note that I won't be including the Meltdown ultimate in my sample builds, but it can be unlocked w/ the Toybox lockbox from this Winter event (or just bought from the AH, once other players put them up).
(edit: 12-12-2016- updated to reflect that Particle Smash can now refresh Disintegrate if the debuff is already on the target)
ENOUGH OF THAT! Its time to give some builds, to offer a sample of what can be done w/ the new LS set.
For many of these builds, I won't be posting full templates. Feel free to use empty power slots for more heals, attacks, defenses, or various other utility powers, and also feel free to place those powers earlier in the mix for leveling purposes.
Extra note for any LS builds listed here: Since Particle Smash can properly roll Disintegrate now, one does not have to get Lightspeed Strike w/ its PAcceleration adv to reliably have Disintegrate. Keep in mind, though, that doing this means you are tied to putting up PBurn first and consuming it w/ Particle Smash, and then using Smash regularly if you want to roll Disintegrate (instead of relying on the combo to do this automatically).
Builds up 5x PBurn w/ the basic Lightspeed Strike combo, Ruptures w/ charged Plasma Cutter, and spams Lume Slash during the 6-sec Overheat duration (or spam Lightspeed Strike then if ur low on energy). Remaining power slots can add extra utility, healing/defense, or AoE.
Needs pretty good energy management to work fluidly, so gear for a healthy amount of Int and some End, and w/ some Con to boost your maxHP.
Listing this build second for Silver players and those that just want to try the new CW AT. This build for the AT leans more towards having extra healing and defenses. Since the AT has Brawler as a spec, I opted here to forgo the Plasma Cutter rotation for the simpler one of alternating between the Lightspeed combo and charged Lume Slash w/ Brawler's Setup, and having Particle Smash instead for some extra burst dmg and light healing. Tether can be used as a heal cd that also keeps up Download, and Particle Wave can be used to proc Disorient and Illuminate.
Specializations Intelligence: Enlightened(3/3) Intelligence: Tactician(2/2) Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability(3/3) Intelligence: Expertise(2/2) Warden: Fortified Gear(2/3) Warden: Slaughter(3/3) Warden: Ruthless(2/2) Warden: The Best Defense(3/3) Brawler: The Glory of Battle(1/3) Brawler: Penetrating Strikes(2/2) Brawler: Ruthless(2/2) Brawler: Setup(2/2) Brawler: Flanking(3/3) Mastery: Warden Mastery(1/1)
Uses the lunge to proc MSA and Download, and alternates between the basic combo and Lume Slash charges w/ Brawler's Setup. Aims to have high energy for Lume Slash's special adv to work most/all of the time. Basic rotation is using the lunge between every ~2 cycles of 1x Lightspeed -> 1x Lume Slash to keep MSA and Download rolling. Should have pretty solid single-target dps with this rotation- esp if you can keep your energy constantly capped or near-cap. Does not need any rupture mechanics to function.
Gears for a boatload of Int, some Con, and a bit of End to stretch the energy pool at the high end.
A less strict version of this build (on energy) could take R3 on Lume Slash instead, and not aim for energy capping- but still roll MSA and Download and have a moderate energy pool.
Powers Level 1: Laser Edge Level 1: Lightspeed Strike(Rank 2, Particle Acceleration) Level 6: Unified Theory Level 8: Way of the Warrior(Rank 2, Rank 3) Level 11: Form of the Tempest Level 14: Lightspeed Dash(Download) Level 17: Particle Wave(Illuminate, Bad Footing) Level 20: Dragon's Wrath(Rank 2, Rank 3) Level 23: Luminescent Slash(Rank 2, Rank 3) Level 26: Level 29: Level 32: Level 35: Level 38: Adv. Points: 22/36
Travel Powers Level 6: Level 35:
Specializations Dexterity: Gear Utilization(3/3) Dexterity: Power Swell(2/2) Dexterity: Deadly Aim(3/3) Dexterity: Expose Weakness(2/2) Warden: Fortified Gear(2/3) Warden: Slaughter(3/3) Warden: Ruthless(2/2) Warden: The Best Defense(3/3) Vindicator: Aggressive Stance(2/2) Vindicator: Merciless(3/3) Vindicator: Focused Strikes(3/3) Vindicator: Mass Destruction(2/3) Mastery: Dexterity Mastery(1/1)
Takes a Dex-focus this time, and crossing over to some SB/DB powers in MA and to take adv of Rush for lotsa added energy. Basic gist is to build up Focus stacks and put up Disintegrate w/ Lightspeed Strike, use a charged Dragon move for Rush (can be any of them; I took DW here), and then spam Lume Slash as Rush feeds you extra energy. At 8x stack of Focus, you should be able to do multiple Lume Slashes back-to-back w/o many energy issues. Can also dip into other MA powers like Eye of the Storm.
Gears mostly for Dex, some End and Con, and extra cost discount on utility gear. Also forgoes gearing for severity rating once it obtains Dex Mastery.
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#5: Spamming Lume Slash w/ CoAP (w/ a glorious cameo by ur long-lost uncle: Rec PSS):
Powers Level 1: Laser Edge Level 1: Lightspeed Strike(Particle Acceleration, Legacy Code) Level 6: Unified Theory Level 8: Unstoppable(Rank 2, Rank 3) Level 11: Form of the Tiger Level 14: Lightwave Slash(Light Mend, Burn Bright) Level 17: Lightspeed Dash(Download) Level 20: Luminescent Slash(Rank 2, End of the Line) Level 23: Circle of Arcane Power(Rank 2, Rank 3) Level 26: Level 29: Level 32: Level 35: Level 38: Adv. Points: 22/36
Travel Powers Level 6: Level 35:
Specializations Recovery: Gear Utilization(3/3) Recovery: Staying Power(2/2) Recovery: Super Charged(3/3) Recovery: Efficient(2/3) Warden: Fortified Gear(3/3) Warden: Ruthless(2/2) Warden: Elusive(2/2) Warden: The Best Defense(3/3) Vindicator: Aggressive Stance(2/2) Vindicator: Merciless(3/3) Vindicator: Focused Strikes(3/3) Vindicator: Mass Destruction(2/3) Mastery: Recovery Mastery(1/1)
Mainly an excuse to try out Rec PSS (though other SS setups can work). CoAP and Unstoppable's knock energy both scale off of Rec, and since the build mostly uses charged moves, FotTiger is a good fit for reliable energy. This build capitalizes on Lightwave Slash's ability to easily refresh PBurn (for Unified Theory) and Disintegrate. Get in a good position to plant urself as a melee unit, drop CoAP, use Lightspeed Strike to put up at least 1x PBurn and Disintegrate while you build energy, and half-charge Lightwave Slash to refresh all effects. After the setup, do a quick lunge to proc Download, and then just start charge-spamming Lume Slash- tapping or half-charging Lightwave Slash every 4 Lume Slashes (or so) to keep everything going. If you want, you can add Particle Wave and/or charged Tether to both proc Unstoppable energy and put up 1x PBurn in other ways.
AoE can basically come down to spamming Lightwave Slash after putting up Disintegrate and/or PBurn w/ Lightspeed Strike. This build can use CoAP anytime to build up energy, and can also charge Lightwave Slash anytime to build and refresh Focus stacks. Also, don't be hesitant to add other energy sources or gear for more energy stats if you find that ur energy is not staying near-cap.
Gears for Dex, Rec, Con (for health), and some End. Also may want to grab extra cost discount on gear.
Also note that Arbiter spec (yes, that other long-lost uncle) can also be used here alongside Vindicator, as its has Preservation to reduce Lume Slash's cost: Arbiter: Enforcer(1/3) Arbiter: Ruthless(2/2) Arbiter: Rend(2/2) Arbiter: Preservation(2/2) Arbiter: Enhanced Gear(3/3)
- (some more oddball builds inc)
#6: Stun-based LS dps w/ some support (full build):
A bit of a mix of some dps, CC, debuffs, and light support. Most attacks can proc Manip, making this a decent trash-lockdown build that can also lower boss dmg a bit w/ Disorient and Concussion.
Gears mostly for Int and Con. Can also work well in Hybrid role w/ a support aura like AoPM, Med Nanites, AoRP, AoAC, or AoED- and Pres SS if you want more healing to work with (though likely less personal dps), plus stronger stuns and team support.
One more example build for the road. This one is showing how the various knocks in LS can work w/ other setups. This tank has a mix of CC and rounding up mobs, moderate self-healing, some debuffs, and some burst dps/threat potential- and should be pretty sturdy to boot. At low energy it can rely more on Lightspeed Strike combos, and at high energy it can use Lume Slash for a bit more dps.
Gears mostly for Str and Con, w/ a bit of End for Unified Theory and a higher energy cap w/ Defiance.
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And that's it from me, for now. Hope this helped at least somewhat in understanding the revamped LS set. Have fun out there.
Some Particle-based PA attacks have advs that can apply PBurn, and these can be exploited by LS builds as well- either to help build up PBurn, or just to have a nice ranged playstyle option available in the same build. Threw CoAP in there to help w/ energy when using the two PA toggles.
Gears mostly for Int, and a bit of End, Rec, and Con.
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You know me- I had to throw a Combo-Blaster build in there somewhere (full build):
Basic rotation is to use the Lightspeed combo till Avenger Mastery procs, and consume AvM on a charged Power Gauntlet. Chest Beam can also be used up close to apply Burn Through, if energy permits. Particle Wave -> point-blank charged Chest Beam is a fun (but scattering) opener.
Thank you very much for the extended analysis Flowcyto, I was confused about the correct rotations
I wish i have read this guide before retconing my own LS character, it makes things easier now
speaking of builds, do you believe there is a possible synergy with the special ADVs of some of the powers and Magic framework?
Could someone create a "Magic Swordman" by combining Laser Swords and Sorcery? Not nessary for Support purposes
POWERFRAME REVAMPS, NEW POWERS and BUG FIXES > Recycled Content and Events and even costumes at this point Introvert guy who use CO to make his characters playable and get experimental with Viable FF Theme builds! Running out of Unique FF builds due to the lack of updates and synergies! Playing since 1 February 2011 128 + Characters (21 ATs, 107 FFs) ALTitis for Life!
(decided to change my shorthand for Luminescent from 'Lum' to 'Lume', since that's more accurate to how you'd pronounce it anyways..)
That Speed Daemon build looks pretty good, Jazz. I'd still gear some End for Lume Slash's special adv, and it may not gen enough energy w/ Chest Beam also in there. But it will depend a good deal on how high you can push ur energy-boosting stats, which is partly derived from gear level. If worse comes to worse, could just throw an external extra energy source in, but it is def something I'd be test-piloting in the PH_PTS with to see how energy management is shaping up. You could drop Meltdown for that energy source, if ya want; the ult is still very good for burst AoE dps, but its not quite as good w/o either rupture effect available.
Thank you very much for the extended analysis Flowcyto, I was confused about the correct rotations I wish i have read this guide before retconing my own LS character, it makes things easier now
speaking of builds, do you believe there is a possible synergy with the special ADVs of some of the powers and Magic framework?
Could someone create a "Magic Swordman" by combining Laser Swords and Sorcery? Not nessary for Support purposes
Sorry it came a bit too late for you, but glad the guide could help some!
As far as mixing LS and Sorcery- sure, it could work well. You may want to first parse out what you want from the Sorc bit, though- either as powers to support the theme of 'magic swords' (ie Warlock Blades and maybe Pyro Blades), or as a way to have ranged options in a LS build. I could give ya builds for either approach, if ya want.
Thanks. I haven't field tested it on PTS yet so I'm not sure about energy. I want to stay away from CoAP, but maybe I could get any necessary extra energy from Forced Shield w/ Force Sheathe.
In order to get good mileage out of Luminescent Slash what are you having as your Max Energy? Is Equilibrium at all important?
Re: Chest Beam. The plan is just to tap to get the debuff; hence the Point Blank adv.
(decided to change my shorthand for Luminescent from 'Lum' to 'Lume', since that's more accurate to how you'd pronounce it anyways..)
That Speed Daemon build looks pretty good, Jazz. I'd still gear some End for Lume Slash's special adv, and it may not gen enough energy w/ Chest Beam also in there. But it will depend a good deal on how high you can push ur energy-boosting stats, which is partly derived from gear level. If worse comes to worse, could just throw an external extra energy source in, but it is def something I'd be test-piloting in the PH_PTS with to see how energy management is shaping up. You could drop Meltdown for that energy source, if ya want; the ult is still very good for burst AoE dps, but its not quite as good w/o either rupture effect available.
Equilibrium isn't too important in the long run, but if you want to be able to charge an opener attack it can be nice to boost. For ex. Meltdown can be reduced to about 80 energy w/ decent gear. Also w/ gear/stats, a charged Lightwave Slash or tapped Chest beam can be about 30-35 energy or so. Keeping in mind, also, that builds w/ CoAP can use it anytime to gain energy, and builds w/ MSA can use something like Conviction to proc it at anytime.
For max energy, two examples I have are a toon w/ ~260 energy (CoAP + Lume Slash spammer- 70% of that is 180, which gives me ~80 energy to work the 30% dmg bonus adv in), and another using a build similar to #3 (Setup + MSA) is at about 200 max energy (70% at 140, or about a 60 energy range) and using ~350 Int. They both can maintain that very-high energy state as long as I stick to the rotations and set them up properly.
Thanks for the write-up! Not really interested in more mêlée characters right now, but looks like revised plasma burn-mechanics integrates quite well with some of the ranged power armor abilities, and I've wanted to make a beam spam build for quite a while....
Yeah, the Melta Cannon advs and Burn Through debuffs on some PA stuff allows for a bit of synergy between the two powersets. Unfortunately, much of the revamped ranged PA makes it very costly to run even 2 slotted toggles with, but external energy sources can help that a good deal too.
Has a self-sufficient melee set of attacks and a self-sufficient set for ranged. Takes adv of the Illuminate adv on Particle Wave and Hex to use Conjuring. Int PSS + AoPM, and Conjuring all work well together, and FotT allows it to gains toggle stacks regardless of attack type. Can either mix the two playstyles, or play them separately.
Uses some of the Sorc cd powers to support LS's melee dps and energy generation. Warlock Blades for the theme and added dps, Destruction sigils are nice for a unit already in melee range, and Hex for its cd and debuff to boost the blade pet and sigils. Can also be played in Hybrid role w/ a more hybrid-style or passive to it. Another good Sorc cd to potentially throw in there is Pillar of Poz or Vala's Light.
What'd ya expect from me for mixing a ranged and melee set? You should know the deal by now: combo till AvMastery, fire of the blast, etc. Has some debuffs and support heals available.
To meet the request, here's three diff builds for Sorcery + LS. All covering diff playstyles:
Thank you very much, those builds pretty much covered my needs ^^
POWERFRAME REVAMPS, NEW POWERS and BUG FIXES > Recycled Content and Events and even costumes at this point Introvert guy who use CO to make his characters playable and get experimental with Viable FF Theme builds! Running out of Unique FF builds due to the lack of updates and synergies! Playing since 1 February 2011 128 + Characters (21 ATs, 107 FFs) ALTitis for Life!
Yeah, the Melta Cannon advs and Burn Through debuffs on some PA stuff allows for a bit of synergy between the two powersets. Unfortunately, much of the revamped ranged PA makes it very costly to run even 2 slotted toggles with, but external energy sources can help that a good deal too.
How well do the Laser Sword EU specifically work with the PA Powers? Seems like there's quite a lot of conditions that can trigger it.
Well, afaik Unified Theory grants more energy per sec than OD w/ the same amount of End, and up until OD is stacked 3x.
ex. UF @ 170 End & 87 Rec = 34/3 = 11.3 eps. OD w/ same = 13/3 = 4.33 eps, 2x OD = 8.7 eps, 3x OD = 13 eps.
So, for Ranged PA builds and assuming you can meet the more stringent conditions w/ rolling UF vs. rolling OD w/ any PA toggle, UF will likely be a bit easier on energy unless ur already juggling 3 PA slots. But also keep in mind that UF lasts 6 sec vs. OD's 9 per stack; so OD lasts longer, but each OD stack gained doesn't refresh the entire stack either. Although the PBurn advs can stack PBurn pretty well, the most reliable ways to proc UF w/ PA are via Burn Through- so Chest Beam, Eye Beam w/ adv, and/or Minigun w/ adv.
For mixing LS and PA, keep in mind that although Melta Cannon advs can stack PBurn at ranged, this is on toggles that will lockout LS powers while they are in use. So, if you wanted to mix LS attacks w/ them then it'd be to setup PBurn stacks from ranged that you can close the gap and rupture w/ LS's effects. Prob more convenient to just use Lightspeed Strike to stack PBurn for a LS build, so this is mostly if you want a diff playstyle or to add a ranged option to stack PBurn.
Particle Accelerator can also work w/ ranged PA in a similar manner to UF (applying 'Radiation' effects), but for pure ranged PA builds you mine as well stick w/ Conc or Chilled Form, since PAccel is still a melee dps toggle that doesn't give as large a dmg bonus to ranged. PAccel is better w/ PA + LS mixes, though, since Conc and Chilled Form don't also proc from melee attacks, but PAccel can proc for LS and PA (potentially).
A combo-less version like that can work, though keep in mind that Disintegrate won't refresh w/ Particle Smash if the target is still debuffed by it. Also, there's no spam-able AoE, and Enrage building will depend on cd attacks.
A combo-less version like that can work, though keep in mind that Disintegrate won't refresh w/ Particle Smash if the target is still debuffed by it. Also, there's no spam-able AoE, and Enrage building will depend on cd attacks.
I considered that after reading your guide earlier, but last night I tested it in the powerhouse and Disintegrate was refreshing with Paticle Smash. Maybe they fixed it?
As far Enrage and cd goes, I just cycle my two knocks (3 if you count Particle Smash's AoE). It takes a little discipline, but I have both knock cds under 8 sec, so I can trigger Enrage every 4 sec easily. If someone doesn't want to pay that much attention to their knock cds, I suppose they could always switch Conviction out for something that triggers Enrage more. I admit my build overdid it in the healing department, but I figured it would be good with MSA and my other cds.
You know, I was just pondering my way through doing a LS build...
Thank you for summing things up so nicely, and providing some shiny template builds. I do have kind of a stupid question, but please bear with me.
How important is strength to a laser sword build? I ask because most of the builds you've provided don't really feature it much at all, where to my understanding laser swords benefited from a melee damage bonus. Is that no longer the case, or is it just that the other elements of the set take priority over STR's damage bonus?
On a related note, how would you prioritize gear and statting for a DPS laser sword build?
While it is true that LS is (mostly) classed as melee and thus scales w/ Str's innate bonus, this bonus diminishes harshly for FF's and is in the earliest layer in the dmg formula. Also keep in mind that innate bonus soft-caps at 70; afterwards it gives much less return. It works better if one of ur SS's is already Str, but if not then ur gearing away from ur 3 SS's for a non-SS, which weakens ur passive and likely ur toggle (and maybe other things).
Taking Str PSS w/o Enrage can work for LS builds, but you either have to drop Con SS to keep energy above-board (not ideal since Juggernaut is one of Str PSS's main draws), or keep Con SS and risk having more energy issues or not getting Dex SS for extra dps. Either way, you'll have to give up something to get Str PSS's bonuses.
Its diff for Enrage-based LS builds that use the knocking powers in LS. But that's also cause Str is now affecting ur toggle, and that kills 2 birds w/ 1 stone (though ofc now ur bound to knock attempts to keep ur toggle up).
A standard LS build using PAccelerator and Unified Theory should prob stick w/ INT/Con/End, and stat mostly for Int and Con (latter also assuming you get ES/NM as the AO). Some End is good for energy, and get the usual crit and severity on offensive gear.
Comments
For many of these builds, I won't be posting full templates. Feel free to use empty power slots for more heals, attacks, defenses, or various other utility powers, and also feel free to place those powers earlier in the mix for leveling purposes.
Extra note for any LS builds listed here: Since Particle Smash can properly roll Disintegrate now, one does not have to get Lightspeed Strike w/ its PAcceleration adv to reliably have Disintegrate. Keep in mind, though, that doing this means you are tied to putting up PBurn first and consuming it w/ Particle Smash, and then using Smash regularly if you want to roll Disintegrate (instead of relying on the combo to do this automatically).
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#1: Prototypical LS template w/ Plasma Cutter:
(Basic Laser Sword) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Cybernetic Warrior (Con: 10, End: 10, Int: 10, Rec: 8)
Level 6: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 9: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 12: Investigator (Int: 5, End: 5)
Level 15: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 18: Negotiator (Int: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Particle Accelerator
Level 8: Quantum Stabilizer (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Unified Theory
Level 14: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 17: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 20: Plasma Cutter (Rank 2, Download)
Level 23: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 26:
Level 29:
Level 32:
Level 35:
Level 38:
Adv. Points: 22/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Warden: Slaughter (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Warden Mastery (1/1)
Builds up 5x PBurn w/ the basic Lightspeed Strike combo, Ruptures w/ charged Plasma Cutter, and spams Lume Slash during the 6-sec Overheat duration (or spam Lightspeed Strike then if ur low on energy). Remaining power slots can add extra utility, healing/defense, or AoE.
Needs pretty good energy management to work fluidly, so gear for a healthy amount of Int and some End, and w/ some Con to boost your maxHP.
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#2: Cybernetic Warrior AT build:
(CWarrior AT) - The Cybernetic Warrior
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Cybernetic Warrior (Con: 10, End: 10, Int: 10, Rec: 8)
Level 7: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 12: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 15: Investigator (Int: 5, End: 5)
Level 20: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 25: Negotiator (Int: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 30: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration -OR- Rank 3)
Level 6: Lightspeed Dash (Download, Nailed to the Ground)
Level 8: Quantum Stabilizer (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Cybernetic Tether (Recharge, Download)
Level 14: Particle Accelerator
Level 17: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 21: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 25: Unified Theory
Level 30: Laser Deflection (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 35: Masterful Dodge
Level 40: Particle Smash (Rank 2, Light Everlasting)
Adv. Points: 32/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Brawler: The Glory of Battle (1/3)
Brawler: Penetrating Strikes (2/2)
Brawler: Ruthless (2/2)
Brawler: Setup (2/2)
Brawler: Flanking (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)
Listing this build second for Silver players and those that just want to try the new CW AT. This build for the AT leans more towards having extra healing and defenses. Since the AT has Brawler as a spec, I opted here to forgo the Plasma Cutter rotation for the simpler one of alternating between the Lightspeed combo and charged Lume Slash w/ Brawler's Setup, and having Particle Smash instead for some extra burst dmg and light healing. Tether can be used as a heal cd that also keeps up Download, and Particle Wave can be used to proc Disorient and Illuminate.
Gears mostly for the 3 SS's listed.
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#3: Setting Up for Hardy Lume Slashes:
(Setup + Lume Slash) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Dexterity (Secondary)
Level 15: Constitution (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Glacier (Con: 10, End: 10, Dex: 8, Int: 10)
Level 6: Covert Ops Training (Str: 3, Dex: 3, Con: 3, Int: 3)
Level 9: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 12: Acrobat (Dex: 5, Con: 5)
Level 15: Coordinated (Dex: 5, Int: 5)
Level 18: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Negotiator (Int: 5, Rec: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Particle Accelerator
Level 8: Quantum Stabilizer (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Molecular Self-Assembly
Level 14: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 17: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 20: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, End of the Line)
Level 23:
Level 26:
Level 29:
Level 32:
Level 35:
Level 38:
Adv. Points: 18/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Tactician (2/2)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Warden: Slaughter (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Brawler: The Glory of Battle (1/3)
Brawler: Penetrating Strikes (2/2)
Brawler: Ruthless (2/2)
Brawler: Setup (2/2)
Brawler: Flanking (3/3)
Mastery: Warden Mastery (1/1)
Uses the lunge to proc MSA and Download, and alternates between the basic combo and Lume Slash charges w/ Brawler's Setup. Aims to have high energy for Lume Slash's special adv to work most/all of the time. Basic rotation is using the lunge between every ~2 cycles of 1x Lightspeed -> 1x Lume Slash to keep MSA and Download rolling. Should have pretty solid single-target dps with this rotation- esp if you can keep your energy constantly capped or near-cap. Does not need any rupture mechanics to function.
Gears for a boatload of Int, some Con, and a bit of End to stretch the energy pool at the high end.
A less strict version of this build (on energy) could take R3 on Lume Slash instead, and not aim for energy capping- but still roll MSA and Download and have a moderate energy pool.
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(continued in next reply)
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
#4: Mixing LS w/ MA Swords and Rush:
(Dex + MA + LS) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Dexterity (Primary)
Level 10: Endurance (Secondary)
Level 15: Constitution (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Chiller (Con: 10, End: 10, Dex: 10, Rec: 8)
Level 6: Acrobat (Dex: 5, Con: 5)
Level 9: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 12: Accurate (Dex: 5, End: 5)
Level 15: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 18: Impresario (Dex: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Unified Theory
Level 8: Way of the Warrior (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Form of the Tempest
Level 14: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 17: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 20: Dragon's Wrath (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 23: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 26:
Level 29:
Level 32:
Level 35:
Level 38:
Adv. Points: 22/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Dexterity: Gear Utilization (3/3)
Dexterity: Power Swell (2/2)
Dexterity: Deadly Aim (3/3)
Dexterity: Expose Weakness (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Warden: Slaughter (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (3/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (2/3)
Mastery: Dexterity Mastery (1/1)
Takes a Dex-focus this time, and crossing over to some SB/DB powers in MA and to take adv of Rush for lotsa added energy. Basic gist is to build up Focus stacks and put up Disintegrate w/ Lightspeed Strike, use a charged Dragon move for Rush (can be any of them; I took DW here), and then spam Lume Slash as Rush feeds you extra energy. At 8x stack of Focus, you should be able to do multiple Lume Slashes back-to-back w/o many energy issues. Can also dip into other MA powers like Eye of the Storm.
Gears mostly for Dex, some End and Con, and extra cost discount on utility gear. Also forgoes gearing for severity rating once it obtains Dex Mastery.
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#5: Spamming Lume Slash w/ CoAP (w/ a glorious cameo by ur long-lost uncle: Rec PSS):
(Lum Slash Mania) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Recovery (Primary)
Level 10: Dexterity (Secondary)
Level 15: Constitution (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Chiller (Con: 10, End: 10, Dex: 10, Rec: 8)
Level 6: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 9: Acrobat (Dex: 5, Con: 5)
Level 12: Impresario (Dex: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 15: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 18: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Level 21: Accurate (Dex: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Particle Acceleration, Legacy Code)
Level 6: Unified Theory
Level 8: Unstoppable (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Form of the Tiger
Level 14: Lightwave Slash (Light Mend, Burn Bright)
Level 17: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 20: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, End of the Line)
Level 23: Circle of Arcane Power (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 26:
Level 29:
Level 32:
Level 35:
Level 38:
Adv. Points: 22/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Recovery: Gear Utilization (3/3)
Recovery: Staying Power (2/2)
Recovery: Super Charged (3/3)
Recovery: Efficient (2/3)
Warden: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: Elusive (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (3/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (2/3)
Mastery: Recovery Mastery (1/1)
Mainly an excuse to try out Rec PSS (though other SS setups can work). CoAP and Unstoppable's knock energy both scale off of Rec, and since the build mostly uses charged moves, FotTiger is a good fit for reliable energy. This build capitalizes on Lightwave Slash's ability to easily refresh PBurn (for Unified Theory) and Disintegrate. Get in a good position to plant urself as a melee unit, drop CoAP, use Lightspeed Strike to put up at least 1x PBurn and Disintegrate while you build energy, and half-charge Lightwave Slash to refresh all effects. After the setup, do a quick lunge to proc Download, and then just start charge-spamming Lume Slash- tapping or half-charging Lightwave Slash every 4 Lume Slashes (or so) to keep everything going. If you want, you can add Particle Wave and/or charged Tether to both proc Unstoppable energy and put up 1x PBurn in other ways.
AoE can basically come down to spamming Lightwave Slash after putting up Disintegrate and/or PBurn w/ Lightspeed Strike. This build can use CoAP anytime to build up energy, and can also charge Lightwave Slash anytime to build and refresh Focus stacks. Also, don't be hesitant to add other energy sources or gear for more energy stats if you find that ur energy is not staying near-cap.
Gears for Dex, Rec, Con (for health), and some End. Also may want to grab extra cost discount on gear.
Also note that Arbiter spec (yes, that other long-lost uncle) can also be used here alongside Vindicator, as its has Preservation to reduce Lume Slash's cost:
Arbiter: Enforcer (1/3)
Arbiter: Ruthless (2/2)
Arbiter: Rend (2/2)
Arbiter: Preservation (2/2)
Arbiter: Enhanced Gear (3/3)
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(some more oddball builds inc)
#6: Stun-based LS dps w/ some support (full build):
(Energy Sword Conroller) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Dexterity (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Glacier (Con: 10, End: 10, Dex: 8, Int: 10)
Level 6: Covert Ops Training (Str: 3, Dex: 3, Con: 3, Int: 3)
Level 9: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 12: Acrobat (Dex: 5, Con: 5)
Level 15: Coordinated (Dex: 5, Int: 5)
Level 18: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Negotiator (Int: 5, Rec: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 8: Quantum Stabilizer (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Manipulator
Level 14: Molecular Self-Assembly
Level 17: Thunderclap (Rank 2, Collateral Damage)
Level 20: Vala's Light (Rank 2, Light Everlasting)
Level 23: Plasma Cutter (Rank 2, Encryption)
Level 26: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 29: Glance (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 32: Laser Deflection (Rank 2)
Level 35: Resurrection Serum (Rank 2)
Level 38: Rebirth
Adv. Points: 34/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Enlightened (2/3)
Intelligence: Battle of Wits (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Sentinel: Torment (2/2)
Sentinel: Sentinel Aura (3/3)
Sentinel: Moment of Need (3/3)
Sentinel: Wither (2/2)
Arbiter: Enforcer (3/3)
Arbiter: Ruthless (2/2)
Arbiter: Rend (2/2)
Arbiter: Concussion (3/3)
Mastery: Sentinel Mastery (1/1)
A bit of a mix of some dps, CC, debuffs, and light support. Most attacks can proc Manip, making this a decent trash-lockdown build that can also lower boss dmg a bit w/ Disorient and Concussion.
Gears mostly for Int and Con. Can also work well in Hybrid role w/ a support aura like AoPM, Med Nanites, AoRP, AoAC, or AoED- and Pres SS if you want more healing to work with (though likely less personal dps), plus stronger stuns and team support.
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#7: A Str-based LS Tank w/ Enrage (full build):
(Enrage + LS Tank) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Strength (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Devastator (Con: 10, End: 8, Str: 10, Rec: 10)
Level 6: Physical Conditioning (Str: 5, Con: 5)
Level 9: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 12: Bodybuilder (Str: 5, End: 5)
Level 15: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 18: Relentless (Str: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Particle Acceleration, Legacy Code, Challenge!)
Level 6: Unified Theory
Level 8: Defiance
Level 11: Enrage (Endorphin Rush)
Level 14: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing, Challenge!)
Level 17: Cybernetic Tether (Recharge, Challenge!)
Level 20: Lightwave Slash (Rank 2, Burn Bright, Challenge!)
Level 23: Laser Deflection (Rank 2, Data Conversion)
Level 26: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 29: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, Rank 3, Challenge!)
Level 32: Masterful Dodge
Level 35: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 38: Rebirth
Adv. Points: 34/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Strength: Swole (3/3)
Strength: Physical Peak (2/3)
Strength: Brutality (2/2)
Strength: Juggernaut (3/3)
Warden: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Warden: Slaughter (2/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Strength Mastery (1/1)
One more example build for the road. This one is showing how the various knocks in LS can work w/ other setups. This tank has a mix of CC and rounding up mobs, moderate self-healing, some debuffs, and some burst dps/threat potential- and should be pretty sturdy to boot. At low energy it can rely more on Lightspeed Strike combos, and at high energy it can use Lume Slash for a bit more dps.
Gears mostly for Str and Con, w/ a bit of End for Unified Theory and a higher energy cap w/ Defiance.
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And that's it from me, for now. Hope this helped at least somewhat in understanding the revamped LS set. Have fun out there.
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
Mixing PA and LS:
(Plasma Tech Warrior) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Cybernetic Warrior (Con: 10, End: 10, Int: 10, Rec: 8)
Level 6: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 9: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 12: Investigator (Int: 5, End: 5)
Level 15: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 18: Negotiator (Int: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration -OR- Rank 3)
Level 6: Unified Theory
Level 8: Quantum Stabilizer (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Particle Accelerator
Level 14: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 17: Chest Laser (Rank 2, Melta Cannon)
Level 20: Plasma Beam (Rank 2, Melta Cannon)
Level 23: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 26: Particle Smash (Rank 2, Light Everlasting)
Level 29: Circle of Arcane Power (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 32:
Level 35:
Level 38:
Adv. Points: 30/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Warden: Slaughter (2/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Modified Gear (2/2)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)
Some Particle-based PA attacks have advs that can apply PBurn, and these can be exploited by LS builds as well- either to help build up PBurn, or just to have a nice ranged playstyle option available in the same build. Threw CoAP in there to help w/ energy when using the two PA toggles.
Gears mostly for Int, and a bit of End, Rec, and Con.
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You know me- I had to throw a Combo-Blaster build in there somewhere (full build):
(LS Combo Blaster) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Dexterity (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Chiller (Con: 10, End: 10, Dex: 10, Rec: 8)
Level 6: Acrobat (Dex: 5, Con: 5)
Level 9: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 12: Accurate (Dex: 5, End: 5)
Level 15: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 18: Impresario (Dex: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Unified Theory
Level 8: Quantum Stabilizer (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Form of the Tempest
Level 14: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 17: Conviction (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 23: Chest Beam (Rank 2, Point Blank Blast)
Level 26: Ego Surge (Rank 2, Nimble Mind)
Level 29: Power Gauntlet (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 32: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 35: Energy Shield (Rank 2)
Level 38: Rebirth
Adv. Points: 34/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Dexterity: Gear Utilization (3/3)
Dexterity: Power Swell (2/2)
Dexterity: Deadly Aim (3/3)
Dexterity: Expose Weakness (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Warden: Slaughter (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Avenger: Ruthless (2/2)
Avenger: Round 'em Up (3/3)
Avenger: Offensive Expertise (2/2)
Avenger: Preemptive Strike (3/3)
Mastery: Avenger Mastery (1/1)
Basic rotation is to use the Lightspeed combo till Avenger Mastery procs, and consume AvM on a charged Power Gauntlet. Chest Beam can also be used up close to apply Burn Through, if energy permits. Particle Wave -> point-blank charged Chest Beam is a fun (but scattering) opener.
Gears mostly for Dex and End, w/ a bit of Con.
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
I wish i have read this guide before retconing my own LS character, it makes things easier now
speaking of builds, do you believe there is a possible synergy with the special ADVs of some of the powers and Magic framework?
Could someone create a "Magic Swordman" by combining Laser Swords and Sorcery? Not nessary for Support purposes
Speed Daemon 2 - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Strength (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Intelligence (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Rockstar (Str: 10, Con: 10, End: 10, , Rec: 8)
Level 6: Physical Conditioning (Str: 5, Con: 5)
Level 9: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 12: Body and Mind (Str: 5, Int: 5)
Level 15: Bodybuilder (Str: 5, End: 5)
Level 18: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 21: Investigator (Int: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Electric Bolt
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 8: Molecular Self-Assembly
Level 11: Particle Accelerator
Level 14: Quantum Stabilizer (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 17: Conviction (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Chest Beam (Rank 2, Point Blank Blast)
Level 23: Cybernetic Tether (Recharge, Download)
Level 26: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, End of the Line)
Level 29: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 32: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 35: Meltdown (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 38: Masterful Dodge
Adv. Points: 36/36
Travel Powers
Level 6: Blazing Speed (Rank 2)
Level 35: Electro Flight (Rank 2)
Specializations
Strength: Swole (1/3)
Strength: Physical Peak (3/3)
Strength: Aggression (1/2)
Strength: Brutality (2/2)
Strength: Juggernaut (3/3)
Warden: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Warden: Slaughter (2/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (3/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (2/3)
Mastery: Warden Mastery (1/1)
That Speed Daemon build looks pretty good, Jazz. I'd still gear some End for Lume Slash's special adv, and it may not gen enough energy w/ Chest Beam also in there. But it will depend a good deal on how high you can push ur energy-boosting stats, which is partly derived from gear level. If worse comes to worse, could just throw an external extra energy source in, but it is def something I'd be test-piloting in the PH_PTS with to see how energy management is shaping up. You could drop Meltdown for that energy source, if ya want; the ult is still very good for burst AoE dps, but its not quite as good w/o either rupture effect available.
Sorry it came a bit too late for you, but glad the guide could help some!
As far as mixing LS and Sorcery- sure, it could work well. You may want to first parse out what you want from the Sorc bit, though- either as powers to support the theme of 'magic swords' (ie Warlock Blades and maybe Pyro Blades), or as a way to have ranged options in a LS build. I could give ya builds for either approach, if ya want.
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
In order to get good mileage out of Luminescent Slash what are you having as your Max Energy? Is Equilibrium at all important?
Re: Chest Beam. The plan is just to tap to get the debuff; hence the Point Blank adv.
For max energy, two examples I have are a toon w/ ~260 energy (CoAP + Lume Slash spammer- 70% of that is 180, which gives me ~80 energy to work the 30% dmg bonus adv in), and another using a build similar to #3 (Setup + MSA) is at about 200 max energy (70% at 140, or about a 60 energy range) and using ~350 Int. They both can maintain that very-high energy state as long as I stick to the rotations and set them up properly.
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
Not really interested in more mêlée characters right now, but looks like revised plasma burn-mechanics integrates quite well with some of the ranged power armor abilities, and I've wanted to make a beam spam build for quite a while....
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
#1: Versatile All-Range dps:
(Unnamed Build) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Dexterity (Secondary)
Level 15: Constitution (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Glacier (Con: 10, End: 10, Dex: 8, Int: 10)
Level 6: Covert Ops Training (Str: 3, Dex: 3, Con: 3, Int: 3)
Level 9: Acrobat (Dex: 5, Con: 5)
Level 12: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 15: Coordinated (Dex: 5, Int: 5)
Level 18: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Impresario (Dex: 5, Rec: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Lightspeed Dash (Download)
Level 8: Aura of Primal Majesty (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Form of the Tempest
Level 14: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 17: Conjuring
Level 20: Conviction (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 23: Star Barrage (Rank 2, Light Everlasting)
Level 26: Hex of Suffering (Rune of Terror)
Level 29: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 32: Soul Beam (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 35: Eldritch Shield (Rank 2)
Level 38: Rebirth
Adv. Points: 34/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: Elusive (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)
Has a self-sufficient melee set of attacks and a self-sufficient set for ranged. Takes adv of the Illuminate adv on Particle Wave and Hex to use Conjuring. Int PSS + AoPM, and Conjuring all work well together, and FotT allows it to gains toggle stacks regardless of attack type. Can either mix the two playstyles, or play them separately.
Gears mostly for Dex, Int, and Con.
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#2: Sorc-Augmented LS Melee dps:
(Unnamed Build) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Cybernetic Warrior (Con: 10, End: 10, Int: 10, Rec: 8)
Level 6: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 9: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 12: Investigator (Int: 5, End: 5)
Level 15: Quick Recovery (Con: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 18: Negotiator (Int: 5, Rec: 5)
Level 21: Amazing Stamina (Rec: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Eldritch Bolts
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Particle Accelerator
Level 8: Night Warrior (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Conviction (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 14: Molecular Self-Assembly
Level 17: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 20: Hex of Suffering (Rune of Terror)
Level 23: Sigils of Destruction (Rank 2, Inner Peace)
Level 26: Warlock's Blades (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 29: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 32: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 35: Laser Deflection (Rank 2)
Level 38: Rebirth
Adv. Points: 34/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Warden: Slaughter (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)
Uses some of the Sorc cd powers to support LS's melee dps and energy generation. Warlock Blades for the theme and added dps, Destruction sigils are nice for a unit already in melee range, and Hex for its cd and debuff to boost the blade pet and sigils. Can also be played in Hybrid role w/ a more hybrid-style or passive to it. Another good Sorc cd to potentially throw in there is Pillar of Poz or Vala's Light.
Gears mostly for Int and Con.
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#3: Sorc + LS Combo-Blaster:
(Unnamed Build) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Dexterity (Secondary)
Level 15: Constitution (Secondary)
Talents
Level 1: The Glacier (Con: 10, End: 10, Dex: 8, Int: 10)
Level 6: Covert Ops Training (Str: 3, Dex: 3, Con: 3, Int: 3)
Level 9: Healthy Mind (Con: 5, Int: 5)
Level 12: Acrobat (Dex: 5, Con: 5)
Level 15: Coordinated (Dex: 5, Int: 5)
Level 18: Boundless Reserves (Con: 5, End: 5)
Level 21: Accurate (Dex: 5, End: 5)
Powers
Level 1: Eldritch Bolts
Level 1: Lightspeed Strike (Rank 2, Particle Acceleration)
Level 6: Eldritch Blast (Rank 2, Bad Luck)
Level 8: Aura of Primal Majesty (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Form of the Tempest
Level 14: Conjuring
Level 17: Conviction (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 23: Star Barrage (Rank 2, Light Everlasting)
Level 26: Vala's Light (Rank 2, Light Everlasting)
Level 29: Hex of Suffering (Rune of Terror)
Level 32: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 35: Eldritch Shield (Rank 2)
Level 38: Rebirth
Adv. Points: 34/36
Travel Powers
Level 6:
Level 35:
Specializations
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Warden: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Warden: Slaughter (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Avenger: Ruthless (2/2)
Avenger: Round 'em Up (3/3)
Avenger: Offensive Expertise (2/2)
Avenger: Preemptive Strike (3/3)
Mastery: Avenger Mastery (1/1)
What'd ya expect from me for mixing a ranged and melee set? You should know the deal by now: combo till AvMastery, fire of the blast, etc. Has some debuffs and support heals available.
Gears mostly for Dex, Int, and Con.
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
Thank you very much, those builds pretty much covered my needs ^^
ex. UF @ 170 End & 87 Rec = 34/3 = 11.3 eps.
OD w/ same = 13/3 = 4.33 eps,
2x OD = 8.7 eps,
3x OD = 13 eps.
So, for Ranged PA builds and assuming you can meet the more stringent conditions w/ rolling UF vs. rolling OD w/ any PA toggle, UF will likely be a bit easier on energy unless ur already juggling 3 PA slots. But also keep in mind that UF lasts 6 sec vs. OD's 9 per stack; so OD lasts longer, but each OD stack gained doesn't refresh the entire stack either. Although the PBurn advs can stack PBurn pretty well, the most reliable ways to proc UF w/ PA are via Burn Through- so Chest Beam, Eye Beam w/ adv, and/or Minigun w/ adv.
For mixing LS and PA, keep in mind that although Melta Cannon advs can stack PBurn at ranged, this is on toggles that will lockout LS powers while they are in use. So, if you wanted to mix LS attacks w/ them then it'd be to setup PBurn stacks from ranged that you can close the gap and rupture w/ LS's effects. Prob more convenient to just use Lightspeed Strike to stack PBurn for a LS build, so this is mostly if you want a diff playstyle or to add a ranged option to stack PBurn.
Particle Accelerator can also work w/ ranged PA in a similar manner to UF (applying 'Radiation' effects), but for pure ranged PA builds you mine as well stick w/ Conc or Chilled Form, since PAccel is still a melee dps toggle that doesn't give as large a dmg bonus to ranged. PAccel is better w/ PA + LS mixes, though, since Conc and Chilled Form don't also proc from melee attacks, but PAccel can proc for LS and PA (potentially).
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
And a big THANK YOU for all of examples and explanations.
Not anymore
Gold since Christmas 2015
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
(Unnamed Build) - Freeform
Super Stats
Level 6: Strength (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Intelligence (Secondary)
Powers
Level 1: Laser Edge
Level 1: Lightspeed Dash (Download, Nailed to the Ground)
Level 6: Cybernetic Tether (Recharge, Radiate)
Level 8: Particle Wave (Illuminate, Bad Footing)
Level 11: Particle Smash (Light Everlasting, Null value)
Level 14: Luminescent Slash (Rank 2, End of the Line, Challenge!)
Level 17: Enrage (Endorphin Rush)
Level 20: Bountiful Chi Resurgence (Rank 2, Resurgent Reiki)
Level 23: Defiance
Level 26: Laser Deflection (Data Conversion)
Level 29: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 32: Masterful Dodge
Level 35: Conviction (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 38: Molecular Self-Assembly
Adv. Points: 36/36
Specializations
Strength: Swole (2/3)
Strength: Physical Peak (1/3)
Strength: Aggression (2/2)
Strength: Brutality (2/2)
Strength: Juggernaut (3/3)
Warden: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Warden: Ruthless (2/2)
Warden: Upper Hand (2/3)
Warden: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Initiative (2/2)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (1/3)
Vindicator: Modified Gear (2/2)
Mastery: Strength Mastery (1/1)
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
As far Enrage and cd goes, I just cycle my two knocks (3 if you count Particle Smash's AoE). It takes a little discipline, but I have both knock cds under 8 sec, so I can trigger Enrage every 4 sec easily. If someone doesn't want to pay that much attention to their knock cds, I suppose they could always switch Conviction out for something that triggers Enrage more. I admit my build overdid it in the healing department, but I figured it would be good with MSA and my other cds.
edit: looks like its true now on Live, so I'll update.
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!
Thank you for summing things up so nicely, and providing some shiny template builds. I do have kind of a stupid question, but please bear with me.
How important is strength to a laser sword build? I ask because most of the builds you've provided don't really feature it much at all, where to my understanding laser swords benefited from a melee damage bonus. Is that no longer the case, or is it just that the other elements of the set take priority over STR's damage bonus?
On a related note, how would you prioritize gear and statting for a DPS laser sword build?
Taking Str PSS w/o Enrage can work for LS builds, but you either have to drop Con SS to keep energy above-board (not ideal since Juggernaut is one of Str PSS's main draws), or keep Con SS and risk having more energy issues or not getting Dex SS for extra dps. Either way, you'll have to give up something to get Str PSS's bonuses.
Its diff for Enrage-based LS builds that use the knocking powers in LS. But that's also cause Str is now affecting ur toggle, and that kills 2 birds w/ 1 stone (though ofc now ur bound to knock attempts to keep ur toggle up).
A standard LS build using PAccelerator and Unified Theory should prob stick w/ INT/Con/End, and stat mostly for Int and Con (latter also assuming you get ES/NM as the AO). Some End is good for energy, and get the usual crit and severity on offensive gear.
- Be safe and have fun, champs - for science!