Trying PA for first time, advice appreciated :)

netherny · November 2014

Hi guys,

So, I'm trying Power Armor (well, a FF mix anyway) for the first time) and just thought I would get some advice from you vets out there. First I will post the tentative build idea that I had at first....

http://powerhouse.nullware.com/powerhouse.html?v=11&n=Elise&d=17483TUaideM070300494059B0JQ803Q3039F009I002C0337042A039T0014047D049S030nBe2Wvb3bIh

Then, where she is now, at level 15. I'm sure you guys know how it is... once you actually start playing, you start to think... "Hey I sure could use some more AoE" or maybe ""Man I wish I Had a heal I could throw on others" etc etc. So anyway, this is where she is now.

http://powerhouse.nullware.com/powerhouse.html?v=11&n=Spree%201&d=17483iUTa00M000300494009B03Q8019F00000000000000000000000000000000000000059m00000000

My reasoning for putting Pyre in instead of Micro Munitions is I wanted a bigger AoE. I like clicky stuff, Fire and Forget. After all PA is a very busy set to use. Lining up enemies just right, managing energy.

Yes, I went with all blue bar stuff, so I can just spray and spray like crazy. So far it's pretty sweet. So, looking for input from you guys.

Also, I do like having that Energy Refraction, it works well with regen, and I like seeing a force bubble around this toon. Maybe you guys know another Impulse ability I could borrow, Like Field Surge... or should I just stick with Force Shield with Adv and save a power pick, like Force Cascade? There's Force Detonation and IDF to consider. Pyre, Electric Sheath, and Sonic Device are the powers I'm thinking of replacing with another force field ability (on that complete, future build) But, I'm open to suggestions from any set... Infernal, Telepathy or Ebon etc.

Anyway, Thank you for any advice, and have fun out there

flowcyto · November 2014

Regen is fine for a passive, esp for a solo build. But ya wanna be careful w/ non-PA powers like DE, Flashfre, or Pyre- since they get locked out when using slotted PA toggles. Ya also have redundant PA slots (ex. minigun and shoulder launcher)- generally just pick one PA power for each slot (or 2 out of 3, if ya want lighter energy reqs and lower micro-management).

If ya want to mix some Fire attacks in there, mine as well take adv of Thermal Reverb- flashfire and full Pyre charges can proc it (Pyre can build Conc and proc it even out of combat w/ nothing to hit). Ofc, Overdrive is still good for PA, but TR+Fire is a fitting alternative here to consider. If ya go down that route, fire is for wid-reaching AoE (Pyre) and to proc TR, whereas PA toggles/powers are more for single-target and clumped groups of mobs.

Also, Energy Wave has an adv that gives you a neat shield, but its kinda weak. Force Sheath is nice, so mine as well keep that.

More of a conventional PA build, but keeping Regen:

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Super Stats:
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Recovery (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Invincible
Level 6: Field Ops Training
Level 9: Healthy Mind
Level 12: Quick Recovery
Level 15: Negotiator
Level 18: Boundless Reserves
Level 21: Investigator

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 6: Concentration
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Micro Munitions (Rank 2, Alpha Strike)
Level 17: Plasma Beam (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Energy Wave (Hardened Particle Matrix, Reverse Polarity)
Level 23: Masterful Dodge
Level 26: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 29: Tactical Missiles (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 32: Force Shield (Force Sheathe)
Level 35: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 38:

Travel Powers:
Level 6:
Level 35:

Specializations:
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Guardian: Locus (1/2)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: Find the Mark (3/3)
Guardian: The Best Defense (2/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)

(gearing: mostly Int and Rec- w/ some Con, End, and crit%)

PA + Fire + Regen, for fun:

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Super Stats:
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Glacier
Level 6: Field Ops Training
Level 9: Healthy Mind
Level 12: Boundless Reserves
Level 15: Investigator
Level 18: Quick Recovery
Level 21: Negotiator

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 6: Concentration
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Thermal Reverberation
Level 14: Pyre (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 17: Micro Munitions (Rank 2, Alpha Strike)
Level 20: Masterful Dodge
Level 23: Flashfire (Sweltering Heat)
Level 26: Energy Wave (Hardened Particle Matrix, Reverse Polarity)
Level 29: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 32: Force Shield (Rank 2, Force Sheathe)
Level 35: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 38:

Travel Powers:
Level 6:
Level 35:

Specializations:
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Guardian: Locus (1/2)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: Find the Mark (2/3)
Guardian: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Offensive Expertise (2/2)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)

(gearing: mostly Int and End- some Rec, Con, and crit% on the side)

netherny · November 2014

Thanks Flowcyto

I like those builds, that second one looks pretty sick lol.

The only reason I picked up Tactical Missiles is because of the wonkyness of character generation... not many choices. What do you think about Reconstruction Circuits? I noticed you put Resurgence in there.

Also, would there really be enough fire going around to power Thermal Reverb? Or should I just stick with OD? I read somewhere that OD works better off Recovery, than End, so maybe I would want to swap those around too if going with OD.

The reason I didn't go with Wrist Bolter is because it seemed like your character has to be exactly pointing towards the bad guys, and with Force Bolts you don't. There's probably a simple workaround for that. But I am dumb.

It looks like I need to stick a little closer to the traditional AT build with the stats and all, like that 2nd build you posted there, but I'm still not sure about going with Thermal instead of OD.

Oh, and I went back to that guide I found on Steam...

http://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=180409692

Anyway, how about...

http://powerhouse.nullware.com/powerhouse.html?v=11&n=Elise%203&d=1437bTPMihgM17091009B0D9F00Q8039I002A039N03DM002C039R0CQG053704EI049U012WAL439J42ct

Slightly modified from your second build there, and the bad guys should still die a fiery, fiery, explodey death.

baelogventure · November 2014

Using a PA Toggle like Micro-Munitions, Reconstruction Circuits, Concussor Beams, etc will lock out other non-PA powers.

You'll want to have at least 3 PA powers running for maximum damage, usually 2 toggles and 1 maintain/charge, 1 in each slot (chest/hand/shoulder). Like using Micro-Munitions on Chest, Minigun on Shoulder, and Plasma Beam on Hand.

That said, running 3 PA powers requires a LOT of energy.

aiqa · November 2014

If you're willing to be a bit more adventurous with stats and specs something like this would work.
It has more than enough defense for anything except tanking frosticus, dps is pretty good, and energy good enough for the 3 PA powers.

I'm using a variation of this build myself, without the fire powers, but with fire-all-weapons, a rez, and r2 block.

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name:

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Ego (Primary)
Level 10: Intelligence (Secondary)
Level 15: Recovery (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Impulse
Level 6: Academics
Level 9: Wordly
Level 12: Negotiator
Level 15: Jack of All Trades
Level 18: Field Ops Training
Level 21: Command Training

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Concussor Beam (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 6: Energy Shield (Laser Knight)
Level 8: Invulnerability (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 17: Micro Munitions (Rank 2, Alpha Strike, Challenging Strikes)
Level 20: Miniaturization Drive
Level 23: Concentration
Level 26: Reconstruction Circuits (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 29: Bionic Shielding (Rank 2)
Level 32: Masterful Dodge
Level 35: Flashfire (Rank 2)
Level 38: Pyre (Rank 2, Rank 3)

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Pack (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 35: Athletics (Rank 2)

Specializations:
Ego: Mental Endurance (3/3)
Ego: Insight (2/3)
Ego: Follow Through (3/3)
Ego: Exploit Opening (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: Find the Mark (2/3)
Guardian: The Best Defense (3/3)
Sentry: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Sentry: Sentry Aura (3/3)
Sentry: Fortify (2/2)
Sentry: Reinforce (2/2)
Mastery: Ego Mastery (1/1)

flowcyto · November 2014

yeah, 3 PA slots at once takes a ton of energy, but even just having 2 constantly up is decent for dps (mostly provided one is Minigun w/ its debuff adv).

netherny wrote: »

The only reason I picked up Tactical Missiles is because of the wonkyness of character generation... not many choices. What do you think about Reconstruction Circuits? I noticed you put Resurgence in there.

Circuits is pretty good for PA toggle builds. Can't crit, but allows ya to use non-chest slot PA toggles while its running, and it can still proc phalanx defense for energy shield (if ya use that block)- scales w/ Pres/bonus heal as normal.

I wouldn't mix Circuits in w/ a PA build that has some non-PA attacks (like the Fire one for AoE), just cause the non-PA lockout on it is long due to its long duration (can cancel it early, but that just more micromanagement when conviction, BCR, or bionic shielding can be easier).

Also, would there really be enough fire going around to power Thermal Reverb? Or should I just stick with OD? I read somewhere that OD works better off Recovery, than End, so maybe I would want to swap those around too if going with OD.

All ya really need to have one CF debuff around (and thus TR fuel) is flashfire. Pyre on full charge also lays its own flashfire patch (though Pyre takes much energy to full charge).

The reason I didn't go with Wrist Bolter is because it seemed like your character has to be exactly pointing towards the bad guys, and with Force Bolts you don't. There's probably a simple workaround for that.

I found that annoying on the Automaton. Ya can change the options to allow you to auto-face hostile targets when you attack, regardless of ur camera angle- and that helps a bit. Automated Assault is an easier way to add a 3rd PA slot than Tac Missiles, but its dps is pretty light (since its end builder dps) and its kinda sluggish in its responsiveness.

It looks like I need to stick a little closer to the traditional AT build with the stats and all, like that 2nd build you posted there, but I'm still not sure about going with Thermal instead of OD.

OD prob still returns more energy at 2-3 stacks w/ enough Rec and better fits conventional PA builds, so the first build or one like aqia's may be a better fit. The TR/Fire build was just to show how theme-based variants could work, but even if the energy return isn't as good, it should be able to manage at least 2 toggles at once (or 2 + wrist bolter's AA adv) w/ enough gearing.

netherny · November 2014

baelogventure wrote: »

Using a PA Toggle like Micro-Munitions, Reconstruction Circuits, Concussor Beams, etc will lock out other non-PA powers.

You'll want to have at least 3 PA powers running for maximum damage, usually 2 toggles and 1 maintain/charge, 1 in each slot (chest/hand/shoulder). Like using Micro-Munitions on Chest, Minigun on Shoulder, and Plasma Beam on Hand.

That said, running 3 PA powers requires a LOT of energy.

So I'm starting to notice... even blocking seems to shut it all off, and then there's like a little half second delay before I can crank up my Mini-Gun again. It certainly seems to be the most challenging (or at least one of the more challenging sets) to play.

I wonder if using Reconstructive Circuits will toggle off any (or all) of the other toggles? if so, then maybe Flow was onto something with Resurgence? And if it takes a ton of energy, maybe I *should* stick with my original plan to go all "blue bar"? But then again, Regen would do better with some Con right? I even saw one build similar to my "Elise 3" build that used Defiance instead. And, since it's all ranged, why not consider stacking in some Dex or Ego?
Jeez... PA really is a complex set lol.

Hmmm, it sure is a unique power set with lots of possibilities. But you have to be like a freakin' brain surgeon to keep on top of everything that's going on... no "fire and forget" or walk in and stuff passively dies.

aiqa · November 2014

netherny wrote: »

I wonder if using Reconstructive Circuits will toggle off any (or all) of the other toggles?

It toggles off shoulder weapons. So if for instance you are using concusor beam, minigun and micro munitions, activating recontructive circuits will disable micro munitions, the rest of the powers will just keep firing and can be de- or reactivated at will... if you have enough energy.
Like with any other PA toggle, while reconstructive circuits is active, you can't use your EB.

There are just two things you can do that will overwrite (toggle off) all PA powers, blocking and the fire-all-weapons power.

pantagruel01 · November 2014

aiqa wrote: »

It toggles off shoulder weapons.

No, chest weapons -- so micro munitions and chest beam (which isn't a toggle, but will shut off reconstructive circuits if you activate it).

aiqa · November 2014

pantagruel01 wrote: »

No, chest weapons -- so micro munitions and chest beam (which isn't a toggle, but will shut off reconstructive circuits if you activate it).

You're right, I was confusing the slots.

netherny · November 2014

I appreciate all the advice guys ^_^

I'm not giving up on it just yet... still gonna give it a try. But one more question...

How does Force with Force Sheath stack up against Energy Shield with Phalanx? If I'm already gonna be busy managing all these toggles, maybe I should go with a more hands-free shield. But, Force Shield is pretty sweet. Hmm. Anyway, gonna try to post some pics of the toon (I've named her Spree after my old CoH Blaster lol. Let's hope she can live up to her namesake)

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j121/ShadowShape/SpreewithHelmet_zps71b0ed79.jpg

and

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j121/ShadowShape/SpreeNoHelmet_zpse30bc188.jpg

Sort of a police type armor theme going on. Makes sense to me since she is starting out doing missions for Chief Surhoff mostly.

What's dumb is, I bought the Cybernetic costume parts a while back and forgot to put any of them on @_@

aiqa · November 2014

Phalanx gives a very nice defense buff, and for me constantly managing force sheat is just a bit to much. Even without that block, PA is made to juggle the toggles which will keep you busy enough.

Of course it does require your build to be really good on energy, and the other powers that help with energy don't work nicely with PA.
The circle forces you to stay in one spot, PA requires you to reposition yourself often.
Dark transfusion makes healing very tricky, and that is not the easiest part of PA to begin with.

netherny · November 2014

The more I practice with PA, the easier it gets.... lining the mobs up and letting loose can have very good results. I've always liked passive stuff instead of clicky stuff, so I'll give Phalanx a try. i can always re-spec out of it.

At the moment I'm thinking of going Int, Ego and Rec for SS's, and going OD. A good click-activate hard-hitter damage attack would be nice to add in of course. (Maybe Flash Fire?) Either to open with, or as a finishing move, and manage the toggles in between. As for an extra heal, I guess I could go with Conviction?

Of course I still haven't gotten Chest Beam (one of the cool powers that first got me interested in PA in the first place) OR Fire all Weapons... this is going to be a process of finding out what works for me I guess lol. I want the best of PA *and* the ability to lay down quick, lethal damage.

I looked in the options, under Controls... not sure which one is supposed to keep you attacking the target and facing him.

pantagruel01 · November 2014

netherny wrote: »

I appreciate all the advice guys ^_^

I'm not giving up on it just yet... still gonna give it a try. But one more question...

How does Force with Force Sheath stack up against Energy Shield with Phalanx?

It's more work to maintain and provides a smaller defense bonus, but the energy return is sweet. On my PA build I use a block tap as a convenient way to shut off all toggles at once, otherwise they tend to get out of sync.

netherny · November 2014

Just an update... here's where I am right now...

http://powerhouse.nullware.com/powerhouse.html?v=11&n=Elise%203.1&d=1450GTRW000M17091009B0D9F00Q8019I00370400000000000000000000000000000000003h00000000

Just went with Force Shield for now, since Phalanx costs 3 points... I might go back to it later, but for now it should help me waltz right through stuff easier.

Planning on taking Recovery as third SS. Already noticing OD kicking in and giving me about 33% more mini-gun time, which I can't complain about.

And I made her a costume for her 3rd slot, in case she has any underwater adventures

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j121/ShadowShape/SpreeAquaArmor_zps22666f4a.jpg

Thanks again to all of you for your advice, I really appreciate it!

flowcyto · November 2014

netherny wrote: »

I looked in the options, under Controls... not sure which one is supposed to keep you attacking the target and facing him.

They made the option weird cause its a 'disable' that's automatically turned 'On'.

Options -> Controls -> Turn OFF 'Disable hostile target auto-facing'

baelogventure · November 2014

I'm just going to throw my PA Tank in here.

It's really nothing special, it's almost a complete copy of The Invincible Arch Type with a couple of obvious differences.

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name:

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Constitution (Primary)
Level 10: Intelligence (Secondary)
Level 15: Endurance (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Invincible
Level 6: Enduring
Level 9: Brilliant
Level 12: Energetic
Level 15: Investigator
Level 18: Healthy Mind
Level 21: Boundless Reserves

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Power Gauntlet (Crippling Challenge)
Level 6: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds)
Level 8: Energy Shield (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Micro Munitions
Level 17: Chest Beam (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Defiance
Level 23: Concentration
Level 26: Plasma Beam (Rank 2, Melta Cannon, Challenging Strikes)
Level 29: Reconstruction Circuits (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 32: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 35: Unbreakable (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 38: Fire All Weapons (Rank 2, Rank 3)

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Boots (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 35:

Specializations:
Constitution: Unyielding (1/2)
Constitution: Fuel My Fire (3/3)
Constitution: Resilient (2/2)
Constitution: Adrenaline Rush (2/2)
Constitution: Armored (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Guardian: Locus (2/2)
Guardian: Tenacious (2/2)
Guardian: 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: Constitution Mastery (1/1)

netherny · November 2014

Thanks Flow and Bael for your help. So far it is a fun toon to play. Tried to get on this morning but was getting pretty bad lag and SNR's, so... gonna wait a bit and try again.

Right now she's at

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name: Elise 3.1

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Ego (Secondary)
Level 15: Recovery (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Hero
Level 6: Field Ops Training
Level 9: Negotiator
Level 12: Academics
Level 15: Wordly
Level 18:
Level 21:

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 6: Concentration
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Energy Shield (Phalanx Defense System)
Level 17:
Level 20:
Level 23:
Level 26:
Level 29:
Level 32:
Level 35:
Level 38:

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Pack
Level 35: Teleportation

Specializations:
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (2/3)

BUT.... a few replies back, Flow suggested Energy Wave, and a weird idea hit me.... what if I replaced THAT with some kind of heal, like, I dunno, Empathic, (which is one of my favorites. Okay, it IS my favorite. That way, if I ever had to, I could at least throw out a little healing. I mean, Why not?

I think it was....

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name: Elise 3

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Constitution (Secondary)
Level 15: Recovery (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Scourge
Level 6: Negotiator
Level 9: Quick Recovery
Level 12: Healthy Mind
Level 15: Field Ops Training
Level 18: Survival Training
Level 21: Command Training

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 6: Concentration
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Pyre (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 17: Micro Munitions (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Masterful Dodge
Level 23: Flashfire (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 26: Energy Wave (Hardened Particle Matrix, Reverse Polarity)
Level 29: Resurgence (Rank 2, Evanescent Emergence)
Level 32: Force Shield (Force Sheathe)
Level 35: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)
Level 38: Reconstruction Circuits (Rank 2)

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Pack (Rank 2)
Level 35: Teleportation

Specializations:
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Guardian: Locus (1/2)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: Find the Mark (2/3)
Guardian: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Offensive Expertise (2/2)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)

...or similar. That Energy Wave could possibly be subbed out for Empathic Healing without really harming the build much, right? (Even though I ended up going with INT, EGO, REC like a maniac lol). That would let me throw heals on other players in a pinch, or keep NPC's healed up on one of those Escort missions. After all, I sort of think of this toon as a "Power Armor Cop", so she should at least have some first aid training or something.

Oh and BTW, the Phalanx seems to be doing a good job too, so thanks to aiqa

flowcyto · November 2014

Energy Wave was for 2 things- cause ya originally wanted to have a force-field or shielding type visual pwoer in there (and hardened martix does that, though its not great), and also just to clump up mobs in Alerts so AoE-ing them down is easier.

EW is ofc not essential to the build, but if ya wanted to have a decent ally heal instead then I'd prob use Iniquity, since most of the other heals (incl Empathic) are too weak for non-Support to use well (unless ya get some +heal and/or Pres), whereas Iniquity is strong even w/o any +heal.

Iniquity works quite well w/ Regen, too, cause the passive can automatically heal the self-dmg done from the heal.

netherny · November 2014

OMG, sorry Flow... forgot about that. Me and my stupid brain tumors, plus all my meds makes me forget stuff a lot lol. You are right. I would like to keep that too. So, I went back to your first build idea, and sort of moved things around a bit...

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name: Elise 3.2

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Ego (Secondary)
Level 15: Recovery (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Hero
Level 6: Negotiator
Level 9: Quick Recovery
Level 12: Healthy Mind
Level 15: Field Ops Training
Level 18: Survival Training
Level 21: Command Training

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 6: Concentration
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Energy Shield (Phalanx Defense System)
Level 17: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 20: Flashfire (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 23: Masterful Dodge
Level 26: Iniquity (Justice)
Level 29: Plasma Beam (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 32: Micro Munitions (Rank 2, Alpha Strike)
Level 35: Energy Wave (Hardened Particle Matrix, Reverse Polarity)
Level 38: Ego Surge (Nimble Mind)

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Pack (Rank 2)
Level 35: Teleportation

Specializations:
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Guardian: Locus (1/2)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: Find the Mark (3/3)
Guardian: The Best Defense (2/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)

...just a process of refinement I guess lol. You're right, I don't really wanna give up that energy wave, it would be too awesome with FlashFire. Now if only the lag and SNR's would stop maybe I can make a little progress @_@

Thanks for your patience Flow!

EDIT: I'm now in the Desert Crisis and Thank God no more SNR's or lag. Got to lvl 17 and... well, I went ahead and got the Micro Munitions... makes a big difference in damage!

pantagruel01 · November 2014

flowcyto wrote: »

EW is ofc not essential to the build, but if ya wanted to have a decent ally heal instead then I'd prob use Iniquity

Targeted heals with a non-healer are rarely worth taking. If you want an emergency support power to keep an ally alive, I'd actually suggest palliate with absolve (the heal isn't that much on a non-healer, but the threat wipe and the stealth are a big deal). If you want team support, healing drones fit a tech paradigm nicely (though beware the effects on energy).

netherny · November 2014

pantagruel01 wrote: »

Targeted heals with a non-healer are rarely worth taking. If you want an emergency support power to keep an ally alive, I'd actually suggest palliate with absolve (the heal isn't that much on a non-healer, but the threat wipe and the stealth are a big deal). If you want team support, healing drones fit a tech paradigm nicely (though beware the effects on energy).

Ooooh good point, pantagruel01. Thanks

As you all can see, I'm an idea person... constantly looking at different possibilities. Just the way I am. At this point, I'm actually thinking about not only doing the support drone thing like you said... but... check this out...

Not long ago I was messing around with a Night Warrior / Gadgeteer build, and liked it a lot. If I could drop a power from my current pending build, could I pick up Night Warrior and work it in somehow? I mean, I'm running in Hybrid (lightning bolt symbol) right now, and I could swear I was able to do so before in Hybrid. Hmmm. Stealth capable armor...

See? I just can't stop it, I'm an idea person lol.

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name: Elise 3.3

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Ego (Secondary)
Level 15: Recovery (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Hero
Level 6: Negotiator
Level 9: Quick Recovery
Level 12: Healthy Mind
Level 15: Field Ops Training
Level 18: Survival Training
Level 21: Command Training

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 6: Concentration
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Energy Shield (Phalanx Defense System)
Level 17: Micro Munitions (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Flashfire (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 23: Masterful Dodge
Level 26: Support Drones (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 29: Plasma Beam (Rank 2)
Level 32: Resurgence (Rank 2)
Level 35: Night Warrior (Rank 2, Silent Running)
Level 38: Ricochet Throw (Rank 2, Microelectronic Controllers)

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Pack (Rank 2)
Level 35: Teleportation

Specializations:
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Guardian: Locus (1/2)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: Find the Mark (3/3)
Guardian: The Best Defense (2/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)

Maybe?? Maybe not in that order of powers, but still, with the ability to swap builds, it might be fun, and a treatment for my altitis. Although I'm not sure if you can switch roles in combat though.

BTW, when I'm in Hybrid mode... what do other players see? The gear symbol, or the lightning bolt?

flowcyto · November 2014

pantagruel01 wrote: »

Targeted heals with a non-healer are rarely worth taking. If you want an emergency support power to keep an ally alive, I'd actually suggest palliate with absolve (the heal isn't that much on a non-healer, but the threat wipe and the stealth are a big deal). If you want team support, healing drones fit a tech paradigm nicely (though beware the effects on energy).

I would agree, at least for most of the ally heals (the ones that aren't good hps w/o much bonus healing). It really just comes down to player pref, though. If someone likes to have the option of healing on the side, even if its not suited for their build/role, then that's their prerogative to include and use it.

Regen is nice w/ Iniquity, though. I had it on my Regen + DoT tank for a bit and the only reason I dropped it was cause I wanted more attacks, and ally healing just didn't fit how I wanted to play w/ that build. Its more like.. once ya start healing people regularly, they expect more later, and as a non-healer I didn't want to get burdened w/ that mentality of 'oh now people expect you to keep them up, even though ur tanking'. I certainly didn't drop Iniquity cause it wasn't effective as a heal :x

But yeah Palliate/Absolve is still good for non-Support, as is Ascension- whose upfront group heal is quite stronger than its self-heal. Its not that uncommon for my non-healer builds these days to combo an AoE res w/ Ascension.

netherny wrote:

Not long ago I was messing around with a Night Warrior / Gadgeteer build, and liked it a lot. If I could drop a power from my current pending build, could I pick up Night Warrior and work it in somehow? I mean, I'm running in Hybrid (lightning bolt symbol) right now, and I could swear I was able to do so before in Hybrid. Hmmm. Stealth capable armor...

You can only have one passive slotted at a time, and NW isn't really one for a tank like Regen is. Could work if ya wanted a dual passive build, but then ya'd want to use the in-game build selector to customize and swap between the two passives (and other things like gear, costume, and role).

I would prob stick to one passive, just to simplify the build a bit, but like the ally healing thing, it depends what ya wanna do w/ the character.

And the hybrid icon will appear as a gear to other players. It and the lightning bolt mean the same thing, though.

flowcyto · November 2014

edit: double post- ignore pls

netherny · November 2014

Yeah, that's what I meant, just swap after using NW, and go back to Regen after my luscious, juicy Shadow Strike, Then I could switch and go to town with Power Armor AoEs to mop up weaker trash mobs. (Also, Sneak comes in handy for lurking to the glowies or bosses, and making the mission go faster)

I'm just now toying around with with the idea. It seems like it takes a few moments to switch back, but, with the ability to "Switch Gears" on the fly, it could help start off strong, and then AoE the weaker enemies, plus, using AoE's, they should just dissolve.

The gear between the two builds doesn't have to be all that different.
Just a crazy thought. Both Hybrid, but one Sneaky, and one a high flying attack-fighter. I could switch out Ego for Dex, maybe?

I like versatility... it helps fight Altitis, when you can do a variety of different things with one toon.

Of course, being able to switch back and forth might require a aggro-drop like smoke bomb.

Maybe...

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name: Elise 3.3

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Intelligence (Primary)
Level 10: Dexterity (Secondary)
Level 15: Recovery (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: The Hero
Level 6: Negotiator
Level 9: Quick Recovery
Level 12: Healthy Mind
Level 15: Field Ops Training
Level 18: Survival Training
Level 21: Command Training

Powers:
Level 1: Power Bolts
Level 1: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 6: Concentration
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Overdrive
Level 14: Energy Shield (Phalanx Defense System)
Level 17: Micro Munitions (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 20: Flashfire (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 23: Masterful Dodge
Level 26: Support Drones (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 29: Plasma Beam (Rank 2)
Level 32: Smoke Bomb (Rank 2)
Level 35: Night Warrior (Rank 2, Silent Running)
Level 38: Ricochet Throw (Rank 2, Microelectronic Controllers)

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Pack (Rank 2)
Level 35: Teleportation

Specializations:
Intelligence: Preparation (2/2)
Intelligence: Enlightened (3/3)
Intelligence: Detect Vulnerability (3/3)
Intelligence: Expertise (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (2/3)
Guardian: Locus (1/2)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: Find the Mark (3/3)
Guardian: The Best Defense (2/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: Merciless (3/3)
Vindicator: Focused Strikes (2/3)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Intelligence Mastery (1/1)

flowcyto · November 2014

NW is good for solo missions, though in Alerts or Lairs mobs will detect you pretty easily, and shadow striking can be tricky or nearly impossible on the Alert boss (ya can wait for other players to start, but that just means the shadow strike opener is making up for lost time/damage- also have to watch for splash dmg/AoE cause that negates the stealth bonus before the strike).

Ya dun really need Dex as an SS- Con SS would make ya more sturdy, and Enlightened means some Dex gearing on the side sitll gives 30% better return on the crit rate (not that tough to get 28%+ char sheet crit w/ just one Dex mod and some crit gear by lvl 40).

netherny · November 2014

flowcyto wrote: »

NW is good for solo missions, though in Alerts or Lairs mobs will detect you pretty easily, and shadow striking can be tricky or nearly impossible on the Alert boss (ya can wait for other players to start, but that just means the shadow strike opener is making up for lost time/damage- also have to watch for splash dmg/AoE cause that negates the stealth bonus before the strike).

Ya dun really need Dex as an SS- Con SS would make ya more sturdy, and Enlightened means some Dex gearing on the side still gives 30% better return on the crit rate (not that tough to get 28%+ char sheet crit w/ just one Dex mod and some crit gear by lvl 40).

I went ahead and went down to Powerhouse and Ret-Conned my stats and stuff, so now I have CON like you said (INT,CON,REC). I didn't really notice much difference at all with damage output, but it does seem like I have more "toughness", like you said. And yes I picked up 3/3 Enlightened (which I had before, but just wanted to make sure.

~If Flow says it, you shall build it~

(lol)

The thing is, it seems like with PA attacks, it seems like you can still move around while shooting them, which is very cool. Also, I found out that Regen simply scales with your SS's, not Pre or Con. At least that's what they say here...

http://web.archive.org/web/20130817230122/http://champions-online-wiki.com/wiki/Regeneration

I guess that's correct, I dunno, BUT... seems like having more Health to start with gives Regen more room to work, if that makes sense?

Now if I could just figure out why my jet pack keeps getting stuck on. That's what I get for using Defenders' spare parts lol.

EDIT: Okay, you guys are gonna thunk this is insane, but, I've always liked characters that are as versatile as possible. After playing this toon thru the desert zone, and getting into Canada now, I've started to get ideas. Switching between roles can come in handy depending on the situation. And being a FF, I can "shift gears" as needed, to do the best thing for the situation. So... After searching online and gathering info, and wanting one toon to do a little of everything, I've put together an unusual build that can shift roles as needed to do the best in whatever situation.

So, with no further ado, (and with my fat cat in my lap, making it hard to type this), I present a Power Armor hero that should be capable of handling a variety of situations....

PowerHouse (Link to this build)

Name: Exige Armor 1.0

Archetype: Freeform

Super Stats:
Level 6: Constitution (Primary)
Level 10: Recovery (Secondary)
Level 15: Intelligence (Secondary)

Talents:
Level 1: Inhuman
Level 6: Quick Recovery
Level 9: Negotiator
Level 12: Healthy Mind
Level 15: Field Ops Training
Level 18: Covert Ops Training
Level 21: Survival Training

Powers:
Level 1: Force Bolts (Energy Refraction)
Level 1: Tactical Missiles (Rank 2, Blast Radius)
Level 6: Mini Gun (Rank 2, U-238 Rounds, Infrared Guidance System)
Level 8: Regeneration (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 11: Energy Shield (Phalanx Defense System)
Level 14: Overdrive
Level 17: Micro Munitions (Rank 2)
Level 20: Inertial Dampening Field (Rank 2, Rank 3)
Level 23: Night Warrior (Rank 2)
Level 26: Ricochet Throw (Rank 2)
Level 29: Devour Essence (Rank 2)
Level 32: Sniper Rifle (Rank 2)
Level 35: Unbreakable (Rank 2)
Level 38: Smoke Bomb

Travel Powers:
Level 6: Jet Pack
Level 35: Scarab Tunneling (Scarab Embrace)

Specializations:
Constitution: Fuel My Fire (3/3)
Constitution: Resilient (2/2)
Constitution: Quick Healing (1/3)
Constitution: Adrenaline Rush (2/2)
Constitution: Armored (2/2)
Guardian: Fortified Gear (3/3)
Guardian: Make It Count (2/3)
Guardian: Ruthless (2/2)
Guardian: The Best Defense (3/3)
Vindicator: Aggressive Stance (2/2)
Vindicator: The Rush of Battle (3/3)
Vindicator: Modified Gear (2/2)
Vindicator: Mass Destruction (3/3)
Mastery: Constitution Mastery (1/1)

Okay, I've made a few more changes to this build, and it is fun. It give me a slotted passive I can use in any role. I can stealth in and Shadow Strike the boss, or sneak in and grab glowies, and then bail. My prior experience with Ricochet would let me open up hard from Stealth, then throw Flash Fire (IF I substitute that for Sniper Rifle), then the PA attacks if necessary. If things go south, I can use Smoke Bomb and get away. Unbreakable should protect me long enough to switch roles if I have to stand and fight. I've changed my stat profile to be CON / REC / INT, which is very nice, as I HATE getting knocked.

And Phalanx / Energy Refraction + IDF helps cover Regen up, which doesn't hurt either. The only concession is swapping CON for DEX, which can't really hurt anyway.

I guess all that matters is that I don't get bored, and have a versatile character that can try just about anything.

Anyway, just a crazy idea I had, so I could make use of every role in some way, while sticking to the power armor theme. A flame thrower ) or Sniper, still haven't decided), cloaking device, jet pack, and shadow strike aren't TOO far out of the realm of comic book possibility.

Took out Mechaniste easily yesterday. Stealthed in and took out his turrets while circling the room. Then sneaked up and SS'd him in the back, which didn't leave him with much HP left, so I took to the air simply by activating Jet Pack, and finished him with mini gun. And the loot he dropped sucked.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j121/ShadowShape/MechanisteDies2_zps81283d4a.jpg

Trying PA for first time, advice appreciated :)

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