How is Paladin Tanking mechanically different from GF tanking?

jaymadiv · July 2016

I was set on playing a Temptation Warlock when NW comes to PS4, but now I am actually considering a Oathbound Paladin Tank as well.

I've played a Guardian Fighter before, but it was a long time ago, and I want to play something different this go around.

I'm curious as to how Tanking as a Pally differs mechanically from tanking as a Guardian Fighter.

any insight?

emilemo · July 2016

My (limited) experience would suggest the following: a GF has to be more pro-active in actually managing threat and watching his own hp while protecting his team, a Protection OP is more passive in that he is inherently harder to kill and generally has very powerful team protection and taunting skills that make everyone nigh immortal. If you want to feel like a truly immovable object pick the OP, if you want a more active and lets just say it, skill based gameplay pick the GF.

I like playing the unkillable tank so my toon is a Protection OP.

PS: its noteworthy also that the OP even in protection can heal while the GF should be capable of doing more dmg overall

tebancisneros · July 2016

I have played with both classes, however I still have not tested all paragon paths or skill trees.
I can give you my opinion of the following builds
-Protector Oathbound Paladin - Justice Skill Tree
-Swordmaster Guardian Fighter - Tactician Skill Tree

Oathbound Paladin gameplay is based on spam encounters,
Binding Oath and Templar's Wrath offer short moments of invulnerability then you must prepare yourself against the huge HP loss. and repeat.
OP Tank manages threat in a form of AOE taunts, with their Mechanic skill and Auras.
OP Buffs the party in passive ways like Aura of Courage or Aura Gifts.
The combat is highly focused in timing.

Guardian Fighters gameplay is based in try to maintain the shield as long as you can.
Shield talent, Into the fray, Enforced Threat and a lot of powers/feats/equipment restores your stamina during combat.
GF manages threat by marking your opponents, their mechanic is a hard taunt but is single target, enforced threat is AOE but limited in number of targets (Although is usually enough).
GF buffs the party using encounters, into the fray, mark, crushing pin, requires to be activated with an ability.
The combat is highly focused in position.

In my personal opinion both tanks are really good. Is up to you and your gameplay style.

jaymadiv · July 2016

Thank you a bunch! This gives me much needed insight.

carl103 · July 2016

ALso if your looking for a trivial leveling experiance, Prot Paladins are god mode sue's in leveling content.

How is Paladin Tanking mechanically different from GF tanking?

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