Elite skills - Guild Wars Forums

Arzock · Apr 09, 2010, 10:18 AM // 10:18

Why are elite skills so important in most builds? Once I have one do I have to get it aqgain when I make another character?

MagmaRed · Apr 09, 2010, 10:20 AM // 10:20

Elite skills are better than normal skills, and most builds are based on the elite, not the regular skills. Each character (PvE) has to capture the elite. PvP characters can use any elite unlocked on the account.

Arzock · Apr 09, 2010, 10:26 AM // 10:26

But then what do you do until you get up to the point when you can get an elite?

Kamatsu · Apr 09, 2010, 10:33 AM // 10:33

You use a build that doesn't require an elite?

Generally elites are superior to normal skills, so advanced/expert builds will use an elite as the main focal point of the build. Most builds you see on PvX or posted on the forums here are for L20 PvE or PvP play and assuming you have a fair idea of what your doing, have skills to match, etc.

Up till you have the elites - set/us a build in a way that allows you to do whatever your trying to do - damage, healing, protection, utility, etc. And then as you get elites, you can then consider switching skills to build around an elite that helps you do what you want.

If you want to use a specific build that uses and elite and you don't have 1 - look through the skills for something that does similar - it won't be as effective/powerful/etc as the elite, but it will generally still work... just not as well as if you had the elite version.

Arzock · Apr 09, 2010, 03:08 PM // 15:08

I need someone who could run me to a boss, kill it and then let me nab his elite. Were could I find someone who could do that?

Quaker · Apr 09, 2010, 03:20 PM // 15:20

You could try the Ventari's Corner forums here, or you could try asking in the town near where the boss is. Or, of course, you could kill the boss yourself.

Lord Dagon · Apr 09, 2010, 04:33 PM // 16:33

Or you could go H/H. Trust me when i started I was " OMG a BOSS its GOING TO EAT ME!!!!!!!" then when ur goign w/ heros and it dies its like "oh that wasnt so bad.. lets find another boss!!!". Also you can never improve if you dont do things for yourself( or so im told). So go H/H and kill those bosses that you want( also dont forget to bring a signet of capture lol).

MagmaRed · Apr 09, 2010, 06:27 PM // 18:27

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arzock

I need someone who could run me to a boss, kill it and then let me nab his elite. Were could I find someone who could do that?

Based on your questions, I'll assume you are a new player, and if not new, inexperienced. If this is true, the do not get any runs. Take time to play the game, and learn how it works. Getting run to a boss for an elite may allow you to use a build you want, but it will defeat the point of playing the game. If you are wanting to do PvP and need an elite for that, I'd say to use Balthazar Faction and unlock the elite you want and use a PvP only character. Don't rush through the game. There is a lot to do, but if you rush through it by having other people do things for you it will soon reach a point where there is nothing left you have fun doing. And although it may seem like a long wait to reach level 20 and get elite skills to use, it is actually quite fast compared to the length of the game if you do all the quests/missions that are not required.

Arzock · Apr 09, 2010, 08:37 PM // 20:37

But if I don't use a build, I die. How am I even supposed to play?

Dzjudz · Apr 09, 2010, 09:03 PM // 21:03

You can make builds without elites. You can also use heroes and henchmen. It would even be possible to have an empty skillbar and kill a boss using just henchmen. Just take the skillbar you have used so far, a signet of capture, and a full party of heroes/henchmen.

Arzock · Apr 09, 2010, 09:07 PM // 21:07

A level 28 boss, when I'm level 12?

Gondrakif · Apr 09, 2010, 09:31 PM // 21:31

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arzock

A level 28 boss, when I'm level 12?

You are doing something really wrong if you are level 12 and facing level 28 bosses...
My guess is you saw an elite skill you wanted and looked up in the wiki for a boss who has it, if that's the case i must tell you GW is a very big place and it may take you some time to get to that level 28 boss and by the time you do that you will be level 20 yourself with a better set of skills and better henchmen to fight with... Either that or you are in Beacon's Perch and saw some boss in Lornar's Pass

Skye Marin · Apr 09, 2010, 10:05 PM // 22:05

If you have prophecies, you'll have to wait until you're in the later desert missions until you run across a boss that has an elite skill.

If you want one sooner, play some PvP for Balthazar Faction, unlock Elite skills from the Faction Rewards guy in Random Arenas, and then buy an Elite Tome from another player. It might cost you a few thousand gold. Prices vary, but having one good elite really helps make a strong character.

What profession are you? What campaigns do you have?

MagmaRed · Apr 09, 2010, 10:18 PM // 22:18

Stop rushing. Learn the game. Spend time playing it the way it was meant to be played, not the way the long term players are now (farming, speed clearing, etc.). Level 12 characters should not be able to access an elite. Even in Factions where elites show up fairly early, you should be at least level 17 before seeing an elite. There is no rush to have one, as the quests/missions that a level 12 character should be at are easily done without an elite skill.

Builds are a combination of 8 skills, attributes set for those skills, and possibly a weapon set. It does not require an elite to have a build, and for NM (which you have to be playing since you are not level 20 yet) a build without an elite is easy to use. Level 28 bosses are nowhere near areas designed for level 12 characters, outside of the aforementioned Lornar's Pass region. But even that is not an area designed for level 12 characters, it is just accessible from a city that is designed with quests for a level ~12 character. You should be heading the opposite direction if that is where you are. If you are somewhere else, you are in the wrong place.

Allamorph · Apr 10, 2010, 01:19 AM // 01:19

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arzock

But if I don't use a build, I die. How am I even supposed to play?

If you're playing, you're already using one.

A "build" is what sits in your skill bar when you enter combat zones. As long as there are skills in the bar, you are using a build.

MagmaRed isn't saying stuff to listen to his gums flap. Be patient. Take the game in bits at a time. It's okay.

Arzock · Apr 10, 2010, 10:29 AM // 10:29

Well, I've played the game for a couple of months now, I create a new char practically every day I play, because I find that I can't seem to kill anything. I mean, I get to Keining and then suddenly everything is level 20!

Raven Wing · Apr 10, 2010, 10:37 AM // 10:37

What you should do is settle with a char of the kind you like to play. Stick to that char, do quests and level yourself up. Most quests on the starter island are fairly easy to do and provide xp points for reward. And gather some money and materials so you can afford the armor that is sold in kaineng. Then you will need to improve it with some runes and insignia , and also get a decent weapon. You can buy decent maxed weapons from players in shing jea or kaineng for 1-3k. You are chanceless fighting lvl20 monsters if you only have low level, your starter armor and some low grade weapon. And THEN is the time to start looking for elite skills.

Here I assume you have Factions only. If you have Nightfall or EOtN, you can go there and achieve heroes , which will help you aswell.

Arduin · Apr 10, 2010, 10:44 AM // 10:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arzock

Well, I've played the game for a couple of months now, I create a new char practically every day I play, because I find that I can't seem to kill anything. I mean, I get to Keining and then suddenly everything is level 20!

By doing all quests on Shing Jea island, as well as getting the Master rewards on the missions, my Assassin was level 17 when I got to Kaineng.

Hollygen · Apr 10, 2010, 11:13 AM // 11:13

Ok if you're reaching Kaineng, you're either playing through Factions, in which case level 12 is a little low to be reaching the mainland, and you're benefit from taking thiings a little slower. Complete the various side quests in Shing Jea. I'd expect a Factions born character to be about lvl 17 by the time they reach the mainland

If you're reaching Kaineng at lvl 12 via a boat from Lions Arch in Prophecies, then again you're going to have problems. Sure you can buy max level armor in Kaineng Center (certainly worth doing) but otherwise return to Prophecies and work through the story.

Now if you are level 17ish and still struggling on the mainland, a few tips to help you get on your feat. You may be doing some of these already
- Upgrade your armor if you haven't already. Kaineng Center has max level armorers
- Go out with a full party, make sure you have monks. Preferably 2, although the Spirit Hench Professer Gai can fill one of those slots.
- Be careful. Don't rush into mobs. Watch foes move. Some crowds are made up of overlapping groups, who you may be able to agro without alerting other s in a crowd.
- Learn to pull. Get a long bow, which will have a greater range than the aggro bubble, and use it to get the attention of individuals on the edge of mobs. That way you can draw smaller groups out from potentially crowded areas.

MagmaRed · Apr 10, 2010, 12:22 PM // 12:22

2 key quests to make sure you do in Shing Jea are to acquire more attribute quests. I see MANY people forget to do them, or not even know they are there. After you finish the first mission (Minister Cho's Estate) you can get a quest called "Lost Treasure". Then, when you finish the second mission (Zen Daijun) you can pick up "Unwelcome Guest". Those extra 30 attribute points will help a lot.

And as noted, upgrade armor. Armor will make a significant difference in your ability to stay alive. I would upgrade at least once before reaching Kaineng Center, but definitely get new armor in Kaineng. The armor available in Seitung Harbor is where I usually upgrade, but since it is rather cheap, the best upgrade in Shing Jea Monastery would be a smart move too.

Apr 09, 2010, 10:18 AM // 10:18	#1
Arzock Frost Gate Guardian Join Date: May 2009 Guild: The Guardians of flame Profession: N/Me	Elite skills Why are elite skills so important in most builds? Once I have one do I have to get it aqgain when I make another character?

Apr 09, 2010, 10:33 AM // 10:33	#4
Kamatsu Moderator Join Date: May 2005 Location: Australia	You use a build that doesn't require an elite? Generally elites are superior to normal skills, so advanced/expert builds will use an elite as the main focal point of the build. Most builds you see on PvX or posted on the forums here are for L20 PvE or PvP play and assuming you have a fair idea of what your doing, have skills to match, etc. Up till you have the elites - set/us a build in a way that allows you to do whatever your trying to do - damage, healing, protection, utility, etc. And then as you get elites, you can then consider switching skills to build around an elite that helps you do what you want. If you want to use a specific build that uses and elite and you don't have 1 - look through the skills for something that does similar - it won't be as effective/powerful/etc as the elite, but it will generally still work... just not as well as if you had the elite version. __________________ Have a moderation related issue or just want to chat? Send me a PM

Apr 09, 2010, 10:20 AM // 10:20	#2
MagmaRed Furnace Stoker Join Date: Mar 2007 Guild: Our Crabs Know True [LOVE] Profession: R/	Elite skills are better than normal skills, and most builds are based on the elite, not the regular skills. Each character (PvE) has to capture the elite. PvP characters can use any elite unlocked on the account.

Apr 09, 2010, 10:26 AM // 10:26	#3
Arzock Frost Gate Guardian Join Date: May 2009 Guild: The Guardians of flame Profession: N/Me	But then what do you do until you get up to the point when you can get an elite?

Apr 09, 2010, 03:08 PM // 15:08	#5
Arzock Frost Gate Guardian Join Date: May 2009 Guild: The Guardians of flame Profession: N/Me	I need someone who could run me to a boss, kill it and then let me nab his elite. Were could I find someone who could do that?

Apr 09, 2010, 03:20 PM // 15:20	#6
Quaker Hell's Protector Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Canada Guild: Brothers Disgruntled	You could try the Ventari's Corner forums here, or you could try asking in the town near where the boss is. Or, of course, you could kill the boss yourself.

Apr 09, 2010, 04:33 PM // 16:33	#7
Lord Dagon Desert Nomad Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Inside the Oblivion Gate Guild: The Imperial Guards of Istan[TIGE] Profession: E/Me	Or you could go H/H. Trust me when i started I was " OMG a BOSS its GOING TO EAT ME!!!!!!!" then when ur goign w/ heros and it dies its like "oh that wasnt so bad.. lets find another boss!!!". Also you can never improve if you dont do things for yourself( or so im told). So go H/H and kill those bosses that you want( also dont forget to bring a signet of capture lol).

Apr 09, 2010, 08:37 PM // 20:37	#9
Arzock Frost Gate Guardian Join Date: May 2009 Guild: The Guardians of flame Profession: N/Me	But if I don't use a build, I die. How am I even supposed to play?

Apr 09, 2010, 09:03 PM // 21:03	#10
Dzjudz Furnace Stoker Join Date: Jun 2005 Guild: gwpvx.com/user:dzjudz	You can make builds without elites. You can also use heroes and henchmen. It would even be possible to have an empty skillbar and kill a boss using just henchmen. Just take the skillbar you have used so far, a signet of capture, and a full party of heroes/henchmen.

Apr 09, 2010, 09:07 PM // 21:07	#11
Arzock Frost Gate Guardian Join Date: May 2009 Guild: The Guardians of flame Profession: N/Me	A level 28 boss, when I'm level 12?

Apr 09, 2010, 10:05 PM // 22:05	#13
Skye Marin Jungle Guide Join Date: May 2006 Guild: The Seraphim Knights [TSK] Profession: E/A	If you have prophecies, you'll have to wait until you're in the later desert missions until you run across a boss that has an elite skill. If you want one sooner, play some PvP for Balthazar Faction, unlock Elite skills from the Faction Rewards guy in Random Arenas, and then buy an Elite Tome from another player. It might cost you a few thousand gold. Prices vary, but having one good elite really helps make a strong character. What profession are you? What campaigns do you have?

Apr 09, 2010, 10:18 PM // 22:18	#14
MagmaRed Furnace Stoker Join Date: Mar 2007 Guild: Our Crabs Know True [LOVE] Profession: R/	Stop rushing. Learn the game. Spend time playing it the way it was meant to be played, not the way the long term players are now (farming, speed clearing, etc.). Level 12 characters should not be able to access an elite. Even in Factions where elites show up fairly early, you should be at least level 17 before seeing an elite. There is no rush to have one, as the quests/missions that a level 12 character should be at are easily done without an elite skill. Builds are a combination of 8 skills, attributes set for those skills, and possibly a weapon set. It does not require an elite to have a build, and for NM (which you have to be playing since you are not level 20 yet) a build without an elite is easy to use. Level 28 bosses are nowhere near areas designed for level 12 characters, outside of the aforementioned Lornar's Pass region. But even that is not an area designed for level 12 characters, it is just accessible from a city that is designed with quests for a level ~12 character. You should be heading the opposite direction if that is where you are. If you are somewhere else, you are in the wrong place.

Apr 10, 2010, 10:29 AM // 10:29	#16
Arzock Frost Gate Guardian Join Date: May 2009 Guild: The Guardians of flame Profession: N/Me	Well, I've played the game for a couple of months now, I create a new char practically every day I play, because I find that I can't seem to kill anything. I mean, I get to Keining and then suddenly everything is level 20!

Apr 10, 2010, 10:37 AM // 10:37	#17
Raven Wing Jungle Guide Join Date: Nov 2005 Guild: The Imperial Guards of Istan [TIGI] Profession: N/	What you should do is settle with a char of the kind you like to play. Stick to that char, do quests and level yourself up. Most quests on the starter island are fairly easy to do and provide xp points for reward. And gather some money and materials so you can afford the armor that is sold in kaineng. Then you will need to improve it with some runes and insignia , and also get a decent weapon. You can buy decent maxed weapons from players in shing jea or kaineng for 1-3k. You are chanceless fighting lvl20 monsters if you only have low level, your starter armor and some low grade weapon. And THEN is the time to start looking for elite skills. Here I assume you have Factions only. If you have Nightfall or EOtN, you can go there and achieve heroes , which will help you aswell.

Apr 10, 2010, 11:13 AM // 11:13	#19
Hollygen Core Guru Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: UK Guild: Blinkie Ponie Armie [bpa] Profession: R/	Ok if you're reaching Kaineng, you're either playing through Factions, in which case level 12 is a little low to be reaching the mainland, and you're benefit from taking thiings a little slower. Complete the various side quests in Shing Jea. I'd expect a Factions born character to be about lvl 17 by the time they reach the mainland If you're reaching Kaineng at lvl 12 via a boat from Lions Arch in Prophecies, then again you're going to have problems. Sure you can buy max level armor in Kaineng Center (certainly worth doing) but otherwise return to Prophecies and work through the story. Now if you are level 17ish and still struggling on the mainland, a few tips to help you get on your feat. You may be doing some of these already - Upgrade your armor if you haven't already. Kaineng Center has max level armorers - Go out with a full party, make sure you have monks. Preferably 2, although the Spirit Hench Professer Gai can fill one of those slots. - Be careful. Don't rush into mobs. Watch foes move. Some crowds are made up of overlapping groups, who you may be able to agro without alerting other s in a crowd. - Learn to pull. Get a long bow, which will have a greater range than the aggro bubble, and use it to get the attention of individuals on the edge of mobs. That way you can draw smaller groups out from potentially crowded areas.

Apr 10, 2010, 12:22 PM // 12:22	#20
MagmaRed Furnace Stoker Join Date: Mar 2007 Guild: Our Crabs Know True [LOVE] Profession: R/	2 key quests to make sure you do in Shing Jea are to acquire more attribute quests. I see MANY people forget to do them, or not even know they are there. After you finish the first mission (Minister Cho's Estate) you can get a quest called "Lost Treasure". Then, when you finish the second mission (Zen Daijun) you can pick up "Unwelcome Guest". Those extra 30 attribute points will help a lot. And as noted, upgrade armor. Armor will make a significant difference in your ability to stay alive. I would upgrade at least once before reaching Kaineng Center, but definitely get new armor in Kaineng. The armor available in Seitung Harbor is where I usually upgrade, but since it is rather cheap, the best upgrade in Shing Jea Monastery would be a smart move too.