As we're currently on the topic of shapeshifters. There's something else I want to find out. I've noticed that shifters learn some skills and spells that I personally don't understand why they even learn them since they're pretty much useless.

First spell that really comes to mind is Spiderhands. Unlike the transmuter spell, this spell cannot be cast on others. And I, from my own experiences, have never seen a shifter running around with a weapon in hand much less fighting out of form if they can help it. Spiderhands is learnt at rank 34. At this point you already have at least one third tier form, possibly your first minor focus form as well, and the shapeshift skill. So...what is the point of having this spell? Couldn't it be substituted with another spell that would be more useful? Maybe a new spell that is for shifters only? Or allow a shifter to cast it on others?

As far as skills go, ok I can let the weapon skills and parry slide. Even though these skills do not apply when you're in form. Maybe hand-to-hand gives a slight bonus to fighting in form? I don't know. But I let these skills slide because there will be a time when you get caught out of form and these skills increase your chances ever so slightly of surviving a bit longer. However, why do shifters even learn Second Attack? I know this can't possibly be beneficial to a shifter in form, right? Pugil and Lash? I have never seen anyone use these skills as a shifter.

Yes I know practicing all skills are optional, but really. These don't even make sense, to me, for shifters to have. Just my thoughts. Thoughts, opinions, criticisms, any feedback?

Pugil and Lash? I have never seen anyone use these skills as a shifter.

A little while ago, I noticed a reasonably successful murderous mid-level shifter, and decided to keep an ear on him in case combat erupted. The kill strategy I saw was to basically trade blows and wear down his opponent a bit, and when both parties were pretty wounded, quickly revert/pugil for the surprise win.

Obviously not a very safe or reliable tactic, and our playerbase tends to be risk-averse to say the least, but it has a minor niche of throwing damage. (Ditto Lash for emergency lag.) It certainly doesn't hurt the shifter class to have abilities like that. If you don't find them useful, more practice sessions for you!

valguarnera@carrionfields.com

As per his own admission.

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Cuz ya did.

Go ahead and find that post and let me know when you do.

playing characters in unique ways.

You spoke of a Felar axe spec and that shifter. I remember because I was doing an Felar axe spec at the time.

IMHO*, use of the unshifted/human form when appropriate is one of the key areas where the best shifter players differentiate themselves.

I don't really see us removing/replacing tools used well by only a small fraction of the class, any more than I would anticipate removing/replacing the likes of offhand disarm or drive from warriors.





*Actual humility of my opinion may vary.

from when they could cast it on others.