Is this still like armor, and largely useless past level 15 (which is when I got it!) or does it continue to try deflecting blows or help your armor deflect blows?

I understand there are edges that make the skill useful but I was curious as the helpfile looks like it hasn't been touched in a long time and I thought there was something about it amongst the ranger revamping. Thanks!

Yhorian

So I wouldn't call it useless. Also at the lower levels, that +AC makes mobs miss a LOT.

Never got the edges. They must cost a lot or require over 90% bark skin... which never goes up for me!

Essentially, bark skin for deflection purposes is a minimum baseline armor. If you've got actual armor on a location, probably what you have is better and barkskin has no effect. On the other hand if you're wearing clothing or treasure or something with little or no armor value, barkskin gives you at least a chance for an armor deflection when that location is targetted.

Otherwise, it's just AC, although there are some barkskin edges.

I mean these:
BARKSKIN OF PINE SAP (anti-disarm)
BARKSKIN OF THE SHADY ELM (better resist head/cold)
BARKSKIN OF THE FEATHERY WILLOW (dam reduction vs slash)

I've talked to a few rangers who took these and they did not see any difference.
My estimate benefit is less then 5%. Or just plain not working.

BARKSKIN OF THE MIGHTY OAK - This might be only worthy edge. Even if it is just +1str.

'SKIN OF THE REDWOODS'
The strength of the ancient redwoods enforce these druids' barkskin with even more power.

See also: Help EDGES

Yuck, if it is.

Admittedly, I haven't played a ranger since 2nd age, but theoretically, a savage would likely get the most use out of barkskin? Possibly druid, or hunters as well (given precision), given the usual good armors for physical classes?

nt

nt