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Brutal Gladiator's Sanctuary
The Brutal Gladiator's Sanctuary is the armor set for Feral Druids. It is a dragonhide, or leather armor usable only by Druids and is usually matched with Guardian's Dragonhide armor pieces. The armor set can be purchased from Big Zokk Torquewrench in Netherstorm and Ontokk Shatterhorn in Shattrath City. The matching Guardian items may be purchased from Doris Volanthius in the Hall of Legends and Lieutenant Tristia in the Champion's Hall. Brutal Gladiator's Dragonhide Gloves The Brutal Gladiator armor piece for the hands are the cheapest and easiest Season 4 Arena gear to obtain. With no personal rating requirements, most players will be able to purchase this piece and is the Arena gear likely to be most widespread as soon as the season begins. The glove bonus to Maim is one of the best of all PvP gloves. The gloves have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent): 368 Armor (+25)+35 Strength (+4)+36 Agility (+4)+48 Stamina (+4)+25 Intellect (+4)+13 Hit (+4) +22 Resilience (+0)Causes Maim to interrupt spellcasting and prevent any spell from that school from being cast for 3 secs.Classes: Druid WoW Insider says: Although Feral Druids have traditionally been underrepresented in Arenas, these gloves should be freebies. Incidentally, many Feral Druids also find these gloves excellent for tanking. The armor is higher than the Kodohide or Wyrmhide gloves, but relatively low compared to PvE gloves. Some Druids find that the Resilience and +Hit more than make up for it.Brutal Gladiator's Dragonhide LegguardsThe leg armor possesses a personal rating requirement of 1550, which isn't too difficult to obtain, even for Feral Druids. While not as accessible as the gloves, the leg armor is highly visible on a character and is also likely to be a popular purchase, even at 1875 Arena points. The legguards have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):478 Armor (+35)+40 Strength (+4)+41 Agility (+4)+61 Stamina (+6)+34 Intellect (+4)+17 Hit (+5)+18 Critical Strike (+5)+29 Resilience (+0)84 Armor Penetration (+0)Classes: DruidWoW Insider says: The lack of sockets mean that the only customization that can be done will be through Tailoring or Leatherworking enchants. Hit rating, armor penetration, and other good stats make this leg armor almost as good a purchase as the chest piece.Brutal Gladiator's Dragonhide TunicWith three sockets, the chestpiece is the most customizable Arena armor piece, and is the next best purchase after the gloves. In PvE, the chest armor is traditionally a drop from the final boss in a series (Magtheridon drops Tier 4 chest token, Kael'thas drops Tier 5 chest token, Illidan drops Tier 6 chest token, etc.). Arenas are different in this regard, but the item level of the chest is identical to PvE chest pieces. Sunwell Plateau breaks from tradition in that the final boss, Kil'jaeden, does not drop chest tokens or armor. However, the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is equivalent to the drops from Entropius and is the best combination of cost and restriction among all the armor pieces. The tunic has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):569 Armor (+40)+34 Strength (+4)+36 Agility (+5)+61 Stamina (+7)+26 Intellect (+4) +16 Hit (+4)+23 Critical Strike (4)+26 Resilience (+0)84 Armor Penetration (+0)Socket Bonus: +4 Resilience Rating Classes: DruidWoW Insider says: The best Brutal Gladiator purchase outside of the gloves, some Druids will use this to tank even in raids, as some Druids will take Resilience to compensate for the reduced armor. Because of its PvE equivalent, obtaining the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is almost like killing Entropius in Sunwell Plateau. Well, ok not really, but if you don't raid, that's about as close to a raid drop as you're going to get. Brutal Gladiator's Dragonhide HelmThe helm is very likely the last Brutal Gladiator armor piece that many players will obtain. With the shoulders at an extremely prohibitive 2200, most players will only manage 4/5 of Season 4. Feral Druids can conceivably achieve 1700 for this helm, which costs the same as the chest and leg armor pieces. With a personal rating attached to it, the Brutal Gladiator helm might be one helm graphic that players would like to leave on. It is also identical in model to the pieces that drop off Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. The helm has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):461 Armor (+32)+36 Strength (+4)+35 Agility (+4)+64 Stamina (+7)+28 Intellect (+5) +17 Hit (+5)+31 Critical Strike (+4)+25 Resilience (+0)84 Armor Penetration (+0)Socket Bonus: +4 Resilience RatingClasses: DruidWoW Insider says: More than most PvP pieces, the Dragonhide set works very well for PvE, and many Druids can make use of the helm, particularly for DPS. It's one of the best cat DPS helmets in the game, so Feral Druids would do well to strive for the 1700 personal rating.Brutal Gladiator's Dragonhide Spaulders The 2200 personal ratings requirement for the shoulders are almost Gladiator-level for most Battlegroups, and will likely be a very rare sight in most realms. It's uncertain how many Feral Druids will be able to achieve that rating in Season 4. It is the cheapest item after the gloves, but it is also the most difficult to get. Blizzard's reasoning for this is that the shoulders are the most "visually impacting" armor piece, confirming Blizzard's opinion that PvP achievements should be on display. The spaulders have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):430 Armor (+30)+34 Strength (+4)+34 Agility (+4)+47 Stamina (+4) +20 Intellect (+4)+21 Critical Strike (+4)+21 Resilience (+0)Socket Bonus: +3 Resilience RatingClasses: DruidWoW Insider says: Brutal Gladiator Shoulders are peacock gear. Considering that most players who will obtain these items will be Restoration Druids who have Arena points to spare, it's not even worth considering. Guardian's Dragonhide Belt Because it is a visual match for the Brutal Gladiator's Sanctuary, and because it comes with no personal ratings requirement, the belt is most likely to be the most widely distributed Season 4 gear. It is purchasable with Honor points, so even players who do not participate in Arena PvP can obtain it. The belt has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):322 Armor (+22)+34 Strength (+4)+33 Agility (+3)+46 Stamina (+4)+24 Intellect (+4) +25 Critical Strike (+4)+26 Resilience (+0)Classes: Rogue, DruidWoW Insider says: With the low Honor cost and no personal ratings restriction, this belt should be among the most widespread Feral gear come Season 4. It's a no-brainer purchase once you have the Honor for it.Guardian's Dragonhide BracersThe only other Guardian piece with a socket is the amulet, which doesn't have a personal rating requirement. Coupled with the fact that bracers are visually insignificant, being hidden under gloves or robes, most players feel that there's little urgency to get them. A 1575 personal ratings requirement also requires decent performance in Arenas. The bracers have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):253 (+17)+25 Stength (+3)+25 Agility (+3)+33 Stamina (+4)+24 Critical Strike (+3)+18 Resilience (+0)Socket Bonus: +2 Resilience RatingClasses: Rogue, DruidWoW Insider says: The best bracers most Druids will get outside of Sunwell Plateau, it is also an excellent choice for Rogues. The higher armor, resilience, and crit coupled with a Red Socket make up for losses in attack power, agility, and stamina. Probably the best Guardian bracers available due to the versatility. Guardian's Dragonhide BootsThe most visually important match of all Guardian items -- although it won't be seen on Tauren feet, the boots are a big jump from a 1575 personal ratings requirement and is as demanding to get as the head piece at 1700 personal ratings. It is also as expensive to purchase as the belt, which has no ratings requirement. The slippers have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):385 Armor (+28)+34 Strength (+4)+33 Agility (+4)+46 Stamina (+4)+24 Intellect (+4)+25 Critical Strike (+4)+26 Resilience (+0)Classes: Rogue, DruidWoW Insider says: Although 1700 is the highest personal ratings requirement outside of the weapons and shoulders, these boots are also good for tanking, making its usefulness extend outside of Arenas. Definitely a good purchase if you can manage the ratings. %Gallery-25440% Looking for more Season 4 info? We've rounded up everything you need to know about the Brutal Gladiator season right here.
Brutal Gladiator's Vindication
The Brutal Gladiator's Vindication is the armor set for Retadins, or Paladins specced deep into the Retribution tree. It is a scaled, or plate armor usable only by Paladins and is usually matched with Guardian's Scaled armor pieces. The armor set can be purchased from Big Zokk Torquewrench in Netherstorm and Ontokk Shatterhorn in Shattrath City. The matching Guardian items may be purchased from Doris Volanthius in the Hall of Legends and Lieutenant Tristia in the Champion's Hall. Brutal Gladiator's Scaled GauntletsThe Brutal Gladiator armor piece for the hands are the cheapest and easiest Season 4 Arena gear to obtain. With no personal rating requirements, most players will be able to purchase this piece and is the Arena gear likely to be most widespread as soon as the season begins. Arena gloves are also the only item with the exception of relics to have spec-specific bonuses, and the scaled gloves bonus is one of the best in the game for Retribution. The gauntlets have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent): 1239 Armor (+98)+44 Strength (+4)+46 Stamina (+6) +27 Intellect (+5) +34 Critical Strike (+8) +26 Resilience (+0)Increases the damage dealt by Crusader Strike by 5%.Classes: Paladin WoW Insider says: If only for the on-equip bonus alone, these gloves are worth the price of admission -- which is free. With no ratings requirements and only 1125 Arena points, these gloves are the best Season 4 purchase a Retribution Paladin can make outside of the Brutal Gladiator 2-handers.Brutal Gladiator's Scaled LegguardsThe leg armor possesses a personal rating requirement of 1550, which isn't too difficult to obtain. For many players on median-ratings teams, it might take a few weeks to purchase at a cost of 1875 Arena points. While not as accessible as the gloves, the leg armor is highly visible on a character and is also likely to be a popular purchase. The legguards have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1735 Armor (+138)+59 Strength (+5)+73 Stamina (+7)+28 Intellect (+5)+17 Hit (+5)+41 Critical Strike (+5)+36 Resilience (+0)Classes: PaladinWoW Insider says: The lack of sockets mean that the only customization that can be done will be through Tailoring or Leatherworking enchants, but the important thing about this armor piece is the improved +hit, which will free up yellow gem slots in other pieces. The Arena point requirement is fairly easy to achieve and the improvements in almost all areas over its Season 3 predecessor make it an advisable purchase.Brutal Gladiator's Scaled ChestpieceWith three sockets, the chestpiece is the most customizable Arena armor piece, and is the next best purchase after the gloves. Although the personal rating requirement of 1600 may be prohibitive to some players, it costs the same as the leg armor and players should try to obtain it. In PvE, the chest armor is traditionally a drop from the final boss in a series (Magtheridon drops Tier 4 chest token, Kael'thas drops Tier 5 chest token, Illidan drops Tier 6 chest token, etc.). Arenas are different in this regard, but the item level of the chest is identical to PvE chest pieces. Sunwell Plateau breaks from tradition in that the final boss, Kil'jaeden, does not drop chest tokens or armor. However, the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is equivalent to the drops from Entropius and is the best combination of cost and restriction among all the armor pieces. The chestpiece has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1983 Armor (+158)+46 Strength (+5)+61 Stamina (+7)+32 Intellect (+5)+17 Hit (+5)+41 Critical Strike (+5)+36 Resilience (+0)Socket Bonus: +4 Critical StrikeClasses: PaladinWoW Insider says: A team and personal rating of 1600 isn't an impossible goal, and Retribution is somewhat viable at those levels. If you can manage it, the chest piece is the best armor piece you can get for its cost and low barrier of entry. Because of its PvE equivalent, obtaining the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is almost like killing Entropius in Sunwell Plateau. Well, ok not really, but if you don't raid, that's about as close to a raid drop as you're going to get.Brutal Gladiator's Scaled HelmThe helm is very likely the last Brutal Gladiator armor piece that many players will obtain. With the shoulders at an extremely prohibitive 2200, most players will only manage 4/5 of Season 4. At 1700 personal rating, some players will have a more difficult time obtaining this piece, which costs the same as the chest and leg armor pieces. With a personal rating attached to it, the Brutal Gladiator helm might be one helm graphic that players would like to leave on. It is also identical in model to the pieces that drop off Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. The helm has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1611 Armor (+128)+52 Strength (+5)+61 Stamina (+7)+32 Intellect (+5)+17 Hit (+5)+33 Critical Strike (+5)+36 Resilience (+0)Socket Bonus: +4 Resilience RatingClasses: PaladinWoW Insider says: If you've managed to obtain the chest piece, there's little reason not to try and go for the helm, which has a Meta Socket. Although it is an improvement over its Season 3 equivalent, the disparity is not so great that players unable to obtain the helm can easily make do with the ratings requirement-free Vengeful Gladiator version.Brutal Gladiator's Scaled ShouldersThe 2200 personal ratings requirement for the shoulders are almost Gladiator-level for most Battlegroups, and will likely be a very rare sight in most realms. Although it is the cheapest item after the gloves, it is also the most difficult to get. Blizzard's reasoning for this is that the shoulders are the most "visually impacting" armor piece, confirming Blizzard's opinion that PvP achievements should be on display. The shoulders have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1487 Armor (+118)+37 Strength (+4)+45 Stamina (+5)+25 Intellect (+5)+30 Critical Strike (+4)+26 Resilience (+0)Socket Bonus: +3 Resilience RatingClasses: PaladinWoW Insider says: Brutal Gladiator shoulders are purely for show. The low improvement over its Season 3 equivalent and the lack of +hit make these shoulders very, very poor items for their difficulty. Retribution Paladins also have their work cut out for them in Arenas should they try to go after these shoulders. Guardian's Scaled BeltBecause it is a visual match for the Brutal Gladiator's Vindication, and because it comes with no personal ratings requirement, the belt is most likely to be the most widely distributed Season 4 gear. It is purchasable with Honor points, so even players who do not participate in Arena PvP can obtain it. The belt has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1115 Armor (+88)+44 Strength (+4)+45 Stamina (+6)+31 Intellect (+5)+31 Critical Strike (+4)+26 Resilience (+0)Classes: Warrior, PaladinWoW Insider says: Unless you don't PvP at all, there's very little reason not to get the Guardian's belt. The improvements are a modest upgrade from Vindicator's Scaled Belt, but Retribution Paladins may want to explore the Guardian's Plate Belt, which offers less Strength and no Intellect in exchange for higher Stamina, Critical Strike Rating, and Resilience.Guardian's Scaled BracersThe only other Guardian piece with a socket is the amulet, which doesn't have a personal rating requirement. Coupled with the fact that bracers are visually insignificant, being hidden under gloves or robes, the urgency to obtain them is very low. They also have a modest 1575 personal rating requirement, necessitating participation -- and moderate success -- in Arena play. The bracers have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):841 (+69)+32 Strength (+3)+32 Stamina (+4)+18 Intellect (+3)+18 Critical Strike (+3)+19 Resilience (+0)Socket Bonus: +2 Resilience RatingClasses: Warrior, PaladinWoW Insider says: Because the improvements of the bracers are so minimal over its Season 3 counterpart, it's not such a compelling purchase. The personal rating requirement of 1575 is also higher than what's required for the leg armor, which is more visual. Players might want to explore Guardian's Plate Bracers for more Stamina and Critical Strike Rating, foregoing Intellect and a few points of Resilience and Strength.Guardian's Scaled GreavesThe most visually important match of all Guardian items, the boots are a big jump from a 1575 personal ratings requirement and is as demanding to get as the head piece at 1700 personal ratings. It is also as expensive to purchase as the belt, which has no ratings requirement. The greaves have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1363 Armor (+108)+44 Strength (+4)+45 Stamina (+6)+30 Intellect (+4)+31 Critical Strike (+3)+26 Resilience (+0)Classes: Warrior, PaladinWoW Insider says: The greaves are the best Season 4 Honor-bought pieces that players can buy. Although players should probably purchase the belt first, achieving a 1700 rating is worth the grind for an armor piece that is a decent upgrade from its predecessor and a visual match for the rest of Brutal Gladiator gear. %Gallery-25440% Looking for more Season 4 info? We've rounded up everything you need to know about the Brutal Gladiator season right here.
Brutal Gladiator's Regalia
The Brutal Gladiator's Regalia is the armor set for Mages. It is a dreadweave, or cloth armor usable only by Mages and is usually matched with Guardian's Silk armor pieces. The armor set can be purchased from Big Zokk Torquewrench in Netherstorm and Ontokk Shatterhorn in Shattrath City. The matching Guardian items may be purchased from Doris Volanthius in the Hall of Legends and Lieutenant Tristia in the Champion's Hall. Brutal Gladiator's Silk Handguards The Brutal Gladiator armor piece for the hands are the cheapest and easiest Season 4 Arena gear to obtain. With no personal rating requirements, most players will be able to purchase this piece and is the Arena gear likely to be most widespread as soon as the season begins. The bonus is essential to crowd control in PvP, giving a bonus against spell interruption when casting Polymorph. The handguards have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent): 306 Armor (+13)+56 Stamina (+6)+23 Intellect (+5)+26 Spell Critical (+4) +23 Resilience (+0)+44 Spell Damage / Healing (+4)Gives 50% chance to avoid interruption caused by damage while casting Polymorph.Classes: Mage WoW Insider says: These gloves are low-cost and have no rating requirements, making it a good purchase specially for starting Arena players. It is identical in every way with the exception of the special bonus to the Warlock's Felweave Handguards.Brutal Gladiator's Silk TrousersThe leg armor possesses a personal rating requirement of 1550, which isn't too difficult to obtain, specially for the popular Mage (usually Frost). While not as accessible as the gloves, the leg armor is highly visible on a character and is also likely to be a popular purchase, even at 1875 Arena points. The trousers have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):442 Armor (+18)+66 Stamina (+7)+40 Intellect (+6)+39 Spell Critical (+6)+30 Resilience (+0)+60 Spell Damage / Healing (+7)Classes: MageWoW Insider says: The lack of sockets mean that the only customization that can be done will be through Tailoring or Leatherworking enchants. A 39 Spell Critical Rating and 40 Intellect translates to 2.27% for a Level 70 Mage, which should make the trousers a good buy for Season 4.Brutal Gladiator's Silk RaimentWith three sockets, the chestpiece is the most customizable Arena armor piece, and is the next best purchase after the gloves. For Mages, 1600 is a modest target considering the reward. In PvE, the chest armor is traditionally a drop from the final boss in a series (Magtheridon drops Tier 4 chest token, Kael'thas drops Tier 5 chest token, Illidan drops Tier 6 chest token, etc.). Arenas are different in this regard, but the item level of the chest is identical to PvE chest pieces. Sunwell Plateau breaks from tradition in that the final boss, Kil'jaeden, does not drop chest tokens or armor. However, the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is equivalent to the drops from Entropius and is the best combination of cost and restriction among all the armor pieces. The raiment has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):476 Armor (+22)+68 Stamina (+7)+21 Intellect (+6)+39 Spell Critical (+6) +26 Resilience (+0)+46 Spell Damage / Healing (+7) Socket Bonus: +4 Spell Critical Classes: MageWoW Insider says: Two Yellow Sockets mean more spell crit, including the offense-oriented socket bonus. It is identical in all stats to the Warlock's Felweave Raiment. Like most Arena chest pieces, the Silk Raiment is the one of the best pieces for its cost and ratings requirement. Because of its PvE equivalent, obtaining the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is almost like killing Entropius in Sunwell Plateau. Well, ok not really, but if you don't raid, that's about as close to a raid drop as you're going to get.Brutal Gladiator's Silk CowlThe helm is very likely the last Brutal Gladiator armor piece that many players will obtain. With the shoulders at an extremely prohibitive 2200, most players will only manage 4/5 of Season 4. Mages should find a 1700 personal rating a manageable goal to get this cowl, which costs the same as the chest and leg armor pieces. With a personal rating attached to it, the Brutal Gladiator helm might be one helm graphic that players would like to leave on. It is also identical in model to the pieces that drop off Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. The cowl has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):426 Armor (+17)+66 Stamina (+7)+29 Intellect (+6)+30 Spell Critical (+6) +33 Resilience (+0)+54 Spell Damage / Healing (+7)Socket Bonus: +4 Resilience RatingClasses: MageWoW Insider says: The Silk Cowl is a moderate upgrade from Season 3, but is definitely worth the price of admission. Unfortunately, like most Mage gear, Stamina is still considerably low in comparison to other cloth classes' gear.Brutal Gladiator's Silk Amice The 2200 personal ratings requirement for the shoulders are almost Gladiator-level for most Battlegroups, and will likely be a very rare sight in most realms. Although it is the cheapest item after the gloves, it is also the most difficult to get. Blizzard's reasoning for this is that the shoulders are the most "visually impacting" armor piece, confirming Blizzard's opinion that PvP achievements should be on display. The amice has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):339 Armor (+16)+56 Stamina (+6) +18 Intellect (+5)+21 Spell Critical (+4)+23 Resilience (+0)+44 Spell Damage / Healing (+4)Socket Bonus: +3 Resilience RatingClasses: MageWoW Insider says: Brutal Gladiator Shoulders are peacock gear. The Mage's shoulders are identical in all stats to the Warlock's Felweave Amice. Blue sockets are uncommon for PvP gear, but is useful for casters and helps activate the Chaotic Skyfire Diamond. Guardian's Silk Belt Because it is a visual match for the Brutal Gladiator's Regalia, and because it comes with no personal ratings requirement, the belt is most likely to be the most widely distributed Season 4 gear. It is purchasable with Honor points, so even players who do not participate in Arena PvP can obtain it. The belt has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):219 Armor (+11)+49 Stamina (+6)+35 Intellect (+5)+32 Spell Critical (+4) +26 Resilience (+0) +40 Spell Damage / Healing (+5)Classes: Priest, Mage, WarlockWoW Insider says: Usable by all cloth-wearing classes, the Guardian's Silk Belt is also the only option for spell crit and might be one of the most popular Season 4 pieces. It has no personal ratings requirement, making it a great PvP starter purchase.Guardian's Silk CuffsThe only other Guardian piece with a socket is the amulet, which doesn't have a personal rating requirement. Coupled with the fact that bracers are visually insignificant, being hidden under gloves or robes, there's little urgency to get them. A 1575 personal ratings requirement also requires decent performance in Arenas. The cuffs have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):183 (+10)+33 Stamina (+4)+25 Intellect (+3)+18 Spell Critical (+3)+13 Resilience (+0) +30 Spell Damage / Healing (+3)Socket Bonus: +2 Spell DamageClasses: Priest, Mage, WarlockWoW Insider says: The Silk Cuffs are the only spell crit cloth bracers for Season 4, and the Yellow Socket allows for more crit or haste. The 1575 personal ratings requirement isn't too high, so most Mages (or Shadow Priests and Destruction Warlocks)Guardian's Silk FootguardsThe most visually important match of all Guardian items, the boots are a big jump from a 1575 personal ratings requirement and is as demanding to get as the head piece at 1700 personal ratings. It is also as expensive to purchase as the belt, which has no ratings requirement. The greaves have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):253 Armor (+15)+49 Stamina (+6)+35 Intellect (+5) +32 Spell Critical (+5)+26 Resilience (+0) +40 Spell Damage / Healing (+5)Classes: Priest, Mage, WarlockWoW Insider says: Although the visual impact of these boots is irrelevant considering most cloth classes wear robes that cover it, it is the only choice for spell crit boots this season. It has slightly lower survivability than the spell damage equivalent due to lower Stamina and Resilience. %Gallery-25440% Looking for more Season 4 info? We've rounded up everything you need to know about the Brutal Gladiator season right here.
Brutal Gladiator's Redemption
The Brutal Gladiator's Redemption is the armor set for Holy, or healing Paladins. It is an ornamented, or plate armor usable only by Paladins and is usually matched with Guardian's Ornamented armor pieces. The armor set can be purchased from Big Zokk Torquewrench in Netherstorm and Ontokk Shatterhorn in Shattrath City. The matching Guardian items may be purchased from Doris Volanthius in the Hall of Legends and Lieutenant Tristia in the Champion's Hall. Brutal Gladiator's Ornamented GlovesThe Brutal Gladiator armor piece for the hands are the cheapest and easiest Season 4 Arena gear to obtain. With no personal rating requirements, most players will be able to purchase this piece and is the Arena gear likely to be most widespread as soon as the season begins. Arena gloves are also the only item with the exception of relics to have spec-specific bonuses, and a +2% crit bonus to Flash of Light is a good one. The gloves have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent): 1239 Armor (+98)+60 Stamina (+16) +33 Intellect (+4) +33 Spell Critical (+5) +18 Resilience (+0)+79 Healing / +27 Spell Damage (+9 / +3)Increases critical effect chance of Flash of Light by 2%Classes: Paladin WoW Insider says: The gloves are cheap, have no personal rating requirements, and a whopping +16 Stamina upgrade to the previous season's gear. These gloves are the best purchase for starting Arena players, as well, due to the low barrier of entry.Brutal Gladiator's Ornamented LegplatesThe leg armor possesses a personal rating requirement of 1550, which isn't too difficult to obtain. For many players on median-ratings teams, it might take a few weeks to purchase at a cost of 1875 Arena points. While not as accessible as the gloves, the leg armor is highly visible on a character and is also likely to be a popular purchase. The legplates have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1735 Armor (+138)+69 Stamina (+7)+45 Intellect (+6)+46 Spell Critical (+6)+35 Resilience (+0)+103 Healing / +35 Spell Damage (+13 / +5)Classes: PaladinWoW Insider says: The legplates have a good +13 healing improvement, but the lack of sockets mean that the only customization that can be done will be through Tailoring or Leatherworking enchants. Although the arena point requirement is relatively low, the chest armor is probably a better purchase if you can attain the required personal rating.Brutal Gladiator's Ornamented ChestguardWith three sockets, the chestpiece is the most customizable Arena armor piece, and is the next best purchase after the gloves. Although the personal rating requirement of 1600 may be prohibitive to some players, it costs the same as the leg armor and should be sought after. In PvE, the chest armor is traditionally a drop from the final boss in a series (Magtheridon drops Tier 4 chest token, Kael'thas drops Tier 5 chest token, Illidan drops Tier 6 chest token, etc.). Arenas are different in this regard, but the item level of the chest is identical to PvE chest pieces. Sunwell Plateau breaks from tradition in that the final boss, Kil'jaeden, does not drop chest tokens or armor. However, the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is equivalent to the drops from Entropius and is the best combination of cost and restriction among all the armor pieces. The chestguard has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1983 Armor (+158)+67 Stamina (+9)+42 Intellect (+5)+42 Spell Critical (+8)+28 Resilience (+0)+68 Healing / +23 Spell Damage (+13 / +4)Socket Bonus: +4 Spell CriticalClasses: PaladinWoW Insider says: A team and personal rating of 1600 is a very realistic goal for Holy Paladins, particularly in 5v5 set-ups. The chest piece is the best armor piece you can get for its cost and low barrier of entry. Because of its PvE equivalent, obtaining the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is almost like killing Entropius in Sunwell Plateau. Well, ok not really, but if you don't raid, that's about as close to a raid drop as you're going to get.Brutal Gladiator's Ornamented HeadcoverThe helm is very likely the last Brutal Gladiator armor piece that many players will obtain, although Holy Paladins will have a better shot than either a Shockadin or Retadin at completing 5/5 of Season 4 items. At 1700 personal rating, some players will have a more difficult time obtaining this piece, which costs the same as the chest and leg armor pieces. With a personal rating attached to it, the Brutal Gladiator helm might be one helm graphic that players would like to leave on. It is also identical in model to the pieces that drop off Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. The headcover has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1611 Armor (+128)+71 Stamina (+7)+40 Intellect (+6)+32 Spell Critical (+6)+32 Resilience (+0)+88 Healing / +30 Spell Damage (+13 / +5)Socket Bonus: +4 Resilience RatingClasses: PaladinWoW Insider says: 1700 should be a fairly easy target for a Holy Paladin in a 5v5 team. The +13 Healing upgrade, as well as the good improvements to +Intellect and +Spell Crit make the helm a good purchase. The Red Socket can add to +Healing, as well.Brutal Gladiator's Ornamented SpauldersThe 2200 personal ratings requirement for the shoulders are almost Gladiator-level for most Battlegroups, and although rare, it's likely that more than a few Holy Paladins will be sporting them deep into the season. Although it is the cheapest item after the gloves, it is also the most difficult to get. Blizzard's reasoning for this is that the shoulders are the most "visually impacting" armor piece, confirming Blizzard's opinion that PvP achievements should be on display. The spaulders have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1487 Armor (+118)+46 Stamina (+6)+32 Intellect (+5)+32 Spell Critical (+4)+23 Resilience (+0)+59 Healing / +20 Spell Damage (+8 / +3)Socket Bonus: +3 Resilience RatingClasses: PaladinWoW Insider says: Brutal Gladiator shoulders are purely for show. The ornamented spaulders also have the lowest improvement from Season 3 compared to other Paladin shoulders. The Brutal Gladiator Spaulders are not worth the grind to 2200, but only something that players pick up for bragging rights. Guardian's Ornamented BeltBecause it is a visual match for the Brutal Gladiator's Redemption, and because it comes with no personal ratings requirement, the belt is most likely to be the most widely distributed Season 4 gear. It is purchasable with Honor points, so even players who do not participate in Arena PvP can obtain it. The belt has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1115 Armor (+88)+49 Stamina (+6)+35 Intellect (+5)+34 Spell Critical (+4)+26 Resilience (+0)+75 Healing / +25 Spell Damage (+5)Classes: Warrior, PaladinWoW Insider says: Unless you don't PvP at all, there's very little reason not to get the Guardian's belt. The improvements are a modest upgrade from Vindicator's Ornamented Belt, but the accessibility of this Level 146 item makes it a good and easy purchase. It is also identical in every way to Guardian's Lamellar Belt with the exception of +Healing.Guardian's Ornamented BracersThe only other Guardian piece with a socket is the amulet, which doesn't have a personal rating requirement. Bracers are also visually insignificant, being hidden under gloves or robes, so there is no urgency to obtain them for vanity's sake. They also have a modest 1575 personal rating requirement, necessitating moderately successful Arena participation. The bracers have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):841 (+69)+33 Stamina (+4)+20 Intellect (+3)+23 Spell Critical (+3)+15 Resilience (+0)+57 Healing / +19 Spell Damage (+6 / +2)Socket Bonus: +2 Resilience RatingClasses: Warrior, PaladinWoW Insider says: Because the improvements of the bracers are so minimal over its Season 3 counterpart, it's not such a compelling purchase. The personal rating requirement of 1575 is also higher than what's required for the leg armor, which is more visual. Players looking to purchase new items can hold off on the bracers unless they have nothing else to buy. On the other hand, Guardian bracers are also the cheapest Honor item available for Season 4 and Shockadins may want to explore purchasing this instead of the Lamellar counterpart.Guardian's Ornamented GreavesThe most visually important match of all Guardian items, the boots are a big jump from a 1575 personal ratings requirement and is as demanding to get as the head piece at 1700 personal ratings. It is also as expensive to purchase as the belt, which has no ratings requirement. The greaves have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1363 Armor (+108)+49 Stamina (+6)+35 Intellect (+5)+34 Spell Critical (+4)+26 Resilience (+0)+75 Healing / +25 Spell Damage (+9 / +3)Classes: Warrior, PaladinWoW Insider says: The greaves are the best Season 4 Honor-bought pieces that players can buy. Although players should probably purchase the belt first, achieving a 1700 rating is worth the grind for an armor piece that is a decent upgrade from its predecessor and a visual match for the rest of Brutal Gladiator gear. %Gallery-25440% Looking for more Season 4 info? We've rounded up everything you need to know about the Brutal Gladiator season right here.
Brutal Gladiator's Earthshaker
The Brutal Gladiator's Earthshaker is the armor set for Enhancement Shamans. It is a linked, or mail armor usable only by Shamans and is usually matched with Guardian's Linked armor pieces. The armor set can be purchased from Big Zokk Torquewrench in Netherstorm and Ontokk Shatterhorn in Shattrath City. The matching Guardian items may be purchased from Doris Volanthius in the Hall of Legends and Lieutenant Tristia in the Champion's Hall. Brutal Gladiator's Linked GauntletsThe Brutal Gladiator armor piece for the hands are the cheapest and easiest Season 4 Arena gear to obtain. With no personal rating requirements, most players will be able to purchase this piece and is the Arena gear likely to be most widespread as soon as the season begins. Its bonus is the same as all other Shaman armor, an increase to the range of Shock spells. The gauntlets have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent): 694 Armor (+55)+38 Strength (+5)+58 Stamina (+7)+37 Critical Strike (+5) +22 Resilience (+0)Improves the range of all Shock spells by 5 yards.Classes: Shaman WoW Insider says: These gloves are low-cost and have no rating requirements, which is good. The gloves are a good purchase if only because of the accessibility and modest improvement over the previous season's gloves. The Shock range bonus helps Shamans who wants to get up close and personal with a well-placed Frost Shock.Brutal Gladiator's Linked LeggingsThe leg armor possesses a personal rating requirement of 1550, which isn't too difficult to obtain, even for the underrepresented Enhancement Shaman. While not as accessible as the gloves, the leg armor is highly visible on a character and is also likely to be a popular purchase, even at 1875 Arena points. The leggings have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):971 Armor (+77)+43 Strength (+5)+74 Stamina (+7)+38 Intellect (+5)+17 Hit (+5)+41 Critical Strike (+5)+31 Resilience (+0)84 Armor Penetration (+0)Classes: ShamanWoW Insider says: This armor piece is the one of the best for its spec, being the only Linked armor piece with +Intellect. The lack of sockets mean that the only customization that can be done will be through Tailoring or Leatherworking enchants, but it more than makes up for it with +Hit and Armor Penetration. At 1550 personal rating, Enhancement Shamans shouldn't have too much trouble obtaining it.Brutal Gladiator's Linked ArmorWith three sockets, the chestpiece is the most customizable Arena armor piece. In the case of Enhancement Shamans, it is the third best piece to get after the gloves and leggings, despite the 1600 personal rating requirement. In PvE, the chest armor is traditionally a drop from the final boss in a series (Magtheridon drops Tier 4 chest token, Kael'thas drops Tier 5 chest token, Illidan drops Tier 6 chest token, etc.). Arenas are different in this regard, but the item level of the chest is identical to PvE chest pieces. Sunwell Plateau breaks from tradition in that the final boss, Kil'jaeden, does not drop chest tokens or armor. However, the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is equivalent to the drops from Entropius and is the best combination of cost and restriction among all the armor pieces. The armor has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):1110 Armor (+88)+32 Strength (+5)+71 Stamina (+7)+17 Hit (+5)+35 Critical Strike (+5)+31 Resilience (+0)84 Armor Penetration (+0)12 Mana / 5 Secs (+2 / 5)Socket Bonus: +4 Critical StrikeClasses: ShamanWoW Insider says: Although a little harder to obtain because of the 1600 personal rating, the Linked Armor has everything an Enhancement Shaman needs. The +Hit and Armor Penetration all contribute to one of the best Brutal Gladiator purchases an Enhancement Shaman can buy in Season 4. Because of its PvE equivalent, obtaining the Brutal Gladiator chest armor is almost like killing Entropius in Sunwell Plateau. Well, ok not really, but if you don't raid, that's about as close to a raid drop as you're going to get.Brutal Gladiator's Linked HelmThe helm is very likely the last Brutal Gladiator armor piece that many players will obtain. With the shoulders at an extremely prohibitive 2200, most players will only manage 4/5 of Season 4. The 1700 personal rating should be an achievable target for Enhancement Shamans. With a personal rating attached to it, the Brutal Gladiator helm might be one helm graphic that players would like to leave on. It is also identical in model to the pieces that drop off Kil'jaeden in Sunwell Plateau. The helm has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):902 Armor (+72)+40 Strength (+6)+74 Stamina (+7)+18 Hit (+6)+39 Critical Strike (+6)+33 Resilience (+0)84 Armor PenetrationSocket Bonus: +4 Resilience RatingClasses: ShamanWoW Insider says: The helm is a decent improvement over Season 3's equivalent, if much less attractive. Players unable to obtain a 1700 rating need not fuss over it, as the old helm gives the same Armor Penetration bonus as well as a Meta Socket and a Red Socket.Brutal Gladiator's Linked SpauldersThe 2200 personal ratings requirement for the shoulders are almost Gladiator-level for most Battlegroups, and will likely be a very rare sight in most realms, particularly on the shoulders of an Enhancement Shaman. Although it is the cheapest item after the gloves, it is also the most difficult to get. Blizzard's reasoning for this is that the shoulders are the most "visually impacting" armor piece, confirming Blizzard's opinion that PvP achievements should be on display. The spaulders have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):832 Armor (+66)+30 Strength (+5)+58 Stamina (+6)+31 Critical Strike (+4)+21 Resilience (+0)8 Mana / 5 Secs (+1 / 5)Socket Bonus: +3 Resilience RatingClasses: ShamanWoW Insider says: Brutal Gladiator shoulders are purely for show, although the Linked Spaulders in particular have an extra bonus that some other Linked pieces do not have -- mp5. It is one of the few Season 4 shoulder pieces with a little extra, like Druid shoulders, but still of marginal improvement over its predecessor. Guardian's Linked GirdleBecause it is a visual match for the Brutal Gladiator's Earthshaker, and because it comes with no personal ratings requirement, the belt is most likely to be the most widely distributed Season 4 gear. It is purchasable with Honor points, so even players who do not participate in Arena PvP can obtain it. The girdle has the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):624 Armor (+49)+38 Strength (+4)+55 Stamina (+6)+28 Intellect (+5)+37 Critical Strike (+4)+21 Resilience (+0)Classes: Hunter, ShamanWoW Insider says: The Linked Guardian items have +Intellect, among the few sources Enhancement Shamans have to marginally enlarge their mana pool. At low Honor cost and no ratings requirements, the Linked Girdle is one of the best purchases in Season 4 among all the Enhancement gear available.Guardian's Linked BracersThe only other Guardian piece with a socket is the amulet, which doesn't have a personal rating requirement. Coupled with the fact that bracers are visually insignificant, being hidden under gloves, the urgency to obtain them is very low. They also have a modest 1575 personal rating requirement, necessitating participation -- and moderate success -- in Arena play. The bracers have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):471 (+39)+28 Strength (+3)+37 Stamina (+4)+17 Intellect (+3)+24 Critical Strike (+3)+12 Resilience (+0)Socket Bonus: +2 Resilience RatingClasses: Hunter, ShamanWoW Insider says: Although more difficult to obtain that the leggings, It's not much better than its Season 3 counterpart, but if you have the Honor to burn and reach the 1575 personal rating requirement, it's worth the upgrade.Guardian's Linked SabatonsThe most visually important match of all Guardian items, the boots are a big jump from a 1575 personal ratings requirement and is as demanding to get as the head piece at 1700 personal ratings. It is also as expensive to purchase as the belt, which has no ratings requirement. The sabatons have the following stats (number in parentheses are the improvements over its Season 3 equivalent):763 Armor (+61)+38 Strength (+5)+55 Stamina (+6)+27 Intellect (+4)+38 Critical Strike (+4)+21 Resilience (+0)Classes: Hunter, ShamanWoW Insider says: Is a +4 Intellect improvement worth the grind to 1700? According to our readers more experienced with Enhancement Shamans, no. It looks good with the rest of the gear, though. Too bad it's covered up in a kilt. Still, the other primary stats make the boots a decent purchase. %Gallery-25440% Looking for more Season 4 info? We've rounded up everything you need to know about the Brutal Gladiator season right here.
Starting from scratch with two weeks to Season 4
Blizzard surprised everyone yesterday by announcing the start of Arena Season 4, slaking the thirst of Arena junkies everywhere. Although Drysc's announced that PvP progression is intended to match PvE progression, it seems that Blizzard feels that enough Sunwell Plateau gear has trickled down to the player base for them to unleash a new Arena Season. Or it could be that they feel that the new personal ratings mechanic is enough of a bottleneck to slow down the flood of Level 154 items into the playing community.At any rate, now is the time to plan for Season 4. If you haven't already started, it might be a good idea to bank some Arena points. With two weeks of point gains to go, that means players currently with 0 Arena points can theoretically obtain a maximum of one Season 4 Arena piece as the gloves cost 1125 points and, more importantly, require no personal ratings. Players will need to earn about 563 Arena points for the next two weeks to earn enough to purchase the item. This means maintaining a 1788 rating in 2v2, 1722 in 3v3, and 1671 in 5v5. It's not an easy feat, but for those who are only starting to save up Arena points, the reality is that it's an uphill climb. No matter how good you are, it is impossible to amass 5,000 Arena points in two weeks.
Apple and the future of DRM
Over at the Guardian there's an interesting article on How Apple is Changing DRM. While there's not a lot that's new here, it does usefully cover what has happened over the last few years with Digital Rights Management and how DRM has basically come to bite the record companies in the, um, keister. Way back when the iTunes (Music) Store started, the record companies were clamoring for DRM to protect against Napster and other P2P sharing, and Apple obligingly complied with FairPlay. Over time, as the iPod became the portable device of choice, the record companies basically found themselves beholden to Apple, painted into a corner by that self-same DRM. Now they're giving up DRM on services like Amazon MP3 precisely to get access to the iPod without Apple. The question for the future of DRM is whether subscription models like Rhapsody will take off and whether a hitherto reluctant Apple might embrace the subscription model as a response to the rise of other DRM-free download stores. In any case the article is worth a read for anybody interested in the future of digital media.[via Digg]
Can WoW be beaten?
World of Warcraft is doing terrific lately, but if you believe the hype, there's trouble on the horizon, and it's coming in the form of two big MMOs: Age of Conan and Warhammer Online. Greg Howson of Britain's Guardian newspaper has a column online in which he examines WoW's grip on MMO gamers and the two big games it'll face this year.We'll leave the cross-MMO predictions to our great sister site Massively, but for their part, Blizzard says they're looking forward to a little competition in the MMO pool. Howson has J. Allen Brack, WoW's lead producer, saying that they're looking forward to playing the new games as well. And it's true -- real competition in this space might actually be a welcome thing to fans of all MMO games. Blizzard is working hard now, but they might actually be working harder if they had a competitor breathing down their necks.Unfortunately for those who want to see that happen, it's going to be super hard for anyone to get near Blizzard's neck, much less near their game. As Lord of the Rings Online producer Ed Relf says to Howson, WoW is pretty much the iPod of the MMO space. It could just be that what Blizzard has done here -- bring an MMO to the forefront of gaming culture for an extended period of time -- is a deed that just can't be replicated, no matter how much money you put into making a game.[Via Worldofwar.net]
LotRO, A Look Back: Books 12 & 13
The new year brought Book 12: The Ashen Wastes on February 13, 2008. This was the first major update that didn't include the introduction of a new region. What it did bring to the table is a mix of revamps and new features.The high level adventuring area Angmar received a major overhaul, making it significantly more solo friendly. many elite mobs were taken out of the solo area population. And the boars, oh the boars, were mostly removed in favor of more menacing mobs. Finally, the questlines were smoothed out to move players along to area more appropriate to their leve.PvMP players received a new PvE dungeon, the Delving of Frór. The Creeps and Freeps battle for control of the dungeon and should one gain access while the other was battling a raid target within, well, that's when the real fun begins. New armor and items were also made available to the player side.Cosmetic enhancements were introduced to the game in Book 12 as well. The outfit system allowed players to choose one set of armor for stats and another for display. The barber system allowed players to change their hairstyle and facial choices, even adding a few new hairstyles to the game.Finally, three classes got a revamp this time. Guardians received a mix bag as their defenses were both nerfed and buffed, they received a dps stance and gained some utility. Burglars got a buff to nearly all their functions including damage, debuffing, trickery and crowd control. Champions also got an extra pass that gave them a stance that was part offensive and part defensive. This round concluded the class revamps planned by Turbine. %Gallery-14799% %Gallery-15282%
By Crom! Another Border Kingdom Cryer!
It halted some feet away, and Conan glared at it, trying to distinguish its fire-misted outline. The quivering flame had a solid core; the flame was but a glowing green garment that masked some evil entity. "By Crom, I'll have your name!" shouted the Cimmerian. "State your business here!" A sharp laugh echoed from the slate walls of the cliffs that lined the path. "Well do you know my mission. We have come to demand RP-PvE servers in Age of Conan!" "What devilry is this? Surely even the most ale-sotted noble has ceased to call this song from the minstrels." "And yet, even as the Sun may set and shroud her rays, leaving dark; she may still rise in the morn, burning bright with the light of a million... well, a dozen... okay, with the awesome light of but a single Sun." Conan sniggered. Another role-player.A fully-fledged forum brawl has broken out over the question of PvP servers in Funcom's Age of Conan, and frankly, we're more than a little wary. Roleplaying is like juggling, after all; it looks great when it's going well, but one dropped chainsaw and suddenly everyone is screaming. Best of luck to the Conan community no matter how this one turns out. In other news, AoC dev Jason "Athelan" Stone answered a burning question about the demon form the Heralds of Xotli could wear. It used to be almost permanent, but that made all Heralds look identical; it will now be a short duration, powerful spell on a fast cooldown. That's a welcome change for any Herald who couldn't remember what they looked like! The tank-like Guardians are proving a popular class in beta; seeing how rare tanks have become in most popular MMOs, perhaps AoC has stirred the magic sauce to make them desirable both for solo and group play. It's nearing launch time for Age of Conan, and in our minds, we're already sailing the wine-dark seas of Hyboria with naught but pillage on our minds. If your dreams are likewise drenched in blood, try your hand at finding Mitra for a beta key, or try for a chance at testing PvP to your heart's content.[Via Ten Ton Hammer]
Twelve trails of blood in Age of Conan
Over the years of its development cycle Age of Conan has seen a lot of class changes and mergers. After all this time Funcom has settled on providing players with four archetypes that each have three classes to pick from, resulting in a total of 12 classes. Each class in AoC has a specific set of skills, but none are fully pigeonholed into any singular role. We've gone ahead and created an easy-to-navigate list of the archetypes and classes offered. Funcom has released more information for some classes than others, but at this point each one is pretty clear in the role they'll play in Age of Conan come May 20th. Twelve trails of blood in Age of Conan >>>>> %Gallery-19934%
Notes for LotRO Book 12 Patch 1 available
The Lord of the Rings Online test server has been patched, and the notes have been made available for viewing. The patch should end up on live servers after a testing period on Roheryn, so it's a good heads up for what is ahead.Highlights of the patch include some Guardian-specific updates, Book 12 bug fixes, changes to stop anti-exploit mode triggering on mobs so often, and ranged auto-attacks will miss more often if fired while moving. The full list of notes can be found after the break.
Choosing your race in Middle-earth: Dwarf and Hobbit
Here is the second half of our Lord of the Rings Online guide to races, which covers some tips and tricks to help players starting out in Middle-earth and those who've been wandering its lands as well. As we said with the first half of our guide, its purpose isn't to say which race is the best pick for which class --but to just give some insight. So without further delay, lets get to everyone's favorite cranky, stout race -- Dwarves!
Guardian: UK plans legally enforceable game ratings
According to British newspaper The Guardian, a new classification system is set to be introduced for video games sold in the United Kingdom. The proposal would deem the rating system legally binding, making it against the law for retailers to sell games to persons below the recommended age rating.The Guardian does not state who would be responsible for administering the new ratings, although a likely candidate would be the British Board of Film Classification, who spearheaded the Manhunt 2 ban. Although we're hesitant whenever the government tries to step in and tell us what to play (that whole censorship thing), perhaps with a new system they can implement a rating that would allow games like Manhunt 2 to be carried. (Hey, we can dream.) The proposal also goes into ways the government can restrict children from seeing unsuitable games (don't forget all new consoles have family settings) and internet content. A commissioned review of violence and video games is due next month.
LotRO dev diary details Book 12 Guardian retooling
As promised, a new Lord of the Rings Online dev diary has surfaced giving excruciating detail on the changes to the Guardian class in the upcoming Book 12 content patch. The short version is: tanking is getting both buffs and nerfs; a new dps stance is being added along with new dps skills; and new utility abilities are coming.Let's take these one section at a time, shall we?TankingThe good news is the new defensive abilities the Guardians are getting. Shield Wall will allow the tank to take all the incoming damage targeted at another party member. And Fray The Edge is a new ranged single-target taunt that is stackable and has a chance of triggering a Fellowship Maneuver.The bad news is some current defensive skills are overpowered and are getting tweaked. Shield-taunt will no longer put the Guardian at the top of the threat list, but will add significantl threat. And the Deep Breath ability that allows Guardians to prematurely end the cooldown of many of their skills is getting it's cooldown significantly increased.There are some other tweaks, but the bottom line for Guardians in defensive mode is they are going to have to change their playstyle a bit. They have relied on some ability mechanics that are making their job too easy in some cases, especially in Raids.Before the wailing and sackcloth and ashes get going, remember two things: the devs are trying to balance the game to make it challenging and every game does class revamps. No one hates you. Well, except that Minstrel that kept dying in your pick up group, but aggro control is everyone's job, right?Read on for the really good news.
Last LotRO dev chat of 2007
German Lord of the Rings Online site, Lotro-welten, held their last monthly LotRO dev chat on Friday. Unlike some previous dev chats, this one had some juicy bits. Most of it focused on class improvements in Book 12 which is expected to land on the test server Roheryn very soon in the new year.Hunter tweaks are going to be focused on solo survivability and increasing dps in a way that makes sense for the class. Examples of what they have planned include boosting Focus by 3 when the Hunter uses their Blindside melee strike+bow shot ability. This will allow the Hunter the Focus they need to fire off their high damage Penetrating Shot ranged attack. Also, Fear will not be broken by any DoTs that were already on the target when the Fear is applies. And the high damage Merciful Shot will revert back to being usable when the target is at 50% health instead of 25%.The devs also elaborated on the Guardian changes coming. They will be receiving a new dps stance that will open up a new set of skills to use. This is designed to be used with 2-handed weapons, but can be also used with sword and shield in hand. Guardians will also be getting a new talent which will allow them to divert all incoming damage on a single target to themselves. This will not be stackable, but will be usable in Player vs Monster Player combat.
Tabula Rasa's Guardian gaffe?
As Guardians in Destination Games' Tabula Rasa already well know, the staff ability saw something of a change this past week, and it was an unexpected change at that. Players wielding a staff saw their damage reduced to about 20% of what it was, and the speed of their attacks was raised 5x times, ostensibly to make up the DPS lost. On the official TR site, a community update went up to let players know that this was only part of a proposed Guardian tweak that they're working on behind the scenes, of which the 5x speed increase was a part -- the lowering of the damage was just a hotfix to temporarily rein in the damage until the full fix came out.Now, as an aspiring Guardian myself, I can tell what's wrong with this idea right away. Giving the Guardian, the tank class of the game, a 5x attack speed increase is destined to upset players. Guardians tend to put five pumps into hand-to-hand because the damage bonus it affords stacks with staff damage. The problem? Putting five pumps into hand-to-hand also gives you a 75% knockback chance. Think about that. If you increase the number of swings Guardians take by five, you're increasing the number of knockbacks by five. Knockbacks, those fun little occurances where you actually lower your DPS by knocking your enemy out of melee range.I think this may be the first time I've heard a class-wide, "NERF!" in Tabula Rasa since it went live. *sniff* They grow up so fast!
Age of Conan Product Developer interview, with gameplay video
var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/pc_games/Age_of_Conan_interview_and_video'; On December 5th, I was invited to the Eidos/Funcom Age of Conan press event, where I was privileged enough to be granted access to both the game itself and the development team. I was able to play the opening area, leading into the first town. I sussed out the combat and the conversation interface. I spoke with Jørgen Tharaldsen, the Product Developer, and he let drop a metric ton of knowledge upon my fevered noggin. I reprint here our conversation, interspersed with my handheld-shot video pieces, the first of which is shown above, which is where the game starts, with you as a survivor of a shipwrecked slaver ship. I'd like to thank Jørgen and the entire Eidos/Funcom team, all of whom I found to be gracious, witty, and enthusiastic about their game, which is refreshing to see. My take? The game looks incredible, and it's extremely immersive from the get-go. They say they're on schedule for an early 2008 release, so this is something to anticipate indeed. More videos and the interview after the jump!
Age of Conan's Guardian put under the microscope
Following on the heels of their report on the Dark Templar, TTH has another interview with Funcom product director Jørgen Tharaldsen, this time focusing on Age of Conan's Guardian class. The Guardians are part of the soldier archetype, their most prominent characteristic being the full plate armor that they bring with them to battle. To quote Tharaldsen, "Guardians are the unassailable rock upon which the waves of battle break." They go on to discuss how Guardians are more than just the AoC equivalent of WoW's prot-specced Warrior; they can switch up their maneuvers on the fly, exploiting enemy weaknesses by taking higher DPS approaches as the situation calls for.We had hoped that they would choose to mix up the class list a bit more for this running feature. It feels a little redundant for them to be talking about two of the primary tanking classes so close together, when there are other interesting classes like the Bear Shaman or Ranger that they could throw in to add some variety to the gameplay mechanics they discuss. Oh well.
Hellgate: London class overview
I am having a blast playing Hellgate: London, but it took me a while to sort through the different classes and choose one for playthrough. After dabbling with them all, I have settled on the Summoner as my current favorite. Following is a very general breakdown of the different classes to help you choose which one to try.The TemplarsThese are the melee classes. They have some good survivability skills, especially when surrounded by mobs.Guardians: This is the standard tank class -- sword, shield, the best armor, etc. They can also do a decent amount of melee damage and can acquire a healing aura at level 2 which heals the Guardian more as the number of mobs attacking increases.Blademaster: DPS Melee. If you like dual wielding blades, the Blademaster is your class. They can also carry shields if you like and get auras of their own like the Guardians.
