View Full Version : 1.10 Mini Guide - The Lightning Amazon
The Lightning Amazon
A mini-guide by Jek, posted at www.diabloii.net
Lightning
"I am upsetting the wind
blowing against me
Rainy days
Come
Without my permission
Lightning
Signs its name
Against the turbulent sky"
-- Jill Chan
Part I: Skills
Introduction:
Hi, some of might know me, some of you might not. After having conquered the 1.10 patch, and made it to hell on ladder (with a Hammerdin, yes I'm cheesy). I wanted to try something new. A friend of mine suggested making a Javazon, at first I raised an eyebrow, why on earth would I want to make a fruity 1.09 build? But, my interest had been wakened. After having studied the skills and synergies, I came to the conclusion that the build just might be a strong choice, so I booted up Diablo2, and created my very first 1.10 Lightning Amazon. She was a disaster, simply put. I had fallen for Power Strike's charming high damage, and thus negated other important skills. At first I thought the build was weak, but then after some discussion and skill calculation/speculation I tried again, this time with great success.
I do not consider the following text as a "normal" Diablo 2: Lord of Destruction guide. I'm not going to say, “Thou shalt equip a Stormshield, Titans Revenge and an Enigma armor or thou willth be smiteth by The Holy Gods of Diablo!”. Instead of giving a clear-cut item setup, I’ll try to make a discussion about most of the viable uniques/runewords/crafted items there is. And as a result, end up with a guide that’s capable of playing untwinked from level 1 to level 99. For the same reason the discussion of stat-points will be one of the smaller parts of this “guide”. I will give this advice however: "Enough for your items, high block and rest to vit."
One of the strongest features of this kind of char is she's very item independent, she could waltz through Chaos Sanctuary with a cracked javelin if need be.
I hope this will spawn some attention to this great subclass, lets show them Paladins, Necromancers and Sorcerers that the Amazon is still the queen of killing the spawns of hell!
LF: Lightning Fury
CS: Charged Strike
LS: Lightning Strike
LI: Lightning Immune
PI: Physical Immune
AR: Attack Rating
MS: Multiple Shot
LE: Lightning Enhanced
IAS: Increased Attack Speed
FPA: Frames per Attack
APS: Attacks per Second
CBF: Can't Be Frozen
FHR: Faster Hit Recovery
FBR: Faster Block Rate
FRW: Faster Run/Walk
ICB: Increased Chance of Block
MF: Magic Find
Rating System:
The King!: *****
Very Good: ****
Good: ***
"Average": **
Useless: *
Javalin Skills:
This tree will be where we'll spend most of our time allocating skill-points. I've split it up into two discussions, #1-Lightning Skills, #2-Physical Skills, I'll jump right over the Poison Skills since I have little to no experience using these, if anyone could help me out here I'd greatly appreciate it. Enough senseless rambling, unto the skills!
Lightning:
Ah, the source of all our powers - after all we are the Lightning Amazon. This is both our strength and our weakness, while specializing yourself heavily in one elemental you will lose killing speed when encountering LI monsters, while there are methods to slay these foul fiends it is something you should consider. Would I really want to sacrifice flexibility for pure power? If the answer is yes, then read on, if no I suggest going the route of a Poison/Lightning Fury Javazon.
Power Strike:
At first one could be tempted by this skill, it does list some incredible lightning damage. Do not blind yourself, this skill pales in comparison with the later skills. My suggestion, spend one point as a pre-requirement. One could argue it’s worthwhile for starting out; I personally do not have troubles using it until I reach Charged Strike.
Rating: *
Lightning Bolt:
This is an excellent early skill; converting 100% of your physical damage into lightning elemental is very nice against early encounters with demons of the physical immune species. However, it as its low level cousin (Power Strike) pales in comparison with a certain cow frying skill (read: Lightning Fury). But as Power Strike, boosting this a tad might help out the starting procedure; again, I will advice against doing so.
Rating: **
Charged Strike:
Now we are talking, this skill will be your bread and butter when it comes to killing "big" monsters and smaller packs (Hard to explain, but usually around 5 are a good choice for CS). By "big" monsters I mean monsters which are larger than your average size fiend, good examples would be Venom Lords and Act Bosses, their size allows your strike to hit the monster multiple times with the charged bolts which results in a crispy carcass (multiple bolts will hit the same target resulting in massive damage). Until you've tried killing Diablo with this skill and two synergies you haven't seen the build's true power.
NOTE: This skill will probably be your left click if you decide to go the more balanced Lightning route.
Rating: *****
Lightning Strike:
Another excellent skill, Lightning Strike is very effective at bringing down larger packs - in fact in the later acts/difficulties more important than LF. As with CS you'll have to use it against the "right pack", basically any big pack would do. As an additional bonus the skill looks awful when executed on a large group.
NOTE: This skill might be affected by the NextDelay bug. The chain lightning from LS jumps between monsters and if a monster is hit twice within 4 frames then it the last LS will not deal any damage.
Rating: ****
Lightning Fury:
An old friend of many I suspect. We all remember the 1.09 days of slaughtering cows upon cows with this little gem. To all the lovers of it out there, do not moan over this lost friend for it shines again! LF really adds the last piece to the Lightning Puzzle; it gives you great ranged power which most sorceresses would envy you.
Rating: *****
Physical:
Jab:
An excellent early physical skill, this is my skill of choice when dealing with the LIs you will encounter, even if you go all the way of the Lightning Amazon you'd need to get this skill as a pre-req, luckily it's a one-point wonder.
Rating: ****
Javelin "normal" speedtab
fps [20] [10] [0] [-10]
16/8 0
15/8 2
14/7 7 0
13/7 14 3
12/6 24 11 0
11/6 39 23 10 0
10/6 58 39 23 10
10/5 65 40 25 15
9/5 89 63 42 26
8/5 142 102 72 50
8/4 170 120 90 60
7/4 270 187 133 95
-- Amazon Attack Speed Tables (This is a Link) (http://forums.rpgforums.net/showthread.php?t=16671)
Impale:
Some might argue this skill has it uses, personaly I hate it. While it can work it need the entire char to be pretty much build for it. And the entire ideas about destroying your equipment for damage seems rather weak, you’d want those gold coins spend on repairing for gambling/shopping.
Rating: *
Fend:
Fend, while being a decent skill it got one problem, to really make it better than Jab you have to dedicate a lot more points into it. Fend simply can't compete with Jab skill-point economic-vise.
NOTE: Bugged, if you are hit during a fend-cycle the remaining attacks will miss. Quite dangerous – as you will be standing in the middle of combat.
Rating: ***
Suggestions:
Below I've listed my three amazons, one pure lightning, one with FA and one with Guided Arrow. Overall I believe the pure lightning to be the strongest, with a good enough javelin and jab you really don't need another element. It's alot more expensive tho.
Pure Lightning Amazon
Max Charged Strike
Max Lightning Strike
Max Lightning Fury
This will give you great melee both against big and lesser packs (CS and LS) while still having the option of going ranged against great mobs (LF) -- You wouldn't need ranged against single monsters, CS should allow you kill even the strongest mob very fast. A one-point wonder to remember is Jab, this will be your main attack against LI's, and I’ve chosen not to raise it. I've never had the urge for it, this is a personal choice.
Balanced Lightning Amazon
Max Charged Strike
Max Lightning Strike
Level 1 Guided Arrow or going all the way to get Freezing Arrow
This will give you very strong lightning attacks, not as strong as that of a pure lightning build obviously, but enough to handle most monsters with relative ease. LI monsters are handled from range with a high damage bow, Valkyrie and your mercenary. It’s worth mentioning that going the FA route will add a lot of safety to your Valkyrie and mercenary when they fight the foul beats.
End Game Damage:
Skill Level=20
Pure Lightning Amazon
LF 21 Bolts 1-823
LS 21 Hits 1-1286
CS 7 Bolts 1-1674
Balanced Lightning Amazon
LF 21 Bolts 1-707
CS 7 Bolts 3-1030
Passive/Magic Skills:
Survival. This Skilltree will make you live through the carnage. This is not a skill tree to be ignored; ignoring this will most likely result in pulling out a lot of hair and deciding to restart the char.
Passive:
What's really better than boosts you don't have to spend time activating? This is here we will talk about the passives in the survival skill tree.
Dodge:
Will help you survive in the heat of battle. Really longer your lifespan if wielding a shield too, a very powerful skill for the people that wants to live.
Rating: ****
Avoid:
Dodging missile attacks is strong, but against archers you'll most of the time rush against them and thus negating the bonus from Avoid, it's a decent skill, but there are better.
Rating: **
Evade:
Ever dreamt about being Neo and dodging bullets like there's no tomorrow? Well this skill will help you do exactly that. A very strong choice as ranged monsters really is a force to reckon with now. This does what Avoid wanted to do and more.
Rating: ****
Critical Strike:
Doubling your physical damage is good, don't get me wrong, but most of your damage will be from Lightning anyway. Some might argue that it'll help you against LIs, true, but from my testing it isn't needed. It's a very good point to spend on level 2 however, as it will most likely be combined with Jab as of level 3.
Rating: **
Rating: **** -- If focusing more on Physical damage.
Penetrate:
Getting higher AR is almost always good; however you really do not need it. CS, LS and LF are all auto-hits. Even if you went with PS instead of one of the others you wouldn't need it as PS gives quite a boost to AR on its own. It's a useful one-point wonder however, as it helps you when jabbing.
Rating: **
Pierce:
We all remember how much 1.09 Javazons (Lightning Fury + Pierce) just slaughtered cows. This skill can either be great or a waste, it boils down to your play style. If you find yourself using Lightning Fury often, definitely spend some points here.
Rating: ***** or *
Magic:
Ever wanted to be a necro, and placing powerful curses on your enemies? Ever wanted to be a wild druid, summoning the wilder beasts to do your bidding? This is the skills for you then!
Valkyrie:
This is probably one of the strongest skills in the game now. The Valkyrie has been improved so much since 1.09 it now receives the same bonuses from Dodge, Avoid and Evade as you do, which results in a very tough tank. Raising the level of this will improve its equipment and at level 17 she will be equipped with a War Pike. Strong choice!
Slvl 1 : Full plate mail and Spear (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 2 : adds Heavy gloves (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 4 : adds Heavy Boots (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 5 : adds Heavy Belt (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 7 : upgrades Full Plate Mail to Chaos Armor (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 8 : upgrades Spear to Lance (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 10: upgrades Heavy Gloves to War Gauntlets (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 11: upgrades Heavy Boots to War Boots (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 12: upgrades Heavy Belt to War Belt (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 13: adds Amulet (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 14: adds Circlet (mod1 = 4)
Slvl 16: replaces Chaos Armor with Sacred Armor (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 17: replaces Lance with War Pike (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 19: upgrades War Gauntlets to Crusader Gauntlets (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 21: upgrades War Boots to Mirrored Boots (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 23: upgrades War Belt to Colussus Girdle (mod1 = 6)
Slvl 25: changes mod1 for amulet from 4 to 6
Slvl 27: upgrades Circlet to Tiara (mod1 = 6)
(Mod1 = 4) Is a Magic item
(Mod1 = 6) is a Rare item.
Lvl17 seems to be optimal, Damage Wise.
-- Quote Ctrl+Alt+Delete from www.diabloii.net forums
Rating: *****
Decoy:
A very good spell however is passed by Valkyrie. A strong feature of the Decoy is "decoy-scouting", cast it in front of you (at the edge of the screen) to check the area for foes. Combined with Valkyrie and you have to tools to fool your enemies and only take minimal damage. A very strong “one-point wonder”!
Rating: ***
Slow Missile:
Probably one of the most underrated skills in the game. This spell gives you so much for just a singe point, against MS enhanced monsters you chill down their shoots to a laughable pace, MS+LE enchanted monster's bolts are easily dodged. Using this against the inferno spraying monsters will greatly decrease their damage as the flames won’t travel as long. And in general renders archers pretty much useless. Excellent one-point skill!
Rating: *****
Inner Sight:
I might hear from this but simply put this skill is garbage. I haven't ever had to use this skill. Sadly it's a pre-req. Grr.
Rating: *
Suggestions:
Giving advices on points to spend here is hard, as it's mainly based upon experience and play style. I suggest getting a decent level Valkyrie and getting your Dodge and Evade to 50s (but don't forget about Avoid, it still has its uses). Remember to count in +skills from items, points saved will result in stronger lightning attacks.
The more points spend here, the stronger a tank you'll get in the form of the Valkyrie. If you are ignoring this skill tree you are missing out one of the most potent tanks in the game - the Valkyrie. Believe me when I say that she'll most likely save your life many times during the course of the game.
Part II: Stats and Items
Stats:
Strength:
The simple answer is, "Enough for your equipment.” your end-game goal should be enough to wear Matriarchal Javelins (107). But you should take into consideration that using a spear on switch would require a greater strength, which means either more points spend here or fix it with your equipment.
Dexterity:
Again, aim for enough for Matriarchal Javelins (151), luckily this also boosts your chance to block.
Vitality:
This is where you should spend as many points as possible. Surviving is essential to keep up the fast leveling pace once you hit hell. High vitality helps that.
Energy:
Should be kept at base, leech and potions should be your way to replenish the blue ball.
Items:
Having a Javelin/Shield and a big damage spear on switch has been the combination I've had the most success with, the Javelin/Shield setup would allow you to take on even the greatest mob when combined with your defensive skills.
Just for kicks I tried stripping my Lightning Amazon and just using items bought from vendors to see her in action in Chaos Sanctuary, while her killing speed was slowed she could hold her own.
Weapons:
Of course it'd be easy to just talk about the "perfect" setup, but since this guide is more or less targeted at Ladder-play I'll try to make my suggestions more realistic for that. I'll try to write a perfect setup though, just for the non-ladder players.
Javelins:
That sharp little pointy stick, you will be using next to your shield. With skills setup as I suggested earlier you're going to tear through every non-LI like a knife through butter, even act bosses (Charged Strike) will drop faster than cows in 1.09 to a Javazon. Now the question remains, which weapon would be the best choice?
When looking for a CS javelin you should look for speed and when looking for a weapon for LS and to some degree LF look for damage too: to help leeching. Both by suffix and by item speed. The faster the better. Hitting fast will allow you to fill the screen with beautiful white lightning and drop every single monster on screen in a matter of seconds, now it's only to pick off the survivors with jab or CS.
Javelin "normal" speedtab
fps [20] [10] [0] [-10]
16/8 0
15/8 2
14/7 7 0
13/7 14 3
12/6 24 11 0
11/6 39 23 10 0
10/6 58 39 23 10
10/5 65 40 25 15
9/5 89 63 42 26
8/5 142 102 72 50
8/4 170 120 90 60
7/4 270 187 133 95
-- Amazon Attack Speed Tables (This is a Link) (http://forums.rpgforums.net/showthread.php?t=16671)
The class-specific (Maiden, Ceremonial and Matriarchal Javelins) are all great weapons as they add unto your attack skills which results in a greater damage output. As a bonus they all come with a -10 speed package.
Useful pre/suf-fixes to look for would be IAS and ML, sadly this can't spawn on the same weapons -- barring rare. Remember you don't have to use a class-specific Javelin. Often a regular javelin will be more than enough, one thing to remember is physical damage more or less doesn't matter.
Some weapons worth mentioning:
Safety Javelins: The fixed mods aren't that great it's a cheap way to make a decent weapon. All you'll need is: Magic Javelin, Sol Rune, Perfect Emerald and a Jewel.
Thunderstroke: While it seems impressive at first, it doesn't compare to Titan's Revenge. Thunderstroke is too narrow; while it deals out great lightning damage it doesn't offer the same flexibility as Titan's Revenge in term of stats, skills, run/walk and Life Leech. You will already be doing thousands of thousands lightning damage, but it is not a bad weapon in any ways.
Titan's Revenge: As hinted when I talked about Thunderstroke, this is the strongest weapon for the build, an amazing +4 to javelin skills, +2 to everything else, life leech, amazing stats, run/walk, replenishing stack size. You really couldn't ask for much more, BUT, on top of that you'll get a quite amazing damage when upgraded.
Spear (switch):
Having a physical damage switch will most likely be your weapon against LIs, either that or fast legs, remember to keep out the Valkyrie as she is actually be able to deal damage in this patch. There is three routes you can go from here, the route of a bow, spear or throwing those pointy sticks (not LFing!). The thing I like about giving advice about the switch is its so easy, look for physical damage and speed. Take care of your mercenary too!
Spear Jab speedtab
fps [20] [0] [-10] [-20]
14.0 0
13.0 5
12.0 10
11.5 15
10.5 20 0
9.5 30 5
9.0 40 10 0
8.5 50 15 5
8.0 60 25 10 0
7.5 70 30 20 5
7.0 90 40 25 15
6.5 115 60 40 25
6.0 155 80 55 35
5.5 225 115 80 60
5.0 * 175 125 90
4.5 * * 210 150
4.0 * * * 295
-- Amazon Attack Speed Tables (This is a Link) (http://forums.rpgforums.net/showthread.php?t=16671)
Armor:
I really wouldn't be able to cover every single unique and runeword there is, that'd require a few ten thousands more words than I would like to write. I have highlighted a few which I felt needed. Overall you should try to aim for getting high resists, if possible boosts to skills. Defense isn't all that important; I've done Hell Diablo runs with 150 Defense armors before.
Body Armor:
Twitchtoe: This is a great and relative cheap armor. +20 Ias, +20 FHR, +20 Block Rate all in one. A strong choice. Its weakness lies in it's low defense and no resists. It will be excellent through normal and nm, and if your charms are up for it, hell.
Silks of Victor: An excellent armor. +1 skills and ML, hard to top that. But again, no resists. Overall a good choice.
Skin of Vipermagic: +1 skills and potential GREAT resists. Very strong choice.
Tal Rasha's Armor: My favorite armor. It got huge resists and MF, while still having great defense, not much more to ask for.
Smoke (Nef + Lum): An excellent armor. Huge resists, 20 FHR and decent defense. Strong and cheap choice.
Lionheart (Hel + Lum + Fal): This armor, is simply put, probably the best armor, while still being affordable. It holds huge stat bonus, resist bonus, life bonus, mana bonus, -requirement and to top it off even damage bonus. Wow. EXCELLENT!
Chains of Honor (Dol + Um + Ber + Ist): If you can afford it this armor is pure gold. It offers everything from MF, to PDR, to skills, to resists and finally improves your damage. Only a few armors can rival a Lionheart, this is one of the few, and the only to pass it.
Enigma (Jah + Ith + Ber): Again a strong choice for your MF runs. As this build will be able to do diablo runs with a basic armor bought from a vendor you can certainly do Diablo runs with this one, Teleport will speed up River of Flame considerable. Certainly a good armor, however it is inferior in overall game-play compared to Chains of Honor and Lionheart.
Stone (Shael + Um + Pul + Lum): Great defense and resists, the ability to summon a clay golem, however it's not worth the runes. If you can afford this you should certainly be able to make a Lionheart.
Helmet:
Tal's Mask: If you can look past its looks this helmet is simply breathtaking. It holds a combined package of resists and dual leech. You really couldn't ask for much more on a helmet!
Vampire Gaze: Another excellent piece, dual leech and PDR and MDR. Personally I like to see this helmet on my mercenary more so than on myself. It is a strong choice nonetheless, expensive however.
Griffon's Eye: If you're looking for some huge damage, this is the headgear for you, it's rare, but the boost it offers is huge. A good choice, it lacks defensive attributes however.
Harlequin's Crest: Huge life and mana bonus, +2 skills which allow for even more damage - and less points to spend on passives! 10% PDR - more survival, and 50% MF, overall a great helmet.
Crown of Thieves: A great choice until you get a Tal's Mask. Good choice for your mercenary too.
Stealskull: Dual leech, FHR, IAS and MF. Excellent choice too! Combine this with 20% Ias gloves and you've reached a decent jabbing speed. Good choice, suffers the same fate as Tal's Mask, the looks.
Delirium (Lem + Ist + Io): A strong choice. Giving incredible crowd control and plus to skill, MF and GF is just icing on the cake. Incredible fun when used on your mercenary.
Lore (Ort + Sol): Strong early choice, plus skills, mana per kill and Lightning Resist.
Shield:
Stormshield: Socket with hel or -req jewel else the strength requirement will most likely be too high. It holds great blocking and PDR, to top it out resists too. Good choice, very expensive however.
Moser's Blessed Circle: This shield gives you everything you might want from a shield, resists and decent block. Good for surviving. Good shield.
Tiamat's Rebuke: This shield is awesome if you decide to go Javelin/Shield as you're weapon against LIs, great switch shield!
The Ward: A great early shield due to the high resists and strength bonus.
Whistan's Shield: Incredible block, lacks pretty much everything else.
Sanctuary (Ko + Ko + Mal): Ah - the new kid on the block. AWSOME resists, FHR, FBR, ICB, Dex and nice defense. This is by far my shield of choice, now if only I could find the Ko runes.
Ancient's Pledge (Ral + Ort + Tal): Easily accessible and a good choice due to the high resists. However it lacks anything besides resists. You get the runes after completing the “Free the barbarians” quest in act 5.
Rhyme (Shael + Eth): CBF, FBR, ICB, resists, GF and MF a strong early shield. This shield will easily take you into hell and probably all the way to the Matriarch title.
Gloves:
Laying of Hands: IAS, Fireworks(chance to cast spell) and huge damage to demons, good choice.
Immortal King Gloves: Huge stats bonus great choice, lacks IAS however.
Bloodfist: 10 IAS, minimum damage, 40 Life and 40 FHR great choice. Easy to find compared to the bonuses.
Souldrainer: Dual leech and chance to cast weaken, excellent choice, hard to find however.
Crafted Gloves: IAS, LL/ML these can be great. These are an excellent choice with the right mods on them.
Belts:
String of Ears: PDR, LL and decent defense good choice.
Nosferatu's Coil: Slow target by 10%, +2 mana per kill, 5-7 life leech, 15 strength, 10% IAS, you can not look for much else. A very strong choice.
Immortal's King Belt: Great strength bonus, fire and lightning resist.
Thundergod's Vigor: An excellent belt, boosts your skills, gives great protection against attacks of the lightning kind. The belt adds a great chunk of strength and vitality (LIFE).
M'avina's Belt: ML and FRW go great partial set bonus if you happen to have other pieces.
Wilhelm's Pride: Dual Leech, some cold resist and nothing else.
Trang'Oul's Belt: Great life and mana boost. Most important stat is the CBF.
Razortail: Offers 33% bonus to piercing attack along with 15 dexterity and 10 max damage, a very good choice if you want to go down the more LF slinging path.
Boots:
Sander's Riprap: Great FRW, +dexterity and strength. An excellent pair of boots, another bonus is it is rather easy to find.
Natalya's Soul: Great FRW and adds 15% to cold and lightning. Strong choice.
Aldur's Boots: 40 FRW, Stamina boost and great life boost. Excellent choice.
Gorerider: A great pair of boots if you want to lower your weakness against LIs, their offer of Crushing Blow will help quite a bit when jabbing/fending. Decent choice.
War Traveler: Great strength and dexterity bonus, which means more points to spend on vitality (more life), more damage added to weapon which means easier time against LIs and more leech. To top it off it got quite a bonus to MF! Strong pair of boots.
Crafted Blood Boots (Magic Light Plate/Battle/Mirrored Boots + Eth Rune + Perfect Ruby + Jewel): Can be the strongest choice due to the fixed mods: 10-20 Life, 1-3% Life Leech, 5-10 life regeneration. A great choice with the right mods.
Jewelery:
You can get pretty much everything out of your amulet, important stats to look for are +skills, ML, LL, stats and resists. If you don't have CBF on any of your other item slots, you should definitely try to get a Ravenfrost (remember you can get the bonus from other items), believe me - being frozen and decrepified really is a pain.
Amulets:
The Cat's Eye: Great dexterity, FRW and IAS. Great amulet.
Crescent Moon: This amulet is great due to the high ML, if you happen to find one of these you wont need another source of ML. It's rare to find a dual leech amulet. Strong choice.
Mara's Kaleidoscope: Stat bonus, +skills and huge resists.
Saracen's Chance: Great resists, stat bonus and chance to cast Iron Maiden, a very good amulet.
Safety Amulet (Amulet + Thul Rune + Perfect Emerald + Jewel): ICB makes this receipe huge. Potential the best amulet you can get.
Rings:
Cathan's Seal: Great early level ring featuring Life Leech at a very low requirement.
Manald Heal: If you haven't found ML any other places.
Ravenfrost: Great choice. Lowers Cold Damage dealt to you, CBF, AR boost and dexterity. Great ring.
Bul-Kathos: +Skills, life and LL, doesn't get much better.
Blood Ring (Ring + Sol Rune + Perfect Ruby + Jewel): Great fixed mods: Life, str and LL.
Carrion Wind: High LL, defense, resists and fireworks (chance to cast twister on strike), a very good ring.
Summary:
In general you should aim for max resists, around 5 or so ML, then focus on skills and LL. You can easily do without having a high ML, by drinking plenty of blue potions. Another option would be using Tir runes; this option is very viable in the earlier stages of the game. Once you reach hell you should be able to fuel your skills simply from ML, remember to have a few potions ready however as the monsters with manadrain pretty much equals manaburn in 1.10.
Just in case I'll say this again. Do not ignore your resists, they are more important than ever.
Dream Setup:
Helmet - Griffon's Eye
Amulet - Mara's Kaleidoscope
BodyAr - Chains of Honor
Gloves - Laying of Hands
FeetAr - Aldur's Boots
Finger - Ravenfrost
Finger - Rare Dual Leech Ring
WaistA - Thundergod's Vigor / Razortail
Weapon - Ethereal Upgraded Titan's Revenge
Shield - Sanctuary / Stormshield
Switch:
Weapon - Ethereal BOTD War Pike / Call To Arms
Part III: Socketing and Mecenary
Socketing:
Socketing your equipment is a great way to improve on weak spots such as Damage, Resists and Stats. Act VI, Quest I rewards you a socket in any piece of equipment (except Javelins), even uniques. Something important to remember once socketing your equipment is whether or not a cheaper alternative exists, an example would be finding a 15% resist all jewel, which in itself is a rather rare treasure, now remember socketing an Um in your Armor/Helmet would give the same boost and a bigger in your shield, but what to remember is you can't get resists on your weapon in any other way than Jewels. Always remember your other options when considering what to socket in your equipment.
Perfect Ruby:
A cheap way to improve upon your life, if your resists and attack speed are up it, this is an excellent socket.
Tir Runes:
One of my favorite sockets, while leech in hell is quite harsh now, having a Tir or two will greatly help your mana flow. Having a few will easily take you through normal and nightmare.
One Element Resist Runes (Tal, Ral, Ort, Thul):
If you desperately need Lightning resist socketing an Ort into your armor will greatly increase your resist. These runes are a little narrow but their impact on a certain element makes up for it.
Perfect Diamond:
19 Resist All when placed in a shield, an awsome feature to use on a 3-socket shield early on the game. Very good gem. Will greatly increase your chance of survival in the early game.
Um:
15% Resist All in Armor/Helm and 22% in shield, while better than Perfect Diamond in shield it's alot rarer, more often than not you're going to place this in your helmet/armor, as you will most likely have access to Perfect Diamonds which can be socketed in your shield, and your shield only for the resist bonus.
Rainbow Facets:
Version I
Required Level: 49
100% Chance To Cast Level 41 Nova When You Level-Up
Adds 1-74 Lightning Damage
+3-5% To Lightning Skill Damage (varies)
-(3-5)% To Enemy Lightning Resistance (varies)
(Only Spawns In Patch 1.10 or later)
Version II
Required Level: 49
100% Chance To Cast Level 47 Chain Lightning When You Die
Adds 1-74 Lightning Damage
+3-5% To Lightning Skill Damage (varies)
-(3-5)% To Enemy Lightning Resistance (varies)
(Only Spawns In Patch 1.10 or later)
-- The Arreat Summit (This is a link) (http://www.battle.net/diablo2exp/items/normal/ujewels.shtml)
These two jewels both add quite a punch to your attack force, having one or two of these would greatly improve your attack speed. Personaly I'd use the Version II of the jewel, seeing as when dying I really wouldn't mind if it's clear at my corpse rather than getting a bonus Nova when leveling.
Mercenary:
Act I - The Rogues:
A great helper in Act I normal, but she's made obsolete when you hit Act II and gain access to the Town Guards. I usually rush to the Bloodraven quest to gain my rogue as fast as possible. Try to find a 3 socket bow and add all the chipped topaz you can, the rogue will then easily hold her own in 8-players Act I.
Act II - The Town Guards:
There's really only two choices here, Defiance or Holy Freeze. While the Might Mercenary will help your leech he wont do much else. Holy Freeze and Defiance will help you survive.
It now boils down to playstyle.
Holy Freeze:
Slows everything down, enables your mercenary and valkyrie to live longer. By slowing down the monsters your valkyrie will be able to abuse her insane life regen and be pretty near immortal.
Defiance:
Makes it harder for monsters to hit, enables your mercenary and valkyrie to live longer. The Defiance mercenarie will require a little bit of your items, mainly bigger defense (if you want it to compare with Holy Freeze).
Act III - The Iron Wolves:
Out of the mages I've only found the cold mage to be a viable mercenary, he is great for normal difficulty but will but severly handicapped once nightmare is made.
Act IV - The Barbarians:
Great tanks, but are obsolete when compared to Town Guards. A defiance Town Guard will be able to stand much longer in a crowd than a barbarian before going down. That's not to say they're bad, Town Guards are just better.
I'll leave it to people to draw their own conclussions, after all the mercenary should follow your playstyle.
One thing to remember for the rich players, if you can make the "Doom" runeword you could have a mercenary with both Holy Freeze and Defiance or your aura of choice, if not Defiance I'd suggest Thorns (Quite the laugh with Valkyrie and Decoy) or Might.
sunbearie
30-01-2004, 04:54
Great to see the guide back online.
I've just like to comment a little about the cold mage mercenary. While utterly pathetic in 8 player games, he is still viable in Hell act 5. Depending on the equipment, he can have high def (due to frozen shield), maxed resists and over 1000 life. His glacial spike has a relatively good chill time as well using a simple +3skills sword and most of all, he complements your lightning build as
1) Monsters are rarely lightning and cold immune.
2) While he freezes the monsters, you can attack the monster without your jab being interupted.
Of course, as you said, it all comes down to playing style.
Thx, this is a great guide but could u also post more or less exactly how to put skillpoints. Im new to the amazon so i dont wanna "experiment" to much without knowing how good a skill actually is. would appriciate it.
thx
Thx, this is a great guide but could u also post more or less exactly how to put skillpoints. Im new to the amazon so i dont wanna "experiment" to much without knowing how good a skill actually is. would appriciate it.
thx
Mmm. Get the pre-reqs for Charged Strike, while getting there place 1 point into pre-reqs for pierce and Valkyrie. Once you get Charged Strike max it, and get Valkyrie, Pierce, LF (boost this to level 20 as soon as possible). A low level Valkyrie should be good enough for normal and nightmare. Once you reach hell a level 17 Valkyrie should be reached.
Depending how your play style you should get Pierce to 0 or 7 (or so).
For Pure out lightning max Lightning Strike, once you master it a very devastating skill.
premature tyrant
01-02-2004, 23:19
I made the Lightning zon. She's awsome, but there's one problem: LIs. I haven't put anything into Lightning Strike yet because I want to put the rest of my points in a non-lightning attack. I was wondering if u could tell me which skill i should put my points into so i can handle LIs.
I made the Lightning zon. She's awsome, but there's one problem: LIs. I haven't put anything into Lightning Strike yet because I want to put the rest of my points in a non-lightning attack. I was wondering if u could tell me which skill i should put my points into so i can handle LIs.
Jab, FA and Fend (not against a bigger mob, the risk of getting fend locked is deadly) are all decent skills for taking down LIs, I've heard of people using Immolation Arrow with a Kuko with great succes.
premature tyrant
03-02-2004, 03:17
Jab, FA and Fend (not against a bigger mob, the risk of getting fend locked is deadly) are all decent skills for taking down LIs, I've heard of people using Immolation Arrow with a Kuko with great succes.
My friend says Fend is much better than Jab. I don't know much about amazons, so I took his word for it. How much should I raise Fend to make it useful? Should I put all remaining skill points into Ligtning Strike?
premature tyrant
03-02-2004, 07:39
My friend says Fend is much better than Jab. I don't know much about amazons, so I took his word for it. How much should I raise Fend to make it useful? Should I put all remaining skill points into Ligtning Strike?
Scratch that. My friend let me try out his zon with max fend. I think I know what to do now.
Scratch that. My friend let me try out his zon with max fend. I think I know what to do now.
You'll have to remember Fend is bugged at the moment. :(
CronicTKY
08-02-2004, 06:34
Thank you very much Jek. Your guide gave me a stable base for my current PvM/PvP Javazon. Ofcourse I had to make some alterations to fit my playstyle, but excellent work nonetheless. I personally had no problems with LIs because Jab paired with Titan's and Tiamat's definately gets the job done. Otherwise, the game has been a breeze. I do have to say, I did die, but I can always blame that on lag because lag kills, just like crack. ;) One other great feature about your guide is how it gave you a chance to adjust because you didn't come right out and say "give so and so strength, or so and so dexterity or you shall die a bloody, horrible death." I thought it was a pain that you didn't, but found it to be a benefit in the end. Thanks again!
"mini guide"?
This is like a full fledged guide, nice work.
CronicTKY
08-02-2004, 06:54
"mini guide"?
This is like a full fledged guide, nice work.
I think what he means by it being a mini-guide is:
He doesn't really provide exact skill and stat allocations like most "real" guides, which allows for some flexibility in your build, instead being a follower and recreating someone else's character. You are able to have the opportunity to feel triumph over "your creation."
inkanddagger
08-02-2004, 14:14
lightning will life/mana leech? if not then why mention it?
ventilator
09-02-2004, 14:03
I'd just like to throw in a comment about Thunderstroke. While it might not be the weapon of choice for LF since it lacks replenish quantity, it is awesome for CS e.g. versus act bosses. Diablo and Baal in NM and Hell got 50% LR, the -15% LR from Thunderstroke lowers that to 35% meaning 30% more damage dealt. Mephisto hast got 75% LR in Hell, i.e. 60% with Thunderstroke, meaning 60% more damage dealt! That's a very, very noticeable difference. Don't miss the wonder that is -resistance, just because it doesn't look impressive at first glance.
lightning will life/mana leech? if not then why mention it?
Mana leech will allow you to keep a contenious flow of CS, LS and LF. It's not 100% needed as mana potions can yield a result of somewhat same level, but for max effect mana leech is needed. :)
I'd just like to throw in a comment about Thunderstroke. While it might not be the weapon of choice for LF since it lacks replenish quantity, it is awesome for CS e.g. versus act bosses. Diablo and Baal in NM and Hell got 50% LR, the -15% LR from Thunderstroke lowers that to 35% meaning 30% more damage dealt. Mephisto hast got 75% LR in Hell, i.e. 60% with Thunderstroke, meaning 60% more damage dealt! That's a very, very noticeable difference. Don't miss the wonder that is -resistance, just because it doesn't look impressive at first glance.
Thunderstroke is a mighty weapon, no doubt about it. I've just found for my playstyle it's overkill, and doesn't add the same flexibility as a Titan's, Thunderstroke is far superior if you like 100% melee tho, I just find myself switching between LF, LS and CS all the time. I can't give up on Titan's flexibility just yet, not for damage only.
PS: I might be biased since I'm goofing around with a 2 x Facet Mosers shield. :)
lightning will life/mana leech? if not then why mention it?
The lightning will not leech, but the javelin/spear which is used with the lightning skill will do its ordinary, physical damage as well, which is essential for leeching back the mana you use.
Hi im using pure Lightnign fury build
and currently have enuf dex for Charged Strike
i use charged stirke alot against bosses should i increase my attack rating or something or is this not worth it
i currently have 900 hp
Hi im using pure Lightnign fury build
and currently have enuf dex for Charged Strike
i use charged stirke alot against bosses should i increase my attack rating or something or is this not worth it
i currently have 900 hp
You wont need AR, AR only affect the physical part of the attack, so unless you find youself lacking alot of mana or life leech there's no point.
are there times when lightnign strike can kill quicker than lightning fury, but also faster than charged strike?
and how does lightnign strike compare to sorceress' chain lightning attack?
are there times when lightnign strike can kill quicker than lightning fury, but also faster than charged strike?
and how does lightnign strike compare to sorceress' chain lightning attack?
LS on it's on wont be able to match LF or CS, well probably CS agaisnt large groups, but it's mostly a support skill that when used correctly GREATLY increases killing speed. :)
Vladicus
18-02-2004, 04:35
Methinks for those of us not rich enough to own 2 facet jewels, Thunderstroke is a decent anti-boss weapon, what with the -light res.
It is also easy to find, I found 2 from Hell Meph so far. And that Demon Arch thing with the fire damage and whatnot as well.
hulk2004uk
19-02-2004, 14:47
hi, what helm should i use off ladder?
my chooses are;
Vampire Gaze for leach and DR
Harlequin's Crest for the extra life/mana, +2 skills and DR.
Delirium for crowd control and +2 skills.
thanks
chris
Curious...
How does this build handle things like Black Souls, which are not only LI, but are hella killers from offscreen, where you can't really target your LF's unless you're tossing them willy nilly.
That would be my only concern with this build...other LI's are are more easily dealth with.
-X
Vladicus
22-02-2004, 23:36
I have plenty light res, and a tgods for regular gameplay.
That allows be to run up and either jab or CS with a thunderstroke.
I find Black Souls to dish out way too much damage from afar that by the time I close with them, it's usually the dead zone. Lightning absorb helps a bit, but I think it's capped at a certain level, no?
Was thinking TGod's and a Wisp might be a good solution...
I may go hybrid with my zon, as I know FA does wonders vs Black Souls and their ilk...
-X
I've been using this build for hardcore play recently. I find the fact that they can get by fine using basic javelins incredibly useful for vitality pumping, and I've gambled myself a +5 mana after each kill javelin. Just wanted to add - basic javelins are great for this build, and tir runes/+mana after each kill are incredibly useful.
st-hearts
27-02-2004, 03:56
Black Souls will always be a problem because your biggest source of damage is coming from pure lightning. When I play with my Amazon, I like to cast Valkyrie ahead of me constantly and keep Slow Missiles ready just in case. The CL of the Black Souls can still hit you, but when it takes 3 times as long to reach you, you are given more space to manuever and attack. If you are reluctant to attack them head on, you can keep up a PJ hotkey and simply throw them from a distance, while hopefully maintaining SM's effect.
Of course, you could always have someone else in your party attack them, if you are in a multiplayer game.
~Hearts~
Excellent Thread!
This build is SO much fun and equipment INdependent that you can play untwinked...that is until you meet LI's...and hell is a b!tch.
Has anyone used a wand of lower resist (charges) on weapon switch? Makes killing tough guys much faster. I heard it can also "break" immunities. Does anyone know if it can break an LI's immunity?
When using jab for LI's, do you use the little stick (jav) or big stick (spear/lance)? I'd imagine little stick to keep the shield and resists. How long to kill a quill rat in hell (LOL)?
Do you have AR problems in hell with slvl 1 jab? Do you pump penetrate? dex is already up for blocking...
Cheers
Vladicus
28-02-2004, 02:24
Thunderstroke and a little help from valky and merc.
spballer
11-03-2004, 20:36
I have a lightning zon on uswest (acc ptshizl if u ever want to test it ^^) and it would tear up any light zon built from this ytihs (reverse that word) guide. First off he throws lionheart above enigma, WRONG, you cant go wrong with enigma, it saves u 50+ stat points, if u are truly good then u will have the patience to lvl to 70 without spending any stat points and build your characters stats from there with all ur final gear ( like anni, imps,t gods, enigma, maras shako, all those add str ) i have over 400 points into vit, over 200 dex and my base str is somewhere around 40. If u think ur lightzon from this guide can handle it, then bring it ^^
I have a lightning zon on uswest (acc ptshizl if u ever want to test it ^^) and it would tear up any light zon built from this ytihs (reverse that word) guide. First off he throws lionheart above enigma, WRONG, you cant go wrong with enigma, it saves u 50+ stat points, if u are truly good then u will have the patience to lvl to 70 without spending any stat points and build your characters stats from there with all ur final gear ( like anni, imps,t gods, enigma, maras shako, all those add str ) i have over 400 points into vit, over 200 dex and my base str is somewhere around 40. If u think ur lightzon from this guide can handle it, then bring it ^^
It's because it was written back when ladder was young, which meant no twinking. And if you already has spend the str points Lionheart is better in overall gameplay, for MF running Enigma is better/faster.
This isn't a PvP minded guide.
TheZealot
17-03-2004, 06:39
im always worried that if this build would work in 8ppl hell baal run, cuz i dont think u can dish out any dmg
im always worried that if this build would work in 8ppl hell baal run, cuz i dont think u can dish out any dmg
Charged Strike dish more than enough damage. :)
TheZealot
18-03-2004, 16:12
ive maxed LF and charged strike, now what do i do? is dracus better than soul drainer? although soul drainer has dual leech, but dracus is much more better in terms of mods.
Nice guide. I think I'll start one of these up after my (half) failed Hybrid.
My questions are :
a.) LIghtning Strike would be for small groups of like 3 that Lightning Fury isn't particularly useful, right?
b.) For LIs, would we be advised to use Thunderstroke/Demon's Arch with Tiamot's Rebuke on switch?
shiroamachi
24-03-2004, 06:38
I have a new lightning zon. She's doing great until now ( currently lvl 67 ).
I'm playing ladder hardcore mode, 95 str 100 dex and 200 vit.
20 cs 20 Lf and around 10 LS
I wonder how many point I need in avoid dodge and evade?
thx
Great build!
For cheap eq, I'd like to suggest IK boots with the IK gloves - you get that 25% ias for the gloves and 25% mf for the boots. The stat boost from the gloves pretty much lets you socket your storm with a pdiamond or um instead of a -req jewel.
I wonder how many point I need in avoid dodge and evade?
My current incarnation of this Zon (gotta love the build) is heavy on +skills, so I have only 2 points in d/a/e each. Keep it at a single point if you can. around 50% is enough, just like the original poster said.
How do you kill the Black Souls?
You don't. You can kill them if you want to, but it's usually a lot safer and faster to find another piece of exp down the corridor. Here's how I do it.
For Black Souls etc., just keep on spamming those LFs until their ranks thin a bit (the physical damage of direct hit from a LF is still an autohit). Sure, you'll need to quaff some blues, but after a couple hits, you'll need the blue pots anyway. For some speed, you can give a Blackthorn's (or somesuch) to your merc, and if you have your valk at sl17+ she should survive the gloams' attacks too. Don't forget to use *cough*spam*cough* your Decoy as a lightning rod. Of course, Lres of 50+ in combo with tgods helps a lot here. When the Black souls have suffered some casualties, wade in and jab jab jab. Note that you should be able to run past the Black soul packs in WSK2 in hell (don't waste your time with them, the exp ain't worth it).
Polygemus
29-03-2004, 19:16
For LIs, how about one point into Guided Shot instead of Frozen Arrow?
FA needs to be at high slevel to be effective, while guided seems to need only 1 pt.
Can anyone enlighten me on this? My level 73 javazon just started hell and will encounter LIs soon. Guided Shot (since it always hits) or FA better?
For LIs, how about one point into Guided Shot instead of Frozen Arrow?
FA needs to be at high slevel to be effective, while guided seems to need only 1 pt.
Can anyone enlighten me on this? My level 73 javazon just started hell and will encounter LIs soon. Guided Shot (since it always hits) or FA better?
Well, FA freezes the monsters... I personally prefer FA.
Foo2rama
31-03-2004, 03:00
Ok I am up to level 63 and walking through NM act 5.
I run t-gods belt and Titans revenge. What I need to know is what is the level requirment of an upgraded titans revenge? I assume the 107st and 151dex from the "Matriarchal Javelin" specs apply
I also run plus 2 spear and jav gloves and a plus 1 zon ammy. cs is over 2000 now and I still have @10 more points to max out lightening strike. Fury is at level 30 right now ;-)
TheRavenaaa
01-04-2004, 18:22
What is the best merc for a hardcore javazon? Might, Defiance, or Holy Freeze? Keep in mind I just started so I don't have godly equip
you cant go wrong with enigma, it saves u 50+ stat points, if u are truly good then u will have the patience to lvl to 70
Thats not being good, thats being a leecher. Sure, you can spend no point and go to public Baal run games, sit in a comfortable place, throw a few javalelins to fake your team, and "level" to the 70s. Most other people, however, actually PLAYS the game.
Back on topic, great guide.
Im doing a lightning zone. She is in lvl 70 in hell. I dont want to rush this character, as she is doing pretty well by now. My question is:
I have 20 on both LF and CS. I dont want to raise the LS, couse there is nothing i cannot handle with those 2 skills, except LI, who are inmune to LS also. So im thinking in what to spend the skill points now. I have lvl 17 valkiria (counting the bonuses). should i go to lvl 20 valk?. or going to lvl 20 plague javelin? (can it kill with no sinergies?) . And finally my favourite (but havent tested yet) , would it be good to add lvl 20 strafe (for LI mostly)?
Thats not being good, thats being a leecher. Sure, you can spend no point and go to public Baal run games, sit in a comfortable place, throw a few javalelins to fake your team, and "level" to the 70s. Most other people, however, actually PLAYS the game.
Back on topic, great guide.
Im doing a lightning zone. She is in lvl 70 in hell. I dont want to rush this character, as she is doing pretty well by now. My question is:
I have 20 on both LF and CS. I dont want to raise the LS, couse there is nothing i cannot handle with those 2 skills, except LI, who are inmune to LS also. So im thinking in what to spend the skill points now. I have lvl 17 valkiria (counting the bonuses). should i go to lvl 20 valk?. or going to lvl 20 plague javelin? (can it kill with no sinergies?) . And finally my favourite (but havent tested yet) , would it be good to add lvl 20 strafe (for LI mostly)?
Strafe is a GREAT backup skill if you got the bow/x-bow to support it. Freezing Arrow also does a good job, but it needs more skill points to be really effective. But strafe is good. :)
ventilator
06-04-2004, 01:19
First off he throws lionheart above enigma, WRONG, you cant go wrong with enigma, it saves u 50+ stat points, if u are truly good then u will have the patience to lvl to 70 without spending any stat points and build your characters stats from there with all ur final gear [...]
If you were truly good you
1) wouldn't need to rely on a Runeword armor probably made from duped runes for either PvM or PvP.
2) wouldn't need to hold off spending your statpoints until lvl 70, since you calculated your needed base values based on your final equipment before even starting your char anyway.
3) would see that Lionheart offers 95 statpoints at clevel 41 as opposed to 49 + statpoints at clevel 65 for Enigma, and wouldn't list Harlequin Crest's itty str bonus.
4) wouldn't assume that everyone has access to Mara's Kaleidoskopes', Annihilis, "imps" (whatever that is) and duped rune gear, at least not on Ladder.
5) would've told us what "it" is, that your lightzon can handle and others without enigma can't.
Foo2rama
06-04-2004, 02:34
Thanks for posting this build... It works great! although the Stoeny field while easy is very very annoying...
Does anyone know the stats when you upgrade titans revenge?? also is it worth it when you run a nice maxed resist, max dmg, max armour Stoneraven(+1, I have a +2 but the dmg works out lower,) on the alt?
dave2412
07-04-2004, 20:48
Nice in-depth guide.
However, didn't see you mention Andariel's Visage as a helm choice. The +2 skills, IAS, life leech, and poison res are great. The -fire res should be easily countered (and really isn't that bad, since Zons shouldn't be hit much).
Or, am I missing something?
deadbeater
08-04-2004, 02:56
My zon's highest resistance in hell is negative 45. I am wearing Twitchroe. Yet I can kill Baal solo in less than a minute.
I love this build.
Also, you forget Valkyrie's Wing. Besides the +2 to all levels, it has faster walk and hit recovery, so the zon can practically dodge and throw at the same time.
My zon's highest resistance in hell is negative 45. I am wearing Twitchroe. Yet I can kill Baal solo in less than a minute.
I love this build.
Also, you forget Valkyrie's Wing. Besides the +2 to all levels, it has faster walk and hit recovery, so the zon can practically dodge and throw at the same time.
How?
I mean: My resistance are in the (low) positive zone, and when i solo against baal, i struggle against the gloam *****es quite a lot (probably the only monster that gave me true headache, barring the uberSuperchampions with awful mods like conviction aura + extrastrong charged bolts.) How do you survive them? Maybe light absorb (that i lack)? How do you kill them fast enough so the dont fry you, your merc, and your valk?
Nice in-depth guide.
However, didn't see you mention Andariel's Visage as a helm choice. The +2 skills, IAS, life leech, and poison res are great. The -fire res should be easily countered (and really isn't that bad, since Zons shouldn't be hit much).
Or, am I missing something?
I wrote most of the items in beta, at a time where I was scared to death of the new balrogs fire. But after having played the game more I realize they're not all that tought. Andariels Visage is an excellent helm, if I get the time to update the entire mini-guide I'll surely put it in.
TerrorClown
09-04-2004, 18:51
Nice guide, just one small question is this this build viable in classic and does open wounds and crushing blow works with LF ?
Masticophis
23-04-2004, 07:26
I made the Lightning zon. She's awsome, but there's one problem: LIs. I haven't put anything into Lightning Strike yet because I want to put the rest of my points in a non-lightning attack. I was wondering if u could tell me which skill i should put my points into so i can handle LIs.
My merc handles what little i come across that is light immune. Remeber, you do physical dmg as well as light dmg with LF and CS. Albeit, not much, but like I stated above, my merc handles what I cant.
Masticophis
23-04-2004, 07:27
I didnt read throug all the post, so if it was mentioned.. sorry. I didnt see Highlords ammy in the Jewelry section. IAS and +1 to skills. not a bad ammy.. also has the light res bonus...(35%)
I didnt read throug all the post, so if it was mentioned.. sorry. I didnt see Highlords ammy in the Jewelry section. IAS and +1 to skills. not a bad ammy.. also has the light res bonus...(35%)
I didn't really wrote anything about it since I didn't tested it, and for the IAS cat's eye simply beats it - dex and everything and Mara's beat it skill-vise and resist. The Deadly Strike is nice if you choose to go for a strafe route on switch tho.
Gimpy the magic mexican
30-04-2004, 05:10
sweet guide...but i'm curious as to what unique advantage this character has over a lightning sorc (aside from the passive tree)
How much damage are your attacks doin right now?
sweet guide...but i'm curious as to what unique advantage this character has over a lightning sorc (aside from the passive tree)
How much damage are your attacks doin right now?
CS: 1-6296 x 10
LF: 1-2702
LS: 1-5183
PS: 1-15318
She dishes out more damage faster than the lightning sorc, plus she can with a very small investment also do good physical damage - all you need is a bow and a few points into strafe.
[cK]Extreme
05-05-2004, 09:57
CS: 1-6296 x 10
LF: 1-2702
LS: 1-5183
PS: 1-15318
She dishes out more damage faster than the lightning sorc, plus she can with a very small investment also do good physical damage - all you need is a bow and a few points into strafe.
Don't lie =P. My light sorc does 7-17000 lightning damage, and something like 9000 max chain lightning damage. Of course you have much more survivability and versitility, but you can never outdmg a specialized sorc :uhhuh:
Extreme']Don't lie =P. My light sorc does 7-17000 lightning damage, and something like 9000 max chain lightning damage. Of course you have much more survivability and versitility, but you can never outdmg a specialized sorc :uhhuh:
I think you did not catch it. he dishes out 10x6296 damage. Against "big" monsters (like all act bosses, balrogs, etc) he does hit with ALL the bolts. Thats 62k damage. YEP. 62k. :thumbsup:. And if use a thunderstroke, thats
-15% to resistances. With griphon eye+thunderstroke=bye bye baal.
and agains packs... dunno if you have seen a good javazon with lightning fury... but they OBLITERATE the screen in miliseconds. And most of them DONT do 2.5k with LF. With 1300 or so, you clean the screen faster than any other class (barring the Lightning inmunes, of course). With 2500... WOW.
The adventage of the sorc is teleport and static field. I damage, i bet for javazon.
One question jek: which are your skill levels?
One question jek: which are your skill levels?
I changed some gear, so it's now:
41/41/41/41 I got +21 skills. :)
New damage:
CS: 1-6794 x 11 (avg. damage: 37373!)
LF: 1-2851 (avg. damage: too high to calculate :P)
LS: 1-5659 x 42 (When used correctly: 56600! You can easily place it correct to bounce twenty times -- or until all targets are dead)
PS: 1-18400 (Avg damage: 9200, poo!)
I don't think there's any other char that'll be even close to the damage you can dish out with a pure lightning gal.
SpeedyCheese
10-05-2004, 03:30
jek i was just wondering the equip your using
ur CS is amazing compared to mine, mine is abit over 3k but im aiming to get it to sumwhere around 5k
jek i was just wondering the equip your using
ur CS is amazing compared to mine, mine is abit over 3k but im aiming to get it to sumwhere around 5k
Changed my equipment yet again, managed to squeeze a little more damage out of it. G. Eye instead of Harle.
It used to be:
1 Harlequins
Titans
Mosers with 2 Lightning Facets
Enigma
Mara's
10 Javalin Skillers
1 Annihilus
1 Ravenfrost
1 Verdungo (With this kind of damage, I don't really need the pierce from Razortail, at high level survival is much more important than killing faster IMO)
Sandstorm Trek
Dual Leech Ring
20% Ias, +skills, LL, gloves
lesofprimus
11-05-2004, 08:55
I changed some gear, so it's now:
41/41/41/41 I got +21 skills. :)
New damage:
CS: 1-6794 x 11 (avg. damage: 37373!)
LF: 1-2851 (avg. damage: too high to calculate :P)
LS: 1-5659 x 42 (When used correctly: 56600! You can easily place it correct to bounce twenty times -- or until all targets are dead)
PS: 1-18400 (Avg damage: 9200, poo!)
I don't think there's any other char that'll be even close to the damage you can dish out with a pure lightning gal.
Why are u putting in these multipliers??? X11 and X42....
Im Lost.........
Why are u putting in these multipliers??? X11 and X42....
Im Lost.........
Because Charged Strike releases 11 bolts and Lightning Sentry can bounce 42 times.
Great guide :thumbsup: , convinced me into making a pure lightning zon of my own :D
Because Charged Strike releases 11 bolts and Lightning Sentry can bounce 42 times.
I guess you meant Chain Lightning instead of Lightning Sentry there ;), right? :p
I guess you meant Chain Lightning instead of Lightning Sentry there ;), right? :p
Yeah, Chain Lightning/Lightning Strike. Been playing my trapper too much. ;)
sOaPONaRoPe
13-05-2004, 21:01
Would this be good along with skills you mentioned I mean good equip..
Weapon: Ethereal upgraded titans
Armor: Enigma or CoH
Shield: stormshield
Helmet: Vamp
Boots: Gore
Gloves: Bloodfist..or is that stupid
Belt: Verdungos
Rings: Raven frost and kathos
Amulet: Highlords??
This seems to me good but I'm not sure just checking :lol:
Tha_real_blade
17-05-2004, 14:01
hi m8 the guide looks nice,
i would like however to contribute another piece of headgear,
yes we all pretty much know what im talking about (if u ever played LF-zon in 1.09 while wanting to get some MF)
Stealskull, it's dual leeches, increased attack speed and MF makes it really shine on any melee character, and especially an "Lightning amazon"
just my 2 cents
...blade :howdy:
Would this be good along with skills you mentioned I mean good equip..
Weapon: Ethereal upgraded titans
Armor: Enigma or CoH
Shield: stormshield
Helmet: Vamp
Boots: Gore
Gloves: Bloodfist..or is that stupid
Belt: Verdungos
Rings: Raven frost and kathos
Amulet: Highlords??
This seems to me good but I'm not sure just checking :lol:
The gear looks pretty good, but personally I'd try to gain a high mana leech ring instead of Kathos and then use a Harlequin's Crest instead of Vampire Gaze. Or Stealskull as Blade said, but +skills is awesome. :)
Verdungo's vs. Razortail, since you're using a Stormshield and Vamp/Harle you don't need the PDR it offers, personally I'd go with one of the three:
T-Gods: Survivability.
Razortail: Kill speed.
Goldwrap: Magic Find boost, and some IAS to boot.
Highlords+Gore riders allows for some nice physical damage, perhaps use an Eaglehorn on switch for LIs instead of Titans? The reason is that way you can go with a non-ethereal titans - much easier to manage LFing that way (repair = turbo replenish). Another option if you want to stick with Titan's is getting a CB setup, G. Face helps here, it improves Jab alot.
Enigma vs. Chains of Honor,
for general game-play I'd use Chains of Honor, no doubt about it. And then try to get ~100% Magic Find from charms (if I'm not mistaken the first 1-100 MF counts for alot more than over 100).
Bloodfists is an awesome pair of gloves, I love them, tho be aware that you can get +skills from gloves too, and IAS too. Might find/shop some niiiice +3 Jav+20% IAS gloves to reach a faster BP and gaining lots of damage.
This is just my personal favorite, but having an Eaglehorn on switch really helps alot against LIs, it can sling a lvl 1 Frozen Arrow to freeze Gloams and then strafe away with 95% chance to hit due to "Ignore Defense". Socketing a perfect sapphire will increase freezing time alot too, tho Nef is a very good option too. (Check the strafe IAS tables, I'll add a section about hybrids once I get time to update my miniguide.)
PS: You'll do fine, very fine, with your listed equipment, this was just my ideas on how to try to improve your already fine amazon a tad. :)
Hiya Jek, really nice guide, could u tell me where u put ur skillpoints on the Killer Lady??
I'm not that good at that ;) In ur guide u mentioned Max CS, Max LS, Max LF etc. But where did u put ur other points?
Simply put: Where did u put all ur skillpoints :) and what level are u now?
And a page back u mentioned that the gear in the guide isn't the ideal gear anymore since it was written during the beginning of ladder.
What would you consider the ideal gear ATM?
Question-- what do you do if you run into a LI/PhysI monster?
Great Guide its inspired me to make one for the girlfriend for pvp :thumbsup:
Btw whats socketed in the Harle & Titans i assume a faciet but just to make sure :)
I play NL and was wondering if harle was the best way to go without buying a Circlet.....
Question-- what do you do if you run into a LI/PhysI monster?
I think thats the reason FR/W charms were invented :D
Question-- what do you do if you run into a LI/PhysI monster?
I was thinking maybe Witchwild String combined with Strafe. It has "2% chance of casting level 5 Amplify Damage on striking", and Strafe shoots a lot -> it hits a lot -> we should get that Amp. That should remove the PI after a while and then just keep shooting and let your merc and Valkyrie join the fray.
On a side note, should I put points in Power Strike or would I be better off pumping Valkyrie or Pierce or some such (my current skillpoint plan is 20 in all lightning skills except LBolt, 12 in Valk, 1 in Jab and all passives, and get Strafe)? Is the damage enough even with just 1 point in PS and 20 in LFury, LStrike, and CStrike?
Great Guide its inspired me to make one for the girlfriend for pvp :thumbsup:
Btw whats socketed in the Harle & Titans i assume a faciet but just to make sure :)
In harle you can socket um, topaz, faciet or even a ruby if you like. Whatever thing you think your character needs. However, in titans you cant socket nothing at all.
mstrnicegui
30-05-2004, 15:41
EDIT: I decided I would find the use for LS, even though the times I've used it it seemed useless and I found it. It is godly strong in the areas I was having trouble with. Mainly a pack of 4-9 monsters spread across an area. I just fell in love with LS.
Alright, here's the deal: I made my first zon, a pure lightning zon based on this guide, and I am having difficulty with strategy, I guess. I am a barbarian-lover at heart and played only that class for a long time, so that might be part of my play-style problem coming to the zon. Anyways, here's my current gear:
helm: +2nightwing's OR rare circet w/ +2skills +29str +18 dex 6%ml +83 mana
ammy: rare with low resists to all +2 passive skills 25%mf
weapon: low ed titans non-eth
armor: upgraded vipermagi 35% res all
shield: stormshield
gloves: soul drainers
belt: tgods
boots: goreriders
rings: ravens & rare dual leech dual resist
charms: +life/resist/mana stuff
My problem is that I am too fragile for how quickly I kill (or don't kill). I find that I use CS on 1-3 enemies and LF on everything else. The problem lies in the packs that are 4-9 monsters large. They often can bum-rush me and whoop my *** before I can kill them (even with a valk and merc as distraction), or I have to run/shoot/run/shoot a lot before the pack will fall. If the pack is 10+ large, then I find LF a suitable killer. I figured my gear was suitable enough, though it could be improved upon... Any suggestions on what strategies I can use or is there something seriously wrong with the combo of gear I'm using?
EDIT: I decided I would find the use for LS, even though the times I've used it it seemed useless and I found it. It is godly strong in the areas I was having trouble with. Mainly a pack of 4-9 monsters spread across an area. I just fell in love with LS.
Alright, here's the deal: I made my first zon, a pure lightning zon based on this guide, and I am having difficulty with strategy, I guess. I am a barbarian-lover at heart and played only that class for a long time, so that might be part of my play-style problem coming to the zon. Anyways, here's my current gear:
helm: +2nightwing's OR rare circet w/ +2skills +29str +18 dex 6%ml +83 mana
ammy: rare with low resists to all +2 passive skills 25%mf
weapon: low ed titans non-eth
armor: upgraded vipermagi 35% res all
shield: stormshield
gloves: soul drainers
belt: tgods
boots: goreriders
rings: ravens & rare dual leech dual resist
charms: +life/resist/mana stuff
My problem is that I am too fragile for how quickly I kill (or don't kill). I find that I use CS on 1-3 enemies and LF on everything else. The problem lies in the packs that are 4-9 monsters large. They often can bum-rush me and whoop my *** before I can kill them (even with a valk and merc as distraction), or I have to run/shoot/run/shoot a lot before the pack will fall. If the pack is 10+ large, then I find LF a suitable killer. I figured my gear was suitable enough, though it could be improved upon... Any suggestions on what strategies I can use or is there something seriously wrong with the combo of gear I'm using?
Decoy is awesome against the fast packs, a level 1 Frozen Arrow in a 4 Perfect Sapphire bow goes a long way too. :)
Sorry for not having the time to actively replying to my own thread. I'll have some more time on my hands in a week or so, will probably do a complete update. :)
When are u planning on updating ur guide, maybe with a skillpoint-level thingie ;)
That would help a lot, maybe even the new best gear. I was going to start me a Lightningzon but still haven't started since i am not that good at distributing skill points on my own ;)
Greetz,
DeV
When are u planning on updating ur guide, maybe with a skillpoint-level thingie ;)
That would help a lot, maybe even the new best gear. I was going to start me a Lightningzon but still haven't started since i am not that good at distributing skill points on my own ;)
Greetz,
DeV
That's a good idea, I'll do that! :)
I'll start working on the new version in about 1.5 week or so? Will probably be alot more detailed and in-depth, as will have alot better discussion/info on the variants - Hybrids, Pure Lightning, Jab/Fend version and so on. Will probably also add a small PvP section. :)
Teknocide
08-06-2004, 02:36
What's your two cents on maxing four lightning skills? If you go with a pure jav'er, or a Strong lightning/(very) weak strafe-build? I'm truly in love with lightning skills and thought I'd take it to another level..
I would like to start my pure lightzon, only thing i need to know is what skills u got..Prolly got the lightning skills maxxed, but which other ones u got? In short:
Could u please tell me where u put ur skillpoints?
befkonijn
08-06-2004, 15:11
hi there, gonna try making a javazon here..
i'm planning on doing the following, plzz gimme some advice if it's a sucky idea
thx in advance :thumbsup:
skills: without items!!
spear + java = 65 skill points
CS max
LF max
LS max
Jab 1
prereqs 4
passive = 32 points
10 valk
10 pierce
3 evade
3 dodge
6 prereqs
B & CB = 5 points
1 FA
2 prereqs
1 magic arrow
1 mulitple shot (for killing after freezing arrow) lightning immunes ofcourse
102 skill points = lvl 90 complete (reachable if u play a lot)
equipment: i'm planning on having enough mf, you'll see that :uhhuh:
shako (ptopaz 74mf)
tal armor (ptopaz 112mf)
mara's
titans
bk ring
manhald heal, for mana leech
rhyme shield (25mf)
war travs (49 mf)
chance guards (36mf)
thundergods belt
this will get me to 296 mf and +7 to all skills and +9 to spear+java (12 for LF)
is this a descent idea to built my javazon
grtzz
beffy
What's your two cents on maxing four lightning skills? If you go with a pure jav'er, or a Strong lightning/(very) weak strafe-build? I'm truly in love with lightning skills and thought I'd take it to another level..
On my level 94 lightning gal I got level 1 strafe and level 1 Frozen Arrow, it works wonders.. How ever, with an ethereal titans it's very easy to just jab the LIs.. I personally like the range advantage, Eaglehorn is really the best bow for this IMO - Ignores Targets Defense.
I've maxed, CS, LF, LB, and working on LS (like level 17 or so). She already breezes through Chaos Sanctuary -- maybe I should boost the passives instead or something. :P
befkonijn,
You'd want to swap the T-Gods for Razortail, it saves tons of skill points - I get fine with just one, and let my items boost it (Pierce), I'd only use T-Gods if I were using a more melee based variant, but since you posted 10 points into Pierce, I take it you'd like to use LF. :)
About your rings, personally I'd make them dual leech rares, but that's just me.. You also might want to get strafe, and use an Ignore Targets Defense bow on the switch, or, a 4-6 Perfect Sapphire socketed bow - it really boosts your freeze time with FA.
NL-DeV,
my current project is going to be:
1 into all passives (I plan to gain around +8-11, and I'm starting to think Valk is overrated...)
1 FA + Strafe
max: CS, LF, LB (I've grown to like this skill, don't know why, LS is probably better but...), and then work on LS/PS.
I'll use for MF and PvP I think. :)
Seeing as u seem to have like 10 different Lightning Zons, maybe u should post something like The Big Lightning Zon Book by Jek ;) Explaining every different Lightning build (seems u've made all possible;)), and giving good and bad sides on everyone of em ;)
Yet, i was looking for the skillpoints on your strongest build of em all :)
Maybe some gear too...
Thnx in advance,
DeV
befkonijn
09-06-2004, 11:30
[QUOTE=Jek]
befkonijn,
You'd want to swap the T-Gods for Razortail, it saves tons of skill points - I get fine with just one, and let my items boost it (Pierce), I'd only use T-Gods if I were using a more melee based variant, but since you posted 10 points into Pierce, I take it you'd like to use LF. :)
i have razortails, so i should only put one point in pierce, makes it 8 (with + skills) and then razortail..will that be sufficient? i will adjust my build then, so i can put more points in strafe...
grtz
[QUOTE=Jek]
i have razortails, so i should only put one point in pierce, makes it 8 (with + skills) and then razortail..will that be sufficient? i will adjust my build then, so i can put more points in strafe...
grtz
I get by easily with +skills and Razortail. :)
Strafe, well, it's a nice skill and all, but often times a single point is enough - play around and see what you like (just make sure you don't drop all the points at one - you might find that lower can do --> Better light damage/defensive/passive).
You can manage with a single point in pierce, but IF you're gaming towards lvls 95+, you'll be doing countless hell baal runs. TG ia a must then (of course, if you're one of those SC wimps, dying doesn't matter as much).
LS is great when cleaning river of flame, and when baal gets appendage crazy. Moreover, it's a synergy for your boss killin skill, CB. If you leave d/a/e for +skills, you'll be able to put some extra points in strafe, and, if you like, put the odd points to dodges at lvls 91+.
For levels 91+, you might want to put wizzy (for its fastcast) to your 2nd weapon slot for straight teleing to throne (WSK 2 & 3 are good for MF, but you'll gain very little XP for monsters there).
Any suggestions for (non-runeword) merc gear? My (HF) merc uses my 'standard' merc setup [ladder HC, mind U]: bonehew, gaze and gladiator's bane. He'll tank anything I can't touch (PI LI bosses and such) and just won't die.
TheReturnOfSuppasonic
12-06-2004, 04:44
As i cant remember the name of it, and diabloii has horrid info on throwing weapons, IIRC the new .10 javelins that arent amazon only have a high damage. I dont remember there name, but are they better than titans?
Teknocide
12-06-2004, 12:13
Most new javelins suffer from the fact that they don't have + to skills. That being said, I believe that Demon's Arch can be a good jabber-weapon against PI's, with its high elemental damage..
Most new javelins suffer from the fact that they don't have + to skills. That being said, I believe that Demon's Arch can be a good jabber-weapon against PI's, with its high elemental damage..
PIs? Show them some Charged Strike loving. ;)
Ok, I guess you meant PI+LIs, I usually just Freeze them with FA, and then let my decreping merc break their PI and then jab them to death with an upgraded Titans.
If decrep doesn't break it, I just run. But I guess a Demon Arch would be wonderful, if you really have to kill all monsters. :)
Still don't know what the skill/stat distribution on your BEST of the best lightning zon is ;)
Would really appreciate it if u could tell me, u can also add me on MSN Messenger if u want, u can ask the adress in a PM, it's kinda long :)
Still don't know what the skill/stat distribution on your BEST of the best lightning zon is ;)
Would really appreciate it if u could tell me, u can also add me on MSN Messenger if u want, u can ask the adress in a PM, it's kinda long :)
Well, I'm not sure if there's a "best" set up, but the one I enjoy the most is:
20 CS
20 LF
1 Strafe
1 Frozen Arrow
1 in all passives
rest in synergies - LB or LS your choice, LS is most viable.
Correct me if I'm wrong cuz i'm kind of a Amazon noob, but:
1. U're using CS and LF to kill all the non-LI's, and u use the strafe/frozen arrow to freeze ur monsters for an easy kill?
2. Then what do u use against LI's?
3. And is this a good build for quick cowkilling ?(that's what i'm going to use it for i think, cows, some other mf areas and maybe skillercubing)
4. One more question and then i'll stop bugging u, what does ur build of this zon wear? So i know what to aim for ;)
st-hearts
14-06-2004, 21:53
Correct me if I'm wrong cuz i'm kind of a Amazon noob, but:
1. U're using CS and LF to kill all the non-LI's, and u use the strafe/frozen arrow to freeze ur monsters for an easy kill?
2. Then what do u use against LI's?
3. And is this a good build for quick cowkilling ?(that's what i'm going to use it for i think, cows, some other mf areas and maybe skillercubing)
4. One more question and then i'll stop bugging u, what does ur build of this zon wear? So i know what to aim for ;)
I think he answered #2.
Ok, I guess you meant PI+LIs, I usually just Freeze them with FA, and then let my decreping merc break their PI and then jab them to death with an upgraded Titans.
This is an excellent build for cow-killing, as it was in 1.09.
~Hearts~
Since i'm kind of a noob @ amazons i would love to get some further details about some builds. Some of the terms just dont make sense to me. Could someone who has experience with making good lightning zons add me on MSN Messenger so we can discuss stuff? Would really appreciate it ;)
sjteef_de_zwaar_verliefde_en_gestoorde_punk_freak_ 86@hotmail.com ;)
Correct me if I'm wrong cuz i'm kind of a Amazon noob, but:
1. U're using CS and LF to kill all the non-LI's, and u use the strafe/frozen arrow to freeze ur monsters for an easy kill?
2. Then what do u use against LI's?
3. And is this a good build for quick cowkilling ?(that's what i'm going to use it for i think, cows, some other mf areas and maybe skillercubing)
4. One more question and then i'll stop bugging u, what does ur build of this zon wear? So i know what to aim for ;)
#1: Correct. FA is used for stopping the monsters, and once you get a good bow it's mostly just there for stopping the super hard boss packs.
#2: Against LIs, Jab/Strafe. Jab is there for easy LIs, IE. the ghosts in chaos sanctuary, and range is there for more dangerous encounters. Frozen Arrow just helps overall survivability.
#3: Yes, it's very strong for killing cows.
#4: Titans Revenge + Razortail, and an ignore targets defense or "Goldstrike" bow.
1. Thnx for answering but i still don't know what armor, helm, shield, gloves, rings and boots u where ;) If u could answer that, i could stop bugging u for a while cuz then i know all i wanted to know ;)
Well, I'm not sure if there's a "best" set up, but the one I enjoy the most is:
20 CS
20 LF
1 Strafe
1 Frozen Arrow
1 in all passives
rest in synergies - LB or LS your choice, LS is most viable.
2. I was going for 20 CS, 20 LF, 1 Strafe, 1 Frozen Arrow (which do u mean? Cold, Freezing or Ice?), 20 LS and 1 in all passives, and 1 in all prereqs...Yet where the f*** is Strafe and what is +1 in all passives good for?
(might sound noobish but i am..)
3. How much points should i put in Strafe?
4. Maybe this would be a handy tool for you all..
http://www.d2skills.com/
Here u can put skillpoints into skills without screwing up characters etc.
Might come in handy ;)
5. I would really appreciate it if u could answer me those 3 questions...
Thanx in advance :thumbsup: ,
DeV
PatMaGroin
17-06-2004, 00:06
Question:
I want to be difficult and put no points into bow skills and not use a bow so I can call myself a pure JavaZon. What do you recommend for LI's? So far I have LF, CS and LS maxed, with 1 pt a piece in passive/magic. I've got around 45-50% chance in the dodges, and 60ish in pierce. Would you say put some points in Jab and use a Demon Arch for those pesky LI's, or what?
I play Non Ladder by the way/
Archetype
17-06-2004, 14:30
First of all, magnificent guide, truly awesome. One of the best guides Ive read to date. Everything is covered and there is also a lot of flexibility to the build. Im truly happy with my current lightning zon, it really is a great build to play.
Your in the same boat as me Pat ^^
Im a pure Lightning Javazon (got Eth Titans + SS with High Non eth Titans + Mosers on switch - no bow watsoever) and Im finding it ok in hell mode as of yet. Im also a non ladder player, which means no Griffins or Tstroke :S
My current skill distribution is as follows. (skills w/ +from items)
LF: 20 (38)
LS: 20 (38)
CS: 20 (38)
PS: 6 (24)
D/A/E: 1 each (5)
Jab: 1 (19)
and prerequisites
My zon is currently lvl 75 and doing great.
What do I do for LI's? Jab em to death. In hell 8 player games, especially in acts 3-5, I really cant do a thing, cept stand back and watch others kill them. Mind you, there arent that many Lightning immunes at that point of the game, fiends here and there but thats about it. At least thats according to what Ive encountered so far. I was thinking of putting points into a bow skill but have decided not to, as this is a true lightning zon. Demons arch + Tiamats sounds like a very viable option, I might have to invest on them to try it out for myself.
Question!
How do you see this javazon as a pit runner? There arent too many lightning immunes in act1 hell (other than the rogues which are easily defeated with a couple of jabs) and anything that isnt lightning immune is made mince meat with LF + CS. Ive seen the strafe pitrunner guide and am eager to try out a javapitrunner once I get the items needed. Sacrificing killing speed for mf isnt my style but I'll do it for fun. (Btw, if youve talked about this before, just lead me in that direction ^^)
Once again, great guide!
Jek, where are u man, need answers to my questions;)
mstrnicegui
25-06-2004, 08:57
Archetype:
1. LI's should mostly be handled by your merc and valk. To help with the killing, you attack with something like a demon's arch, or something with high physical dmg, and tiamat's rebuke shield (with a nice bonus to elemental dmg).
2. My javazon which is not set up for heavy mf makes for a great killer in the pits. So, I figure a few switches to gear and charms to add in some mf will not hurt killing speed too much.
NL-DeV:
1. Frozen arrow I'm sure meant cold arrow, but I have yet to make a cold bowzon, so that's up for discussion.
2. Strafe is a Bow skill you use on backup for LI's if you don't go pure java. It's the 3rd skill in the middle row below multishot. Every passive skill has a use. the left row has the valk which is invaluable. The middle row makes it so you get hit less when standing still, running, walking and attacking, which is very nice. The right row makes it so you can hit more things per attack and miss less often, which is also nice.
3. One point in strafe is plenty as the dmg increase is not a huge amount from the skill and it's only purpose is backup.
Well thankyou MstrNiceGui ;)
Don't feel much for a bow on switch though...Ill try making my own variation..
PetoriaX
28-06-2004, 19:33
I do say Nice mini guide. This seems like a good char to start when the ladder restets. I think im going to try an all lightning one. One question is this a good build for Mf in level 85 areas. Ill need to find items to get the equipment ill need. Even though theres LI jab will take care of them pretty quickly.
I do say Nice mini guide. This seems like a good char to start when the ladder restets. I think im going to try an all lightning one. One question is this a good build for Mf in level 85 areas. Ill need to find items to get the equipment ill need. Even though theres LI jab will take care of them pretty quickly.
With a pure-lightning amazon, I'm pretty sure you'll need a good damage javelin to punish those foul LIs, but it's certainly viable - I've done it.
Remember, when ladder is young - before you gain your Titans/Thunderstrokes it's pretty vital that your attacks MATTER, as you wont leech alot, so shop those +3 jav gloves. :)
It's also important to remember that by using 3 points you get a skill that can halt most of the LI monsters you'll encounter, Frozen Arrow in a 4-6 socket bow filled with Perfect Sapphires really makes jabbing alot easier.
Also, a pure lightning zon is really brutal against Pindle/Shenk/Eldrich in A5. :)
PetoriaX
30-06-2004, 02:55
Alright.. Thx for the tips Jek.
heilskov
02-07-2004, 13:23
Pure lightning power build: Done at lvl 99 (110 skill points used)
1 jab pre-quest
----20 Ps
----20 CS
----20 Ls
----17 Lb
----20 LF
1 in valk (lvl 7 valk after +skills)
1 in peirce (96% peirce with items and +skills)
ideal items:
Griffon's Eye perf, with a p. lightning facet (-25%/+20%)
Engima
Soj + raven pef.
4 socket monarch with 4 x p. lightning facets (-20% /+20%)
razortail
+3 java skills amu/all res
+3 java skills gloves/isa
Wts
titans perf. upg. (I prefer to have them repairable)
10x java skillers.
tested for what this would do dmg wise on Skill Planner: v1.10, at http://www.d2skills.com/ and by adding the lightning facets ed %s.
+java skills = 4+3+3+10 = 20
+all skills = 1+2+1+2(amazon) = 6
total to jav= 26, total to passives = 6
peirce at lvl 7(1 skill point put into it) with 33% extra from razortail = 96% chance to peirce.
now the dmg of skills:
LF = 1-3292
CS = 8-8787 x 12
LS = 7-7339 x 47
PS = 8-24,412
with the +40% skills ed thats:
LF = 1 - 4609
CS = 11 - 12,302 x 12 avg. on boss of 73,878 pr hit (you have-45% MLR)
LS = 10 - 10,275 x 47
PS = 11 - 34,177
-------------------------
this would be godly, I´d love to try something like this out... :D
this is how Im gonna make my first ladder char in season 2 I think. :))
forgot to use a ani in calcs :) Im guessing that some 5% all res scs/20 life would be highly appreciated for this setup though.
That sounds very nice, but what are the odds of finding perfect griffons, 5 facets etc ;)
Finally traded me them perf griffons..Only to find out that the ladder would be reset...damnit..
With a pure-lightning amazon, I'm pretty sure you'll need a good damage javelin to punish those foul LIs, but it's certainly viable - I've done it.
Remember, when ladder is young - before you gain your Titans/Thunderstrokes it's pretty vital that your attacks MATTER, as you wont leech alot, so shop those +3 jav gloves. :)
It's also important to remember that by using 3 points you get a skill that can halt most of the LI monsters you'll encounter, Frozen Arrow in a 4-6 socket bow filled with Perfect Sapphires really makes jabbing alot easier.
Also, a pure lightning zon is really brutal against Pindle/Shenk/Eldrich in A5. :)
I want to make this type of Amazon my first ladder character once the ladder resets. My solution for LI's will be the freezing arrow/jab attack and wonder if you know how long freeze time a perfect sapphire adds in a bow. (probably be a while before i get a ravenfrost which also adds nice freeze time). I want Looong freeze time cause LI's scare me!
Panzer_Erwin
05-07-2004, 14:20
Pure lightning power build: Done at lvl 99 (110 skill points used)
1 jab pre-quest
----20 Ps
----20 CS
----20 Ls
----17 Lb
----20 LF
1 in valk (lvl 7 valk after +skills)
1 in peirce (96% peirce with items and +skills)
ideal items:
Griffon's Eye perf, with a p. lightning facet (-25%/+20%)
Engima
Soj + raven pef.
4 socket monarch with 4 x p. lightning facets (-20% /+20%)
razortail
+3 java skills amu/all res
+3 java skills gloves/isa
Wts
titans perf. upg. (I prefer to have them repairable)
10x java skillers.
tested for what this would do dmg wise on Skill Planner: v1.10, at http://www.d2skills.com/ and by adding the lightning facets ed %s.
+java skills = 4+3+3+10 = 20
+all skills = 1+2+1+2(amazon) = 6
total to jav= 26, total to passives = 6
peirce at lvl 7(1 skill point put into it) with 33% extra from razortail = 96% chance to peirce.
now the dmg of skills:
LF = 1-3292
CS = 8-8787 x 12
LS = 7-7339 x 47
PS = 8-24,412
with the +40% skills ed thats:
LF = 1 - 4609
CS = 11 - 12,302 x 12 avg. on boss of 73,878 pr hit (you have-45% MLR)
LS = 10 - 10,275 x 47
PS = 11 - 34,177
-------------------------
this would be godly, I´d love to try something like this out... :D
this is how Im gonna make my first ladder char in season 2 I think. :))
forgot to use a ani in calcs :) Im guessing that some 5% all res scs/20 life would be highly appreciated for this setup though.
I suggested putting the skill points from valkyrie tree to synergy or passive, what is the point of 1 skill valkyrie? Even with + skills the tanking effect is a pitty. And you will be grouping cows more effective when you re on you own
For dealing with LIs most people here have mentioned jab with upgraded titans and such. For the ladder reset though I don't really plan on having decent javelins unless I get very lucky. I'm not sure whether or not to put points into the bow skill tree since I'm not sure if I'll find a good enough bow to actually do damage in hell. Should I just leave the LIs to others/merc and valk or is FA function decently without a good bow?
The guide is nicely done but, I think you are forgetting one really nice skill plague javelin. When it comes down to it if you find LI monsters I think that a maxed out plague jav + few charms work nicely even in hell. I tried that out.
Fend versus jab, I know that a zon should never put herself in a position where she has to use melee, but to be honest 3 weak strikes agaist one powerful one agaist any opponent around you, well I prefer the latter even because since almost everybody use titans I'll ask you to make few calculations.
My aim with my javazon is 20fend, 20LF, 20PJ alla the oter spend in passive none in spears.
My equip at the moment at lvl 65 is:
rockstopper;
duriel shell;
Infernostride;
titans;
lidless wall;
amulet I got several as per rings.
I can solo the first 2 asct in hell without any problem, yes may be a bit of going back and forth frow town. But its ok. But I can kill everythin in nightmare.
so far my skill are 20LF, 10, 1 Valk, 4Fend, 4pierce the other concentrated in passive skills. My sorrow I wasted a point in a spear skill (I think they should put a confirm button there so you can check everything is ok before you go off)
Cassius :thumbsup:
mstrnicegui
08-07-2004, 14:01
Mentioned in the first post in this thread is that a poison/lightning zon build would not be covered as there is a build for it stickied. This thread was meant for pure lightning.
Sorry didn't read all of it.
Again Soz
Cassius :innocent:
Zantetsuken
14-07-2004, 02:56
Just a question to those experienced javazons :P
when you run in and CS monsters, do you get hit often? If so, is FHR important? Because the Stone runeword looks really appealing (60% FHR, Stats, High Def, res...etc)
thanks
~Zan
mstrnicegui
14-07-2004, 12:42
If you make use of your passive tree, you won't often get hit. Instead you'll dodge and be sent into the dodge animation which looks like it's the same thing as the hit recovery animation. I can't recall atm whether it is affected by wearing fhr gear how fast you recover from your dodges, but I wouldn't be surprised if it does.
Discobird
14-07-2004, 13:13
D/A/E animations are fixed at 8 frames. FHR doesn't help, unfortunately.
Zantetsuken
15-07-2004, 22:52
ohhh i see, thanks
so FHR only applies to actually taking damage and recovering from them? (after block and D/A/E?)
thanks a lot
~Zan
jek would a pure lightning javazon be good in 8 player hell cow runs???
mstrnicegui
17-07-2004, 13:46
in a word, absolutely.
My lightning zon dominates hell cows quicker than any other character I've tried, even my cheese enigma 10k hammerdin.
U have to love this guide, my first char after the reset. No need for uber stuff to kill fast !
:worship:
Black_Hunter
19-07-2004, 20:49
I have a question :
If i have 0 AR and im using Charged Strike or Lighting Strike, will i get the benefits of my weapon mods ? ( will i get mana after each kill ? Will Prevent monster heal work ? Open Wound ? )
jmoney21
19-07-2004, 21:33
How bout guided arrow for the LI's? Don't have to worry about AR and don't have to worry too much about aiming. A nice dmg bow (esp against undead for gloams) using GA you should be all set.
how come the perfect set up for this build says aldurs boots ???
i dunt c anything good in the boots
Yeah, aren't there some better choices for the boots and gloves?
For boots: Gore Riders, War Travs, Sandstorms maybe?
Gloves: SteelRends, Draculs Grasp, nice rare/crafted gloves with +2 (or 3, if that's possible) to Jav tree
Chaplain
29-07-2004, 08:48
Should I put points into Power Strike to boost the other lightning skills or spend those points on the Passive and Magic skill tree? Cuz otherwise all the skills there will have 1 point except Valk. What do you suggest?
how come the perfect set up for this build says aldurs boots ???
i dunt c anything good in the boots
40% faster run/walk. Useful when herding cows. Just useful in general. Having said that, Aldur's are not what my lf zon wears. (War Travs are. I do have an additional 10% r/w from charms though, for herding purposes.)
Vladicus
29-07-2004, 16:33
how come the perfect set up for this build says aldurs boots ???
i dunt c anything good in the boots
Oh, you dont 'c'? YOU DON'T GODDAMN SEE?
WELL, I 'Q', MUDDA****A! I 'Q'!
Vladicus
30-07-2004, 05:42
It's a man, baby!
I've read through all the comments and the original posts and would like to cover a point that was only mentioned in passing very briefly by the guide author as well as detail my incarnation of this build.
Everyone who questions the guide comes back to the "What to do if LI?" and I'd like to explore it a bit.
What to do if LI?
LI isn't really a danger to your character. Between Merc, Valk and Jab, LI monsters simply slow you down a bit, they don't stop you. With a good mix of charms, a well equipped merc and a valk with a war pike (slvl17), even boss packs of black souls get dominated very quickly.
I'm not rich on ladder (I play hardcore ladder and die to often to ever get rich!) but I do have some good equipment and a strategy that lets a pure lightning zon dominate throughout the game.
My build is very much like Jek's.
Max LF
Max CS
Max LB (I made a mistake, pumped this synergy instead of LS)
The key difference in our builds comes from equipment.
He's focused his gear on maximising the lightning damage. Griffons Eye. Facets etc. I've gone totally the opposite and ensured my gear balances out the problems a single element build has.
The most useful mod I can suggest you get, is CRUSHING BLOW.
It constantly amazes me how many people over look this wonderful ability. Upgrade a pair of Goblin Toes, stick on some blood crafted gloves and you are at 35% CB. That means, that 1 in every 3 attacks (that is. once EVERY TIME YOU JAB) a monster loses up to 1/6th of its hitpoints instantly.
If you think you can kill Diablo quickly with your wonderful Charged Strike attack, I suggest you give it a go with some reasonable CB gear on. I've never had to hit Diablo more than 15 times in full hell games to kill him. Baal usually takes me 12-30 CS attacks to kill (depending on CB), in 8 player hell games.
Another thing, other than CB that can really make a difference, is your ability to deal with PI&LI monsters. I played around with a few ideas, including the p.sapph bow idea Jek uses but then found the ultimate toy for dealing with this. The Lacerator. 33% chance to cast AMP on strike. A throwing axe. Great damage.
The addition of the Lacerator on weapon switch has removed the only remaining problem for my character, which was PI&LI monsters I wasn't brave enough to tank. Now, a 400 damage weapon, ranged, that can remove their PI? Lovely. And I *still* get to keep my shield on, to add 900 damage to the attack? And keep all my res? Where do I sign up?!?!?!
I'll summarise my gear too, so you can all have a laugh and doubt my claims, I'm used to it, I get laughed at all the time by MH users who check me out. Of course, they stop laughing after I tank and toast their hell ancients. Or hell baal. Or hell diablo. Without ever changing gear.
Tals Mask
(15res/7dex jewel)
[Please note : This *will* be replaced by a Griffon once one is acquired!]
Rare Ammy
(+1zon, ml, allres, tele)
Rings
(Raven)
(Rare, AR, Poison Dam, 8%ll, stat, allres)
Boots
(Upped Goblin Toes)
Belt
(T-Godz - no choice, light absorb essential safety feature for hell baal runs)
Gloves
(Crafted - 20ias/3%ll/8%Cb/str/30+light/fire res)
Armor
(Upped Twitchy)
Weapon1 Set
(Upped Titans)
(Tiamats Shield w/ P.Diamond)
Weapon2 Set
(Eth Lacerators)
(Tiamats Shield w/ P.Diamond)
If you can lay hold of a Lacerator, give it a try on an existing Lightning Gal and you will be amazed. If you are running a Lightning Gal *without* CB, time to see the light, give it a try, be totally blown away!
Comments, suggestions, questions welcome.
I love CB too, my latest girl uses jab with a dual shaeled (+ Eth) upgraded Hone Sudan, it rocks. :D
The idea of using Lacerator is unique, powerful and viable it sounds - I can't wait to try it out. Good job!
alternatively you could equip your merc with reaper's toll and decrepify everything in the area, thus removing any annoying PI enhancements...
mstrnicegui
07-08-2004, 06:26
reaper's toll is a godsend for mercs. I second that suggestion.
Hey all.
I might not post here for the next couple of weeks, my computer died on me. :(
Keep the thread at the top! ;)
/ Jek
Was just wondering if there's a way to counteract my low AR, since I find that I'm not leeching effectively (life and mana). I realize that I don't need AR for any of my attacks, but the physical part that actually leeches still requires enough AR to hit. This is the only problem I have been having with this build, other than that, I'm loving it ^-^ :thumbsup:
pryzmatik2
19-08-2004, 20:40
hey, i tryed this guide and so far its working great. i just have a few questions on some of my zon's gear.
1. you mentioned somewhere about an "eth up'ed titans". right now i have a perf eth titans (practically traded all my stuff for it), but how do you "up" an item? ive seen this term everywhere, i even have up'ed items, but i dont know how to do it. if someone could help me out with this thatd be great.
2. im using a scarab husk lionheart, but i also have access to a 160/60ias archon plate... the stats and all are really nice, but could the 160/60 work good too?
3. i have a socketed stormshield, what do i put in it? 5/5 lightning facet... 40/15ias... i have enough strength from other items to use it so -15%requirments jewel isnt in mind.
if anyone of you people out there could help me with this that'd be great.
:worship: -pryz
pryzmatik2: Don't know how to answer the last two questions, but up means to upgraded it to an elite Titan's Revenge using the ladder cube recipe, Lum, Pul and Perfect Emerald.
I have an eth 200% ED Titan revenge and was wondering if its 100% worth upgarding? Are the reqs gonna be worse?
mstrnicegui
20-08-2004, 03:23
pryzmatik2:
2. 160/60ias armor can be nice, but it is much better to wear on a character whose dmg focuses more on higher physical dmg. Overall, it would be nice, but I believe the lionheart is better. Also, there are better ways to deal with lightning immunes.
3. I would put the 5/5 light facet in there. Just a 5% reduce to lightning resist makes a nice difference in lightning dmg.
Gog:
The str/dex reqs will jump to 107/151. If you have an eth pair, the str req drops 10%. I'm not sure if dex drops also, but I think I tested it and it doesn't.
pryzmatik2
20-08-2004, 03:49
pryzmatik2: Don't know how to answer the last two questions, but up means to upgraded it to an elite Titan's Revenge using the ladder cube recipe, Lum, Pul and Perfect Emerald.
so i would only be able to upgrade it in ladder? :| (i dont play ladder see'ing as all my stuff is in NL)
mstrnicegui
20-08-2004, 04:26
only works on ladder, yes. all the exceptional to elite recipes are ladder-only.
I tried this build, took me about 29hrs to get to lvl 85. Although its very strong character, its very limited when it gets to hell mode. As a pure Lightning Javazon I had a hard time in Act3 when it seems like almost all I encountered were LIs. The solution provided here againts LI are inadequate and very poor specially in the flayer jungle and Bazaars when coordinated attacks from 4-8 LIs. The upside however, killing pindle, shenk and others were easy as long as they dont have lightning immunity. Overall I would say this is 5 with 10 being the highest.
mstrnicegui
24-09-2004, 20:46
get a wand with charges of lower resist on switch. You won't have problems from 95% of LI.
Actually a few minutes later I found an EagleHorn Bow so thats what I've been using and solve all my problem. Now this guy is a full time MF and has been giving so much good stuff I'm glad I created it. I also found a Herald of Zakarum which is a perfect time since I'm about to start a paladin (DClone Hunter). Now I rate this guy 8 out 10. 10 Being the highest.
Forgot to mention, could you tell me more about this wand that lower the resist?
befkonijn
08-10-2004, 00:09
hi jek and rest of yall
just came here to tell u, i followed ur guide, and loved it very much, made java ended up with this dmg:
charged strike 6127
lightning fury 3114 dmg !!! skill level 49^^
still have screenshot of that dmg!! well deletet here in the meantime, but hey loved playing here, she ended @ lvl 87
thx for guide and gl with diablo
grtz
icewolfreborn
14-10-2004, 23:21
Alright, I got a fewa questions about doing a Lightning Zon.
First of all, do the Avoid, Evade, and Dodge skills stack? Like, if you have 40% chance to dodge melee attacks on the Dodge skill and you have 40% chance to evade melee and missle attacks on the Evade skill, would the 40's add in together and get 80% chance to dodge melee attacks?
Next thing. So basically, Fend and Impale are worthless to get cause you can get Fend locked and miss all your attacks. It seems that Jab is all you would need to take down the Lightning immunes from what I can see, as long as you have a decent weapon that will deal physical damage nicely. So for the physical attacks, just go 1 into Jab right?
Now about Critical Strike. Does the Critical Strike work with the lightning damage you'll be dealing or does it only work on the physical damage you deal? I can see it not working when you do Charge Strike with the bolts. I just don't quite understand how Critical Strike works. Fill me in here!
Leaching - leaching will work with the lightning skills right? Like if I were to do Charge Strike, it would leach from the physical damage being dealt and not the lightning damage.
I think that's all I have for now. Thanks for the help. This site has been really helpful so far.
songmage1
18-10-2004, 16:11
I had a perfect javazon setup only to get killed quickly in pvp by someone who had a black hades with 3 ias jewels in it and not much else that was appealing......
solution:
*I upgraded a twitchthroe to wire fleece (super javazon mods on it :D)
*took off stormshield in favor of a 4 os monarch with 4x -5 res facets (enhanced damage doesn't matter much since you will be dealing enough anyways)
*I put on some rare boots with 30%r/w 22%light resist/31%poison resist/10%fhr
*put on cat's eye mostly for r/w and ias
*got 2 helms on switch depending on who i'm going against pvp. Griffon's and kiras with 15% ias jewel (doesn't have to be perfect).
*gloves I have 20% ias and +2 to passive skills, also 11% light resists
*since kira's has cbf, I could switch both of my rings to bk (% doesnt matter)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have 75% block even with the 4 os monarch because of the enhanced block from twitchthroe
this character kills any javazon I have come across with the exception of 1 because I have not seen her since I have upgraded my selection.... the undeniably skilled Shoto_Matrony
stratocasterfury
18-10-2004, 22:55
Please rate my javazon setup below. Thanks. (Scale 1-10 is ok). Any suggestions will be considered alot. It'll be PvM with some dealings in PvP. :yep:
Strength: 125
Dexterity: 109(+ for block)
Vitality: (rest)
Energy: 15
-o-
Helm – Vampire Gaze
Amulet – The Cat’s Eye
Weapon – Titan’s Revenge and Arioc’s Needle
Shield - Stormshield
Armor – Lionheart
Ring – Raven Frost [x2]
Belt – Razortail
Gloves – Laying of Hands
Boots – Aldur’s Advance
-o-
10 – Prerequisites
20 – Charged Strike
20 – Lightning Strike
17 – Valkyrie
20 – Lightning Fury
1 – Dodge
1 – Evade
1 – Avoid
1(+) – Pierce
Clvl80
-o-
Sockets:
Stormshield – Hel
Vampire Gaze – Rainbow Facet (Meteor) / Um
Arioc’s Needle – Hel
littlenec
20-10-2004, 21:23
playing on ladder and wanted to ask what is best weapon/shield for switch to use against immunes.....I guess jab them to death.
I guess what really got me confused was this statement in the guide
Tiamat's Rebuke: This shield is awesome if you decide to go Javelin/Shield as you're weapon against LIs, great switch shield!
jav/shield against LIs / not sure what else there is.
I want something for LIs but don't know what I should be looking for.
some have said cs is the fastest dclone killer there is....true ?
thanks for help
little
playing on ladder and wanted to ask what is best weapon/shield for switch to use against immunes.....I guess jab them to death.
I guess what really got me confused was this statement in the guide
Tiamat's Rebuke: This shield is awesome if you decide to go Javelin/Shield as you're weapon against LIs, great switch shield!
jav/shield against LIs / not sure what else there is.
I want something for LIs but don't know what I should be looking for.
some have said cs is the fastest dclone killer there is....true ?
thanks for help
little
There's multiple other ways to go than Jav/Shield against LIs.
Bow: Level 1 Frozen Arrow to freeze them, then either:
a) Level 1 Strafe
b) Switch back to jav and jab
c) Keep them frozen and let your merc and valk have a ball..
Spears:
Can be quite nasty with high damage and jab, be careful however, as a sudden champion assault can end your life... Fast. :(
@Stratocaster,
+3 Javelin Gloves would be an improvement in my eyes, the added damage really is worth it, Valk doesn't need to be that high, you only need level 17 with plus skills.
For general usefulness in PvM I'd get a bow with 5 Perfect Sapphires and level 1 Frozen Arrow to freeze baddies solid (instead of needle on switch). And I'd probably use a resist ring instead of one Ravenfrost.
PS: All, I don't have much time for Diablo, so I might reply slowly, but please bear with me - I got dragged into MUD coding by some friends, it's addicting. :)
littlenec
22-10-2004, 17:09
thanks big time for the help
I just traded for a Demon's Arch.
found some gloves that are +2 jav skills I need to go see what else they
have on them.
Have a 200ed 8ll titans....not etheral though
found a +4 199 thunderstrokes and a 191 as well, trade maybe
Storm, mosers shields
but not lionheart or coh(don't have the runes for this one)
viper for +1 skills and resist or lionheart
+20% Enhanced Damage
Requirements -15%
+25 To Strength
+10 To Energy
+20 To Vitality
+15 To Dexterity
+50 To Life
All Resistances +30
seems that the 20% damage would be nice
wish it wasn't level 41
I got to hurry and find the rest he's level 10 now :)
Jek is that rom style mud? please don't talk about it. I was a carrion player years ago but don't want to go back.
too much lost sleep LOL
little
Hi all.
I've been thinking of trying out the synergy bug with a pair of gloves with lightning strike charges. It would work the same way as the Marrowwalk and Carrion Wind bugs. I've seen a pair with 24(or 25, can't remember) LS charges, but I've yet to find a pair with decent mods like +Jav skills and IAS. If it worked you'd get 24/25 synergy points without a single point in LS(not that I use it often) and have lightning skills maxed out at Lv80+.
Just an idea though, since I haven't seen it being done yet.
@thing
The synergy thingie only works of the level of charges that are on the glove, not the number of them. So if they are 24 charges of level 2 lightning strike, they would only add 2 levels worth of that synergy.
magickpimp
27-10-2004, 09:14
I am trying out a lightning zon.. before i saw your post. I am curious as to teh helmet... wat about steel shade or kira's guardian (Steelshade has mana leech and fire absorb, and kira's have a NICE amount of resists on it). Also what about stone raven for a spear on switch?
magickpimp
@thing
The synergy thingie only works of the level of charges that are on the glove, not the number of them. So if they are 24 charges of level 2 lightning strike, they would only add 2 levels worth of that synergy.
There's Lightning Strike gloves? I've never found a pair. I want a +3 Jav glo with max level LS charges then. :P
@LittleNec,
If you don't have Lionheart Skin of Vipermagic is a very fine substitute, and if you play much in teams it's often times better. If you can, getting a +15% Lightning Ormus (+skill irrelevant, get that cheap telekinesis one!) would also cheap alternative. In teams you'll be the butcher against any non-LI.
a perfect regular Titan is the best weapon for the lightning amazon, use it and upgrade it for the ultimate weapon - ethereal is overrated and doesn't allow for quick refil (bad).
I'm working on Sci-Fi MUD, based on Warhammer: 40000 using the LexiMUD code base (made by Chris Jacobsen for the Aliens Versus Predator), heh yeah. In regards of lost sleep Diablo2 is nothing compared to MUDs. ;)
@MagickPimp,
Kira's are awsome if you need resists, but other than that there are many cheap and better alternatives. Any +skills or leech helmets, in a pinch G.Face + jab can also help bring down LIs when they are frozen FAST.
Don't got much experience with the Stone Raven spear, but my gut instict tells me it's slow, but I'd love to hear about other's opinion!
littlenec
02-11-2004, 15:23
BIG question to all you light chunkers out there.
I am using titans and a mosers with 2 diamonds...wws on switch.put some into strafe and taking out the li's slowly
but my real question is this ..
I am on useast sc ladder and my buddy just gave me 2 storm shields.
I don't have the str for it but I have the points if I need to go to this shield.
What will I gain for this.I guess I am asking with all the str I have to use, what will the differences in the game be with this shield?
ok I am trying to say Is it worth it???
thanks for info people I don't know what to do
Little
ps anyone want to trade for the other one :)
hey wanted to say 44 mf and found 2 heavens lights and mat javelin so far in act 2 hell....maybe mf is not that big a deal on a chunker
Evil Monkey
02-11-2004, 20:01
- to guide creator aka Jek
I'm not really into javelins and is going for spear, but according to this guide, apperently, only Jab, Fence and Impale are worth having as Physical, since they are the only listed. You serious, or are they just skills that also work for physical? (I count on maxing LF and CS)
None the less, what would you suggest as melee?
@Littlenic:
Hel runes and -15% Req Jewels help immensly with the str requirement on Stormshield, however if you find youself throwing mostly don't bother. Your main foe will be ranged enemies - which is most likely spellcasters = resists>PDR.
Block and passives will soften the blows from archers. (as will casting Valkyrie on top of them, heh heh)
@EvilMonkey:
It's the only physical damage skills for spears/javelins. Out of the three I prefer Jab with Hone Sudan as my physical weapon, and then if Javelins aren't your thing, maybe a +3 Jav spear with 6 facets :yep: (minimal leech needed, blue pots are your friend if you chose that route)
Monkeypimp
04-11-2004, 18:03
Just got my javazon, Sinow, to Matriarchdom, and am posting here first to thank Jek, great guide, and to post some of my experiences on dealing with lightning immunes.
There are really no problems with non-lightning immune monsters, except for those rare cases of fanaticism+extra strong+cursed, conviction etc... But even those are relatively easy to dispatch. Single bosses who become lightning immune due to the "enchanted" property are also pretty easy, you just LF their minions away and let your Merc take care of the guy (mine was using an ethereal bonehew, guillaumes face and an upped goldskin). The real problem were the packs of naturally lightning immune monsters. Let's go over each proposed solution and my toughts on it:
- Big damage spear and jab: Tried this for awhile with a hone sundam, a lycanders flank and a stoneraven, was doing pretty well with it until hell, then i found it left me too vulnerable in my opinion, the resists and particularly the blocking on my stormshield were basically what was keeping me alive, so i couldn't take it off without risking some instant deaths.
- I then tried to use crushing blow, but found out that the fact that you have to actually hit for it to take effect kind of limited it's usefullness, and since i was mostly worried with the regular lightning immunes and not the lightning enchanted bosses, 1/6 of their life isn't such a big deal, specially since you have to sacrifice quite a fair bit of equipment to get good CB (c'mon, goblin toes?).
- I didn't try fend or the bow skills, since this girl's final destination was moo moo farm i didn't want to waste any points that could be better used on cow frying skills.
- So, my final solution was getting a tiamat's rebuke and demon arch on switch, wich offered me enough elemental and physical damage to kill most packs with some help from the merc and the valk. Some tougher packs (got bartuc the bloody, the baal minion council boss to spawn with conviction :rant: ) however proved too tough for this strategy, so i bought a wand with lvl 2 lower resist, wich coupled with a thunderstroke (and some facets, and a griffon's eye if you're rich enough for that) got most enemies lightning resist low enough that i could deal significant damage with charged strike. There are a few kinds of monsters with LR so high it can't be broken, but i never found any of those that couldn't be killed with the demon arch.
Bear with me, final toughts now:
- Despite my stormshield and ethereal bonehew, i'm not rich, and would like to suggest "the disciple" set as a pretty good, easy to find equipment choice. It gives great resists and some decent skills. My main setup was the complete set, a carrion wind, a raven frost, a regular titan's, a stormshield (The ideal would be to socket a -15%/+Fire resist jewel if you ever find one, but i think it's worth spending some extra points on strenght for using it)and a Tal's mask (wich i don't think is that ugly, at least it looks better than a skull cap).
- Use decoy, it's a great skill with even a single point, really helps with distracting archers and some of the tougher LI's so you have enough time to dispose of them (another thing this is useful for is leaving a pack of monsters you don't want to fight (IE.: LI and PI) busy while you run away.
- I've seen some people questioning the usefullness of the valk. and i'd like to say i too found her pretty lacking on offensive capabilities, even if she's over level 17... still a pretty decent tank, and it's prereqs are useful, but i probably would have put only one point into valk if i'd known...
icewolfreborn
05-11-2004, 06:11
Yea, I don't think I'm gonna use Valkyrie either because she just doesn't deal enough damage and is too slow for me to use. She is an excellent tank yes, but her offensive skills just won't cut it. Slow Missles is useful, but for my Spearazon, it won't be needed, same with Decoy.
Hi, I've been reading your guide, and skimming it for like the past half year, never willing to act on it, based of some factors
I was just wondering if there were an mf variant?
Is there a way to achieve really high mf, without sacrificing power?
I've been pindl'ing with my blizz sorc, and am getting really bored..
but I havent seen anyone mention an mf variant or the such..
was just wondering if anyone had built an mf version, and how they were doing, and what they could kill
Hi, I've been reading your guide, and skimming it for like the past half year, never willing to act on it, based of some factors
I was just wondering if there were an mf variant?
Is there a way to achieve really high mf, without sacrificing power?
I've been pindl'ing with my blizz sorc, and am getting really bored..
but I havent seen anyone mention an mf variant or the such..
was just wondering if anyone had built an mf version, and how they were doing, and what they could kill
1) MF Variant could wear: Harlequin, Skulders/TalRasha, Rhyme Shield and WarTravelers - Chance Guards too, but I'd prefer +3 Javelin/20% IAS gloves. :)
Rings should be leech, and amulet could be some 40% MF amulet of resist. Weapon should of course be Titan's.
...
For Pindling I prefer a Lightning amazon to a blizzsorc for the sole reason that she'll just simply butcher Pindle, pretty much regardless of his immunity (unless he can spawn PI+LI), and then take on Eldrich and Shenk VERY EASY too. :yep:
how well does that zon perform in act4 diablo and act5 baal?
how well does that zon perform in act4 diablo and act5 baal?
I cruise Diablo easily, same with Baal runs, level 1 Frozen Arrow (5 perfect sapphire bow) really helps against anoying ghosts and other LIs. Charms help out immensely.
i maxed charged strike before fury, at lvl 44, i did INSANE damage on nm diablo
Jek, what would be better on my light zon? shako or andariels visage?
stratocasterfury
05-12-2004, 19:41
i was wondering how to do be able to use lf and guided arrow/multi at the same time. because i am a fan of lightning fury and multishow/guided and i want to make a hybrid that can use both decently.
thanks in advance
i was wondering how to do be able to use lf and guided arrow/multi at the same time. because i am a fan of lightning fury and multishow/guided and i want to make a hybrid that can use both decently.
thanks in advance
Weapon switch? :)
Ruick: I prefer Shako, IAS and leech isn't that important (life/mana 10% PDR).
stratocasterfury
06-12-2004, 18:06
well i meant spread of skill points...
well i meant spread of skill points...
1 point into GA and FA then around 5-6 in Multiple Shot, and pump a little into Penetrate.
Then focus on LF, CS and synergies. I'd leave Valkyrie at level 1, and try to keep my other skills as low as possible.
itsPizzarific
07-12-2004, 18:32
thats pretty good .. ill also suggest u use razortail .. fa, multi and lf all do a lot better with high-max piercing
Lokii_yUnJung
09-12-2004, 00:43
I changed some gear, so it's now:
41/41/41/41 I got +21 skills. :)
New damage:
CS: 1-6794 x 11 (avg. damage: 37373!)
LF: 1-2851 (avg. damage: too high to calculate :P)
LS: 1-5659 x 42 (When used correctly: 56600! You can easily place it correct to bounce twenty times -- or until all targets are dead)
PS: 1-18400 (Avg damage: 9200, poo!)
I don't think there's any other char that'll be even close to the damage you can dish out with a pure lightning gal.
ok.. so let me get this straight..
max CS ( Charged Strike )
max LF ( Lightning Fury )
max LS ( Lightning Strike )
max PS ( Power Strike ) ?
n what other passive skills.. n how many points in them?
n what other skills in bow n crossbow.. ???
=|
thx for the help in advance!!!
Shanksie1337
09-12-2004, 09:09
ahh excellent i see you found this already :D
regarding the remaining skills:
Passive and Magic:
1 in Dodge / Evade / Avoid
1 in Critical Strike
1 in Penetrate
1 in Inner Sight
1 in Slow Missiles
1 in Decoy
get Valkerie to level 17 (including any +skills you have from Gear)
Pierce you want as high as possible and you may get some pierce from items - so this is a grey area - assuming you have no good gear then get your chance to pierce upto about 60% or so as it suffers serious diminishing returns after that.
NO points in Bow and Crossbow
Lokii_yUnJung
09-12-2004, 21:41
ahh excellent i see you found this already :D
regarding the remaining skills:
Passive and Magic:
1 in Dodge / Evade / Avoid
1 in Critical Strike
1 in Penetrate
1 in Inner Sight
1 in Slow Missiles
1 in Decoy
get Valkerie to level 17 (including any +skills you have from Gear)
Pierce you want as high as possible and you may get some pierce from items - so this is a grey area - assuming you have no good gear then get your chance to pierce upto about 60% or so as it suffers serious diminishing returns after that.
NO points in Bow and Crossbow
ok.. atm.. my char is at level 26 now.. got a shield.. The Ward.. n i'm waiting to be level 28.. to wear some other armor.. forgot what it is.. but the shield "The Ward" has resists to all.. so atm.. my char has 75 resist to all..
n also.. i put skill points to..
CS - lvl 8
Decoy - lvl 1
Jab - lvl 3
so is that the way to go now?
so i'll leave skill points from now .. onto lvl 30 for the lvl 30 skills..
got one unused point.. n waiting to get to lvl 30 for LF.. i should be there by tonite.. so yeh.. i guess i'm doing ok..
WOAH:
Infinity
4 Socket Polearms
Ber + Mal + Ber + Ist
?
50% Chance to Cast Level 20 Chain Lightning When You Kill an Enemy
Level 12 Conviction Aura When Equipped
+35% Faster Run/Walk
+305% Enhanced Damage (varies)
-49% to enemy Lightning Resistance (varies)
40% Chance of Crushing Blow
Prevent Heal
0 to Vitality (Based on Character Level)
30% Better Chance of Getting Magic Items
Level 21 Cyclone Armor (?/30 Charges)
If this weapon is real, Lightning Amazons are now official the best class (tm), again. :P
Jek,
I got bored with my lightning zon when I don't have a titans and razortail. After I got those items, no more trips to town to replenish javelins and ~100% piercing :xsmile4: I really like my amazon now! She kills non-litening immunes in no time. I just need to get some more mf equipment to make my runs better.
nervouzz
22-01-2005, 12:42
how should i do when meet LIs?
and
after max
-LS
-LF
-CS
what skill should i put the point with?
mallemout
24-01-2005, 12:14
Okay, I have a strafer doing mf runs and since my wife wanted a mf char too I adviced a lightning zon. The speed would be even greater than my char so she would be really happy......or so I thought. She ran into the following problem: mana recovery. She would like to use the titans with LF and be able to at least clear one cow level on hell without gobbling down a full belt of mana potions. She does have titans of course, and we even tried it with 15% ml on her but the mana just doesnt come back. So we figured, must be because of the physical damage part not hitting. So , there is a point in penetrate (which gets pumped by +skills) and the dex is upped so that chance to hit is 95% But still, the mana wont flow back. Life on the other hand does come back....and it's even less % than ml. What is going on, is Bnet acting truly stupendous or did we do somthing wrong??? If you need any more details just give a shout, we'll give 'em asap.
ps: using things like tir would itself not be a problem if it werent for the fact that it should be a mf-zon so the sockets would be used for ist/PTopaz
Okay, I have a strafer doing mf runs and since my wife wanted a mf char too I adviced a lightning zon. The speed would be even greater than my char so she would be really happy......or so I thought. She ran into the following problem: mana recovery. She would like to use the titans with LF and be able to at least clear one cow level on hell without gobbling down a full belt of mana potions. She does have titans of course, and we even tried it with 15% ml on her but the mana just doesnt come back. So we figured, must be because of the physical damage part not hitting. So , there is a point in penetrate (which gets pumped by +skills) and the dex is upped so that chance to hit is 95% But still, the mana wont flow back. Life on the other hand does come back....and it's even less % than ml. What is going on, is Bnet acting truly stupendous or did we do somthing wrong??? If you need any more details just give a shout, we'll give 'em asap.
ps: using things like tir would itself not be a problem if it werent for the fact that it should be a mf-zon so the sockets would be used for ist/PTopaz
That sounds very odd, very very odd. I myself run around with 4 mana leech and clears cow level without quaffing a potion.. If life is leeching I have no idea why it's not working. On a side note, sounds like you didn't want to put a point into penetrate at first, so you have no pierce? (it'd help alot)
Hmm, if you don't want to waste socket maybe try Silkweave (tho Wartravelers and a 3-4 Tir shield would probably wield more MF), but it's just an idea.
soulblade
31-01-2005, 03:09
i gave it a try using this guide and boy it's awesome .. with almost all skills maxxed and with my laughable javelin 19-35 (the only good i found so far =( throw damage i can easily play on nightmare..
thanks for the guide..
Got some questions for you if you don't mind. I would like to mention first that I want to use my zon for both pvp and pvm. I don't expect to be amazing in duels, but good enough to win some here and there.
1. Is it advisable if I put a light facet on my ss instead of a hel rune or -15 req jewel? I realize I'd be losing a good chunk of life. I believe around 160+ to be exact. Since I'd be using around 50+ to str instead of vitality. (I'm probably wrong due to me not taking into account how much of str would be taken off from ss if I hel it. Therefore I'd probably lose less life points from making the light facet ss instead of the -req.
2. Haven't had much trouble against LIs because of my act 2 merc. He kills monsters fairly easy, until he gets surrounded by a large group of those big tree guys. My question is, should I bother getting a valkryie if I can just rely on my merc?
3. I was also wondering about some other gear issues like: For duels, should I go for a headhunters glory with shael and a 2 facets or 1 facet and an ias jewel? or just stick with SS? I'm asking because the facet would help me in - light res and added dmg, though for it I lose dr, str and resistances. The blockrate would be more or less the same because of the shael ( correct me if I'm wrong about shael adding to blockrate).
A few more gear stuff: I found myself liking IK boots more than the rest of the boots, simply because of the ar boost and the life and r/w.
I'm struggling from choosing which belt to use. At the moment T-gods seems like the best choice because of the vit, str and skill bonuses. Though Verdungos has dr, life and fhr bonuses. Then Noscoil has ias, str, slow and leech. Should I just stick to T-gods?
4. In terms of skills, should I max all the synergies for charged strike? because if I do that's 100 skill points right there. PS,LS,LF,CS,LB. Well 103 because of the prerequisites. or should I invest some points into dodge and evade? or even penetrate for the added dmg to LF? I'd get a nice dmg bonus from maxing the synergies, however I'm not sure how much the evading skills would help me.
I apologize for the long list of stupid questions and the amount of reading you might do.
1. I have little PvP experience with the lightning amazon, in PvP i prefer bows. ;)
2. If you don't need a valkyrie, there's no reason to spend points getting it. Tho I would recommend it, it have saved my behind a few times. I guess if you're softcore there's no worries.
3. My guess would be that having different shields would be the best, 4 Sapphire shields against cold sorcs, 4 Topaz against lightning dudes and so forth. Against anything physical I'd go with SS, hands down.
4. If you prefer IK boots, then by all means go for it! :D Personally I like Silkweave for the +5 mana per kill.
5. Well, IMO:
PvM = Razortail and TGod for gloams and nasties.
PvP = Verdungos
6. I'd gain 1 in each of the defensive passives and 1 in pierce, then rest in synergies (a single point in Strafe + Eaglehorn/Buriza helps heaps against LIs). The defensive skills are truely amazing, I can't count how many times they've saved me.
Rawk on! :howdy:
Sorry for replying late... I haven't been able to log on and check the site for a while. Thank for replying btw.
I might try silkweaves... I drain mana like crazy.. and don't have any items that have any mana leach at the moment
Hateslayer
11-03-2005, 20:01
My amazon is 18 lvl but i dont know should i put my skill points to lightning fury or lightning strike please reply. :)
My amazon is 18 lvl but i dont know should i put my skill points to lightning fury or lightning strike please reply. :)
See post #6 and the few following it in this thread. There is discussion on how to place points early in the build. Good luck! Let us know how you do.
Hateslayer
11-03-2005, 20:45
I use lightning ama but i dont know that shoul i use lightning fury or strike pls reply. :)
Hateslayer
11-03-2005, 20:49
I have lvl 5 lightning charge and its very devastating i will train it until i get light fury. :)
few questions(about pvp):
should i use duress for ow?(for LF) or CoH is still the best?
50% ias is enought for good LF speed?
FlyingPerson
11-03-2005, 23:37
Just wonderering, how does LF's damage calculated?
Does each lightning bolt (release by LF) include physical damage as well?
I believe LiteJavaZon is reli "***" (In my dictionary..*** means insanely tough:P) but I just dont understand, the damage shows on screen is... for example, 1-2.8k, even if each lightning bolt does 2.8k damage, it is impossible to kill hell npc that fast.
Does all the lightning bolt stack with each other? like a monster can be hit 5-6 times per LF shot?
Does it require to have Razortile to have best killing effect?
Does LOH's ED to demon help with LF or CS?
By the way..I was in a hammerdin bot baal run game...it is always 8 ppl together kill baal, we always take about 20+ sec to do so, but when there comes a javazon join us on ng, we kill baal in 10 sec......
Guess I should play a javazon now, otherwise it is reli a waste to have an eth 199% titan......
For anyone still troubled about lightning immumes:
I had no problem dealing with them, even without using any backup items or skills. I used a Might merc, gave him a nice spear with some life leech, and had a level 17 or higher Valk (so she had a War Pike). Those do, together with the Might aura, enough damage to kill anything, and the Valk has a lot of life and can be recast, and the merc has life leech, so he won't die fast either. And Might also makes the leeching better, for my merc, but also for me, so less mana problems :).
If you want to make it really funny, make your merc a boss-killer:
Give him one or more item(s) with Crushing Blow!
Because the merc uses Jab, he will get many hits in a short time, so have a long of chances to trigger Crushing Blow. This will work a bit like a sorceress with Static Field, except that it goes all the way down, not stopping at 50% monster life, like Static does in Hell!
Examples for items:
Steel Pillar, up to 118-640 dmg and has 25% crushing blow.
Hone Sundan, ~100-200 dmg, 45%! crushing blow, 3 sockets. Upgrade it if you want to give it more normal damage.
Strength (Amn + Tir) runeword weapon, 25% crushing blow, 7% life leech, real cheap!
Guillaume's Face helm from the Orphan's Call set, 35% crushing blow.
Rattlecage (cheap!), 25% crushing blow, upgrade it if you want more def.
And for the rich: a Ber rune in his weapon gives another 20% CB, and there are several runewords with CB: Eternity, Duress, Destruction, Infinity and Obedience.
Dont forget to socket his weapon with at least 1 Amn for life leech if it doesn't already have life leech, so he can keep himself alive.
Examples for items:
Steel Pillar, up to 118-640 dmg and has 25% crushing blow.
Hone Sundan, ~100-200 dmg, 45%! crushing blow, 3 sockets. Upgrade it if you want to give it more normal damage.
Strength (Amn + Tir) runeword weapon, 25% crushing blow, 7% life leech, real cheap!
Guillaume's Face helm from the Orphan's Call set, 35% crushing blow.
Rattlecage (cheap!), 25% crushing blow, upgrade it if you want more def.
And for the rich: a Ber rune in his weapon gives another 20% CB, and there are several runewords with CB: Eternity, Duress, Destruction, Infinity and Obedience.
I really love a Shael, Shael, Nef Hone Sudan + Vampire Gaze + Shaftstop Might merc, he really tears hell up, somtimes I just go necro style and cast a valkyre and check my email while my minions clear the screen. :D
@FlyingPerson:
LF Damage is calculated like this:
Initial Javelin throw damage.
Then release bolt
bolt damage (remember they pierce through monsters, so chance for multiple hits with one)
if you have pierce then the javelin might connect to another monster and trigger yet another wave of bolts.
The javelin can pierce up to five times, so if you can release 30 bolts with one throw you can really release 150 bolts! The javelin damage is used for leech mainly, tho with ias (and cb/kb) its a rather safe way to kill off LIs.
Since the bolts pierce a monster can be hit, uhm, ALOT of times.
Everyone, sorry for not being here. But I've been sick lately plus I just got a promotion at work so I don't have as much spare time as I used to...
I really love a Shael, Shael, Nef Hone Sudan + Vampire Gaze + Shaftstop Might merc, he really tears hell up, somtimes I just go necro style and cast a valkyre and check my email while my minions clear the screen. :D
@FlyingPerson:
LF Damage is calculated like this:
Initial Javelin throw damage.
Then release bolt
bolt damage (remember they pierce through monsters, so chance for multiple hits with one)
if you have pierce then the javelin might connect to another monster and trigger yet another wave of bolts.
The javelin can pierce up to five times, so if you can release 30 bolts with one throw you can really release 150 bolts! The javelin damage is used for leech mainly, tho with ias (and cb/kb) its a rather safe way to kill off LIs.
Since the bolts pierce a monster can be hit, uhm, ALOT of times.
Everyone, sorry for not being here. But I've been sick lately plus I just got a promotion at work so I don't have as much spare time as I used to...
Vampire Gaze and Shaftstop, yeah, when I wasn't that poor bum I'm now, I equipped my mercs with those two too, they are great! Life leech, cold damage, and most of all, HUGE DR.
But I was wondering, why did you put a Nef in the Hone Sundan? Knockback will keep the monsters a bit more away from your merc, but it also means he can't just keep attacking, but has to walk towards them again, or wait until they walk toward him again?
And another thing, I always thought it was the bolts that pierced, and then triggered another wave of bolts, and not the javelin?
Because, firstly, it means the javelin will only pierce a few times, and 30 bolts piercing a few times will be a lot more, and secondly, it the javelin pierces and hits again, it should also leech again, right?
It also means every new wave can start only in one line, the line where you throw the javelin, straight ahead...
hmm... would ow be nice for a LF/CS pvp light zon? should i use fortitude for ed dmg? duress for ow? or shoud i use coh? :confused:
hmm... would ow be nice for a LF/CS pvp light zon? should i use fortitude for ed dmg? duress for ow? or shoud i use coh? :confused:
Fortitude only gives ED in weapons, not in armor, and you can not socket javelins. In armor it gives All Resistances +25-30, Damage Reduced By 7, 12% Damage Taken Goes To Mana. Not very special. Lionheart gives 30% res all and Str and Dex and Vit, and Smoke gives 50%, so those would be better for armor.
Duress has some resists which are always useful, and the Crushing Blow on it could be useful when jabbing bosses or lightning immumes, but 15% is not very much.
Chains of Honor would be VERY nice, lots of resists and a bit of DR for surviving, +2 skills for more damage and safety (because of the passive skills, such as Evade and Dodge), 200% dmg To Demons would help for killing bosses, the Str means you need to spend less stat points on str, so you can get more vit, and the life leech also helps.
It's an expensive runeword, but as you see, almost every thing it has is nice :).
Fortitude only gives ED in weapons, not in armor, and you can not socket javelins. In armor it gives All Resistances +25-30, Damage Reduced By 7, 12% Damage Taken Goes To Mana. Not very special. Lionheart gives 30% res all and Str and Dex and Vit, and Smoke gives 50%, so those would be better for armor.
Actually, fortitude gives ed in armor but off weapon enhanced damage works much differently than weapon enhanced damage. For the lightning amazon, i think coh would be the better choice. As fortitude will only enhance your physical damage and not your elemental. So fortitude is almost useless for a cs//lf zon.
This is what I'm planning for my new Javazon...a few questions.
She's going to be pretty much just a cow-runner, but it might be good to have a few other options available. I'm not extremely rich, but I'll try to get what I need.
Here's what I'm thinking of wearing:
Shako
Cat's Eye or Mara's? need advice on this pick, don't know which would be more helpful.
CoH? This will probably be my armor, maybe in a dusk shroud. Should I try to get an Enigma instead?
+3 Jav/20%ias gloves
War Traveler boots? Anything better?
Razortail? Would Tgods be a better choice?
Rings are tricky. I was thinking Raven Frost and a dual leech ring, but I don't know if I need either of those. Perhaps a BK ring somewhere in there? Don't know what to wear.
Titan's as weapon, of course.
Shield: SS, Spirit, or something else? What helps most?
As far as skills go, I'll certainly max LF, CS, and LS. I'm wondering about the usefulness of Valkyrie. I don't think I'll have enough +skills to boost it to 17 without putting more points in than I think I can afford, and I'm unsure of how helpful she'd be below that level, particularly among the cows. Should I put a point into her? Should I save 4 points and not do it? I'll certainly put 1 in all the other passives...after that, should I put more than 1 point into Pierce? I think with my proposed gear, using Razortail and either Mara's or Spirit, I should reach about 100% Pierce with no more than one point invested. I guess I'm mostly asking about the Valkyrie. Worth the points, or should I put them into synergies instead?
I'm sorry if this has been a little rambling...I'm very tired. Thanks for any help you can give me.
This is what I'm planning for my new Javazon...a few questions.
She's going to be pretty much just a cow-runner, but it might be good to have a few other options available. I'm not extremely rich, but I'll try to get what I need.
Here's what I'm thinking of wearing:
Shako
Cat's Eye or Mara's? need advice on this pick, don't know which would be more helpful.
CoH? This will probably be my armor, maybe in a dusk shroud. Should I try to get an Enigma instead?
+3 Jav/20%ias gloves
War Traveler boots? Anything better?
Razortail? Would Tgods be a better choice?
Rings are tricky. I was thinking Raven Frost and a dual leech ring, but I don't know if I need either of those. Perhaps a BK ring somewhere in there? Don't know what to wear.
Titan's as weapon, of course.
Shield: SS, Spirit, or something else? What helps most?
As far as skills go, I'll certainly max LF, CS, and LS. I'm wondering about the usefulness of Valkyrie. I don't think I'll have enough +skills to boost it to 17 without putting more points in than I think I can afford, and I'm unsure of how helpful she'd be below that level, particularly among the cows. Should I put a point into her? Should I save 4 points and not do it? I'll certainly put 1 in all the other passives...after that, should I put more than 1 point into Pierce? I think with my proposed gear, using Razortail and either Mara's or Spirit, I should reach about 100% Pierce with no more than one point invested. I guess I'm mostly asking about the Valkyrie. Worth the points, or should I put them into synergies instead?
I'm sorry if this has been a little rambling...I'm very tired. Thanks for any help you can give me.
Gear
You could think about using Vampire Gaze, the oldschool helm for a javazon, because that will give you dual leech already, and also a bit higher DR.
I would take the Mara's over Cat's Eye. Because the IAS and dex on Cat's Eye are nice, but not really needed. Run speed is also not needed, with boots + Titans you already have a nice 70% F R/W.
Boots better then Wartravellers I can think of, is if you need resistances, then you could take Aldur's for fire res, Natalya's for cold and lightning res, or Tearhaunch for all res.
I would aim for a high % pierce, and because skill Pierce doesn't give a lot of extra % above level 9, I would take Razortail. Means you can still have a good % pierce, and some extra points left for synergies. If you think you really need the lightning absorb, get the TGods.
Ravenfrost would be good to get, for the Cannot Be Frozen, the cold absorb is also nice, and the dex helpt for max block (means 20 more points to spend in vit, means 60 more life). If you don't have mana leech somewhere else, get it on your ring. If you already have enough manaleech, a BK would be nice. Or a ring with resists/str/dex/life/vit.
Spirit would be nice as a shield, but I would personally choose the Stormshield (socketed with Eld, Um or maybe Hel).
I think CoH will much better then Enigma.
Titan's will be the weapon of choice, eth if possible, upgraded if possible.
If you use CS a lot, you could keep a Thunderstroke on switch, it has 15% IAS and -15% To Enemy Lightning Resistance!
(for example: most act bosses have 50% lightning res, so you do 50% of your dmg, -15% res means you do 65% of your damage, almost one third more.)
Skills
Valkyrie is well worth the points in my opinion, even if you don't have all the +skills from Mara's and Spirit. If she is level 17, she is quite a nice tank. I believe she is the strongest minions in the whole game. She also adds a nice weapon (rare warpike @ lvl 17) against Lightning Immunes, especially together with a Might merc (which is also better for your leeching).
Aim for 95% pierce, because that seems to be the max. This would be level 8 Pierce and Razortail.
I usually try to get the 3 evasion-passives at 40%, which you will get close to, or reach, with 1 skillpoint in all passives, and +skills. Remember, every 'real' skillpoint you spend on those skills will also benefit your Valk.
And don't forget Decoy, I found her very useful to use as something to herd cows around, just put her down, and lead groups of cows to her, to get a nice huge pack. Recast her now and then, and maybe put your Valk inside there too to help take the beating.
NewbieDrewdie
01-07-2005, 22:27
i dont know if anyone asked this already but why not use a 160-60 armor in this build? especially if your leaning toward the physical damage...j/w
Frozenmage
06-07-2005, 21:59
One question, i prefer maxing all lightning synergies instead of going with valkyrie...will it work? or do we really need a tank?
itsPizzarific
06-07-2005, 23:49
One question, i prefer maxing all lightning synergies instead of going with valkyrie...will it work? or do we really need a tank?
valks receive a life bonus for each difficulty just like monsters do so they are always very good tanks. you only need to invest more if you want your valk to kill. my zon has only one base point in valk and she does fine - my merc tanks well enough anyways. i prefer the pure damage route also. ^^
Frozenmage
07-07-2005, 10:47
valks receive a life bonus for each difficulty just like monsters do so they are always very good tanks. you only need to invest more if you want your valk to kill. my zon has only one base point in valk and she does fine - my merc tanks well enough anyways. i prefer the pure damage route also. ^^
nice..i wont be able to max all lightining synergies cause i'll spend one point on each of ama's passive skills...now if i invest 20 points in my tank will it kill anything in hell?
itsPizzarific
07-07-2005, 14:29
nice..i wont be able to max all lightining synergies cause i'll spend one point on each of ama's passive skills...now if i invest 20 points in my tank will it kill anything in hell?
=o that's exactly like my javazon - one in all passives, then the rest to max synergies, that's what i meant. :thumbsup:
yes she will be able to kill stuff, especially in the earlier acts as act 5 monsters are quite tough, but i don't think it's worth the investment when you could get that much +damage to your LF, CS and LS.
Frozenmage
07-07-2005, 19:31
=o that's exactly like my javazon - one in all passives, then the rest to max synergies, that's what i meant. :thumbsup:
yes she will be able to kill stuff, especially in the earlier acts as act 5 monsters are quite tough, but i don't think it's worth the investment when you could get that much +damage to your LF, CS and LS.
well but i spend 10 poinsts in passive i wont be able to max all 5 lightning skills..now which is better:
spend only 6 points in passive (ignore left side of valkyrie, decoy etc..) and max all lightning synergies for max dmg (very good for duels)
or spend 10 points in passive and max 4 lightning skills (and almost max the fifth one) ?
this is my only doubt right now....
Zeppelin
28-07-2005, 19:17
Not that I can afford it, but will the -(45%-55%)enemy Lightning Res. work if merc equips weapon?
AwesomeDude
28-07-2005, 22:35
If you have to go without points in Valk, just pick up a Harmony bow. It has +2 to +6 to Valkyrie (for everybody, no less, not just amazons), so with it you can save those points.
petroushka
10-08-2005, 06:23
Wow, great guide and a ton of conversation thereafter. I can't decide what to make my naked level 76 amazon, your build or Euro-Crashes Multi-zon. hmm...
in any case, any notes following the 1.11 patch? did amazons get affected that much via skill tweaks or new equip/runewords?
again, great job - i'll be making my zon soon enough and bring back the memories of my LF cow-killing zon in 1.09. :)
electricdelta
09-11-2005, 21:37
Hey,
first of all let me say this guide is fantastic. So far my Lightning Amazon does
ok in Hell, and she doesn't even have half the items on the dream build :)
Anyway, looking at the dream build, I decided I'd mess up with it and come up with my own dream & mf setups. But, I find that I'll be lacking IAS..
I thought that maybe swapping Soul Drainers for Laying of Hands and Mara's for Cat's Amulet would give me decent AS (+40% if I remember correctly), sacrificing leech and stats/resistances. Do you find 40% IAS enough or not?
My amazon currently has +30% IAS and I find its ok, would 10% more make much of a difference?
Thanks in advance.
someoneNew
11-01-2006, 19:36
I started this build a few days ago and am up to clvl 22.
My question is; what equip and killing method do you all use before you're able to get to LF and LS?
I used Arctic and Vidala sets up to around clvl 19 and it worked fine. Now I'm onto a witchwild bow, and a jav + CS but this causes pretty dramatic mana drain. This setup does work for now though but I'm wondering how long it will with players8 since I'm mainly using a bow with no skill points into Bows.
I'm also having some weird issue with mana regenerate (I think someone else had this too earlier in the thread) - I have 2 manald rings and see my mana creeping up only 1 point at a time. I think it should be much faster than that.
Maybe I just missed it, it is a big thread .. but was the whole Lightning Immune problem ever solved?
I saw a few people ask the question of "What happens in hell where there are tons of lightning immunes?"
well .. what happens?
Currently I have a level 78 javazon with titans javelins .. 20 points in charged strike and lightning fury, also 20 points in valkyrie (valk = ownage) .. but when I am in hell and a lot of monsters are lightning immune, I just can't do anything .. she isn't bad against the non-lightning immune mobs .. but anything lightning immune just doesn't work
I'm not sure how to combat this .. I was thinking of putting points into magic arrow and using a buriza as a secondary weapon .. or maybe just putting points into exploding / immolation arrow .. or maybe even more simply just putting points into poison javelin .. I barely have any points left though, I may have to remake the char if I want to do something like that .. and I am not sure what I should do
anyway, does anyone have a difinitive answer to this? I find that all non LIs are easy, except physical immunes and things I dont drain mana from, those kind of suck too .. but LIs especially suck, I just don't know what to do with them .. they die far too slow and usually I rely heavily on the merc and valk to kill them .. I just cant do damage to them ..
drivebyshooter
27-02-2006, 08:47
I could use some help with LIs in hell as well. I'm lvl 80 in act 1 Hell and am already experiencing difficulty with LIs. I'm also playing hardcore so I can't experiment as much since it might lead to death. I'm having trouble particularly with countess runs.
Helm: Tal Rasha's Mask
Shield: Tiamat's Rebuke w/ Pdiamond
Body Armor: Vipermagi/upped Twitch
Weapon: Eth Titan's
Belt: Razortail
Boots: Aldur's boots
Rings: Manald heal ring and 3% LL +10/10/20/10 resist ring
Amulet: +18 all resist 93 hp amulet
Overall resists are around 75/35/35/40
Jab damage is 450-1000
1150 hp
Merc(defiance lvl 79) does 300-1000
Valkyrie lvl 17
I basically got through Nightmare spamming LF at every mob i saw, and finishing whatever was left with jab. This is not really viable in hell since the LIs come in packs.
In my countess runs, my merc+valkyrie dies at least once to the LI archers i come across, and almost always to champion/boss archers with multishot, holy freeze and others. The second I run up to jab, I am greeted with a volley of arrows which takes half off my hp, forcing me to pot and retreat or risk being killed. Slow arrows helps, but not so much. My merc drops first, Valkyrie follows soon after and I am all that's left.
I haven't tried the alternatives suggested in the thread aside from jab. However, if I switch my shield for a pike or bow I lose a chunk of defence and massive resistance(-46 to all). It doesn't seem viable to me and awfully risky. I will give it a try though. The small entrances and rooms in the countess tower certainly add to the difficulty I'm experiencing.
Any advice/suggestions?
Evrae Altana
27-02-2006, 09:06
Not that I can afford it, but will the -(45%-55%)enemy Lightning Res. work if merc equips weapon?The -% resist will apply to hits your merc makes since he's the one wearing the weapon, but it wil not help out your own lightning attacks.
Any advice/suggestions?You could have a wand with Lower Resist charges on switch. That should break a few immunes, and the few that are left over, you should be able to kill. Either that or go the more expensive route of getting an Infinity for your merc. :wink3:
childofmist
28-02-2006, 05:56
The second I run up to jab, I am greeted with a volley of arrows which takes half off my hp, forcing me to pot and retreat or risk being killed.
Any advice/suggestions?
When facing the LI archers (moreso in pit runs, but also for Countess) rarely should you shift to jab. If it's one archer, jab is fine. For any more than that, just keep up the LF. The bolts are useless but the physical damage always hits. Up the titans and wail away. Pit archers leech very well for some reason (much better than everything else in there I have noticed) so mana isnt much of an issue. With 16ll and 5 ml I can stand toe to toe with all but the worst boss packs without having to draw them out some and taking them out in smaller groups. At least one charm with cold damage helps somewhat by slowing whatever you hit and aiming at the 2nd or 3rd archer back and letting peirce deal with all of them at the same time speeds things up a lot.
Peace armor is also an option just for the CTC Valk. It is constantly popping up and distracting the archers and at lvl15 can take a good deal of punishment.
Other than archers, souls, and the a5 LI frenzitaurs, most LI's seem to have relatively low hp's and are easy enough to kill physically.
The only remaining problem is LI/PI's.. best advise there is to ignore them if at all possible. Just run past it or lead it back a little ways and drop a decoy on it then keep moving forward. HF mercs can usually deal with all but the largest ones (slowly though) and a little help from you with a jab standing behind him or the valk should take care of them. Clear the pack then deal with the LI/PI. This should only be done if you absolutely have to kill the thing though (seal boss's in Chaos are the most likely ones)
- Up the titans
- HF Merc to slow the archers (+ cold damage)
- LF vs archers
- Jab vs most others
- Merc/valk/run vs souls unless you have max+ lit res
drivebyshooter
28-02-2006, 20:19
Evrae i can't afford an infinity :(
- Up the titans
- HF Merc to slow the archers (+ cold damage)
- LF vs archers
- Jab vs most others
- Merc/valk/run vs souls unless you have max+ lit res
ok i will try that, i guess HF is better than defiance
Hi,
i play DII for a couple of month now (still a newb i know) and I want to build my first javazon since i found titans revenge yesterday
i found great advices in the jek's guide but i still got a few questions
1. Why maxing Charged Strike, Lightning Strike and Lightning fury? all of them looks powerful i know but you only get 1% bonus for Lightning fury, not that much it seems...
2. What to use, and when? LF all the way, or the others 2 are useful? if yes, when?
3.Why ethereal titans? more damage of course, but what happen when depleted?
4. Lightning immunes, most of you guys seems to deal with them using jab, is it the way to go? what about Plague Javelin?looks powerful to me and Poison/Lightning immunes are kind of rare i think.
5.Critical strike, put 1 point, or more? Looks like the strenght of the build is all about lightning anyway, why wasting points into critical strike?
Thx in advance for the answers
JP
AeroGear
20-03-2006, 11:12
Hi,
i play DII for a couple of month now (still a newb i know) and I want to build my first javazon since i found titans revenge yesterday
i found great advices in the jek's guide but i still got a few questions
1. Why maxing Charged Strike, Lightning Strike and Lightning fury? all of them looks powerful i know but you only get 1% bonus for Lightning fury, not that much it seems...
2. What to use, and when? LF all the way, or the others 2 are useful? if yes, when?
3.Why ethereal titans? more damage of course, but what happen when depleted?
4. Lightning immunes, most of you guys seems to deal with them using jab, is it the way to go? what about Plague Javelin?looks powerful to me and Poison/Lightning immunes are kind of rare i think.
5.Critical strike, put 1 point, or more? Looks like the strenght of the build is all about lightning anyway, why wasting points into critical strike?
Thx in advance for the answers
JP
Titan's revenge resplenishes quantity pretty fast, so there's no need for repair unless you massively spam LF or throwin.
There is a lot of poison immune and poison resists in nightmare and hell. I reckon undead are naturally immune or very resistant to poison and when you reach Hell difficulty a lot of em are immune to lightning. I'm currently stuck in act 1 Hell diff. even though I cleaved my way through /pl 8 NM. I just can't deal with LI even with upped Titan's, my merc and valk die way too fast and dying in HC is a one way ticket.
Even though he 1% synnergy is rather weak, its around +9 damage per level to lightning fury, you have to keep in mind that the damage that is shown in your caracter stats is not representative of how the skill works. Charged strike splits into bolts that each deal a good amount of damage, same with LF that splits into bolts and bounces around.
LF is mostly useful when you deal with closely packed mobs, like 5-6+, it does unbelievable damage. Otherwise I like using lightning strike (?), the one with chain lightning) to deal with the remaining mobs, I rely on charged strike mostly for bosses, because all the damage from the individual bolts are dealt to them and its massive damage. I use jab mostly to resplenish mana/health or individual targets/LI mobs. Unfortunatly the jab option doesnt work too well with LI in Hell.
It took me around 2 days to get to level 76 and I will probably start over with a similar albeit different build, I'm not an experienced amazon user, at least not with LOD. I play offline open ladder so trading for uber gear is not an option either, I start from scratch and HC all the time but thats just me. The passive abilities are very important as you get to nightmare and hell, you DONT want to get hit, 1200+ life wont cut hit if you run into some uber mobs. My 71 concentrator barb died in 1-2 hits from a Death lord boss, despite having oh so much armor and health... If, like myself, you dont have access to all those +gear items to buff those passives around 50+% you have to put some points into them. Buffing critical helps with jab, piercing and penetrate help with the javelins efficiency and leeching on harder mobs.
I'm going to restart with a more versatile build, allowing the use of a bow for LI. Good bows NEVER drop though so it will take a while to get a good one. Runes are also hard to come by, mercenary is not helping at all when he dies in 3 hits.
I hope it answered some of your questions, I'm still learning this particular build which is so far, the fastest leveling I've done. The thing is, you stall eventually until you're able to get a potent upgrade, and even then a lot of times those upgrade need you to sacrifice decent gear with MF, swapping 30% Nagelring for Raven frost is annoying, same with other pieces of armor, space is limited.
Off to restart! I might give a try to that poison/lightning combo but not before I try the bow/javazon combo.
drivebyshooter
21-03-2006, 13:31
You have the exact same problem as i do Aero :grin:
I can clean up any area in act 1. Andy drops within 5 seconds to charged strike. However, when i run pits or countess and those groups of 9+ LI archers pop up(possibly lightning MS), i am so screwed. If they cast amplify that makes it even worst.
Wand of lower resist works to a certain extent.. it lets me do slightly more damage from LF slinging for the 3 or so seconds my Valk and Merc stay alive. Using the wand each archer goes from about 20 LF's each to about 10.
I guess I asked the wrong question. What I should have asked is what would be an affordable solution for increasing my mercs survivability? Currently he has a Blackthorns for the Light absorb, Heavenly Garb, and an Insight Partizan. Would investing in a Shaftstop/Damage reduce headgear be better for him?
Evrae Altana
22-03-2006, 01:34
Would investing in a Shaftstop/Damage reduce headgear be better for him?Tal's mask is very cheap and very effective for mercs. For armor, you might want to get him a Duriel's Shell for the resists and CBF, which would allow him to leech more by not getting frozen.
ArielJade
19-04-2006, 11:54
First of this is a great guide Jek. If reading 22 pages of this dosen't convince some one in trying it out i don't know what will. I am still looking for that new update you were saying you would do. Hop to it. :)
CoyoteKid
19-04-2006, 14:05
I use an eth CV Insight, Tals Mask and Duriels. My Merc is awesome and is a major help to me along with a maxed Valk. Have little trouble.
My LF Zon is lvl 90 now and kicks butt.
Hi!
This Guide is really great! :)
I have few simply questions:
1. CS, LS, LF is auto-hit, isn't it?
So i dont have to get high attack rating, do i?
2. If i use CS with 5 released bolt i often see one bolt hit an enemy monster (small monster). in that case 1 or 5 bolts were released and hit the enemy, or only 1 (damage is the most important... i suggest hitting all of the 5 bolts, but it might be a dream.. :D)?
Against big monster (boss) i understand that more than one charged bolts hit the enemy, but why it is that i see often one bolt when i fight with one small monster?
3. Why LS is better in the later acts/difficulties than LF? or more important?
LS does hits, LF does 'lightning shower'.
Are hits more important than the 'shower'?? Or why? cause of
monster's positions?
Thx a lot!
PeT
jparm3rd
05-05-2006, 23:00
Pet:
1. CS, LS, LF is auto-hit, isn't it?
So i dont have to get high attack rating, do i? No. They are all auto-hit, which means 95% chance to hit, which can't be improved upon. Also, LF is ranged, while LS & CS are melee; however, CS can be made to be ranged.
2. If i use CS with 5 released bolt i often see one bolt hit an enemy monster (small monster). in that case 1 or 5 bolts were released and hit the enemy, or only 1 (damage is the most important... i suggest hitting all of the 5 bolts, but it might be a dream.. :D)? As I understand it, it really depends on how close the spell release point is to the monster. When the sprite is fired, in this case a charged bolt, you will notice that they come from the same position of the character's body and then "randomly" move across the screen from that release point. If the monster is standing directly at the release spot, then it would be hit by all 5 charged bolts before they had a chance to disperse into individual sprites or bolts
Against big monster (boss) i understand that more than one charged bolts hit the enemy, but why it is that i see often one bolt when i fight with one small monster? Same as above. Only with a big fat guy he might take up two squares next to the release point, but again, similar results.
3. Why LS is better in the later acts/difficulties than LF? or more important?
LS does hits, LF does 'lightning shower'. LS has its place. Generally speaking, CS is most effective against single monsters or small packs, usually no more than 5 monsters tightly grouped, while LF is most effective against swarms of monsters, the more the better because with pierce it triggers all the lightning shots. Remember, a maxed LF is throwing out 20+ bolts at each different monster within the skill's range, which is nearly the entire screen. With piercing going on, forgetaboutit. There's lightning everywhere. Also it's key to recognize that LF fires only one bolt at each monster up to the skill's limit, while CS can strike the same monster repeatedly as long the charged bolt hits it. Obviously, the farther the CS bolts travel, the less likely this will happen, which is why close is good. LS falls between the two skills. More than 5 monsters, but less than a horde and especially in Hell where monsters are tougher is where LS shines. And again, LS is using chain lightning, which acts differently than the other two, arcing between the monsters depending on the distance they are from each other. Clearly powerful in the right situation.
Are hits more important than the 'shower'?? Or why? cause of
monster's positions? See above. The shower is what makes the skill go for all of them really, because the weapon damage isn't as significant in comparison to the Lightning damage. That's why everyone talks about the weapon damage for leeching. As for the shower, Pierce make LF deadly because each jav that sucessfully hits and pierces through and hits again, triggers another shower, etc. You can see how this adds up very quickly. However, in Hell, since the monsters are tougher, it requires a few more javs be thrown than say in Nightmare. This is where stack size, replenishment and mana leech become critical
Hope this answers your questions.
James.
What skills and how much i must upgrade under passive&magic?
Jek
not sure if you added this somewhere in the thread but what do u think about Peace Runeword for an armor?
It's obviously a good (the best?) early choice for an armor (easy to acquire, shael, thul, amn), the benefits are ok: +2skills, FHR, cold res, but really the bonus of it is in in the Lvl 15 valk casting, this can allow you save skill points spent on valk and put them into Light synergies or a backup damage skill.
I noticed your guide also lacks a mercernary equipment area. Insight works wonders, I'm using insight on the merc, titans, and Peace, and they work really work for my javazon.
SuperPinkRanger
11-07-2006, 09:53
Gear
You could think about using Vampire Gaze, the oldschool helm for a javazon, because that will give you dual leech already, and also a bit higher DR.
I would take the Mara's over Cat's Eye. Because the IAS and dex on Cat's Eye are nice, but not really needed. Run speed is also not needed, with boots + Titans you already have a nice 70% F R/W.
Boots better then Wartravellers I can think of, is if you need resistances, then you could take Aldur's for fire res, Natalya's for cold and lightning res, or Tearhaunch for all res.
I would aim for a high % pierce, and because skill Pierce doesn't give a lot of extra % above level 9, I would take Razortail. Means you can still have a good % pierce, and some extra points left for synergies. If you think you really need the lightning absorb, get the TGods.
Ravenfrost would be good to get, for the Cannot Be Frozen, the cold absorb is also nice, and the dex helpt for max block (means 20 more points to spend in vit, means 60 more life). If you don't have mana leech somewhere else, get it on your ring. If you already have enough manaleech, a BK would be nice. Or a ring with resists/str/dex/life/vit.
Spirit would be nice as a shield, but I would personally choose the Stormshield (socketed with Eld, Um or maybe Hel).
I think CoH will much better then Enigma.
Titan's will be the weapon of choice, eth if possible, upgraded if possible.
If you use CS a lot, you could keep a Thunderstroke on switch, it has 15% IAS and -15% To Enemy Lightning Resistance!
(for example: most act bosses have 50% lightning res, so you do 50% of your dmg, -15% res means you do 65% of your damage, almost one third more.)
Skills
Valkyrie is well worth the points in my opinion, even if you don't have all the +skills from Mara's and Spirit. If she is level 17, she is quite a nice tank. I believe she is the strongest minions in the whole game. She also adds a nice weapon (rare warpike @ lvl 17) against Lightning Immunes, especially together with a Might merc (which is also better for your leeching).
Aim for 95% pierce, because that seems to be the max. This would be level 8 Pierce and Razortail.
I usually try to get the 3 evasion-passives at 40%, which you will get close to, or reach, with 1 skillpoint in all passives, and +skills. Remember, every 'real' skillpoint you spend on those skills will also benefit your Valk.
And don't forget Decoy, I found her very useful to use as something to herd cows around, just put her down, and lead groups of cows to her, to get a nice huge pack. Recast her now and then, and maybe put your Valk inside there too to help take the beating.
so u say ias is not important for javazon? or is there a certain % a javazon shud shoot for? I have a problem choosing a belt for my javazon because of the ias question. Currently i have nosferatu coil on along witha 20% ias glove and highlords. i have maras and razortail sitting in my chest. i just dont know which one to use. i believe i have a lvl 13-14 pierce as well
Hi guys,
been following this guide a bit.
Right now I got the following:
14 LB (Maxed wrong syn, no big dealie though)
20 CS
20 LF
6 passives (1 in all useful)
I got 10 points to put out as well.
Now this is my questions.
I want a javazon who will be able to have a chance killing the über guys. (über diablo and so on)
Should I go 17 valk?
Should I max CS with all syns and skip valk?
Should I go 1 in freezing arrow and 1 in strafe to deal with LI?
What should I do?
Also one of my most important questions is a merc.
What would be the best merc for my build?
And in what difficulty should I get him? (Nightmare or hell?) and also is it offensive or deffensive? (I know very little about mercs, don't wanna boost the wrong one)
I love this guide, at lvl 80 Cows on Hell is VERY easy :D I kill cows much faster than my friends lvl 91 hammerdin. Although I have saved 10 skill pts. I have nothing on bows, I'm thinking of putting it into lightning skills that boosts my LF, CS, LS... but i dont know what to do with LI's.. I don't afford facets or griffons so for now I ignore LI's all the time... Any suggestions?
KremBanan
23-10-2006, 18:08
1pt in Jab or/and start saving up for Infinity
MuffinMan
25-10-2006, 00:59
I love this guide, at lvl 80 Cows on Hell is VERY easy :D I kill cows much faster than my friends lvl 91 hammerdin. Although I have saved 10 skill pts. I have nothing on bows, I'm thinking of putting it into lightning skills that boosts my LF, CS, LS... but i dont know what to do with LI's.. I don't afford facets or griffons so for now I ignore LI's all the time... Any suggestions?
Wondering, does -% to enemy resitance work on immunes in any way? In that case i better be off running the pits for some thunderstrokes..
tinncann25
25-10-2006, 01:10
Wondering, does -% to enemy resitance work on immunes in any way? In that case i better be off running the pits for some thunderstrokes..
- resistance does not affect immunes
only conviction and lower resist curse will break immunities.
mr_sQuinty
30-10-2006, 14:06
- resistance does not affect immunes
only conviction and lower resist curse will break immunities.
it does , but only after their immunities are broken , and only 1/5 of the -res
HtiD Morris
25-10-2007, 22:27
Thanks mate great guid, just what i need to start a new javazon.
Cheers :thumbsup:
hi Jek may i ask you ... u said " * Safety Amulet (Amulet + Thul Rune + Perfect Emerald + Jewel): ICB makes this receipe huge. Potential the best amulet you can get. " i've tried to got it so many times but ... nothing happen. Is it true ??? pls tell me ....Are there any special for amu or Jewel ????
check this.
http://www.battle.net/diablo2exp/items/crafted/safety.shtml
You need a magic amulet, though the rest seems ok.
If you were truly good you
1) wouldn't need to rely on a Runeword armor probably made from duped runes for either PvM or PvP.
2) wouldn't need to hold off spending your statpoints until lvl 70, since you calculated your needed base values based on your final equipment before even starting your char anyway.
3) would see that Lionheart offers 95 statpoints at clevel 41 as opposed to 49 + statpoints at clevel 65 for Enigma, and wouldn't list Harlequin Crest's itty str bonus.
4) wouldn't assume that everyone has access to Mara's Kaleidoskopes', Annihilis, "imps" (whatever that is) and duped rune gear, at least not on Ladder.
5) would've told us what "it" is, that your lightzon can handle and others without enigma can't.
You took so many words out of my mouth. In my opinion, only those that are poor players would use duped runeitems, which most of the godly runeitems are since the chances of dropping 2 high runes are so slim.
A guide is supposed to "guide" you from scratch to finish (Hell baal), and Enigma is not really guaranteed to make by then!
Changed my equipment yet again, managed to squeeze a little more damage out of it. G. Eye instead of Harle.
It used to be:
1 Harlequins
Titans
Mosers with 2 Lightning Facets
Enigma
Mara's
10 Javalin Skillers
1 Annihilus
1 Ravenfrost
1 Verdungo (With this kind of damage, I don't really need the pierce from Razortail, at high level survival is much more important than killing faster IMO)
Sandstorm Trek
Dual Leech Ring
20% Ias, +skills, LL, gloves
I haven't found ANY of the above equipment, and you say you amazon kills very fast and so on, but I wonder how it would work with "found" equipment?
That's the kind of guide I'd like to see, not one that says: "you put on these skill points, and use the following type of gear: Titan's, Enigma, annihilus, mara's, moser's w/ 2 lighing facets... so on" because I CAN'T find all that equipement/runes.
I maxed LF and with + to skills I got slvl 23, which does only 1 - 7xx damage. Doesn't look too good for a lvl 79 char :sad2:
Start living in the present. If you want to play selffound, you can't make any serious guide. If you find a good bow on a javazon, you'll have to change to strafe. And the other way around.
So claiming that we can make guides unless we state selffound items is besides the question. No one could use your guide.
btw, I don't know if you have read it, though he states what you should look for. And that is the perfect guide to go selffound.
Well i liked the part where he says what we should look for, but I tend to think he only played with the twinked gear and didn't actually test some what people can find.
nevetheless it still made some good points.
Well i liked the part where he says what we should look for, but I tend to think he only played with the twinked gear and didn't actually test some what people can find.
And what's your reason for thinking this? Have you checked Jek's joining date? He's been playing D2 for ages, and his current gear options are obviously different than what he started with. I'll ask you in 2013 how your gear looks like :rolleyes:
Hrus, the other guy who answered many of your question in other threads, plays completely self-found, i.e. he hasn't received or traded for anything, ever!
It is very sad that you identify yourself with ventilator, because he's apparently talking nonsense. He didn't even bother to read through this guide, based on how quick he is to judge. And, based on your questions here and there, I'm afraid you didn't bother too much either :sad2:
Just FYI, several SPers (you despise so much for cheating), have completed the game with naked amazons. Yes, that's an extreme. Here, Jek describes very thoroughly which mods (+skills, IAS, resists, etc.) are good for a javazon, so she could progress without too much trouble. What else would you expect? (seriously)
Does it bother you that he also mentions top-end RW's? As Hrus already said, the majority of bnet players appreciates, or even demands that. The bnet economy is already damaged by duped items beyond repair, which makes those RW available to "average" players. There are indeed many "guides", which don't even bother with starting players, but this is definitely not one of them.
You don't need those items, you can easily finish the game without them. I did, Hrus did, and I bet Jek did as well.
Btw, Hrus has the point that you should keep the remarks within a single thread rather than complaining here and there, because it's harder to keep the track (for us who respond), and those who don't want to get involved have more space for their own topics :wink3:
The reason I thought that was because right now I'm in act 3 Hell, and all the fetish are light imune, and also the gloams (those white thingies). the fetish are hardly a problem in melee, but the gloams... do lighnign damage, teleport, and become invisible, which poses problems for me.
My best tactic is throwing a 6500 damage plague javelin, and keep on running around, then throw another. Also my resists are not that great; about 9 for lighning. I do have some resist gear (magi unigue serpentskin armor - 35 res all, circlet - 19 all, rhyme - 25 all, and a few charms)
His guide heavily relies on lighning and I wasn't convinced. Also... when jabbing with titan's they seem to die slower than with Demon's Arch.
Lastly, sorry for spreadin myself over several threads with the same topic... I guess my grief was behind it all. I consider myself more knowledgeable than the average player, yet not with the same posibilities. Also the hige amount of duping makes me sad, and I play private games in hell. The reasons I still play on ladder are: easier muling, diablo clone, uber tristram, realm only items/runewords.
Act3 hell is arguably the worst place for javazons. If you get "lucky", you meet LIs almost exclusively :thumbsdown:
Fetish type creatures should succumb to poison quickly, esp. if you "help" them with Lower Resistance curse (-37% at slvl2), because of their lower life.
Gloams (http://www.battle.net/diablo2exp/monsters/act3-willowisp.shtml) fortunately reside only in Great Marsh. I must say I'm surprised they have 0%PR. On the other hand, all gloam-type monsters have extremely high physical resistance (60-90%!!!). That's why demon's arch works better - it has added fire damage.
If you are unlucky, you will hit Burning Souls in Plains of Despair, act4. Now, this will be a terrifying experience, since those are immune to poison as well. Souls are of the most dangerous enemies, not only for javazons, but characters in general due to their insane damage. They are unbreakable, thus the only way for you is to lure them out one by one with all the danger involved.
In any case, you must try to raise your LR, since 9% is by far not enough. If you don't have anything else, use the following cube receipt to temporarily replace one of your rings:
1 Magic Ring + 1 Perfect Topaz + 1 Rejuvenation Potion = 1 Coral Ring with 21-30%LR.
Stuff whichever 3os shield with diamonds for resists, or make Ancient Pledge RW to use it against Souls - excellent switch with your Demon's Arch. The only drawback is that you loose CBF which might be a problem, since Souls deal some cold damage, and there is no cheap replacement for 'Rhyme'. The other way to boost LR is to socket your armor/circlet with an Ort rune. As for the Skin, it took me like three years to find 35% one :tongue:
All in all, your gear is very decent already, I gave you tips on gloves in the other thread, and you can try to craft some belt or amulet if your current one doesn't look good enough. 'Lore' helm is a cheap receipt with +1skills once you make up for your resists elsewhere.
I was thinking of a 3PD rather than ancients... I got more diamonds (a dozen or so) and it gives better resists. But ther CBF is very nice...
As for headgear, I got circlet +1 ama skill 19 res all, 18 dex, and I put a socket with PRuby... it's the best i could think of, and better than Lore IMO.
If I make the coral ring... I lose one of the nalgerines. I got a pair of nice boots 40 FRW, 34 Light res. but I'd lose my Gores. The way I play, I have some spare gear for very tough situations, so I could boost the ressits, and life if needed.
Currently I'm on the look for a 3 os tower shield to make the 3 PD. As for the skin with 35%... I was playing with a friend and it dropped from NM diablo on a 'first run' (we had two 'first runs' - can only be done with friends properly)
I already feel much better since you say my gear can be called decent!
So I'm altering this build by sticking with a spear for the most part. Will I be punished severely by the game if I opt to max lightning strike first rather than lightning fury? Right now my gear is much better suited to using melee attacks (I have a nice spear) rather than throwing javs (absolute crap with javelins, though I have a nice shield).
So I'm altering this build by sticking with a spear for the most part. Will I be punished severely by the game if I opt to max lightning strike first rather than lightning fury? Right now my gear is much better suited to using melee attacks (I have a nice spear) rather than throwing javs (absolute crap with javelins, though I have a nice shield).
Lightning Fury is much better than Lightning Strike and shield block is too good to pass up.
Even charged strike is better than Lightning strike, so if you like melee, use CS (it also doesn't cost much mana)
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