Author: Lina Weber

Navigating the Character Conundrum: A Genshin Impact 3.0 Pulling Guide

The release of a new Genshin Impact patch brings with it the thrill of new characters, but also the familiar dilemma: who should you spend your precious Primogems on? With only one guaranteed five-star character per limited banner cycle, making the right choice for your roster is crucial.

This guide moves beyond subjective preferences and delves into the objective strengths and weaknesses of the featured characters in the 3.0 update. Whether you prioritize raw damage, team synergy, or ease of use, this analysis will equip you to make informed pulling decisions.

Disclaimer: While this guide focuses on objective factors, personal preference remains paramount. If you resonate with a character’s design, personality, or lore, don’t hesitate to prioritize them. After all, the most important aspect of any game is your enjoyment.

Ganyu – The Cryo Archer

Official Artwork

Image of Ganyu

Pros

• Unmatched Personal Damage: Ganyu reigns supreme as one of the highest DPS characters, excelling in both Melt and Freeze compositions.
• Single-Target Dominance: Her prowess against single targets makes her a prime choice for challenging boss encounters.
• Effortless Gameplay: Ganyu boasts a straightforward playstyle centered around her Elemental Burst and charged attacks.
• Ranged Advantage: Her charged attacks offer a wide area of effect, minimizing the need for precise aiming.
• Quadratic Scaling: Ganyu’s Burst damage increases exponentially with the number of enemies grouped together.
• Flexible Team Building: Her moderate Energy Recharge requirements allow her to slot into various team compositions.

Cons

• Melt Team Investment: Optimizing Ganyu’s Melt teams often requires specific four-star characters like Bennett, Xiangling, and potentially Kazuha or Jean, which can be a significant investment for newer players.
• Charged Attack Vulnerability: While her charged attacks are powerful, the two-second charge time can leave her vulnerable without a shielder or Freeze team to immobilize enemies.
• Freeze Team Competition: Ganyu faces competition from Ayaka in Freeze teams, and while they can be used together, Shenhe offers superior single-target damage in this composition.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 5/5
  • High AoE: 5/5
  • Low AoE: 5/5
  • Single Target: 4/5
• Sub DPS: 4/5
  • High AoE: 5/5
  • Low AoE: 4/5
  • Single Target: 3/5
• Ease of Use: 4/5
• Future-Proofing: 4/5
• Flexibility: 4/5
• Defensive Support: N/A
• Offensive Support: 2/5

When to Pull?

• You need a powerful and accessible DPS character capable of carrying your teams.
• You have the resources to build either a Melt or Freeze team around her.
• You seek a flexible character who can function as both a main DPS and a sub-DPS depending on the situation.

Zhongli – The Geo Archon

Official Artwork

Image of Zhongli

Pros

• Unbreakable Shielding: Zhongli provides the strongest shields in the game, making your team nearly invincible.
• Enhanced Comfort: His shields trivialize most combat encounters, allowing for a more relaxed and forgiving playstyle.
• Universal Applicability: With a 20% Resistance Shred on his Elemental Burst, Zhongli slots seamlessly into almost any team composition.

Cons

• Limited Offensive Utility: While his shields are invaluable, Zhongli’s offensive contributions are relatively minor.
• Lengthy Burst Animation: His Elemental Burst animation can be a DPS loss in fast-paced combat scenarios.
• Potential Freeze Disruption: His pillars can shatter Frozen enemies, potentially hindering teams reliant on the Freeze reaction.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 2/5
  • High AoE: 1/5
  • Low AoE: 2/5
  • Single Target: 3/5
• Sub DPS: 3/5
  • High AoE: 4/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 3/5
• Ease of Use: 5/5
• Future-Proofing: 4/5
• Flexibility: 5/5
• Defensive Support: 5/5
• Offensive Support: 3/5

When to Pull?

• You prioritize a comfortable and low-stress gameplay experience.
• You need a universal buffer who can slot into any team composition.
• You have fragile DPS characters who benefit greatly from his shield.

Sangonomiya Kokomi – The Divine Priestess of Watatsumi Island

Official Artwork

Image of Kokomi

Pros

• Exceptional Off-Field Hydro: Kokomi provides consistent off-field Hydro application, making her ideal for Freeze and Bloom teams.
• Reliable Healing: Her Elemental Skill and Burst offer substantial healing, ensuring your team’s survival.
• Thrilling Tales Synergy: She excels as a Thrilling Tales of Dragon Slayers user, providing significant ATK buffs to your main DPS.

Cons

• Niche Role: Kokomi’s value diminishes if you already have strong Hydro applicators like Mona or run teams that don’t require her healing.
• Limited Offensive Buffs: While she provides healing and Hydro application, she lacks significant offensive buffs compared to other supports.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 3/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 4/5
• Sub DPS: 2/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 2/5
• Ease of Use: 5/5
• Future-Proofing: 4/5
• Flexibility: 4/5
• Defensive Support: 5/5
• Offensive Support: 2/5

When to Pull?

• You need a consistent off-field Hydro applicator for Freeze or Bloom teams.
• You lack Mona and require a dedicated Hydro character for these team compositions.

Tighnari – The Verdant Strider

Official Artwork

Image of Tighnari

Pros

• Early Dendro Access: As one of the first Dendro characters, Tighnari offers a glimpse into the potential of the new element.
• Off-Field Electro Enabler: His Dendro application allows for powerful reactions with off-field Electro characters like Fischl and Yae Miko.
• Simple Playstyle: Tighnari’s gameplay loop is straightforward, revolving around his Elemental Burst and charged attacks.

Cons

• Single-Target Focus: His damage primarily targets single enemies, limiting his effectiveness in AoE situations.
• Eventual Standard Banner Addition: Tighnari will join the Standard Banner in a future update, making him obtainable through regular wishes.
• Limited Team Synergy: His best teams often require specific five-star characters, and his lack of off-field Dendro application restricts his team compositions.

Rating (Rating System Explained)

• Main DPS: 4/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 4/5
  • Single Target: 5/5
• Sub DPS: 3/5
  • High AoE: 2/5
  • Low AoE: 3/5
  • Single Target: 4/5
• Ease of Use: 3/5
• Future-Proofing: 3/5
• Flexibility: 3/5
• Defensive Support: 1/5
• Offensive Support: 1/5

When to Pull?

• You’re eager to explore the Dendro element and its potential team compositions.
• You need a strong single-target DPS character and are willing to invest in his specific team requirements.

The Final Decision

Ultimately, the best character to pull depends on your individual account, playstyle, and preferences. Consider your existing roster, desired team compositions, and the content you prioritize.

If you’re still unsure, waiting for future character releases and Dendro reactions to develop further might be a wise decision.

Remember, the most important factor is your enjoyment of the game. Choose the character that resonates with you the most and embark on your Genshin Impact journey!

Credits

This guide was made possible by the contributions of the following individuals:

໓น໓¢໐๓#7817, rayn#8252, Chia#3668, Asterix#6894, rekoshayninja#5982, Xertimos#5054, Poxeli#1038, sun#4297, KangYouwei#6774, TitanPotato#6038

Artwork: All artwork is official artwork produced by Hoyoverse.

Rating: Character ratings are based on their value at Constellation 0.

The Ultimate Guide to Unlocking Your 6th Builder FAST

Introduction

Getting your 6th builder in Clash of Clans is a game-changer, significantly speeding up your progress in both the Home Village and Builder Base. While many guides exist, this guide provides a comprehensive and efficient path to unlocking your 6th builder as quickly as possible.

Why Rushing is Beneficial in the Builder Base

Let’s address a common misconception: rushing in the Builder Base is NOT a bad thing. In fact, it offers several advantages:

1. Increased Loot: Rushing grants access to more Army Camps, leading to a stronger offense and more loot from raids.
2. Faster Task Completion: Many tasks require reaching Builder Hall 9. Rushing to this level allows you to complete these tasks faster and unlock powerful upgrades sooner.

Unlocking the 6th Builder: The Quests

To unlock the 6th builder, Otto, you need to complete the following tasks:

1. Build the OTTO Hut: Requires Builder Hall 9.
2. Gear Up 3 Buildings: Requires specific upgrades in both the Home Village and Builder Base.
3. Upgrade Mega Tesla to Level 9: Requires Builder Hall 8.
4. Upgrade Cannon Carts to Level 18: Requires Builder Hall 9.
5. Upgrade Battle Machine to Level 30: Requires Builder Hall 9.

Unlocking the 6th Builder: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. OTTO Hut: Upgrade your Builder Hall to level 9 to unlock the OTTO Hut, costing 100,000 gold.

2. Gearing Up:

   • Builder Base: Upgrade Double Cannon to level 4, Archer Tower to level 6, and Multi-Mortar to level 8.
   • Home Village: Upgrade Cannon to level 7, Archer Tower to level 10, and Mortar to level 8.

3. Mega Tesla: Upgrade the Mega Tesla, unlocked at Builder Hall 8, to its max level (9).

4. Cannon Carts: Upgrade the Cannon Carts, unlocked at Builder Hall 5, to their max level (18) at Builder Hall 9.

5. Battle Machine: This is the most demanding task. Upgrade the Battle Machine, unlocked at Builder Hall 5, to level 30.

Essential Tips for New Builder Base Players (BH 1-5)

1. Prioritize Battle Machine Level 5: At Builder Hall 5, upgrade your Battle Machine to level 5 to unlock its ability. Don’t invest further until Builder Hall 9. Instead, focus on:

   • Cannon Carts
   • Boxer Giants
   • Star Laboratory
   • Gold Storages
   • Gold Mines
   • Gem Mine

2. Early Game Troop Focus: As a new player, prioritize upgrading your Star Laboratory, Raged Barbarians, and Boxer Giants before reaching Builder Hall 5. Don’t waste resources on other troops.

3. Efficient Boxer Giant Upgrades: Upgrade Boxer Giants to level 12 initially to conserve Builder Elixir. You can upgrade them to level 16 later.

4. Barracks Management: Stop upgrading Barracks once you unlock Cannon Carts.

Builder Hall Upgrade Priority Guide (BH 2-8)

1. Storages First: Maximize your Gold and Elixir storage capacity upon reaching a new Builder Hall level.

2. New Buildings: Prioritize new buildings, starting with Traps, followed by Army Camps and Defenses.

3. Star Laboratory and Troops: Upgrade your Star Laboratory to unlock higher-level Cannon Carts. Then, focus on upgrading your Cannon Carts and Boxer Giants.

4. Gem Mine and Clock Tower: These upgrades provide indirect benefits. The Clock Tower boosts upgrade times and loot, while the Gem Mine generates more Gems.

5. Collectors: Upgrade Collectors to increase your passive resource income.

6. Defenses: Upgrade Cannons, Archer Towers, and Multi-Mortars if you’re still upgrading Elixir Troops.

7. Builder Hall: Don’t delay upgrading your Builder Hall to unlock new content and upgrades.

Builder Hall 9: The Final Push

At Builder Hall 9, your priority shifts to obtaining the 6th builder.

1. New Buildings and Traps: Build any remaining Traps and new buildings.

2. Storage Upgrades: Maximize your resource storage capacity.

3. Sixth Builder Focus: Concentrate solely on upgrading the Battle Machine, Mega Tesla, and the buildings required for the Gear Up task.

Tips for Efficient Grinding

1. Strategic Resource Management: If you’re short on Builder Elixir, upgrade the Mega Tesla or Gear Up buildings to deplete excess Gold while accumulating Elixir.

2. Raid Medals: Utilize Raid Medals earned from the Clan Capital to purchase Builder Elixir from the Trader.

3. Strategic Book Use: Save a Book of Building to instantly complete the Mortar Gear Up in your Home Village, as it requires two weeks.

4. Maximize Battle Machine Uptime: Keep your Battle Machine down constantly to maximize its use for resource collection and Builder Elixir generation.

Utilizing Raid Medals

The Clan Capital update introduced Raid Medals, a valuable resource for speeding up your 6th builder grind.

1. Resource Purchases: Buy Builder Gold or Elixir from the Trader to keep your Battle Machine down and upgrades progressing.

2. Clock Tower Boosts: Consider purchasing Clock Tower Potions for a temporary upgrade time reduction. However, evaluate if it’s the most cost-effective option.

Gem Spending: Proceed with Caution

While not recommended, if you’re a gem spender, prioritize the following:

1. Builder Elixir Rune: 1500 Gems
2. Builder Gold Rune: 1500 Gems
3. Clock Tower Potion: 75 Gems
4. Hero Book: 500 Gems

Note: Spending gems on resources is generally not the most efficient use. Consider checking out this excellent hero upgrade guide: How to Upgrade Heroes Quicker and Be in Wars

Recommended Builder Base Army Compositions

Early Builder Halls (BH 1-4):

• 4 Camps of Raged Barbarians: Focus on overwhelming defenses quickly to secure loot and victory.

Builder Hall 5 and Beyond:

• BH 5-6: 2 Camps of Boxer Giants and 2 Camps of Cannon Carts
• BH 7: 2 Camps of Boxer Giants and 3 Camps of Cannon Carts
• BH 8-9 (Battle Machine Available): 2 Camps of Boxer Giants and 4 Camps of Cannon Carts
• BH 8-9 (Battle Machine Unavailable): 3 Camps of Boxer Giants and 3 Camps of Cannon Carts

Gemming the 6th Builder: A Cost Analysis

While not practical for most players, if you’re curious about the cost of gemming the 6th builder, Judo Sloth’s video provides a detailed breakdown: Gemming the 6th Builder

Conclusion

Unlocking your 6th builder is a significant milestone in Clash of Clans. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to achieving this goal efficiently. Remember to prioritize key upgrades, manage your resources wisely, and utilize the new features like Raid Medals to your advantage. Happy clashing!

Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song-: Before You Play Tips (Spoiler-Free)

Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song- Remastered is finally here! To celebrate its release and help newcomers navigate the unique world of the SaGa series, we’ve compiled some spoiler-free tips. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a fresh-faced wanderer, these pointers will ensure you get the most out of your journey.

What is Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song-?

For a deep dive into the SaGa series, check out this comprehensive guide:

• Where to Start with the SaGa Series Guide

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you in -Minstrel Song-:

• No Traditional Leveling: Characters grow organically, with stats increasing after each battle based on their actions.
• Open-World Freedom: Explore a vast world with minimal hand-holding, uncovering its secrets at your own pace.
• A Dynamic, Living World: Time progresses, events unfold, and the world changes around you, regardless of your involvement.
• Eight Unique Paths: Choose from eight protagonists, each with their own story, motivations, and events to experience.
• Choices That Shape Your Journey: Every decision carries weight and consequences, shaping the narrative and world around you.
• Gameplay-Focused Experience: While rich in lore, -Minstrel Song- prioritizes engaging gameplay, allowing you to delve as deep into the story as you desire.
• Challenging Encounters: Prepare for demanding battles that require strategy and mastery of the game’s mechanics. Embrace death as a learning experience, and utilize the save-anywhere system to your advantage.

Intrigued? Meet the captivating cast of characters in the new trailer:

Character Introduction Trailer (Contains Spoilers)

What’s New in the Remaster?

Beyond the stunning HD visuals and refined UI, the remaster introduces a wealth of new content and quality-of-life improvements:

• Five New Playable Characters: Aldora, Schiele, Marina, Monica, and Flammar join the adventure, each offering a fresh perspective on the world.
• New Voice Acting: Experience the expanded roster with brand-new voice recordings, breathing new life into their stories.
• Enhanced Bosses: Test your mettle against powered-up versions of familiar foes, each boasting unique mechanics and accompanied by newly arranged battle themes. Thirteen enhanced bosses await, including a secret, even more challenging final boss encounter!
• Five New Classes: Further customize your party’s composition and strategies with the addition of five new classes, each offering distinct abilities and playstyles.
• Turbo Speed: Traverse the world and engage in battles at your own pace with adjustable speed settings, up to 2x and 3x speed.
• Fast Travel: Navigate bustling cities with ease using the new fast travel option, allowing quick access to shops and key locations.
• Adjustable Event Rank Speed: Fine-tune the flow of time and events with the Event Rank speed selector. Choose from Super Slow to Super Fast, unlocking additional options as you progress through the game.
• New Event for Aldora: Uncover a brand-new event and questline exclusive to the enigmatic Aldora, adding further depth to her character.
• Auto-Saving: Enjoy peace of mind with the addition of auto-saving, ensuring your progress is preserved.
• Colorblind Mode: Experience the game’s vibrant world with enhanced accessibility through the new colorblind mode.
• New Game+: Embark on new journeys with your favorite characters and carry over your progress from previous playthroughs. Customize your New Game+ experience by selecting specific data to transfer, such as Event Rank, monster ranks, skill levels, cleared quests, BP, Jewels, and more.
• In-Game Library: Immerse yourself in the world of -Minstrel Song- with the new library feature. Explore a gallery of beautiful illustrations and relive the adventure’s soundtrack with the music player.
• New Legendary Weapons: Discover and wield at least three new legendary weapons, each possessing unique powers and stories.
• Disable Unused Arts: Streamline your battle commands by disabling unwanted arts, preventing clutter and allowing for quicker decision-making.
• In-Game Clock: Keep track of the ever-changing world with the addition of a clock to the party menu, providing a constant reminder of the Event Rank’s progression.
• Smoke Bag: Escape from unwanted encounters with the new Smoke Bag item. This handy tool allows for a quick getaway from battle, providing strategic options for navigating dangerous areas.

Gameplay Mechanics: A Primer

-Minstrel Song- boasts a depth of mechanics that rivals, and even surpasses, other entries in the SaGa series. While mastering every nuance isn’t necessary to enjoy the game, understanding the basics will significantly enhance your experience.

Stats: Your Character’s Foundation

Don’t be intimidated by the numerous stats in -Minstrel Song-. The game provides in-depth explanations for each one through helpful tooltips accessible within the menus. While most stats function as their names suggest, some possess secondary effects that can be explored by those seeking to min-max their party.

Here are three crucial stats that operate differently than in traditional JRPGs:

• HP (Hit Points): Represents your character’s current health. Falling to 0 HP results in incapacitation, but any healing spell or item can revive them. There are no dedicated "revive" items or spells.
• LP (Life Points): A unique mechanic in the SaGa series, LP determines how many times a character can be revived in battle. Each time a character’s HP reaches 0, they lose 1 LP. LP can be restored at inns. Be mindful that certain actions, such as using powerful techniques beyond your character’s skill level, can also deplete LP. Losing all LP has different consequences for generic and unique characters. Generic characters are gone forever, while unique characters will eventually return to their recruitment location.
• BP (Battle Points): Fuel your character’s actions in battle. Each character has a maximum BP and a starting BP value. BP regenerates each turn, allowing you to unleash powerful techniques when the time is right.

Stat Growth: Evolving Through Combat

Forget traditional leveling systems. In -Minstrel Song-, character stats increase organically based on their actions in battle. The stronger the enemy, the higher the chance of stat growth. Experiment with different weapons, magic schools, and skills to shape your party’s development.

Jewels and Gold: Treasures of the Realm

Jewels and Gold are the two primary currencies in -Minstrel Song-, each serving a distinct purpose:

• Gold: Acquired through battles and quests, Gold is used to purchase equipment, items, and other necessities from shops.
• Jewels: A more valuable currency, Jewels are primarily used to acquire new skills and upgrade classes from mentors.

Managing your resources wisely is crucial. Don’t squander your hard-earned Jewels on the first appealing skill you come across. Explore different towns and compare prices before making any significant purchases.

Event Rank and Battle Rank: The World’s Rhythms

The world of -Minstrel Song- is in constant motion, governed by two interconnected systems: Event Rank and Battle Rank.

• Event Rank (ER): Think of it as the world’s clock. As ER increases, new events are triggered, while others may become inaccessible. This dynamic system influences character recruitment, quest availability, and the overall flow of the narrative.
• Battle Rank (BR): Dictates the type and strength of enemies you encounter. As you win battles, your BR increases, introducing new challenges and more formidable foes.

The remaster introduces the Event Rank Speed Selector, granting players greater control over the flow of time. Choose a pace that suits your playstyle, whether you prefer to savor every moment or speed through the ranks.

Weapon Techs and Magic Spells: Mastering the Art of Combat

Weapon Techs:

-Minstrel Song- features a unique approach to learning weapon skills. By simply using a specific weapon type, your characters will gradually learn new techniques, or "Techs." These techniques vary in range, speed, and effect, adding a layer of strategic depth to combat.

Magic Spells:

Magic plays a crucial role in -Minstrel Song-, offering a diverse range of offensive, defensive, and support abilities. Here’s a quick rundown of the magic system:

• Spells are learned by purchasing them from shops or temples.
• Temples offer a wider selection of spells but at a higher cost. Purchasing from temples also increases your favor with the corresponding god, unlocking unique benefits.
• There are ten distinct schools of magic. Characters can only learn spells from one school at a time. Learning spells from an opposing school will cause them to forget any spells from their previous school.
• Certain mage classes can synthesize new spells, combining existing ones to create even more potent abilities.

Turn Order: Seizing the Initiative

Understanding turn order is crucial for success in -Minstrel Song-‘s challenging battles. Several factors influence when your characters act:

• Formation: Character positioning (Front, Middle, Back) affects their action speed based on their equipped weapon type.
• AGI (Agility): Higher AGI allows characters to act faster.
• Tech Speed Rating: Some techniques have inherent speed modifiers (Quick, Slow).
• Combat Mode: Characters can be assigned different combat modes (Attack, Defense, Trick), each influencing their turn order and actions.

Mastering these elements will give you a significant edge in combat, allowing you to anticipate enemy actions and unleash devastating combos.

General Tips: Navigating the World

• Save Often: Seriously, save your game frequently and utilize multiple save slots. You never know what challenges await in the world of -Minstrel Song-.
• Consult the Town Maps: Always ask the Volunteer Brigade children in each town for a map. These invaluable tools reveal points of interest, shops, and other important locations.
• Recruit Every Main Character: Even if you don’t plan on using them in your party, recruiting each main character at least once unlocks new areas and expands your exploration options.
• Strategic Gear Acquisition: Early in the game, consider recruiting characters solely to acquire their equipment. Some characters, particularly unique ones, start with powerful gear that can give you an edge.
• Prioritize Class Level 3: Upgrading at least one character’s class to level 3 unlocks the ability to purchase individual skills, offering a more cost-effective way to customize your party.
• Essential Proficiencies: Jump and Climb are invaluable proficiencies for navigating the world. Level them up early to access new areas and hidden treasures.
• Master the Art of Evasion: Utilize proficiencies like Lurk and Move Silently, or the new Smoke Bag item, to avoid unwanted encounters, especially in the early game.
• Embrace Exploration: Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path, experiment with different party compositions, and uncover the many secrets hidden within the world of -Minstrel Song-.

Conclusion: Your Legend Awaits

This guide merely scratches the surface of the rich and rewarding experience that awaits in Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song- Remastered. The true joy of the game lies in discovery, experimentation, and forging your own path. So gather your party, embrace the unknown, and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Gnomish Orphanages? No Need! A Practical Guide to Character Optimization in Pathfinder 2e

So, you’re ready to dive into the exciting world of Pathfinder 2e, but the sheer volume of character options has you feeling a bit lost? Fear not, adventurer! This guide is here to help you navigate the feat system and build a character that’s effective and fun to play.

Now, let’s be clear: this isn’t about chasing the absolute most powerful build. This guide is about understanding how to evaluate feat choices in the context of your character concept. We’ll focus on building a well-rounded character capable of handling the diverse challenges Pathfinder 2e throws your way.

Building Around a Niche

The first step to optimization is identifying your character’s niche. What do they excel at? Are they a master of battlefield control like a Wizard, a potent party buffer like a Bard, or something else entirely? Once you’ve nailed down your class and concept, consider these key areas when selecting feats:

1. The Third Action Conundrum

Combat in Pathfinder 2e often leaves you with a precious third action. Most of the time, a third attack at a -10 penalty isn’t ideal, and many spells eat up two actions. So, what to do?

Prioritize feats that give you a compelling third action option. Some excellent choices include:

• Skill Actions: Demoralize, Hide, and Aid can be incredibly effective.
• Quick Spells: Consider spells like True Strike, Magic Missile, or Shield.
• Strategic Movement: Don’t underestimate the power of repositioning. Attacks of opportunity are less common, and sometimes, the best defense is a strategic retreat.
• Bard Dedication: This deserves a special mention! The ability to use Composition cantrips is a fantastic use of a third action, especially for martial characters who want to stay in the fray.

2. The Power of Focus

Focus spells are your secret weapon. Think of them as a middle ground between cantrips and leveled spells – a renewable resource that recharges with a short rest.

Why are they important for optimization? Because you’re likely already taking those 10-minute breaks to Treat Wounds or recover. Why not make the most of that downtime?

• Prioritize single-action Focus spells: Spells like Lay on Hands are ideal. They provide a potent use for your Focus points and give you a valuable third action option.

3. Reacting to the Situation

Having a reliable reaction can make all the difference in combat. While some class feats grant reactions, they might not always be broadly useful (we’re looking at you, Counterspell).

• Offensive or Defensive: Strive for at least one good reaction, whether it’s a defensive boost like a Champion reaction or an offensive maneuver like Attack of Opportunity or the infamous Fake Out.
• Adaptability: Having both offensive and defensive reactions provides valuable flexibility in combat.
• When in Doubt, Aid: If you’re ever unsure how to use your reaction, remember that aiding a party member is always a solid choice. Teamwork makes the dream work!

4. Exploration: Not Just for Rogues!

Don’t neglect the Exploration Mode! Unless your GM is particularly combat-heavy, you’ll spend a significant amount of time exploring.

• Skillful Exploration: Choose feats and skills that enhance your character’s exploration capabilities. Mages might focus on Repeating Spells or Detecting Magic, while Rogues could prioritize Stealth and Perception.
• What Would Your Character Do? Consider your character’s strengths and how they would naturally contribute to exploration.

5. The Art of Being Helpful

Sometimes, your character’s main gimmick just won’t cut it. Maybe the GM is on a roll, you’re facing an enemy immune to your best attacks, or the environment isn’t cooperating.

• Have a Backup Plan: Always have a way to contribute even when your primary strategy fails.
• Team Support: Consider options like buff spells (Haste, Invisibility, True Target), in-combat healing (Battle Medicine), or the ever-reliable Aid action.

Optimizing Your Resources

Remember, every Pathfinder 2e character has access to the same basic resources: actions, HP, spells, focus points, and reactions. Optimization is about using these resources efficiently and maximizing the value of your feat choices.

By focusing on these key areas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a well-rounded and effective character that’s ready for anything!

Level Up Your Game Design: A Practical Guide to Getting Started

Introduction: Why This Guide?

This guide is for aspiring board game designers seeking a structured approach to their craft. It consolidates common questions and provides a clear roadmap for creating engaging and balanced games. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience, this guide offers valuable insights and resources.

Remember, you don’t have to read everything! Focus on the sections that resonate with your current needs.

Part 1: Finding Your Spark – Sources of Inspiration

Inspiration can strike from anywhere! Cultivate an open mind and draw inspiration from various sources:

• Board Games: Immerse yourself in the world of board games. Play a diverse range, analyze their mechanics, observe others playing, and listen to reviews. Even if your goal is to design a specific type of game, exploring different genres broadens your understanding.
• Video Games: Many video game concepts can be adapted for board games. Analyze what makes them engaging and deconstruct their mechanics.
• Storytelling Mediums: Movies, TV series, books, comics, and anime offer a wealth of stories, characters, and settings that can spark your imagination.
• Real Life: Observe the world around you. Everyday situations, human behavior, animal quirks, and personal anecdotes can be surprisingly fertile ground for game ideas.

For a deeper dive into finding inspiration, check out this detailed discussion: Finding Inspiration for Game Design

Resource: Explore BoardGameGeek’s mechanics browser to discover games based on specific mechanics.

Part 2: Crafting Your Design Flow

Starting Simple: An excellent starting point is to modify an existing game you enjoy. Experiment with "house rules" to improve upon the original design.

Developing Your Workflow: While personal preferences vary, a structured approach to game design can be more efficient than relying solely on playtesting. Consider this workflow:

1. Take Notes: Capture your ideas, inspirations, playtesting observations, and any insights that emerge during the design process.
2. Research: Delve deeper into the themes, mechanics, and existing games that align with your vision.
3. Define Core Gameplay: Determine the fundamental gameplay loop and core mechanics that drive your game.
4. Establish an Internal Point System: Assign point values to all resources and actions in your game to create a consistent mathematical framework for balancing.
5. Build an Initial Prototype: Use your point system to create a basic prototype with cards, actions, and resources.
6. Solo Playtesting: Test the game by yourself to ensure the core mechanics function as intended.
7. Iterate and Refine: Address any major issues that arise during solo playtesting.
8. Playtest with Others: Gather feedback from playtesters to gain external perspectives on your game’s balance, engagement, and overall experience.
9. Iterate Based on Feedback: Incorporate constructive criticism from playtesters, but avoid making drastic changes all at once.
10. Beyond Playtesting: While this guide focuses on the initial design phase, remember that bringing a game to market involves additional steps like pitching and production.

For a more comprehensive explanation of this workflow, refer to this post: Finding Your Game Design Flow

Part 3: Balancing Your Game with a Point-Based System

Contrary to popular belief, playtesting should not be the first step in balancing your game. Establishing a mathematical model from the outset, even a simple one, can significantly streamline the balancing process.

Creating Your Point System:

1. Assign Point Values: Give every resource in your game a point value, including actions, victory points, cards, and limited spaces.
2. Start with Larger Numbers: Using larger numbers initially makes balancing easier.
3. Aim for Initial Equality: Assign roughly equal point values to most resources to simplify the process (e.g., 1 Action = 1 Wood = 1 Coin = 4 Points).
4. Fine-Tune with Victory Points: Use victory points for more granular balancing (e.g., 1 Victory Point = 1 Point).
5. Ensure Income Generation: Provide players with ways to gain resources, such as starting coins or actions that yield resources.
6. Incorporate Bonuses: Offer discounts or bonuses for actions or purchases that require multiple resources.
7. Reward Risk and Opportunity: Provide bonuses for quests or achievements that involve risk or limited availability.
8. Maintain Consistency: Adhere to your point system throughout the entire game to ensure its effectiveness.
9. Balance Components: Balance all game components according to your point system.
10. Playtesting Begins: With a solid mathematical foundation in place, you can now begin playtesting with a more balanced starting point.

For a detailed breakdown of creating a point-based system, see this post: Creating a Point-Based System for Balancing

Part 4: Genre-Specific Resources

This section will feature posts discussing design considerations for specific game genres. While the information may be tailored to a particular genre, the concepts can often be applied to other types of games as well.

Currently Available:

• Trading Card Games (Deck-building): Designing Trading Card Games
• Tabletop Role-Playing Games: Designing Tabletop Role-Playing Games

More genre-specific posts will be added over time!

Mastering Akshan’s E: A Comprehensive Guide to Heroic Swing

Many players underestimate the complexity and power of Akshan’s E – Heroic Swing. This guide dives deep into this versatile ability, showcasing its potential for jungle dominance, map traversal, and even stylish outplays. Whether you’re a seasoned Sentinel or a curious newcomer, prepare to see Akshan’s E in a whole new light.

Watch the Video Guide

Table of Contents

• Jungle Dominance
• Phasing Through Walls
• Speed and Efficiency
• Maximizing Swing Range
• Synergizing with Other Abilities

Jungle Dominance

Akshan’s indefinite swing duration allows him to conquer the jungle with Tarzan-like prowess.

• Early Game Pressure: Steal enemy buffs at level 1 or secure early dragons with ease.
• Solo Objectives: Take down the Rift Herald and even solo the Baron with strategic swings (though caution is advised as the Baron can interrupt your E).

[Image of Akshan soloing dragon]

Important Note: While Akshan’s tooltip mentions being knocked off by terrain, certain spots allow him to phase through walls! Experiment in the Practice Tool to master these locations.

Phasing Through Walls

Like a Shuriman Flash, Akshan can use Heroic Swing to bypass terrain in surprising ways.

• Practice Makes Perfect: Spend time in the Practice Tool to develop muscle memory for these wall-phasing spots.
• Surprise Factor: Catch your opponents off guard with unexpected flanks and escapes.

[Image of Akshan phasing through a wall]

Speed and Efficiency

Need to push a wave and get back to lane quickly? Heroic Swing can help you zoom across the map like Sonic the Hedgehog.

• Rapid Rotations: Utilize E for swift rotations between lanes and objectives.
• Efficient Farming: Clear jungle camps and collect farm with increased speed.

Maximizing Swing Range

Think of Akshan’s grappling hook like Rapunzel’s hair – the longer the swing, the better!

• Avoid Interruptions: Larger swings make it harder for enemies and terrain to interrupt your E.
• Enhanced Mobility: Traverse the map with ease and reach advantageous positions.

Pro Tip: While large swings are generally beneficial, adapt your strategy based on the situation. Sometimes, a smaller, faster swing is necessary.

Synergizing with Other Abilities

Heroic Swing isn’t just a solo act; it synergizes beautifully with Akshan’s other abilities.

• Ultimate Precision: Reposition during your ultimate channel to land the perfect shots.
• Combo Potential: Combine E with your other abilities for creative engages and escapes.

Conclusion

Mastering Akshan’s E is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the learning curve, experiment in the Practice Tool, and soon you’ll be swinging through Summoner’s Rift with style and confidence. Remember, even the most skilled Sentinels started somewhere. Now go forth and make the Rogue Sentinel proud!