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Difference between revisions of "Dragonhunter - Power Dragonhunter"
 
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| rating = great
 
| rating = great
 
| xpac = hot
 
| xpac = hot
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| difficulty = 2
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| difficulty = 1
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Overview==
 
==Overview==
−
Power Dragonhunter (pDH) is a standard power DPS build that features excellent CC, good mobility, and very high burst damage. It has a versatile kit with many strong offensive and defensive utility and weapon options alongside plenty of AOE DPS to help cleave trash in Open World. Thanks to some of its traits and profession mechanics, Power Dragonhunter is a relatively defensive option even in glass gear. It has a small learning curve; for most people this build is easy to pick up but possesses a relatively high skill ceiling.  
+
Power dragonhunter offers very high burst damage from melee range in a small AoE, high vulnerability application, and decent mobility. Although it has low health, it has access to several defensive options and decent sustain. Moreover, it can opt to bring {{Tooltip|Longbow}} if ranged damage is required.
  
 
==Template Code==
 
==Template Code==
 
{{TemplateCode|
 
{{TemplateCode|
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code = [&DQEqOzEvGysmDwAASAEAAIoSAAD+AAAAtRIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA=]
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code = [&DQEQPyo6GzsmDyYPSAFIAYoSLQH+AP4AtRKJEgAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACCQEyAAA=]
 
}}
 
}}
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==Skill Bar==
 
==Skill Bar==
 +
===Standard===
 
{{Skill bar
 
{{Skill bar
 
|profession = guardian
 
|profession = guardian
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|weapon1 = Greatsword
 
|weapon1 = Greatsword
 
|weapon2 =  
 
|weapon2 =  
−
|weapon3 = Longbow
+
|weapon3 = Spear
 
|weapon4 =  
 
|weapon4 =  
 
|healing = Litany of Wrath
 
|healing = Litany of Wrath
−
|utility1 = Bane Signet
+
|utility1 = Sword of Justice
−
|utility2 = Sword of Justice
+
|utility2 = Procession of Blades
−
|utility3 = Procession of Blades
+
|utility3 = Bane Signet
 
|elite = Dragon's Maw
 
|elite = Dragon's Maw
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
===Variants===
 
−
In addition to the above skill bar, some utilities or weapons may prove useful in various situations. You should always seek to adapt your build to the right situation. When deciding on which options to use, note that {{Skill|Litany of Wrath}} is the strongest heal in Guardian's kit by far and should not be replaced. Additionally, {{Skill|Sword of Justice}} and {{Skill|Procession of Blades}} are incredibly powerful when solo; only replace them as a last resort. If replacing {{Skill|Procession of Blades}}, consider running Sword/Focus instead of Greatsword.
 
−
 
−
{{Skill|Bane Signet}} can be replaced easily by any options below.
 
  
−
===Event Farming===
 
−
When Event Farming, consider running {{Skill|"Stand Your Ground!"}}, {{Skill|Sword of Justice}}, and {{Skill|"Advance!"}} alongside the Event Farm Equipment listed below.
 
  
−
===Weapons===
+
===Weapon Variants===
−
* Sword/Focus can be run when extra {{Tooltip|Fury}} is beneficial or when using the block from {{Skill|Shield of Wrath}}. This set can replace Greatsword or Longbow. When replacing Greatsword, consider that you lose AOE damage from {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}}. When replacing Longbow, you are trading out your ranged option.  
+
If you don't have access to [https://wiki.guildwars2.com/wiki/Lowland_Spear_Training land spear] with Janthir Wilds, use Longbow instead.
−
* Staff can be run as an alternative tagging weapon. While it's generally inferior to Longbow, some people prefer it due to its large and fast AOE's from {{Skill|Symbol of Swiftness}} and {{Skill|Holy Strike}}.
+
* {{Tooltip|Longbow}} - provides high burst damage from range, but lacks the much-needed {{Tooltip|Resolution}} generation of spear and has slightly lower damage.
−
* When up against strong solo enemies with predictable skill patterns, such as the Avatar of Balthazar, Sword/Focus + Mace/Shield can be used to chain blocks and {{Skill|Aegis}}. This loadout has much lower DPS than others but can trivialize some solo fights.
 
−
* Scepter/Focus is an alternative ranged option. If a fight dramatically benefits from ranged DPS, Scepter/Focus + Longbow can be used for reliable damage at 900 range.
 
  
 
===Skill Variants===
 
===Skill Variants===
 
====Heal Skills====
 
====Heal Skills====
−
* {{Skill|Litany of Wrath}} is an incredibly powerful heal but has a bit of a learning curve. When using this skill, it is imperative that you continue to DPS; treat this ability like an invulnerability window. You can chain Litany with {{Skill|Shield of Courage}} to cover your entire opening rotation, allowing you to DPS freely without having to worry about (most) incoming damage. This is an important skill to learn for new Guardian players.
+
We default to {{Skill|Litany of Wrath}} as it provides insane sustain, making you almost immortal for its duration. If needed, it can be replaced by:
−
* If you absolutely must change your heal, {{Skill|Signet of Resolve}} and {{Skill|Shelter}} are viable options.
+
* {{Skill|Signet of Resolve}} can be considered as a more defensive option.
−
* {{Skill|Shelter}} in particular has some interesting applications in fights where long-duration blocks can cover major mechanics, similar to {{Skill|Renewed Focus}}.
+
* {{Skill|Purification}} provides more damage thanks to {{Relic|Relic of the Dragonhunter}}.
−
 
 
 
====Utility Skills====
 
====Utility Skills====
−
When choosing from the utilities below, it's often best to replace {{Skill|Bane Signet}} over other options. Keep in mind that for CC, simply activating {{Skill|Bane Signet}} is often your best choice as it provides 300 defiance damage on a 20s cooldown.  
+
We recommend:<br>
−
* {{Skill|Test of Faith}} - can replace {{Skill|Bane Signet}} for significantly higher burst and a bit of {{Tooltip|Protection}}.  
+
{{Skill|Procession of Blades}} for its damage, {{Tooltip|Fury}}, and uptime of {{Relic|Relic of the Dragonhunter}}. Never replace it.<br>
−
* {{Skill|"Stand Your Ground!"}} - this is an incredibly powerful stunbreak that generates {{Tooltip|Stability}} and {{Tooltip|Resolution}} in zergs. This can be a strong defensive tool for allies and also covers {{Skill|Resolution}} if running the Radiance variant below.
+
{{Skill|Sword of Justice}} for its damage and vulnerability application. Can be replaced if needed.<br>
−
* {{Skill|Hallowed Ground}} - provides AOE {{Tooltip|Stability}} and {{Tooltip|Resolution}}.
+
{{Skill|Bane Signet}} as a passive damage increase. Can easily be replaced if needed.<br>
−
* {{Skill|Smite Condition}} - condi cleanse
+
If you want or need to run other skills, here are some suggestions:
−
* {{Skill|Wall of Reflection}} - if you need to reflect projectiles.
+
* {{Skill|Test of Faith}} - defense + offense; replaces {{Skill|Procession of Blades}} against moving targets and grants {{Tooltip|Protection}}.  
−
* {{Skill|"Advance!"}} - long-lasting swiftness while running, also gives aegis
+
* {{Skill|"Hold the Line!"}} - defensive; grants area {{tooltip|Protection}} to yourself and nearby allies
−
* {{Skill|Judge's Intervention}} - teleport with a moderate cooldown
+
* {{Skill|Wall of Reflection}} - defensive; reflects projectiles
 +
* {{Skill|"Advance!"}} - defense; provides area {{Tooltip|Aegis}} and {{Tooltip|Swiftness}}
 +
* {{Skill|"Stand Your Ground!"}} - defense; area {{Tooltip|Stability}} and personal stunbreak.
 +
* {{Skill|Merciful Intervention}} - mobility
 +
* {{Skill|Sanctuary}} - projectile block and extreme CC, though it has a long cooldown
 +
====Elite Skills====
 +
We default to {{Skill|Dragon's Maw}} for its good damage and uptime of {{Relic|Relic of the Dragonhunter}}. If really needed, it can be replaced by:
 +
* {{Skill|Renewed Focus}} - defensive option.
 +
* {{Skill|"Feel My Wrath!"}} - area {{Tooltip|Quickness}} and {{Tooltip|Fury}}.
  
−
====Elite Skills====
 
−
* {{Skill|Renewed Focus}} - This ability can be chained with {{Skill|Shelter}} and {{Skill|Shield of Courage}}, alongside tools such as {{Skill|"Advance!"}}, for an extremely long-duration series of blocks and invulnerability. In some situations this can cover powerful boss mechanics that would otherwise be extremely punishing.
 
−
* {{Skill|"Feel My Wrath!"}} - DPS / party support; this is superior to {{Skill|Dragon's Maw}} if your party needs help with {{Tooltip|Quickness}} uptime.
 
  
 
==Specializations==
 
==Specializations==
−
===Standard Traits===
+
{{Specialization|Radiance|bot|bot|bot}}
−
Zeal is the core of any good guardian build due to its high {{Tooltip|Vulnerability}} application and considerable number of flat % strike mods such as {{Trait|Symbolic Avenger}} and {{Trait|Symbolic Exposure}}. Especially when Solo, Zeal should always be taken over other options due to its extraordinarily high DPS increase.
+
{{Specialization|Zeal|mid|mid|bot}}
 +
{{Specialization|Dragonhunter|bot|mid|bot}}
 +
;Variants
 +
* {{Trait|Heavy Light}} - can be considered for long fights vs. defiant enemies such as bosses. It has slightly lower burst but higher sustained damage. When using this trait, do not use {{Skill|Spear of Justice}}, as it will reduce your uptime of {{Trait|Zealot's Aggression}} for no gain.
  
−
As this is a Dragonhunter build, we obviously take Dragonhunter. We're opting for {{Trait|Heavy Light}} over {{Trait|Big Game Hunter}} here as it allows us a more flexible rotation at very minimal DPS loss.
 
  
−
Honor is taken as our third specialization. While it may be unintuitive and many view Honor as exclusively a defensive traitline, Honor provides us with a significant increase in damage over both Radiance and Zeal due to the synergy of {{Trait|Writ of Persistence}} and Zeal. Longer symbol duration provides us with more consistent {{Tooltip|Vulnerability}} and {{Trait|Symbolic Avenger}} uptime and the wider radius drastically helps in cleave situations. Honor also provides some {{Tooltip|Might}} through {{Trait|Empowering Might}} and an extra symbol when we use our heal. With Honor also providing some passive endurance regen, it's clearly the best option for open world play.
+
==Equipment==
−
{{Specialization|Honor|bot|bot|mid}}
+
:Ascended gear and stat infusions are not required; you can use exotic gear with the same stats.
−
{{Specialization|Zeal|bot|mid|bot}}
 
−
{{Specialization|Dragonhunter|bot|mid|mid}}
 
−
* If someone else is providing you {{Tooltip|Might}} or you are capped from other sources, use {{Trait|Fiery Wrath}} in Zeal.
 
  
−
===Virtues===
 
−
Virtues is a popular option for DPS Dragonhunter builds due to its high number of flat modifiers, similar to Zeal. While it can be somewhat reliant on {{Tooltip|Aegis}} uptime to achieve the best results, even with no uptime it is competitive with Radiance. Virtues also isn't reliant on {{Tooltip|Resolution}}, though it is heavily reliant on boons in general thanks to {{Trait|Inspired Virtue}}. It is additionally reliant on {{Tooltip|Alacrity}} due to {{Trait|Inspired Virtue}} and its modifiers are conditional on essentially not being hit. Because of this, Virtues is a poor choice for solo play but can be extremely powerful in groups.
 
−
{{Specialization|Virtues|top|top|top|variant=y}}
 
−
* {{Trait|Battle Presence}} or {{Trait|Indomitable Courage}} can provide ally support at a very minimal DPS loss.
 
−
 
−
===Radiance===
 
−
Many Guardian builds use Radiance in instanced PVE due to its high increase to Crit Chance (35%). When solo, Radiance also offers significant {{Tooltip|Might}} generation, enabling us to take {{Trait|Fiery Wrath}} in Zeal. The primary weakness of Radiance is its reliance on {{Tooltip|Resolution}}, and if we choose to use it in solo open world we may find ourselves being forced to use {{Skill|"Stand Your Ground!"}} over {{Skill|Bane Signet}} to maintain our buffs. This isn't ideal, and Radiance is not recommended... However, for some players this playstyle is preferred, and so it is listed here as a variant. Note that the Standard Equipment gear below is actually optimized to be played with Radiance, since it is the default for raids.
 
−
{{Specialization|Radiance|bot|bot|bot|variant=y}}
 
−
* If someone else is providing you {{Tooltip|Resolution}}, use {{Trait|Right-Hand Strength}}.
 
−
 
−
==Equipment==
 
−
:Ascended gear and stat infusions are not required; you can use exotic gear with the same stats.
 
 
===Standard Equipment===
 
===Standard Equipment===
−
This set uses gear that is very similar to [[Build:Dragonhunter_-_Power_DPS]], making it excellent for general PVE. This gear is not min-maxed to the Honor/Virtues variant, since Radiance is the default PDH raid build in the current meta, however it will work perfectly fine with Honor/Virtues in open world.
+
This set uses gear that is generally applicable in all of PVE.
 
{{PvE equipment
 
{{PvE equipment
 
| stats = Berserker
 
| stats = Berserker
 
| weight = Heavy
 
| weight = Heavy
−
| rune = Superior Rune of the Scholar
+
| rune = Superior Rune of the Dragonhunter
 
| rune-qt = 6
 
| rune-qt = 6
 
| weapon1 = Greatsword
 
| weapon1 = Greatsword
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| sigil1 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
| sigil1 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
| sigil2 = Superior Sigil of Impact
 
| sigil2 = Superior Sigil of Impact
−
| weapon3 = Longbow
+
| weapon3 = Spear
 
| weapon4 =  
 
| weapon4 =  
 
| sigil3 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
| sigil3 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
| sigil4 = Superior Sigil of Impact
 
| sigil4 = Superior Sigil of Impact
−
}}
+
| relic = Relic of the Dragonhunter
−
 
+
| chest = Dragon
−
===Virtues/Honor Equipment===
+
| legs = Dragon
−
This equipment is often used with instanced PVE builds that utilize Virtues over Radiance. This requires a higher investment in to Precision / Crit Chance due to the missing 35% from Radiance. This equipment is higher DPS for non-Radiance Dragonhunter builds, including the Honor build we're using above. However, this equipment is not compatible with Radiance, making it less versatile.
+
| backpiece = Dragon
−
{{PvE equipment
 
−
| stats = Berserker
 
−
| weight = Heavy
 
−
| rune = Superior Rune of the Thief
 
−
| rune-qt = 6
 
−
| weapon1 = Greatsword
 
−
| weapon2 =
 
−
| sigil1 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
−
| sigil2 = Superior Sigil of Accuracy
 
−
| weapon3 = Longbow
 
−
| weapon4 =
 
−
| sigil3 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
−
| sigil4 = Superior Sigil of Accuracy
 
−
| variant = y
 
−
<!-- Custom stats -->
 
−
| head = Assassin
 
−
| shoulders = Assassin
 
−
| chest =
 
−
| hands = Assassin
 
−
| legs =
 
−
| feet = Assassin
 
−
| backpiece =
 
−
| accessory1 =
 
−
| accessory2 =
 
−
| amulet =
 
−
| ring1 =
 
−
| ring2 =
 
−
}}
 
−
 
 
−
===Marauder Equipment===
 
−
This set uses {{Tooltip|Marauder}} and {{Tooltip|Dragon}} gear to achieve over 20k HP with a Tier 10 Jade Bot Core. This does sacrifice a significant portion of our DPS, however: Roughly 15%. Additionally this gear is not usable in instanced content, which limits it exclusively to open world. This set is optimized for use with the Honor or Virtues variant above. If using Radiance, trade the majority of your Marauder equipment for Dragon instead.
 
−
{{PvE equipment
 
−
| stats = Marauder
 
−
| weight = Heavy
 
−
| rune = Superior Rune of the Thief
 
−
| rune-qt = 6
 
−
| weapon1 = Greatsword
 
−
| weapon2 =
 
−
| sigil1 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
−
| sigil2 = Superior Sigil of Accuracy
 
−
| weapon3 = Longbow
 
−
| weapon4 =
 
−
| sigil3 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
−
| sigil4 = Superior Sigil of Accuracy
 
−
<!-- Custom stats -->
 
−
| ring1 = Dragon
 
−
| accessory1 = Dragon
 
 
| amulet = Dragon
 
| amulet = Dragon
 +
| ring1 =  Dragon
 +
| ring2 = Dragon
 
}}
 
}}
−
* If full exotic, use a Marauder ring.
+
If you are gearing this character from zero, start with '''exotic quality gear'''. Search the trading post for "Devona" armor. Then search for the weapons you want to use: "Impaler" spear, "Ebonblade" greatsword, "Eir's Longbow" longbow. Upgrade to ascended gear as you progress. See also: [[Guide:How to Gear a Character]].
−
 
+
* Consider {{Relic|Relic of Zakiros}} to trade damage for high sustain. If you lack access to Dragonhunter and Zakiros, consider {{Relic|Relic of the Thief}}.
−
===Event Farming===
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* For defense, equip the highest tier Jade Core you can afford. Use defensive food or skills if required.
−
This set is specifically designed for comfortable event farming in open world. This makes it a luxury set that is not usable in instanced PVE. Use this Equipment with the Event Farming variant above, namely running {{Skill|"Advance!"}} and {{Skill|"Stand Your Ground!"}}.
 
−
{{PvE equipment
 
−
| stats = Berserker
 
−
| weight = Heavy
 
−
| rune = Superior Rune of Speed
 
−
| rune-qt = 6
 
−
| weapon1 = Greatsword
 
−
| weapon2 =
 
−
| sigil1 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
−
| sigil2 = Superior Sigil of Accuracy
 
−
| weapon3 = Longbow
 
−
| weapon4 =
 
−
| sigil3 = Superior Sigil of Force
 
−
| sigil4 = Superior Sigil of Speed
 
−
}}
 
  
−
===Other Equipment Options===
 
−
Guild Wars 2's Open World allows us to be versatile with our gear selection, within reason. While the default equipment listed above is the most generally-useful set due to being usable in virtually all areas of PVE, it is also acceptable to run equipment exclusively for open world, provided you understand that you cannot take it into instanced content. The equipment options below provide extra defense, alternative playstyles, and extra versatility.
 
  
−
====Budget====
+
==Consumables==
−
Some of the gear above can be relatively expensive, particularly {{Rune|Superior Rune of the Scholar}} and {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Impact}}. Anything that costs less than 2g on the Trading Post is not particularly pricey and you should just suck it up and buy it. Do your dailies, thanks.
+
Budget consumables are acceptable for use in open world.
−
* As a note for this build, full exotics work perfectly fine. Ruby Orichalcum Trinkets and Devona's armor on the trading post will run you just over 10 gold. Backpieces can be a pain to get: If you have 400 in a given crafting profession, you should craft that profession's level 78 backpack. If not, feel free to use a Rare (Yellow) backpiece from the Trading Post.
 
−
* {{Rune|Superior Rune of the Scholar}} can be replaced with {{Rune|Superior Rune of Infiltration}}. If using non-radiance variants, {{Rune|Superior Rune of Strength}} is also an excellent option. {{Rune|Superior Rune of the Fireworks}} is a decent choice for a more utility oriented rune.
 
−
* {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Impact}} can be replace with {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Accuracy}} in the Standard Equipment, or {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Air}} in other variants. In some cases, {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Strength}} can be a good pick and allows you to swap {{Trait|Zealous Scepter}} to {{Trait|Fiery Wrath}}.
 
  
−
====Defense====
+
===DPS===
−
Many players often look for defensive options in open world, especially when they're new to the class. The following options can be used for extra defense, but should not be taken into raids, fractals, or other instanced PVE.
+
* Prioritize '''Steak''' Ascended food.
−
* {{Tooltip|Knight}} or {{Tooltip|Soldier}} trinkets can provide a significant boost to defense. Using anything more than trinkets is not recommended.
+
* {{Food|Plate of Spicy Moa Wings}} / {{Food|Bowl of Sweet and Spicy Butternut Squash Soup}}
−
* {{Rune|Superior Rune of Vampirism}} is a very cheap and effective rune for power builds in open world and comes highly recommended.
+
* {{Utility|Superior Sharpening Stone}} / {{Utility|Tin of Fruitcake}}
−
* Alternatively, {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Energy}} is a fantastic defensive option that can replace {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Impact}} / {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Accuracy}}. It's cheap, effective, and promotes learning the game's intended mitigation mechanic: Dodging and i-frames. We play Budget Dark Souls here.
 
  
−
====A note on other alternatives====
+
===Defense===
−
Open World is a flexible game mode that allows us to use what we find comfortable. While it can be important for us to learn the game's intended systems (Dodging, Rotations, Boon Application), it's perfectly acceptable to adjust a build how you see fit, provided it is used in Open World rather than Instanced PVE. Just remember this game rewards skill expression and proper DPS much more than passive defense, but don't be afraid to find a sweet spot of Comfort vs Effectiveness for yourself.
+
* {{Food|Bowl of Orrian Truffle and Meat Stew}}
 +
* {{Food|Fried Oyster Sandwich}}
 +
* {{Food|Bowl of Lemongrass Mussel Pasta}}
  
 +
===Farming===
 +
* Prioritize '''Steak''' Ascended food.
 +
* {{Item|Birthday Blaster}} / {{Item|Feast of Delectable Birthday Cake}}
 +
* {{Food|Peppermint Omnomberry Bar}}
 +
* {{Utility|Sharpening Skull}} (and variants)
  
−
==Consumables==
 
−
Consumables are a major part of Guild Wars 2 and Food/Utilities are much more useful in this game than in other MMOs. You should definitely consider using these when roaming around in open world or farming map metas.
 
  
−
===Ascended Food===
+
==Usage==
−
Ascended food, in this case '''Steak''', is always superior to other food options. Use it when it's available. The one exception to this is when utilizing {{Food|Bowl of Orrian Truffle and Meat Stew}} or its alternatives to achieve more dodges.  
+
===Spear of Justice===
 +
{{Skill|Spear of Justice}} is the dragonhunter's first profession skill. Thanks to {{Trait|Big Game Hunter}}, your Spear of Justice allows you to deal massive burst damage to your target and also activates {{Trait|Inspiring Virtue}}.
  
−
====DPS====
+
Always mark your target with Spear of Justice before bursting it down.
−
When solo, DPS consumables can give us a rather drastic increase to damage due to their flat bonuses (this can sometimes be as high as an extra +15%). In open world, it is absolutely acceptable to use budget food.
 
−
* For builds that don't Crit-Cap, {{Food|Bowl of Curry Butternut Squash Soup}} is generally the best option, though {{Food|Plate of Truffle Steak}} can compete with it. Neither of these foods are particularly expensive, but {{Food|Plate of Steak and Asparagus}} or {{Food|Bowl of Butternut Squash Soup}} are viable budget alternatives.
 
−
* For Crit-Capped Builds, like the Marauder or Radiance options above, {{Food|Bowl of Sweet and Spicy Butternut Squash Soup}} is our highest DPS option. This food is rather expensive, however, so {{Tooltip|Avocado Smoothie}} can be utilized as a budget alternative.
 
−
* Our utility should be {{Utility|Tin of Fruitcake}} or {{Utility|Superior Sharpening Stone}}. {{Utility|Hardened Sharpening Stone}} can be used as a budget option.
 
−
* {{Food|Dragon's Breath Bun}} is the absolute best option for DPS while farming in big meta zergs. Ideally you should be running farm food, but sometimes you just want to see the numbers go up.
 
  
−
====Defense====
+
===Resolution===
−
Certain foods can provide a massive boost to defense. These are typically only useful when solo, and usually only when attempting to solo harder enemies.
+
This build greatly benefits from {{Tooltip|Resolution}} to activate a few traits, most notably {{Trait|Righteous Instincts}}.
−
* Run {{Food|Orrian Truffle and Meat Stew}} for a massive boost to defense and a bit of extra {{Tooltip|Might}}. {{Food|Bowl of Meat and Winter Vegetable Stew}} is it's budget variant, however, since this food should be used so rarely it is fine to spring for a few of the stronger option.
 
−
* {{Food|Scoop of Mintberry Swirl Ice Cream}} is a reasonable lifesteal food that gives us both damage and defense while also having good bonuses to profit/hr.  
 
  
−
====Farming====
+
Your sources of {{Tooltip|Resolution}} are {{Trait|Healer's Resolution}}, {{Trait|Zealot's Resolution}}, {{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}}, and {{Skill|Helio Rush}} when {{Tooltip|Illuminated}}.
−
* Any ascended food is superior to any other food you could use. Steak for power, flatbread for conditions. Budget versions of these foods exist and are acceptable.
 
−
* {{food|Peppermint Omnomberry Bar}} - farming'
 
−
* {{Utility|Sharpening Skull}} (and variants) - farming
 
  
−
Other options, such as [https://wiki.guildwars2.com/wiki/Feast_of_Delectable_Birthday_Cake Birthday Cake], [https://wiki.guildwars2.com/wiki/Homemade_Campfire_Treat Campfire Treats], [https://wiki.guildwars2.com/wiki/Spicy_Pumpkin_Cookie Spicy Pumpkin Cookie], or other similar food is fine to use. The general goal is to prioritize the following:
 
−
# Flat % Experience, like we see on Ascended Food
 
−
# % Karma Gain
 
−
# % Magic Find
 
−
# Experience from kills
 
−
# % Gold find
 
−
 
−
This assumes you are converting Karma and Spirit Shards to gold correctly. If you are not converting Karma or Spirit Shards, prioritize Magic Find.
 
−
 
−
==Usage==
 
 
===Damage===
 
===Damage===
−
====General Advice====
+
* Mark the target with {{Skill|Spear of Justice}} before unleashing your combo.
−
* Note that to play this build optimally you must turn off "Melee Attack Assist" in your Options menu. This is so you can stand inside of boss hitboxes.
+
* Make sure to use {{Skill|Symbol of Luminance}} first to empower your other spear skills with {{Tooltip|Illuminated}}.
−
* Your main damage skills are {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}}, {{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}}, {{Skill|True Shot}}, {{Skill|Symbol of Energy}}, and {{Skill|Hunter's Ward}}.
+
* Use {{Skill|Procession of Blades}} off cooldown for damage, {{Tooltip|Fury}}, and uptime of {{Relic|Relic of the Dragonhunter}}.
−
** Never interrupt your Greatsword or Sword autoattack chains as all the damage is loaded in the last hit.
+
* Use {{Skill|Sword of Justice}} at the start to apply vulnerability, and then periodically throughout the fight instead of autoattacks.
−
* Fight enemies in your symbols to get the damage buff from {{Trait|Symbolic Avenger}}.
 
−
 
 
−
====Generic Opener====
 
−
While this opener may not apply in every situation, it is a good general-use rotation to start with. Open on Longbow.
 
−
# {{Skill|Dragon's Maw}} / {{Skill|"Feel My Wrath!"}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Procession of Blades}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Sword of Justice}}
 
−
# {{Skill|True Shot}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Symbol of Energy}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Hunter's Ward}}
 
−
# Weapon Swap
 
−
# {{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Sword of Justice}}
 
−
# Auto-attack until {{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}}, {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}}, and {{Skill|Spear of Justice}} are back up
 
−
# {{Skill|Sword of Justice}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Leap of Faith}}
 
−
# {{Skill|Binding Blade}}
 
−
# Weapon Swap
 
−
# {{Skill|Symbol of Energy}}
 
−
# {{Skill|True Shot}}
 
  
−
From there, your goal is to loop your weapon's big damage skills, {{Skill|True Shot}} and {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}} while filling the gaps with other weapon skills like {{Skill|Symbol of Energy}} and {{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}}. For Greatsword loops, you want to use {{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}} twice before weapon swapping. For Longbow loops, you want to get off at least three {{Skill|True Shot}}s. For Sword/Focus loops, focus on three {{Skill|Zealous Blade}}s (while also weaving in {{Skill|Symbol of Blades}} twice.)
+
;Opener
 +
#{{Skill|Procession of Blades}}
 +
#{{Skill|Spear of Justice}}
 +
#{{Skill|Sword of Justice}}
 +
#{{Skill|Symbol of Luminance}}
 +
#{{Skill|Helio Rush}}
 +
#{{Skill|Gleaming Disc}}
 +
#{{Skill|Solar Storm}}
 +
#{{Tooltip|weapon swap}}
 +
#{{Skill|Dragon's Maw}}
 +
#{{Skill|Symbol of Resolution}}
 +
#{{Skill|Whirling Wrath}}
 +
#{{Skill|Binding Blade}}
 +
#{{Skill|Leap of Faith}}
  
 +
====Notes and tips ====
 +
* Space out the usage of {{Skill|Procession of Blades}} and {{Skill|Dragon's Maw}} (and {{Skill|Purification}} if using it) for higher uptime on {{Relic|Relic of the Dragonhunter}}.
 +
* Remember that {{Tooltip|Resolution}} is a huge damage increase due to your traits. Get Resolution before bursting enemies down.
 +
* Make sure to hit enemies with your symbols to gain stacks of {{Trait|Symbolic Avenger}} and inflict vulnerability from {{Trait|Symbolic Exposure}}.
 +
* Maintain uptime on {{Trait|Inspiring Virtue}} with {{Skill|Spear of Justice}}, {{Skill|Wings of Resolve}}, and {{Skill|Shield of Courage}}.
 +
* Turn off "Melee Attack Assist" in Options. This allows you to use {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}} inside an enemy's hitbox so that all projectiles hit your target.
  
 
===Defense===
 
===Defense===
−
* {{Skill|Shield of Wrath}} is a powerful defensive skill. If you stand on top of an ally while this is active it can block attacks for them as well.
+
* Your passive {{Tooltip|Aegis}} will block attacks periodically.
−
* {{Skill|Wall of Reflection}} and {{Skill|Shield of the Avenger}} can be used against projectiles.
+
* Chain {{Skill|Shield of Courage}} and {{Skill|Litany of Wrath}} to cover your opening rotation.
−
* {{Skill|Shield of Courage}} is a block that also gives aegis, protection, Resolution, stability, and a stun break.
+
* Use {{Skill|Wings of Resolve}} to heal and cleanse conditions.  
−
* You can run {{Skill|Shelter}} for more active defense. You can also run {{Skill|Renewed Focus}} but this comes at the cost of one of your best burst damage skills.
+
* Use {{Skill|Leap of Faith}} and {{Skill|Gleaming Disk}} to {{Tooltip|Blind}} enemies.
−
* Remember to always dodge and sidestep attacks if possible. Don't get hit by anything you can move out of.
+
* Review the defensive skill variants above for more defensive options.
−
 
 
−
===Sustain===
 
−
* This build doesn't have much sustained healing unless you have {{Rune|Superior Rune of Vampirism}}, so avoiding damage is extremely important in long fights. You can run healing food, such as {{food|Scoop of Mintberry Swirl Ice Cream}} in these situations to relieve some pressure.
 
−
* {{Skill|Wings of Resolve}} is a powerful heal and condition cleanse. You can also use {{Skill|Whirling Wrath}} in the light field from your symbols to cleanse conditions.
 
−
 
 
−
===Zerging===
 
−
* When zerging, use your {{Skill|Puncture Shot}}, {{Skill|Deflecting Shot}}, and {{Skill|Symbol of Energy}} to tag mobs. Try to make sure your {{Sigil|Superior Sigil of Fire}} procs on groups so you get credit for all of them.  
 
−
* Against bosses or static groups of mobs (while the zerg isn't moving much), use your higher-damage weapon set such as Greatsword or Sword/Focus.
 
−
 
 
−
See [[Build:Dragonhunter_-_Power_Farmer]] for a much more detailed breakdown of zerg farming with guardian.
 
  
 
===Crowd Control===
 
===Crowd Control===
 
* {{Skill|Pull}}
 
* {{Skill|Pull}}
−
* {{Skill|Procession of Blades}}
 
 
* {{Skill|Dragon's Maw}}
 
* {{Skill|Dragon's Maw}}
−
* {{Skill|Hunter's Verdict}}
+
* {{Skill|Symbol of Luminance}}
−
* {{Skill|Hammer of Wisdom}}
 
 
* {{Skill|Bane Signet}} (as a last resort)
 
* {{Skill|Bane Signet}} (as a last resort)

Latest revision as of 17:10, 8 August 2025

The community gave this build a rating, making it top-tier: Great

Focused on: Strike damage

Designed for: Open World and Open World General

Expansions required: Heart of Thorns builds

Difficulty:
Easy
This build was last updated on August 08, 2025 and is up to date for the August 19, 2025 patch.

Overview

Power dragonhunter offers very high burst damage from melee range in a small AoE, high vulnerability application, and decent mobility. Although it has low health, it has access to several defensive options and decent sustain. Moreover, it can opt to bring Longbow Longbow if ranged damage is required.

Template Code

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Skill Bar

Standard

Greatsword
Spear
Utility


Weapon Variants

If you don't have access to land spear with Janthir Wilds, use Longbow instead.

  • Longbow Longbow - provides high burst damage from range, but lacks the much-needed Resolution Resolution generation of spear and has slightly lower damage.

Skill Variants

Heal Skills

We default to Litany of Wrath as it provides insane sustain, making you almost immortal for its duration. If needed, it can be replaced by:

  • Signet of Resolve can be considered as a more defensive option.
  • Purification provides more damage thanks to Relic of the Dragonhunter.

Utility Skills

We recommend:
Procession of Blades for its damage, Fury Fury, and uptime of Relic of the Dragonhunter. Never replace it.
Sword of Justice for its damage and vulnerability application. Can be replaced if needed.
Bane Signet as a passive damage increase. Can easily be replaced if needed.
If you want or need to run other skills, here are some suggestions:

  • Test of Faith - defense + offense; replaces Procession of Blades against moving targets and grants Protection Protection.
  • "Hold the Line!" - defensive; grants area Protection Protection to yourself and nearby allies
  • Wall of Reflection - defensive; reflects projectiles
  • "Advance!" - defense; provides area Aegis Aegis and Swiftness Swiftness
  • "Stand Your Ground!" - defense; area Stability Stability and personal stunbreak.
  • Merciful Intervention - mobility
  • Sanctuary - projectile block and extreme CC, though it has a long cooldown

Elite Skills

We default to Dragon's Maw for its good damage and uptime of Relic of the Dragonhunter. If really needed, it can be replaced by:

  • Renewed Focus - defensive option.
  • "Feel My Wrath!" - area Quickness Quickness and Fury Fury.


Specializations

Variants
  • Heavy Light - can be considered for long fights vs. defiant enemies such as bosses. It has slightly lower burst but higher sustained damage. When using this trait, do not use Spear of Justice, as it will reduce your uptime of Zealot's Aggression for no gain.


Equipment

Ascended gear and stat infusions are not required; you can use exotic gear with the same stats.

Standard Equipment

This set uses gear that is generally applicable in all of PVE.

Head
Berserker
Shoulders
Berserker
Chest
Dragon
Hands
Berserker
Legs
Dragon
Feet
Berserker
Backpiece
Dragon
Accessory
Berserker
Accessory
Berserker
Amulet
Dragon
Ring
Dragon
Ring
Dragon
Greatsword
Berserker
Sigil
Sigil
Spear
Berserker
Sigil
Sigil
Rune
x6


Relic

If you are gearing this character from zero, start with exotic quality gear. Search the trading post for "Devona" armor. Then search for the weapons you want to use: "Impaler" spear, "Ebonblade" greatsword, "Eir's Longbow" longbow. Upgrade to ascended gear as you progress. See also: Guide:How to Gear a Character.

  • Consider Relic of Zakiros to trade damage for high sustain. If you lack access to Dragonhunter and Zakiros, consider Relic of the Thief.
  • For defense, equip the highest tier Jade Core you can afford. Use defensive food or skills if required.


Consumables

Budget consumables are acceptable for use in open world.

DPS

  • Prioritize Steak Ascended food.
  • /
  • /

Defense

Farming

  • Prioritize Steak Ascended food.
  • /
  • (and variants)


Usage

Spear of Justice

Spear of Justice is the dragonhunter's first profession skill. Thanks to Big Game Hunter, your Spear of Justice allows you to deal massive burst damage to your target and also activates Inspiring Virtue.

Always mark your target with Spear of Justice before bursting it down.

Resolution

This build greatly benefits from Resolution Resolution to activate a few traits, most notably Righteous Instincts.

Your sources of Resolution Resolution are Healer's Resolution, Zealot's Resolution, Symbol of Resolution, and Helio Rush when Illuminated Illuminated.

Damage

  • Mark the target with Spear of Justice before unleashing your combo.
  • Make sure to use Symbol of Luminance first to empower your other spear skills with Illuminated Illuminated.
  • Use Procession of Blades off cooldown for damage, Fury Fury, and uptime of Relic of the Dragonhunter.
  • Use Sword of Justice at the start to apply vulnerability, and then periodically throughout the fight instead of autoattacks.
Opener
  1. Procession of Blades
  2. Spear of Justice
  3. Sword of Justice
  4. Symbol of Luminance
  5. Helio Rush
  6. Gleaming Disc
  7. Solar Storm
  8. weapon swap weapon swap
  9. Dragon's Maw
  10. Symbol of Resolution
  11. Whirling Wrath
  12. Binding Blade
  13. Leap of Faith

Notes and tips

  • Space out the usage of Procession of Blades and Dragon's Maw (and Purification if using it) for higher uptime on Relic of the Dragonhunter.
  • Remember that Resolution Resolution is a huge damage increase due to your traits. Get Resolution before bursting enemies down.
  • Make sure to hit enemies with your symbols to gain stacks of Symbolic Avenger and inflict vulnerability from Symbolic Exposure.
  • Maintain uptime on Inspiring Virtue with Spear of Justice, Wings of Resolve, and Shield of Courage.
  • Turn off "Melee Attack Assist" in Options. This allows you to use Whirling Wrath inside an enemy's hitbox so that all projectiles hit your target.

Defense

  • Your passive Aegis Aegis will block attacks periodically.
  • Chain Shield of Courage and Litany of Wrath to cover your opening rotation.
  • Use Wings of Resolve to heal and cleanse conditions.
  • Use Leap of Faith and Gleaming Disk to Blind Blind enemies.
  • Review the defensive skill variants above for more defensive options.

Crowd Control

  • Pull
  • Dragon's Maw
  • Symbol of Luminance
  • Bane Signet (as a last resort)
Retrieved from "https://metabattle.com/wiki/index.php?title=Build:Dragonhunter_-_Power_Dragonhunter&oldid=22414"


Ratings

This build has a rating of 5 stars based on 3 votes.
Log in or register to rate this build.
5 stars
HossamA.Eldin gave this build 5 stars • August 2023
Best Dps build for Guardian with alot of traps , Easy build
5 stars
Frostbyte gave this build 5 stars • July 2023
This is an outstanding build: flexible, sustainable and capable of inflicting fearsome damage on one's foes. In my experience, even if you *don't* replace Radiance/Virtues with Honor, you can still hold your own and do some decent damage. This flexibility, coupled with various alternate options in gearing (Berserker's vs. Marauder's/Dragon's and Longbow vs. Sword/Focus) as well as individual traits that can (and should) be swapped depending on context make it a proper "hybrid" build reminiscent of the classic Tank/DPS builds in games like WoW, for instance, and allow for extreme survivability and damage output in almost any situation. My *one* complaint is not with the build itself but rather the fact that certain sections of it have yet to be updated (e.g., the rotation/usage section still sings the praises of Resolution despite it not being used very much since the switch to Honor from Radiance). Thanks to the author. Very solid build that I'd recommend to any Zealous (pardon the pun) Guardian fan.
5 stars
Tao1013 gave this build 5 stars • March 2022
This DH open world build is a lot of fun to play. It's fast-paced and effective and with weapon variants like longbow available, it's flexible too. With two build options, this set up can be played seat of your pants glass cannon style or with the Honour variant it's a bit more tanky, so you won't get caught out if you run into more trouble than you were expecting. It's my build of choice for exploring and engaging in the new E.O.D. open world content and storyline.

Comments

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