Holy Melee Paladin

[Glamdring26]

Introduction to Guide:

Hello and welcome to my Holy Melee Paladin Guide.

This guide tries to give you the "default" holy melee paladin build, which is two handed full physical damage based build. Bojac made a guide on this, but since hes working he cant really update his guide patch to patch, and its also lacking the "uber" section so i decided to take up where he left and complete those missing parts, as well as adding my own ideas.

Patch Note Changes
1.5

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No big changes to the build, Cinadide set lost bane curse, which was not useful anyway since they made colosseum a curse in 1.4

1.4

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Gotterdammerung

Gotterdammerung
Great Axe (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: 496 to 673
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 5400
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Thunderfury
Area Effect Attack
Mega Impact
50% Attack Speed
+200% Enhanced Damage
Adds 250-400 damage
Requirements +800%
Ragh nar Rook
Socketed (6)

lost attack speed and now colosseum is considered a curse, so it might not be a best in slot item anymore.
DJ got buffed, the %5 wdm buff should compensate for %5 physical resist increase from bosses, and magic damage didn't seem all that impresssive to me. It gets to 1.2k magic damage with

Malleus Maleficarum

Malleus Maleficarum
Hand of God (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (260 - 312) to (577 - 740)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 832
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
20% Chance to cast level 10 Thunder Hammer Nova on Melee Attack
+(150 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+(315 to 425) to Maximum Damage
(100 to 200)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+50% Damage to Undead
15% Life stolen per Hit
15% Chance of Crushing Blow
+30 to Retaliate (Paladin Only)
+30 to Divine Judgment (Paladin Only)
+1000 Defense
+200 Mana on Attack
Fear No Evil
Socketed (6)

and smaxed DJ, so not worth smaxing currently. A little bit of free magic damage wouldn't hurt though.
Retaliate got buffed a lot, now it gets "%2 of your total str added as magic damage" per soft/hard point. With all your gear and maxing it, it should have 60 points in it and it gets another 30 with

Malleus Maleficarum

Malleus Maleficarum
Hand of God (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (260 - 312) to (577 - 740)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 832
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
20% Chance to cast level 10 Thunder Hammer Nova on Melee Attack
+(150 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+(315 to 425) to Maximum Damage
(100 to 200)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+50% Damage to Undead
15% Life stolen per Hit
15% Chance of Crushing Blow
+30 to Retaliate (Paladin Only)
+30 to Divine Judgment (Paladin Only)
+1000 Defense
+200 Mana on Attack
Fear No Evil
Socketed (6)

, which gives us total of "%180 of your total str added as magic damage". This should be over 10k free magic damage, which should help a lot with our clear.

So overall, we lost some single target damage but gained a lot of clear damage. Build is still solid and should clear almost all content.

Introduction to Build

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So Holy Melee Paladin is a melee build that utilizes mostly physical damage(and some little amount of poison), while also being tanky and mobile. We get most of our damage from Dragon's Blessing (gives shit ton of stats and more stats = more damage), Dragonheart (boosts both our defenses and gives a lot of Enchanted Weapon Damage, which scales our insane flat weapon damage) and also most of our needed combat speeds from Rapture. Some people have issues with this build because of our necessary 10 second duration buff that we should keep up at all times. But me and other holy melee players counts this as an "engaging" gameplay mechanic, rather than a troublesome clunky mechanic. It becomes automated after some time and becomes a reflex so you dont have to fear about it at all.

So if you are looking for a tanky, good single target damage dealer, mediocre aoe clearer build that switches skills a lot, you are at the right place.

Pros & Cons

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Good single target damage
Good mobility
Good survivability
Can do "most" of the content
Engaging gameplay
Manly build
Can do P8 Duncraig with only Cinadide set

Mediocre clear
Requires a lot of skill switching
Weak survivability until level 115
You kinda run out of good skills to put points into in late game, so it doesnt scales as much as other builds
Melee build
Cannot do some ubers(Or i am just bad at the game)
Turns into dragon with boobs which takes away our manliness
Not that great in Fautzinville

Stat Distribution

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Strength: MAX
Dexterity: 0
Vitality: 0
Energy: 0

We max strength because we are using a two handed weapon for maximum physical damage and more strength gives us more damage in return. We dont need dexterity ever, because we dont have a shield to block, or need any attack rating thanks to our Incarnation passive. Vitality might be maxed for some ubers when you dont have to necessarily deal damage, such as void fight. Energy is just unnecessary since your skills doesnt require much mana and you leech mana from your attacks anyway, so you dont run out of mana ever.

Skill Build

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Honor Tree

Retaliation: 1 point skill. This skill creates a nova of particles when you hit something. This skill becomes your main aoe skill especially in early and mid game. Normally this skill only works if you get it by enemies but you can skip this condition if your Solar Flare buff is active. This skill also knock backs the enemies it hits so its very good in some zones such as Bremmtown. You may try to max it later if you really want to improve your clear but i wouldnt recommend it, since it will not give much magic damage per point(%2 str to magic damage per point).

Divine Judgement: 6 points into to get rid of cooldown. You dont need to put any more points even though its our main skill, simply because it doesnt give much extra damage in return but increases the mana cost. This is the skill we use most and will probably go for your left click. It is a very good single target skill (Not much if its a moving target,

Plague: SMAX. This skill gives very good amount of poison damage in early stages of the game. You can basically kill stuff just by using Colosseum into packs, and they will die to poison damage(Not valid in Hell). Even though this skill gets kinda redundent later into game, we still max it for free damage and to be able to put more points into Dragonheart.

Dragonheart: SMAX. This skill is awasome, it gives you Defense, Life, and scales your physical damage. What else do you want? It also gets +1 maximum skill point per point you spend into your "Honor" tree, so you can put more points into it. I got mine to 57 hard points last ladder. This skill also snapshots your current skill level so you can use a high +all skills or +paladin skill levels item on your weapon swap and cast this skill with it, it will scale off from that all skills even though you swap back to your main weapon.

Colosseum: 15 points or 1 points depending on your setup. Colosseum is our mobility and debuff skill. It makes you teleport on an enemy with an attack, hits almost entire screen(good for Plague), and curses the nearby enemies to take more physical damage(which is our main source of damage). You should use this skill when you are going pack to pack and also use it on bosses whenever it expires to get that extra damage. Depending on your level and items, you might just put 1 points or 15 points into this. Putting more points into it makes it have less cooldown (Caps at 3 seconds at 15 hard points), and also allows you to put more points into Dragonheart. If you are fine with your Rapture and Incarnation points, it is advised to put 15 points.

Light Tree

Vessel of Retribution: This is just a 1 point skill to get to Rapture. It provides next to nothing DPS, so i wouldnt even use them past early game as a buff. It makes you hit enemies near you by periodically hitting them with physical spell damage. The amount is very low when you dont invest into it so i wouldnt recommend thinking too much about it. One point about this skill is that, it makes your life very hard when you are fighting "Teleport on struck" bosses because it hits very fast and makes them teleport all over the place. Since you are a melee build that should get close to the boss to damage them, this buff makes some ubers impossible such as Astrogha. So i wouldn't even recommend giving it a hotkey and casting it by accident since you cant cancel it and it has a long duration.

Rapture: Enough points to hit your breakpoints. This skill gives you the necessary combat speeds so you can hit your breakpoints. It starts with low duration and gets 20 second duration per points in it. In early game you can SMAX this since you dont have much other skills to do so but on late game it is enough to put points until you get your max frames for Hit Rate Recovery and Attack Speed. I will further talk about this breakpoints in next part.

Solstice and Equinox: 0 or 1 points depending on you want Hoplites or not.

Sacred Armor: 0 or 1 points depending on you want Hoplites or not. It is a short duration buff that has a cooldown, gives some movement speed, life regen, magic resist and some defense. On paper it looks very nice but the duration/cooldown on it is too low to make it a viable skill for this build. We already have 10 second and 30 second buffs that we need to keep up constantly, and this just makes it even harder. It might be however useful in some ubers.

Hoplite: 0 or 1 points depending on your setup. These are extremely tanky summons that has a lot of avoid and they cast inner fire and retaliate on melee attacks. You can use these at early stages of the game to act as a distraction to enemies, but they dont serve much purpose later into the game. For example in later farm areas such as Duncraig or Fautzinville, they will just die instantly and you will waste 3 of your skill points. They are exceptionally usefull in some ubers such as Athulua.

Divination Tree

Solar Flare: 1 point. Remember the 10 second duration buff that i talked about? This is it. It makes you be able to use incarnation passive and enables retaliate to be used without getting hit. Since it doesn't have a cooldown you must keep this skill up at all times to be able to benefit from the much needed Attack Rating and Life Leech from Incarnation. You can increase this skills duration to 20 seconds with unique boots

Binding Treads

Binding Treads
Light Plated Boots (Sacred)
Defense: (2224 - 2538) to (3909 - 4256)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 561
Item Level: 105
+150% Duration to Dragon's Oath
+(1 to 2) to Paladin Skill Levels
(10 to 50)% Movement Speed
25% Hit Recovery
5% Life stolen per Hit
+(5 to 20)% to Spell Damage
+(120 to 160)% Enhanced Defense
+(500 to 2000) Defense
Socketed (4)

but this item doesnt it very much into build, but you can still use it if you find 10 second duration to be too short. You should bind this skill to a hotkey that is close to your finger positions and cast it with your reflexes after some time.

Drakemaw: 1 point to get to Incarnation.

Frozen Breath: 1 point to get to Incarnation.

Incarnation: Enough points to feel good about your life leech and Attack Rating. This skill gives us Life leech and Attack Rating whenever you have the Solar Flare buff on. SMAX this skill while leveling because there is not much you can max. In late game you can put points into it and check your character screen about how much chance you have to hit the mobs you farm in. If its above %90 you should be fine. Leech gets kinda redundant as you get leech from other resources so only limiting factor about how much points you should put into this is the Attack Rating.

Reward Tree

Blessed Life: SMAX OR put enough points into it to get %50 Physical resist. You kinda get a lot of free physical resist from your end game gear so you might just put enough points to get %50 physical resist. This skill gives you the free flat Physical Resist (Which sadly goes into damage formula at last stage so you dont benefit as much from it), much needed percentage Physical Resist and increases the amount of healing you get from Apples(Might be very important on some ubers). You get this skill at level 115 so you might feel a bit squishy at levels 100-115.

Divine Apparation: 1 point. This skill gives us huge mobility by being a teleport skill that has a 3 second cooldown and freezes the nearby enemies when you teleport. This is even better teleport skill than void charm's and you have it for free so use it as you would like. You get this skill from your character charm which is at level 90.

Dragon's Blessing: 1 point. This is our Dragon's Blessingthat enables us to use slow weapons without sacrificing much attack speed. It also gives us percentage stat bonus which scales our life and damage. It only gives %1.5 more stat per point so it feels useless for me to put more points into it, but if you have some spare points and you couldnt find any reasonable skill that you can use it on, you can put it into this skill. After all its just more free stats. You get this skill at level 90.

Innate Skill

Vindicate: This skill gives us some amount of weapon damage and regen and only has 30 second duration. So you gotta put this skill into a hotkey that is close to Solar Flare so you can cast them at the same time and not think about it. It doesnt have as much importance as Solar Flare, but in the end it is still free damage, so you should have it at all times.

Breakpoints

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So Diablo 2 has a system that makes your character have certain amount of frames when taking an action. For example you spend 3 frames from recovering a hit from an enemy on late game setup. This frames are achievable by getting certain amount of combat speeds, such as Faster Hit Recovery or Increased Attack Speed. So if you have %10 increased attack speed on your weapon but you are not getting the next frame value, that mod on your weapon will be useless since you take same time hitting a target. Therefore you should know your breakpoints and build your char around them to have minimum amount of time taken to take a certain action. You can check these yourself with https://dev.median-xl.com/?script=speedcalc but im giving the values anyway for convenience.

Speed values you need for Paladin with Hand of God:

https://imgur.com/a/E5b0dRO

On Early game you will feel a bit slow hitting and this is normal. Some early game gear will try to compensate this and since you are maxing your Rapture on early game it should get a lot faster. After progressing through mid game try to get 250 IAS(600 is too much to get), and this is very easy to do with charms and Rapture.

Gear Section

Early Game

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These are until you get to Hell Difficulty.
">" indicates better "= indicates same"

Helm:

Lavadome

Lavadome
Helm (4)
Defense: (78 - 89) to (115 - 131)
Required Level: 4
Required Strength: 39
Item Level: 7
+(0 to 1) to All Skills
+(41 to 60)% Enhanced Defense
(3 to 5)% to Vitality
+15 to Vitality
+(81 to 120) to Life
Fire Resist +(11 to 30)%
Socketed (1)
Defense: (300 - 334) to (391 - 435)
Required Level: 22
Required Strength: 57
Item Level: 25
+1 to All Skills
+(71 to 90)% Enhanced Defense
(6 to 10)% to Vitality
+30 to Vitality
+(121 to 160) to Life
Fire Resist +(31 to 50)%
Socketed (3)
Defense: (753 - 825) to (970 - 1062)
Required Level: 39
Required Strength: 120
Item Level: 46
+(1 to 2) to All Skills
+(101 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
(11 to 15)% to Vitality
+45 to Vitality
+(161 to 200) to Life
Fire Resist +(51 to 70)%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1191 - 1290) to (1519 - 1645)
Required Level: 48
Required Strength: 250
Item Level: 81
+2 to All Skills
+(131 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
(16 to 20)% to Vitality
+60 to Vitality
+(201 to 240) to Life
Fire Resist +(71 to 90)%
Socketed (4)

>

Godhead

Godhead
Hundsgugel (4)
Defense: (97 - 132) to (145 - 196)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 2
Required Strength: 18
Item Level: 4
+(51 to 100)% Damage to Demons
+(51 to 100)% Damage to Undead
4% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(11 to 50)% Enhanced Defense
+(21 to 30) to Strength
+10 Life Regenerated per Second
(3 to 5)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (373 - 464) to (523 - 650)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 19
Required Strength: 26
Item Level: 23
+(101 to 150)% Damage to Demons
+(101 to 150)% Damage to Undead
6% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(61 to 100)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 40) to Strength
+20 Life Regenerated per Second
(9 to 11)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1000 - 1185) to (1379 - 1635)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 37
Required Strength: 55
Item Level: 43
+(151 to 200)% Damage to Demons
+(151 to 200)% Damage to Undead
7% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(111 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 50) to Strength
+30 Life Regenerated per Second
(15 to 17)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (3)
Defense: (1693 - 1947) to (2315 - 2661)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 45
Required Strength: 115
Item Level: 76
+(201 to 250)% Damage to Demons
+(201 to 250)% Damage to Undead
8% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(161 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
+(51 to 60) to Strength
+40 Life Regenerated per Second
(18 to 20)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (4)

>

Glowskull

Glowskull
Crown (4)
Defense: (164 - 187) to (248 - 281)
Required Level: 10
Required Strength: 64 to 72
Item Level: 17
+(6 to 8)% Bonus to Poison Skill Duration
+(4 to 6)% to Poison Spell Damage
-3% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(41 to 60)% Enhanced Defense
Poison Resist +(16 to 25)%
Total Character Defense (11 to 20)%
Durability (21 to 25)%
Requirements -(11 to 20)%
Socketed (1)
Defense: (561 - 620) to (785 - 868)
Required Level: 28
Required Strength: 89 to 99
Item Level: 32
+(11 to 13)% Bonus to Poison Skill Duration
+(10 to 12)% to Poison Spell Damage
-6% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(81 to 100)% Enhanced Defense
Poison Resist +(36 to 45)%
Total Character Defense (21 to 30)%
Durability (31 to 35)%
Requirements -(16 to 25)%
Socketed (3)
Defense: (1272 - 1392) to (1754 - 1920)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 175 to 198
Item Level: 53
+(16 to 18)% Bonus to Poison Skill Duration
+(16 to 18)% to Poison Spell Damage
-9% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(101 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
Poison Resist +(56 to 65)%
Total Character Defense (31 to 40)%
Durability (41 to 45)%
Requirements -(21 to 30)%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1911 - 2076) to (2614 - 2839)
Required Level: 54
Required Strength: 337 to 384
Item Level: 90
+(18 to 20)% Bonus to Poison Skill Duration
+(18 to 20)% to Poison Spell Damage
-12% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(121 to 140)% Enhanced Defense
Poison Resist +(66 to 75)%
Total Character Defense (41 to 50)%
Durability (46 to 50)%
Requirements -(26 to 35)%
Socketed (4)

Lavadome gives good amount of life for early game and covers our fire resist needs. Godhead gives us good amount of damage but nothing else. Glowskull is a good as well if you are planning to level with a

Grim Fang

Grim Fang
Short Sword (4)
One-Hand Damage: (4 - 5) to 7
Required Level: 12
Item Level: 1
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Damage
(3 to 5)% Life stolen per Hit
-3% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(1 to 3) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+10 to Strength
Poison Resist +(11 to 15)%
Socketed (1)
One-Hand Damage: (12 - 13) to (12 - 13)
Required Level: 19
Required Strength: 18
Item Level: 21
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Damage
(9 to 11)% Life stolen per Hit
-6% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(3 to 6) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+20 to Strength
Poison Resist +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
One-Hand Damage: (22 - 24) to (24 - 26)
Required Level: 37
Required Strength: 49
Item Level: 41
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Damage
(15 to 17)% Life stolen per Hit
-9% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(7 to 12) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+30 to Strength
Poison Resist +(31 to 35)%
Socketed (3)
One-Hand Damage: (29 - 31) to (33 - 35)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 104
Item Level: 73
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Damage
(18 to 20)% Life stolen per Hit
-12% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(13 to 18) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+40 to Strength
Poison Resist +(36 to 40)%
Socketed (3)

Body armour:

Werecat

Werecat
Breast Plate (4)
Defense: (203 - 224) to (379 - 422)
Required Level: 5
Required Strength: 55
Item Level: 8
5% Chance to cast level 1 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
15% Attack Speed
4% Life stolen per Hit
+(24 to 40)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 50) Defense
+(11 to 20) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 3%
Socketed (2)
Defense: (622 - 681) to (1100 - 1207)
Required Level: 23
Required Strength: 81
Item Level: 27
6% Chance to cast level 7 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
30% Attack Speed
6% Life stolen per Hit
+(58 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(81 to 100) Defense
+(21 to 30) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 4%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1471 - 1589) to (2563 - 2777)
Required Level: 40
Required Strength: 170
Item Level: 47
7% Chance to cast level 13 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
45% Attack Speed
8% Life stolen per Hit
+(92 to 109)% Enhanced Defense
+(131 to 150) Defense
+(31 to 40) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (5)
Defense: (2168 - 2330) to (3757 - 4046)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 353
Item Level: 83
8% Chance to cast level 16 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
60% Attack Speed
10% Life stolen per Hit
+(109 to 126)% Enhanced Defense
+(181 to 200) Defense
+(41 to 50) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 6%
Socketed (6)

>

Shroud Royal

Shroud Royal
Full Plate Mail (4)
Defense: (305 - 354) to (614 - 714)
Required Level: 11
Required Strength: 91
Item Level: 18
Additional Strength Damage Bonus: 0.03125%
+(1 to 2) to Vanquish
+(35 to 57)% Enhanced Defense
(3 to 5)% to All Attributes
Physical Damage Reduced by (7 to 10)
(6 to 8)% Gold Find
(6 to 8)% Magic Find
Socketed (2)
Defense: (984 - 1104) to (1878 - 2107)
Required Level: 28
Required Strength: 134
Item Level: 33
Additional Strength Damage Bonus: 0.0390625%
+(5 to 6) to Vanquish
+(81 to 103)% Enhanced Defense
(9 to 11)% to All Attributes
Physical Damage Reduced by (15 to 18)
(10 to 12)% Gold Find
(10 to 12)% Magic Find
Socketed (4)
Defense: (2461 - 2711) to (4596 - 5064)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 281
Item Level: 53
Additional Strength Damage Bonus: 0.046875%
+(9 to 10) to Vanquish
+(126 to 149)% Enhanced Defense
(15 to 17)% to All Attributes
Physical Damage Reduced by (23 to 26)
(14 to 16)% Gold Find
(14 to 16)% Magic Find
Socketed (5)
Defense: (3675 - 3999) to (6849 - 7455)
Required Level: 54
Required Strength: 543
Item Level: 90
Additional Strength Damage Bonus: 0.0546875%
+(11 to 12) to Vanquish
+(149 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
(18 to 20)% to All Attributes
Physical Damage Reduced by (27 to 30)
(18 to 20)% Gold Find
(18 to 20)% Magic Find
Socketed (6)

>

Steel Golem

Steel Golem
Gothic Plate (4)
Defense: (284 - 331) to (572 - 665)
Required Level: 9
Required Strength: 90 to 93
Item Level: 15
25% Hit Recovery
Stun Attack
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(35 to 57)% Enhanced Defense
(7 to 10)% to Strength
(7 to 10)% to Vitality
Durability (11 to 15)%
Requirements +(7 to 10)%
Socketed (2)
Defense: (924 - 1037) to (1755 - 1969)
Required Level: 27
Required Strength: 143 to 147
Item Level: 31
45% Hit Recovery
Stun Attack
6% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(81 to 103)% Enhanced Defense
(15 to 18)% to Strength
(15 to 18)% to Vitality
Durability (21 to 25)%
Requirements +(15 to 18)%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (2311 - 2547) to (4303 - 4740)
Required Level: 45
Required Strength: 323 to 331
Item Level: 52
65% Hit Recovery
Stun Attack
7% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(126 to 149)% Enhanced Defense
(23 to 26)% to Strength
(23 to 26)% to Vitality
Durability (31 to 35)%
Requirements +(23 to 26)%
Socketed (5)
Defense: (3458 - 3764) to (6419 - 6986)
Required Level: 52
Required Strength: 692 to 708
Item Level: 87
75% Hit Recovery
Stun Attack
8% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(149 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
(27 to 30)% to Strength
(27 to 30)% to Vitality
Durability (36 to 40)%
Requirements +(27 to 30)%
Socketed (6)

> Griswald Armor
Werecat gives us that needed physical resist before Blessed Life a decent proc, leech, stats and attack speed. All around best leveling armor for us. The other choices are there for the case if you dont wanna arcane crystals and you found one of them.

Gloves:

Featherclaw

Featherclaw
Chain Gloves (4)
Defense: (28 - 30) to (49 - 54)
Required Level: 5
Required Strength: 38
Item Level: 8
5% Attack Speed
(21 to 50)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Defense
+(6 to 10) to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: (149 - 161) to (203 - 218)
Required Level: 22
Required Strength: 56
Item Level: 26
15% Attack Speed
(81 to 110)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Defense
+(16 to 20) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: (393 - 420) to (519 - 554)
Required Level: 40
Required Strength: 118
Item Level: 46
25% Attack Speed
(141 to 170)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(26 to 30) to Dexterity
Socketed (3)
Defense: (581 - 617) to (759 - 807)
Required Level: 48
Required Strength: 244
Item Level: 80
30% Attack Speed
(171 to 200)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 35) to Dexterity
Socketed (4)

>

Visegrip

Visegrip
Light Gauntlets (4)
Defense: 29 to 56
Required Level: 6
Required Strength: 52
Item Level: 11
5% Chance to cast level 5 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(3 to 4) to Maximum Damage
(4 to 5)% to Strength
2% to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: 120 to 176
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 76
Item Level: 28
6% Chance to cast level 10 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(6 to 7) to Maximum Damage
(8 to 9)% to Strength
(3 to 4)% to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: 273 to 381
Required Level: 41
Required Strength: 161
Item Level: 48
7% Chance to cast level 19 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(8 to 9) to Maximum Damage
(12 to 13)% to Strength
(5 to 7)% to Dexterity
Socketed (3)
Defense: 375 to 522
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 333
Item Level: 83
8% Chance to cast level 30 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(9 to 10) to Maximum Damage
(14 to 15)% to Strength
(8 to 10)% to Dexterity
Socketed (4)

Featherclaw is better because we lack some %AR on early game. Visegrip is good if you covered your AR.

Boots:

Lionpaw

Lionpaw
Chain Boots (4)
Defense: (49 - 54) to (71 - 78)
Required Level: 4
Required Strength: 44
Item Level: 7
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Defense
+(7 to 10) to all Attributes
+(31 to 50) to Life
+(31 to 50) to Mana
Total Character Defense (3 to 5)%
10% Gold Find
Socketed (1)
Defense: (203 - 218) to (267 - 288)
Required Level: 22
Required Strength: 65
Item Level: 25
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Defense
+(15 to 18) to all Attributes
+(71 to 90) to Life
+(71 to 90) to Mana
Total Character Defense (9 to 11)%
15% Gold Find
Socketed (2)
Defense: (519 - 554) to (667 - 712)
Required Level: 39
Required Strength: 137
Item Level: 46
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(23 to 26) to all Attributes
+(111 to 130) to Life
+(111 to 130) to Mana
Total Character Defense (15 to 17)%
20% Gold Find
Socketed (3)
Defense: (759 - 807) to (974 - 1036)
Required Level: 48
Required Strength: 282
Item Level: 79
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 35) to all Attributes
+(131 to 150) to Life
+(131 to 150) to Mana
Total Character Defense (18 to 20)%
25% Gold Find
Socketed (4)

Gives Stats life and mana, what else do you want? If you dont wanna farm Arcane Crystals you can just use whatever you feel like.

Belt:

Deadfall

Deadfall
Heavy Belt (4)
Defense: (135 - 159) to (178 - 210)
Required Level: 7
Required Strength: 63
Item Level: 11
1% Chance to cast level 2 Shower of Rocks on Kill
1% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(24 to 46)% Enhanced Defense
+(16 to 25) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(11 to 15)%
(3 to 5)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (1)
Defense: (485 - 551) to (616 - 700)
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 92
Item Level: 28
2% Chance to cast level 4 Shower of Rocks on Kill
2% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(69 to 92)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 45) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(21 to 25)%
(9 to 11)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1270 - 1400) to (1595 - 1758)
Required Level: 41
Required Strength: 195
Item Level: 48
3% Chance to cast level 8 Shower of Rocks on Kill
3% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(115 to 137)% Enhanced Defense
+(56 to 65) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(31 to 35)%
(15 to 17)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1918 - 2095) to (2403 - 2626)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 404
Item Level: 84
4% Chance to cast level 12 Shower of Rocks on Kill
4% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(138 to 160)% Enhanced Defense
+(66 to 75) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(36 to 40)%
(18 to 20)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)

>

Wormtongue

Wormtongue
Light Belt (4)
Defense: (53 - 58) to (71 - 78)
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 27
Item Level: 5
(31 to 50)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 5-13 poison damage over 2 seconds
(2 to 4)% Life stolen per Hit
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Defense
+(11 to 15) to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: (214 - 231) to (259 - 279)
Required Level: 21
Required Strength: 40
Item Level: 24
(71 to 90)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 19-50 poison damage over 2 seconds
(8 to 10)% Life stolen per Hit
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Defense
+(21 to 25) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: (544 - 581) to (649 - 693)
Required Level: 38
Required Strength: 83
Item Level: 45
(111 to 130)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 75-150 poison damage over 2 seconds
(14 to 16)% Life stolen per Hit
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 35) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: (801 - 851) to (946 - 1006)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 173
Item Level: 77
(131 to 150)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 100-250 poison damage over 2 seconds
(17 to 19)% Life stolen per Hit
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 40) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)

Deadfall gives str and lightning resist and a good proc so its better but if you are using

Grim Fang

Grim Fang
Short Sword (4)
One-Hand Damage: (4 - 5) to 7
Required Level: 12
Item Level: 1
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Damage
(3 to 5)% Life stolen per Hit
-3% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(1 to 3) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+10 to Strength
Poison Resist +(11 to 15)%
Socketed (1)
One-Hand Damage: (12 - 13) to (12 - 13)
Required Level: 19
Required Strength: 18
Item Level: 21
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Damage
(9 to 11)% Life stolen per Hit
-6% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(3 to 6) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+20 to Strength
Poison Resist +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
One-Hand Damage: (22 - 24) to (24 - 26)
Required Level: 37
Required Strength: 49
Item Level: 41
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Damage
(15 to 17)% Life stolen per Hit
-9% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(7 to 12) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+30 to Strength
Poison Resist +(31 to 35)%
Socketed (3)
One-Hand Damage: (29 - 31) to (33 - 35)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 104
Item Level: 73
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Damage
(18 to 20)% Life stolen per Hit
-12% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(13 to 18) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+40 to Strength
Poison Resist +(36 to 40)%
Socketed (3)

then you might wanna go with Wormtongue.

Weapon:

Faithshaker

Faithshaker
Hand of God (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (23 - 27) to (34 - 46)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 12
Required Strength: 76
Item Level: 18
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
3% Chance to cast level 4 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(24 to 46)% Enhanced Damage
+(6 to 13) to Maximum Damage
+(51 to 100)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(16 to 25) to Strength
Cold Resist +(16 to 25)%
Fire Resist +(16 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
Two-Hand Damage: (60 - 69) to (93 - 110)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 30
Required Strength: 109
Item Level: 33
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
4% Chance to cast level 12 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(69 to 92)% Enhanced Damage
+(21 to 28) to Maximum Damage
+(151 to 200)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(36 to 45) to Strength
Cold Resist +(36 to 45)%
Fire Resist +(36 to 45)%
Socketed (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (120 - 132) to (175 - 197)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 49
Required Strength: 211
Item Level: 53
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
5% Chance to cast level 20 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(115 to 137)% Enhanced Damage
+(36 to 43) to Maximum Damage
+(251 to 300)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(56 to 65) to Strength
Cold Resist +(56 to 65)%
Fire Resist +(56 to 65)%
Socketed (5)
Two-Hand Damage: (142 - 156) to (238 - 263)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 56
Required Strength: 466
Item Level: 88
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
5% Chance to cast level 24 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(138 to 160)% Enhanced Damage
+(43 to 50) to Maximum Damage
+(301 to 350)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(66 to 75) to Strength
Cold Resist +(66 to 75)%
Fire Resist +(66 to 75)%
Socketed (6)

>

The Crucifier

The Crucifier
Holy Lance (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (6 - 7) to (30 - 43)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 34
Item Level: 4
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
5% Chance to cast level 1 Arrow on Striking
+1 to Paladin Skill Levels
-5% Attack Speed
+(21 to 50)% Enhanced Damage
+(16 to 25) to Maximum Damage
(5 to 7)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(11 to 15)% to Strength
Socketed (2)
Two-Hand Damage: (18 - 22) to (72 - 89)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 23
Required Strength: 64
Item Level: 26
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
8% Chance to cast level 3 Arrow on Striking
+2 to Paladin Skill Levels
-10% Attack Speed
+(71 to 100)% Enhanced Damage
+(26 to 35) to Maximum Damage
(8 to 10)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(21 to 25)% to Strength
Socketed (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (39 - 45) to (133 - 155)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 44
Required Strength: 137
Item Level: 48
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
11% Chance to cast level 5 Arrow on Striking
+3 to Paladin Skill Levels
-15% Attack Speed
+(121 to 151)% Enhanced Damage
+(36 to 45) to Maximum Damage
(11 to 13)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(31 to 35)% to Strength
Socketed (5)
Two-Hand Damage: (59 - 66) to (194 - 219)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 53
Required Strength: 276
Item Level: 84
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
14% Chance to cast level 6 Arrow on Striking
+4 to Paladin Skill Levels
-15% Attack Speed
+(171 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+(51 to 60) to Maximum Damage
(14 to 16)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(36 to 40)% to Strength
Socketed (6)

=

Lachdanan's Avenger

Lachdanan's Avenger
War Sword (4)
One-Hand Damage: (17 - 19) to (20 - 23)
Required Level: 12
Required Strength: 85
Item Level: 18
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
4% Chance to cast level 3 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+1 to Paladin Skill Levels
+(61 to 80)% Enhanced Damage
+(101 to 125)% Damage to Demons
+(101 to 125)% Damage to Undead
(1 to 2)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(16 to 25) to Strength
+(16 to 25) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(11 to 15)%
Socketed (1)
One-Hand Damage: (38 - 41) to (46 - 50)
Required Level: 30
Required Strength: 125
Item Level: 34
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
5% Chance to cast level 11 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+(1 to 2) to Paladin Skill Levels
+(101 to 120)% Enhanced Damage
+(176 to 200)% Damage to Demons
+(176 to 200)% Damage to Undead
(3 to 4)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(36 to 45) to Strength
+(36 to 45) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
One-Hand Damage: (72 - 78) to (84 - 91)
Required Level: 49
Required Strength: 244
Item Level: 54
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
6% Chance to cast level 19 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+(2 to 3) to Paladin Skill Levels
+(141 to 160)% Enhanced Damage
+(226 to 250)% Damage to Demons
+(226 to 250)% Damage to Undead
(5 to 6)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(56 to 65) to Strength
+(56 to 65) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(31 to 35)%
Socketed (3)
One-Hand Damage: (98 - 105) to (118 - 126)
Required Level: 57
Required Strength: 481
Item Level: 90
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
7% Chance to cast level 23 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+3 to Paladin Skill Levels
+(181 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+(276 to 300)% Damage to Demons
+(276 to 300)% Damage to Undead
(7 to 8)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(66 to 75) to Strength
+(66 to 75) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(36 to 40)%
Socketed (3)

=

Rockshatter

Rockshatter
Balanced Axe (4)
Throw Damage: (4 - 5) to (33 - 46)
One-Hand Damage: (5 - 7) to (25 - 36)
Required Level: 6
Required Strength: 77
Item Level: 10
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
1% Chance to cast level 7 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(18 to 40)% Enhanced Damage
+(11 to 20) to Maximum Damage
(2 to 3)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(31 to 50)%
+(16 to 25) to Strength
+(11 to 15) Life after each Kill
Socketed (2)
Throw Damage: (19 - 22) to (81 - 98)
One-Hand Damage: (14 - 16) to (55 - 69)
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 115
Item Level: 27
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
2% Chance to cast level 19 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(64 to 86)% Enhanced Damage
+(21 to 30) to Maximum Damage
(4 to 6)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(71 to 90)%
+(36 to 45) to Strength
+(21 to 25) Life after each Kill
Socketed (4)
Throw Damage: (45 - 51) to (154 - 176)
One-Hand Damage: (29 - 32) to (97 - 114)
Required Level: 43
Required Strength: 225
Item Level: 48
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
2% Chance to cast level 31 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(109 to 132)% Enhanced Damage
+(31 to 40) to Maximum Damage
(7 to 9)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(111 to 130)%
+(56 to 65) to Strength
+(31 to 35) Life after each Kill
Socketed (5)
Throw Damage: (62 - 68) to (205 - 230)
One-Hand Damage: (37 - 40) to (126 - 143)
Required Level: 53
Required Strength: 445
Item Level: 83
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
3% Chance to cast level 37 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(132 to 154)% Enhanced Damage
+(41 to 50) to Maximum Damage
(10 to 12)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(131 to 150)%
+(66 to 75) to Strength
+(36 to 40) Life after each Kill
Socketed (6)

=

Grim Fang

Grim Fang
Short Sword (4)
One-Hand Damage: (4 - 5) to 7
Required Level: 12
Item Level: 1
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Damage
(3 to 5)% Life stolen per Hit
-3% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(1 to 3) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+10 to Strength
Poison Resist +(11 to 15)%
Socketed (1)
One-Hand Damage: (12 - 13) to (12 - 13)
Required Level: 19
Required Strength: 18
Item Level: 21
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Damage
(9 to 11)% Life stolen per Hit
-6% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(3 to 6) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+20 to Strength
Poison Resist +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
One-Hand Damage: (22 - 24) to (24 - 26)
Required Level: 37
Required Strength: 49
Item Level: 41
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Damage
(15 to 17)% Life stolen per Hit
-9% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(7 to 12) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+30 to Strength
Poison Resist +(31 to 35)%
Socketed (3)
One-Hand Damage: (29 - 31) to (33 - 35)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 104
Item Level: 73
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Damage
(18 to 20)% Life stolen per Hit
-12% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(13 to 18) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+40 to Strength
Poison Resist +(36 to 40)%
Socketed (3)

Grim fang is a fast sword that you can find very early into game (For example Mephisto) and deals good amount of poison damage to kill mobs easily. You can use this sword until nightmare, but at that point our damage becomes kinda lacking where you can switch to Faithshaker. At that point you should have good amount of points into Rapture so your attack speed should be acceptable and you should kill most of the packs with just Colosseum. Other options are if you dont find, or too lazy to farm the first two options. Crucifier is a bit faster compared to Faithshaker but is a bit slower compared to others, but still has good damage. Lachdanan can be your transition weapon between grim fang and faithshaker simply because it is a phys based weapon that has overall good stats but not as hardhitting as faithshaker but is much faster. Rockshatter has good ewd for early game and overall decent damage so you might wanna use that too, if you happen to find one.

Shield:

Catechumen

Catechumen
Aerin Shield (4)
Defense: (188 - 198) to (368 - 389)
Chance to Block: 2%
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 7
Required Strength: 36
Item Level: 12
5% Chance to cast level 6 Flamefront on Melee Attack
Adds (4 to 7)-(8 to 13) damage
+(31 to 50)% Damage to Undead
+(61 to 70)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(11 to 20)%
Lightning Resist +(11 to 20)%
Fire Resist +(11 to 20)%
Poison Resist +(11 to 20)%
+20 Life on Attack
2% Reanimate as: Crimson Templar
Socketed (2)
Defense: (573 - 600) to (1027 - 1076)
Chance to Block: 2%
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 25
Required Strength: 53
Item Level: 29
9% Chance to cast level 18 Flamefront on Melee Attack
Adds (9 to 12)-(18 to 23) damage
+(71 to 90)% Damage to Undead
+(91 to 100)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(21 to 30)%
Lightning Resist +(21 to 30)%
Fire Resist +(21 to 30)%
Poison Resist +(21 to 30)%
+40 Life on Attack
3% Reanimate as: Crimson Templar
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1341 - 1396) to (2362 - 2458)
Chance to Block: 2%
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 42
Required Strength: 112
Item Level: 50
13% Chance to cast level 30 Flamefront on Melee Attack
Adds (14 to 17)-(28 to 33) damage
+(111 to 130)% Damage to Undead
+(121 to 130)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(31 to 40)%
Lightning Resist +(31 to 40)%
Fire Resist +(31 to 40)%
Poison Resist +(31 to 40)%
+60 Life on Attack
4% Reanimate as: Crimson Templar
Socketed (3)
Defense: (1985 - 2060) to (3489 - 3620)
Chance to Block: 2%
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 51
Required Strength: 232
Item Level: 85
15% Chance to cast level 36 Flamefront on Melee Attack
Adds (17 to 19)-(33 to 38) damage
+(131 to 150)% Damage to Undead
+(141 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(41 to 50)%
Lightning Resist +(41 to 50)%
Fire Resist +(41 to 50)%
Poison Resist +(41 to 50)%
+80 Life on Attack
5% Reanimate as: Crimson Templar
Socketed (4)

=

Wheel of Fortune

Wheel of Fortune
Large Shield (4)
Defense: 85 to 162
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 4
Required Strength: 22
Required Dexterity: 45
Item Level: 6
+(21 to 30) to Vitality
Maximum Elemental Resists +1%
Elemental Resists +(6 to 10)%
Cold Absorb 1%
Lightning Absorb 1%
Fire Absorb 1%
(8 to 10)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
(4 to 7)% Gold Find
(5 to 10)% Magic Find
Socketed (1)
Defense: 240 to 405
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 21
Required Strength: 32
Required Dexterity: 67
Item Level: 25
+(31 to 40) to Vitality
Maximum Elemental Resists +1%
Elemental Resists +(11 to 20)%
Cold Absorb 2%
Lightning Absorb 2%
Fire Absorb 2%
(14 to 16)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
(9 to 12)% Gold Find
(11 to 20)% Magic Find
Socketed (3)
Defense: 501 to 817
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 39
Required Strength: 68
Required Dexterity: 139
Item Level: 46
+(41 to 50) to Vitality
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Elemental Resists +(21 to 30)%
Cold Absorb 2%
Lightning Absorb 2%
Fire Absorb 2%
(20 to 22)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
(14 to 17)% Gold Find
(21 to 30)% Magic Find
Socketed (4)
Defense: 684 to 1113
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 48
Required Strength: 141
Required Dexterity: 288
Item Level: 80
+(51 to 60) to Vitality
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Elemental Resists +(31 to 40)%
Cold Absorb 3%
Lightning Absorb 3%
Fire Absorb 3%
(23 to 25)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
(17 to 19)% Gold Find
(31 to 40)% Magic Find
Socketed (4)

=

Banner of Duncraig

Banner of Duncraig
Kite Shield (4)
Defense: (138 - 157) to (266 - 305)
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 5
Required Strength: 30
Required Dexterity: 59
Item Level: 9
2% Chance to cast level 1 Bloodlust on Melee Attack
1% Chance to cast level 1 Fortress on Melee Attack
+(18 to 35)% Enhanced Defense
+(9 to 15) to Strength
+(9 to 15) to Dexterity
Cold Resist +(16 to 25)%
Lightning Resist +(16 to 25)%
Socketed (1)
Defense: (462 - 513) to (817 - 909)
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 23
Required Strength: 44
Required Dexterity: 87
Item Level: 27
3% Chance to cast level 5 Bloodlust on Melee Attack
2% Chance to cast level 5 Fortress on Melee Attack
+(52 to 69)% Enhanced Defense
+(23 to 29) to Strength
+(23 to 29) to Dexterity
Cold Resist +(36 to 45)%
Lightning Resist +(36 to 45)%
Socketed (3)
Defense: (1174 - 1274) to (2015 - 2188)
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 40
Required Strength: 93
Required Dexterity: 183
Item Level: 47
4% Chance to cast level 9 Bloodlust on Melee Attack
3% Chance to cast level 9 Fortress on Melee Attack
+(87 to 103)% Enhanced Defense
+(37 to 43) to Strength
+(37 to 43) to Dexterity
Cold Resist +(56 to 65)%
Lightning Resist +(56 to 65)%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1744 - 1881) to (2982 - 3216)
Chance to Block: Class%
Required Level: 49
Required Strength: 192
Required Dexterity: 378
Item Level: 82
4% Chance to cast level 11 Bloodlust on Melee Attack
4% Chance to cast level 11 Fortress on Melee Attack
+(104 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
+(44 to 50) to Strength
+(44 to 50) to Dexterity
Cold Resist +(66 to 75)%
Lightning Resist +(66 to 75)%
Socketed (4)

They all give good amount of resist, which you might need if you are not using a 2H weapon yet.

Rings:

Empyrean Band

Empyrean Band
Ring
Required Level: 40
Item Level: 40
1% Chance to cast level 7 Singularity on Kill
(3 to 5)% to All Attributes
Increase Maximum Life and Mana 10%
(5 to 15)% Gold Find

=

Ripstar

Ripstar
Ring
Required Level: 60
Item Level: 60
+0.5625 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+20 Life on Attack

=

Ring of Truth

Ring of Truth
Ring
Required Level: 20
Item Level: 20
15% Hit Recovery
25% Block Speed
(31 to 50)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Total Character Defense (11 to 15)%
Slows Attacker by (3 to 5)%
+2 to Light Radius

>

Ring of Regha

Ring of Regha
Ring
Item Level: 1
Adds 3-5 damage
+5% to Spell Damage
+(5 to 15) to Strength
+(5 to 15) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +10%

You dont need unique rings at this point, if you happen to find them just use them but dont try to farm them since its very hard to find that needed unique ring. You can use random rare rings with good stats as well.

Ammy:

Angel Heart

Angel Heart
Amulet
Required Level: 40
Item Level: 40
+(1 to 2) to All Skills
(5 to 10)% to Strength
(5 to 10)% to Dexterity
Total Character Defense (15 to 25)%
+(3 to 5) to Light Radius

> Rare amulet with good stats
Same as rings, you dont really need it but use it if you happen to find it. Dont try to farm it.

Mystic Orbs: Dont use them yet.
If you are having mana sustain issues, you might wanna mo your weapon with Mana on attack MO

Sockets: Skulls, later Jah runes for weapon. Resist gems in armor pieces such as Bloodstones, Ambers etc. You can fill diamonds to the rest.

Mid Game

► Show Spoiler

These items are until you get better sacred uniques.
">" indicates better "= indicates same"

Helm:

Cinadide's Bellows

Cinadide's Bellows
Cinadide's Craft Set
Hundsgugel (Sacred)
Defense: 1109 to 1228
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 363
8% Chance to cast level 44 Immolation Bomb on Melee Attack
40% Attack Speed
20% Hit Recovery
Adds 25-50 damage
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(31 to 50)%
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 60) to Strength
Socketed (4)

>

Witchhunter's Hood

Witchhunter's Hood
Witchhunter's Attire Set
Cap (Sacred)
Defense: 1187 to 1201
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 456
+(80 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
10% to Strength
10% to Dexterity
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Elemental Resists +(31 to 40)%
Physical Resist 5%
Total Character Defense (16 to 20)%
Requirements -50%
Socketed (4)

> Creepy Shrine Crafted Rare Hundsgugel (Look for flat or percentage strength, Paladin skill levels, and maybe minimum damage)
Cinadide set is an absolute beast to skip. If you are playing on multiplayer try to trade it and it will probably enable you to do everything you do with endgame gear. The helm itself gives insane amount of flat damage, IAS, FHR, EWD, STR and a proc. What else do you want? If you dont have it, try Witchhunter's hood. This godlike item gives the stats you want, while simultaneously giving physical resist and all maximum resist. You will also need this helmet for Quov Tsin and Dimensional Labyrinth so you might as well look for it. If you are unlucky with set pieces, then you can try to craft a rare hundsgugel or just go with Lavadome.

Body Armour:

Erawan

Erawan
Body Armors
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
25% to Strength
25% to Vitality
Physical Resist (11 to 15)%
Total Character Defense (11 to 20)%

=

Celestia's Wings

Celestia's Wings
Celestia's Myth Set
Gothic Plate (Sacred)
Defense: 2787 to 3381
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 614
+1 to Amazon Skill Levels
Adds 25-38 damage
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(21 to 25)% to Vitality
+350 Defense
+(31 to 50) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (6)

>

Dragonheart

Dragonheart
Body Armors
'Kra'
Runeword Level: 94
+2 to All Skills
50% Attack Speed
+5% to Summoned Minion Resistances
+1.625% Enhanced Defense (Based on Character Level)
+500 to Life

Erewan gives us the complementary physical resist to cap it while also giving shit ton of stats and defense. Celestia gives damage instead of physical resist, so you can put more points into blessed life and get damage instead. Dragonheart is also decent if you feel like you are lacking life, but is probably better to just go with Erawan.

Gloves:

Cinadide's Bender

Cinadide's Bender
Cinadide's Craft Set
Gauntlets (Sacred)
Defense: 558 to 653
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 574
5% Chance to cast level 34 Lava Pit on Melee Attack
20% Attack Speed
40% Hit Recovery
Adds 63-125 magic damage
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 50) to Strength
(16 to 25)% Magic Find
Socketed (4)

> Creepy Shrine Crafted Rare Gauntlets(Look for Paladin skill level, minimum damage, strength and maybe life)
Same as helm, the gloves itself is not that impressive so its probably better to craft one if you dont have other pieces. You can also keep using Visegrip.

Boots:

Nephilim

Nephilim
Boots
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(21 to 25)% to Vitality
+150 Defense
+50 to Strength
+50 to Vitality

These are the best boots for the end game as well so there is no reason to make them at this stage. It gives insane amount of str and vit which we always want to have more of.

Belt:

Cinadide's Anvil

Cinadide's Anvil
Cinadide's Craft Set
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1363 to 1493
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 606
+1 to Paladin Skill Levels
Adds 13-25 damage
Adds 63-125 magic damage
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(11 to 15)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Requirements -50%
Socketed (2)

>

Celestia's Ribbon

Celestia's Ribbon
Celestia's Myth Set
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1363 to 1493
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 606
+1 to Amazon Skill Levels
15% Attack Speed
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(11 to 15)% to Strength
+(31 to 50) to Dexterity
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (2)

>

Dyaus Pita

Dyaus Pita
Belts
'On'
Runeword Level: 100
+(115 to 143)% Enhanced Defense
(11 to 15)% to Strength
(11 to 15)% to Energy
(11 to 15)% to Vitality
Increase Maximum Life and Mana 2%

>

Truce

Truce
Belts
'Vith'
Runeword Level: 98
-5% Cast Speed
-5% Attack Speed
Stun Attack
+10% to Summoned Minion Damage
+(172 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
Physical Resist 10%
Slows Attacker by 5%

Belt is best in slot for end game as well, so you might want to just buy or find one. Celestial is a good substitue if you happen to find one.

Marchosias' Hatred

Marchosias' Hatred
Marchosias' Essence Set
Heavy Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1275 to 1377
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 568
5% Chance to cast level 3 Bladestorm on Melee Attack
3% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(91 to 100)%
+(51 to 100)% to Summoned Minion Life
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
(6 to 10)% to Strength
Socketed (2)

and

Scosglen's History

Scosglen's History
Last King of Scosglen Set
Heavy Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1275 to 1377
Required Level: 80
Required Strength: 568
+1 to Druid Skill Levels
(5 to 10)% Movement Speed
Adds 7-13 damage
+(100 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 50) to Strength
+20 Life Regenerated per Second
Socketed (2)

is also good substitutes. If you are unlucky with the set drops you can go with Dyaus or if you are lacking some physical resist you might go with Truce.

Weapon:

Cinadide's Malus

Cinadide's Malus
Cinadide's Craft Set
Hand of God (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: 104 to 105
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 832
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Damage
Adds 75-125 damage
+50% Damage to Undead
(6 to 10)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Elemental Resists +(31 to 40)%
Socketed (6)

> Intimidate or Weird Crafted rare Hand of God(Look for highest deadly strike and damage) =

Brahman

Brahman
Paladin Clubs, Paladin Maces, Paladin Hammers
'Nas'
Runeword Level: 87
100% Hit Recovery
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Damage
+(51 to 88) to Maximum Damage
+(1 to 4) to Mountain King
+(1 to 6) to Bear Stance
+10% to Summoned Minion Life
+1000 Defense
Dragonheart Spell Blinds Attacker +(2 to 4)

Cinadide weapon is not the most impressive on its own but can be good with other pieces, and especially owns when you ahve the whole set. If you dont have the set, you can try to craft a hand of god. If you get unlucky or dont have much shrines you can also make brahman which will also give you bear stance which is kinda needed between levels 100-115 since you will not have access to Blessed Life yet.

Rings: Assur's Bane >

Empyrean Band

Empyrean Band
Ring
Required Level: 40
Item Level: 40
1% Chance to cast level 7 Singularity on Kill
(3 to 5)% to All Attributes
Increase Maximum Life and Mana 10%
(5 to 15)% Gold Find

>

Ripstar

Ripstar
Ring
Required Level: 60
Item Level: 60
+0.5625 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+20 Life on Attack

Assur's bane quest ring we get from Duncraig gives good amount of life, and damage and since its a guaranteed drop there would be no reason to go for the other 2 option. One big downside is that you can't actually mo these rings so if you need that extra resist from rings, you might wanna go with other 2.

Amulet:

Angel Heart

Angel Heart
Amulet
Required Level: 40
Item Level: 40
+(1 to 2) to All Skills
(5 to 10)% to Strength
(5 to 10)% to Dexterity
Total Character Defense (15 to 25)%
+(3 to 5) to Light Radius

= Rare amulet with Good mods (Such as +3 +4 all skills, minimum or maximum damage, life)
You can craft an angel heart or might get lucky and find a rare amulet. Wasting resources trying to craft Angel Heart might be a bad idea but it has so much mo space at this point and it can cover your elemental resistences pretty nicely, so i would recommend doing it.

Mystic Orbs: Enchanted Damage until %200 on weapon, might still need Mana on Attack, Deadly strike and maximum damage otherwise. You can MO attack rating as well if you feel like its lacking. Encanted defense until %200, total character defense, flat damage or strength or faster hit recovery on armor pieces. Resistences, flat physical resist or poison length reduction on jewellery.

Sockets: 6 jah runes for weapon, Resist gems and runes for armor pieces if you still need them (you shouldn't), and rest should be filled with crafted jewels. If you are lacking the arcane crystals, you can fill the rest with perfect diamonds until you do so.

Crafted Jewels: You can start crafting jewels at this point using Lem rune. You are looking for %str or %all attiributes, good +str roll, life, minimum/maximum damage and most importantly IAS and FHR. You need to craft jewels and try to get your maximum breakpoints using them. So in ideal case you should have jewels like: "40 life, %15 increased attack speed, %2 str, +5 all attiributes". You should also luck these jewels before inserting them in to get that possible extra +2 stat points.

End Game

► Show Spoiler

These are the best in slot items you can gear up with. If you have the full cinadide set, you can consider yourself as end game, and wait for at least 2-3 pieces of end game gear to change it. For example if you have Malleus, Barghest and Mercy, then you should skip the set, but not before acquiring all of them.
">" indicates better "= indicates same"

Helm:

Barghest's Howl

Barghest's Howl
Hundsgugel (Sacred)
Defense: 5327 to 5684
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 363
Item Level: 105
5% Chance to cast level 23 Bloodlust on Melee Attack
(15 to 20)% Life stolen per Hit
+5 to Wolf Stance
Hit Causes Monster to Flee +1%
Slow Target 5%
+200% Enhanced Defense
+2000 Defense
+50 to Strength
+50 Life Regenerated per Second
3% Reanimate as: Sinner
-2 to Light Radius
Socketed (4)

>

Battle Rage

Battle Rage
Paladin Helms
'EaEaEaEa'
Runeword Level: 100
+(0 to 1) to Paladin Skill Levels
25% Attack Speed
Adds 50-83 damage
(10 to 20)% Life stolen per Hit
+(171 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
Elemental Resists +(20 to 25)%
Physical Resist 10%

> Creepy Shrine Crafted Rare Hundsgugel (Look for flat or percentage strength, Paladin skill levels, and minimum damage) >

Witchhunter's Hood

Witchhunter's Hood
Witchhunter's Attire Set
Cap (Sacred)
Defense: 1187 to 1201
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 456
+(80 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
10% to Strength
10% to Dexterity
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Elemental Resists +(31 to 40)%
Physical Resist 5%
Total Character Defense (16 to 20)%
Requirements -50%
Socketed (4)

Best in slot helm for us. Free bloodlust proc, life leech, some amount of slow and str, but most importantly wolf stance. This gives us huge amount of combat speed and ewd, so you gotta have this on your right click all the time. But since you are needed to rotate your low duration buffs as well, this might sound challanging at first. If you bind Vindicate, Solar Flare and Wolf Stance to all close hotkeys, you can develop the reflex to rotate them automatically after some time. This helm is also pretty common and cheap on market so its not that hard to get it. You can also craft a god-tier helmet as well. Battle Rage is another good helmet with shit ton of good stats, you can use it if you dont wanna switch to wolf stance rotation. Since the stats on Hood, is just too good, you can keep using that as well. That all maximum resistences gonna be a huge difference especially in late game grinds such as Dimensional Labyrinth.

Body Armor:

Khazra Plate

Khazra Plate
Ancient Armor (Sacred)
Defense: (7820 - 8625) to (9683 - 10680)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 2160
Item Level: 120
Level 1 Demon Blood Aura
+100% Damage to Demons
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
10% Deadly Strike
+(172 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
(20 to 25)% to Strength
(20 to 25)% to Vitality
Physical Resist 10%
Requirements +200%
Socketed (6)

>

Rebel (Xis)

Rebel
Body Armors
'ElXis'
Runeword Level: 120
Enhanced Weapon Damage +200%
+(172 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
+(151 to 200) to Strength
+(151 to 200) to Dexterity
-75 to Vitality
-75 to Energy
Elemental Resists +(60 to 80)%
+1 to Light Radius
Cannot be Unsocketed

=

Candlewake

Candlewake
Splint Mail (Sacred)
Defense: (8032 - 9339) to (11077 - 12593)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 563
Item Level: 105
-2% Base Block Chance
Additional Strength Damage Bonus: 0.046875%
-(11 to 15)% to Enemy Cold Resistance
+(150 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
(10 to 25)% to Strength
+(1500 to 3500) Defense
Cannot Be Frozen (1/2 chance to appear)
Total Character Defense (50 to 100)%
Socketed (6)

>

Strength Beyond Strength

Strength Beyond Strength
Gothic Plate (Sacred)
Defense: (7580 - 8361) to (9196 - 10143)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 614
Item Level: 120
1% Chance to cast level 36 Pyroblast on Striking
Adds 25-38 damage
150% Bonus to Attack Rating
+150% Damage to Demons
25% Life stolen per Hit
10% Deadly Strike
+(172 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
1% Reanimate as: Inarius
-5 to Light Radius
Socketed (6)

Khazra is best in slot but since its a very rare and expensive item, you might wanna go with rebel. Why Khazra so good you might ask? Because it gives %max life, %deadly strike(which is %more damage on avarage), shit ton of str and vit and also physical resist. Its like everything we need is on this chest so definitely go for it if you happen to have one. Rebel or Candlewake is second best with huge amount of str and ewd. SBS might be another option though its very rare as well.

Gloves:

Mercy (Xis)

Mercy
Gloves
'ShXis'
Runeword Level: 120
10% Chance to cast level 18 Punisher on Melee Attack
+(50 to 63) to Maximum Damage
(11 to 15)% to Vitality
+26 Defense
+(161 to 210) to Strength
Cannot be Unsocketed

>

Brawl (Xis)

Brawl
Gloves
'IoXis'
Runeword Level: 120
60% Attack Speed
Adds 19-25 damage
+(13 to 19) to Clobber
+200% Enhanced Defense
5% to Dexterity
+(135 to 170) to Strength
Cannot be Unsocketed

>

Blind Anger

Blind Anger
Light Gauntlets (Sacred)
Defense: (1179 - 1447) to (1342 - 1647)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 544
Item Level: 105
8% Chance to cast level 13 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(0 to 1) to All Skills
(1 to 5)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Blinds Attacker +3
+(120 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(11 to 15)% to All Attributes
Socketed (4)

= Good rolled

Hammerfist

Hammerfist
Gauntlets (Sacred)
Defense: (1227 - 1450) to (1436 - 1697)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 574
Item Level: 105
Adds (1 to 15)-(20 to 30) damage
5% Life stolen per Hit
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(15 to 25) to Spiral Dance
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(50 to 100)%
+(120 to 160)% Enhanced Defense
Elemental Resists +15%
Socketed (4)

Mercy gives shit ton of str while also giving shit ton of flat damage a good proc and some vit. Brawl is same at that sense but gives less str. Blind anger is second best with good stats and a good proc. A nicely rolled(Flat damage is more important) Hammerfist also might serve you well.

Boots:

Nephilim

Nephilim
Boots
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(21 to 25)% to Vitality
+150 Defense
+50 to Strength
+50 to Vitality

=

Wind Runner

Wind Runner
Boots
'EaEaEaEa'
Runeword Level: 100
+(0 to 1) to All Skills
35% Attack Speed
10% Movement Speed
Adds 37-70 damage
250% Bonus to Attack Rating
(10 to 15)% Life stolen per Hit
+(171 to 200)% Enhanced Defense

It is just so good that i couldn't find any end game item that changes this.

Knight's Grace

Knight's Grace
Greaves (Sacred)
Defense: (2232 - 2481) to (2519 - 2799)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 714
Item Level: 120
2% Chance to cast level 35 Knife Throw on Striking
+1 to All Skills
25% Attack Speed
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
Adds 10-20 damage
+(170 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
+(15 to 25) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 5%
10% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Requirements +20%
Socketed (4)

or

Akarat's Trek

Akarat's Trek
Light Plated Boots (Sacred)
Defense: (1960 - 2352) to (2170 - 2604)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 561
Item Level: 120
2% Chance to cast level 30 Thunder Hammer Nova on Melee Attack
2% Chance to cast level 30 Thunder Wave on Melee Attack
2% Chance to cast level 30 Hammertime on Melee Attack
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+(15 to 20) to Charged Strike
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(100 to 150)%
+(150 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
10% to All Attributes
+10 to Light Radius
Socketed (4)

might be some options but why go for them when nephilim is just better and cheaper?

Wind Runner

Wind Runner
Boots
'EaEaEaEa'
Runeword Level: 100
+(0 to 1) to All Skills
35% Attack Speed
10% Movement Speed
Adds 37-70 damage
250% Bonus to Attack Rating
(10 to 15)% Life stolen per Hit
+(171 to 200)% Enhanced Defense

might also be very good with that amount of flat damage, but still goes even with nephilim.

Belt:

Cinadide's Anvil

Cinadide's Anvil
Cinadide's Craft Set
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1363 to 1493
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 606
+1 to Paladin Skill Levels
Adds 13-25 damage
Adds 63-125 magic damage
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(11 to 15)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Requirements -50%
Socketed (2)

>

Black Void

Black Void
Heavy Belt (Sacred)
Defense: (3060 - 3442) to (3304 - 3717)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 568
Item Level: 120
20% Attack Speed
Adds 10-15 damage
(10 to 15)% Life stolen per Hit
Slow Target 10%
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
10% to Strength
10% to Dexterity
Target Takes Additional Damage of (25 to 50)
30% Magic Find
Socketed (2)

>

Celestia's Ribbon

Celestia's Ribbon
Celestia's Myth Set
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1363 to 1493
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 606
+1 to Amazon Skill Levels
15% Attack Speed
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(11 to 15)% to Strength
+(31 to 50) to Dexterity
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (2)

>

Nero

Nero
Belts
'Auhe'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Chance to cast level 14 Fortress on Melee Attack
Adds 7-25 damage
+150% Damage to Demons
Adds 125-250 fire damage
+(16 to 20)% to Fire Spell Damage
2% Deadly Strike
+(7 to 12) to Path of Flames
+(115 to 143)% Enhanced Defense

Same case as Nephilim, here we see lower rarity item beating sacred uniques and great runes. Cinadide belt is just too good skip because it gives huge amount of str, flat damage damage and some paladin skills. And since nero and black void is kinda expensive i see no reason to go for them.

Weapon:

Malleus Maleficarum

Malleus Maleficarum
Hand of God (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (260 - 312) to (577 - 740)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 832
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
20% Chance to cast level 10 Thunder Hammer Nova on Melee Attack
+(150 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+(315 to 425) to Maximum Damage
(100 to 200)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+50% Damage to Undead
15% Life stolen per Hit
15% Chance of Crushing Blow
+30 to Retaliate (Paladin Only)
+30 to Divine Judgment (Paladin Only)
+1000 Defense
+200 Mana on Attack
Fear No Evil
Socketed (6)

>

Gotterdammerung

Gotterdammerung
Great Axe (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: 496 to 673
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 5400
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Thunderfury
Area Effect Attack
Mega Impact
50% Attack Speed
+200% Enhanced Damage
Adds 250-400 damage
Requirements +800%
Ragh nar Rook
Socketed (6)

> Intimidate Crafted rare Hand of God >

Shark (Xis)

Shark
Weapons
'TaXis'
Runeword Level: 120
1% Chance to cast level 31 Bloodlust on Kill
+(60 to 100)% Bonus Damage to Bloodlust
40% Attack Speed
+200% Enhanced Damage
+2 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+5 to all Attributes
-500 to Mana
Cannot be Unsocketed

Malleus seems to be the best in slot this season with that huge damage and +skills to retaliate. Retaliate gains "%2 of your str as magic damage" per point, so this weapon alone would give %60 str to magic damage which should be around 2-3k free damage, and would help a lot with your clear. It also gives decent magic damage to Divine Judgement. Gotterdammerung is second best in slot because of that huge damage and good innate procs it has such as Area of Attack or thunderfury. It also has better base speed than hand of god bases which allows us to reach our maximum breakpoint. But since it requires huge amount of str to wield it, and also Mega Impact does not work with Colosseum (Both are curses) , it is not best in slot. Shark or crafted weapons can be the third alternative if you happen to find an eth hand of god or a very good crafted good blessed hand of god.

Rings:

Giant's Knuckle

Giant's Knuckle
Ring (Sacred)
Required Level: 100
Item Level: 120
20% Attack Speed
Adds 10-15 damage
(5 to 10)% Life stolen per Hit
5% Deadly Strike
+25 Life Regenerated per Second
Physical Resist 5%

>

Seal of the Nephalem Kings

Seal of the Nephalem Kings
Ring (Sacred)
Required Level: 100
Item Level: 120
+(1 to 2) to All Skills
(10 to 15)% to Strength
(10 to 15)% to Vitality
Total Character Defense (10 to 15)%
(10 to 20)% Gold Find

> %20 + str and vit

Ouroboros

Ouroboros
Ring (Sacred)
Required Level: 110
Item Level: 120
+1 to All Skills
(-15 to 25)% to Strength
(-15 to 25)% to Dexterity
(-15 to 25)% to Energy
(-15 to 25)% to Vitality

> Assur's Bane
Giant's rings gives us physical resist, which allows us to not max blessed life, while also giving flat damage and deadly strike which is basically a "more" multiplier to our damage and they are best in slot for this reason. A good rolled SOTNK might be the second best, with all those stats and all skills. If you happen to find an omega good rolled Ouroboros it might be another alternative. If you are unlucky with the rings then you can just continue using Assur's Bane.

Amulet:

Beads of the Snake Queen

Beads of the Snake Queen
Amulet (Sacred)
Required Level: 100
Item Level: 120
4% Chance to cast level 33 Scorpion Blade on Kill
Adds 5-10 damage
Stun Attack
(20 to 25)% to Strength
(20 to 25)% to Dexterity
+(200 to 500) Defense
+100 Life after each Kill

>

Dyers Eve

Dyers Eve
Amulet (Sacred)
Required Level: 100
Item Level: 120
5% Chance to cast level 5 Time Strike on Striking
+2 to All Skills
Adds 15-20 damage
5% Life stolen per Hit
Elemental Resists +10%
Physical Resist (1 to 10)%

> Rare one with insane flat damage
BOTSQ is hands down best in slot amulet for us. flat damage, percentage str is all we are looking for. A good rolled Dyer's eve might be second best with al that flat damage and physical resist. Some rare amulets can spawn both minimum and maximum damage which can go up to like 25-30 flat damage. So if you get so lucky that you find a rare amulet with +3-4 all skills, 20-30 flat damage, maybe life, a good proc and stats, you can also use it. It would be probably better than BOTSQ, but the probability of finding such an amulet would be considerably low.

Weapon Swap:

Pax Mystica (Xis)

Pax Mystica
Staves
'NeXis'
Runeword Level: 120
+13 to All Skills
+15% Bonus to Poison Skill Duration
+(20 to 37) to Blink
Elemental Resists +(55 to 66)%
(61 to 80)% Magic Find
Cannot be Unsocketed

> Any other +all skills or +paladin skills Weapon.
You can use this stuff for that juicy +13 all skills before casting your buffs, It will give them a significant boost.

Mystic Orbs: Enchanted Damage until %200 > Deadly Strike > Maximum Damage > EWD for weapon, Enchanted Defense until %200 > Total character defense > Flat Damage = Strength for armor pieces, and lastly Flat Physical Resist, elemental resist and poison length reduction for jewellery. You also might wanna use

Empyrean Touch

Empyrean Touch
Occult Effigy

Cube Reagent
Cube with Any Weapon/Armor to Add Bonus
Item Becomes Ethereal
+10 Required Level
Does Not Work on Indestructible Items

Effigy on your Weapon to get maximum damage out of it.

Sockets: Xis Runes for Weapon(Jah if you dont have that much), All crafted jewels on rest of the gear.

Mercenary Guide

► Show Spoiler

Mercs are decent in terms of utility they provide so you might wanna use them. You also should keep in mind that different mercenaries have different amount of base stats depending on which difficulty you buy them. Whenever you are gonna buy a merc, explore all difficulties and buy the highest life one. For more information check out this link https://docs.median-xl.com/doc/class/hirelings .You have 4 different options for Mercenaries:

Act 1 Ranger

This merc gives us Dark power for extra damage and attac speed, and since its ranged, it has an easier time slowing enemies around you if you gear her up properly. They also passively gain %slow, %physical resist as they level up and %avoid melee attackers as they gain more dex. So you have to build them around slow and dex stacking.

Early Game Setup:

Weapon:

Webspinner

Webspinner
Short War Bow (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (14 - 16) to (32 - 39)
Required Level: 8
Required Dexterity: 73 to 77
Item Level: 12
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.17 per Dexterity)%
5% Chance to cast level 5 Arachnomancy on Kill
3% Chance to cast level 4 Miasma on Striking
+(18 to 35)% Enhanced Damage
+(11 to 15) to Maximum Damage
+(2 to 3)% to Poison Spell Damage
Maximum Life (3 to 5)%
Miasma Effect Duration: +2 seconds
Slows Attacker by (6 to 10)%
Requirements -(11 to 15)%
Socketed (2)
Two-Hand Damage: (38 - 42) to (70 - 85)
Required Level: 28
Required Dexterity: 95 to 100
Item Level: 31
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.17 per Dexterity)%
6% Chance to cast level 10 Arachnomancy on Kill
4% Chance to cast level 10 Miasma on Striking
+(52 to 69)% Enhanced Damage
+(16 to 25) to Maximum Damage
+(5 to 6)% to Poison Spell Damage
Maximum Life (9 to 11)%
Miasma Effect Duration: +2 seconds
Slows Attacker by (11 to 15)%
Requirements -(21 to 25)%
Socketed (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (76 - 83) to (135 - 153)
Required Level: 47
Required Dexterity: 161 to 171
Item Level: 52
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.17 per Dexterity)%
7% Chance to cast level 14 Arachnomancy on Kill
5% Chance to cast level 16 Miasma on Striking
+(87 to 103)% Enhanced Damage
+(31 to 40) to Maximum Damage
+(8 to 9)% to Poison Spell Damage
Maximum Life (15 to 17)%
Miasma Effect Duration: +2 seconds
Slows Attacker by (21 to 25)%
Requirements -(31 to 35)%
Socketed (5)
Two-Hand Damage: (102 - 110) to (179 - 199)
Required Level: 54
Required Dexterity: 294 to 313
Item Level: 85
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.17 per Dexterity)%
8% Chance to cast level 18 Arachnomancy on Kill
6% Chance to cast level 19 Miasma on Striking
+(104 to 120)% Enhanced Damage
+(41 to 50) to Maximum Damage
+(9 to 10)% to Poison Spell Damage
Maximum Life (18 to 20)%
Miasma Effect Duration: +2 seconds
Slows Attacker by (31 to 35)%
Requirements -(36 to 40)%
Socketed (6)

Body Armor:

Werecat

Werecat
Breast Plate (4)
Defense: (203 - 224) to (379 - 422)
Required Level: 5
Required Strength: 55
Item Level: 8
5% Chance to cast level 1 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
15% Attack Speed
4% Life stolen per Hit
+(24 to 40)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 50) Defense
+(11 to 20) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 3%
Socketed (2)
Defense: (622 - 681) to (1100 - 1207)
Required Level: 23
Required Strength: 81
Item Level: 27
6% Chance to cast level 7 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
30% Attack Speed
6% Life stolen per Hit
+(58 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(81 to 100) Defense
+(21 to 30) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 4%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1471 - 1589) to (2563 - 2777)
Required Level: 40
Required Strength: 170
Item Level: 47
7% Chance to cast level 13 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
45% Attack Speed
8% Life stolen per Hit
+(92 to 109)% Enhanced Defense
+(131 to 150) Defense
+(31 to 40) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (5)
Defense: (2168 - 2330) to (3757 - 4046)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 353
Item Level: 83
8% Chance to cast level 16 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
60% Attack Speed
10% Life stolen per Hit
+(109 to 126)% Enhanced Defense
+(181 to 200) Defense
+(41 to 50) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 6%
Socketed (6)

Gloves:

Featherclaw

Featherclaw
Chain Gloves (4)
Defense: (28 - 30) to (49 - 54)
Required Level: 5
Required Strength: 38
Item Level: 8
5% Attack Speed
(21 to 50)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Defense
+(6 to 10) to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: (149 - 161) to (203 - 218)
Required Level: 22
Required Strength: 56
Item Level: 26
15% Attack Speed
(81 to 110)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Defense
+(16 to 20) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: (393 - 420) to (519 - 554)
Required Level: 40
Required Strength: 118
Item Level: 46
25% Attack Speed
(141 to 170)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(26 to 30) to Dexterity
Socketed (3)
Defense: (581 - 617) to (759 - 807)
Required Level: 48
Required Strength: 244
Item Level: 80
30% Attack Speed
(171 to 200)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 35) to Dexterity
Socketed (4)

Boots:

Zealot Rush

Zealot Rush
Light Plated Boots (4)
Defense: (67 - 78) to (102 - 119)
Required Level: 6
Required Strength: 60
Item Level: 10
5% Attack Speed
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
(11 to 25)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(21 to 40)% Enhanced Defense
(3 to 5)% to Dexterity
1% Reanimate as: Dark Templar
Socketed (1)
Defense: (248 - 281) to (338 - 384)
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 88
Item Level: 27
10% Attack Speed
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
(41 to 55)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(41 to 60)% Enhanced Defense
(9 to 11)% to Dexterity
(2 to 3)% Reanimate as: Dark Templar
Socketed (2)
Defense: (613 - 685) to (817 - 914)
Required Level: 41
Required Strength: 186
Item Level: 48
20% Attack Speed
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
(71 to 85)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(61 to 80)% Enhanced Defense
(15 to 17)% to Dexterity
(3 to 5)% Reanimate as: Dark Templar
Socketed (3)
Defense: (944 - 1044) to (1247 - 1378)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 385
Item Level: 83
30% Attack Speed
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
(86 to 100)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(81 to 100)% Enhanced Defense
(18 to 20)% to Dexterity
(4 to 6)% Reanimate as: Dark Templar
Socketed (4)

Helm:

Topspin

Topspin
Skull Cap (4)
Defense: (76 - 83) to (115 - 125)
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 25
Item Level: 4
5% Attack Speed
+(31 to 50)% Enhanced Defense
(3 to 5)% to Dexterity
(3 to 5)% to Energy
+(31 to 50) Defense
Maximum Elemental Resists +1%
Total Character Defense 10%
Socketed (1)
Defense: (277 - 301) to (365 - 397)
Required Level: 20
Required Strength: 37
Item Level: 23
15% Attack Speed
+(61 to 80)% Enhanced Defense
(6 to 8)% to Dexterity
(6 to 8)% to Energy
+(71 to 100) Defense
Maximum Elemental Resists +1%
Total Character Defense 20%
Socketed (3)
Defense: (704 - 760) to (876 - 943)
Required Level: 37
Required Strength: 78
Item Level: 43
25% Attack Speed
+(91 to 110)% Enhanced Defense
(9 to 11)% to Dexterity
(9 to 11)% to Energy
+(151 to 200) Defense
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Total Character Defense 30%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1182 - 1258) to (1471 - 1564)
Required Level: 47
Required Strength: 160
Item Level: 78
30% Attack Speed
+(121 to 140)% Enhanced Defense
(12 to 14)% to Dexterity
(12 to 14)% to Energy
+(301 to 400) Defense
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Total Character Defense 40%
Socketed (4)

Belt:

Wormtongue

Wormtongue
Light Belt (4)
Defense: (53 - 58) to (71 - 78)
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 27
Item Level: 5
(31 to 50)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 5-13 poison damage over 2 seconds
(2 to 4)% Life stolen per Hit
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Defense
+(11 to 15) to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: (214 - 231) to (259 - 279)
Required Level: 21
Required Strength: 40
Item Level: 24
(71 to 90)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 19-50 poison damage over 2 seconds
(8 to 10)% Life stolen per Hit
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Defense
+(21 to 25) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: (544 - 581) to (649 - 693)
Required Level: 38
Required Strength: 83
Item Level: 45
(111 to 130)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 75-150 poison damage over 2 seconds
(14 to 16)% Life stolen per Hit
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 35) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: (801 - 851) to (946 - 1006)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 173
Item Level: 77
(131 to 150)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds 100-250 poison damage over 2 seconds
(17 to 19)% Life stolen per Hit
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 40) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)

Amulet: Some random rare with good stats.

Sockets: Bloodstone, Amber, Turquoise, Onyx until max resist, then Amethyst or Io runes for rest.
MO: For weapon %enchanted damage until %200, increased attack speed to reach max frames, then %ewd. For armor %enchanted defense until %200, total character defense, faster hit recory to reach max frames, then dexterity for rest. You can also MO amulet for some more resist.

Act 2 Shapeshifter: (My Suggestion)

Shapeshifters casts bloodlust which is always welcomed if you dont have

Barghest's Howl

Barghest's Howl
Hundsgugel (Sacred)
Defense: 5327 to 5684
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 363
Item Level: 105
5% Chance to cast level 23 Bloodlust on Melee Attack
(15 to 20)% Life stolen per Hit
+5 to Wolf Stance
Hit Causes Monster to Flee +1%
Slow Target 5%
+200% Enhanced Defense
+2000 Defense
+50 to Strength
+50 Life Regenerated per Second
3% Reanimate as: Sinner
-2 to Light Radius
Socketed (4)

, and also turns into a bear that has insane attack speed, %max life and defense. They also cast Thornfield which is a great skill for "on striking" procs. Act 2 mercs are also very tanky since they passively gain %physical resist. So the plan is to give them good utility procs and slow so that they can help us clear a bit more.

Early Game Setup:

Weapon:

Fangspear

Fangspear
Spetum (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (17 - 20) to (44 - 56)
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 42
Required Dexterity: 63
Item Level: 10
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.25 per Dexterity)%
10% Chance to cast level 5 Miasma on Melee Attack
15% Attack Speed
+(30 to 46)% Enhanced Damage
Adds (8 to 10)-(21 to 30) damage
(61 to 100)% Bonus to Miasma Haunt Duration
+(1 to 3) to Daedalus (Barbarian Only)
+(11 to 15) Life after each Kill
Socketed (2)
Two-Hand Damage: (33 - 40) to (86 - 101)
Required Level: 25
Required Strength: 70
Required Dexterity: 97
Item Level: 28
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.25 per Dexterity)%
15% Chance to cast level 11 Miasma on Melee Attack
30% Attack Speed
+(64 to 80)% Enhanced Damage
Adds (11 to 15)-(31 to 40) damage
(141 to 180)% Bonus to Miasma Haunt Duration
+(4 to 8) to Daedalus (Barbarian Only)
+(21 to 25) Life after each Kill
Socketed (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (63 - 71) to (143 - 161)
Required Level: 44
Required Strength: 144
Required Dexterity: 193
Item Level: 48
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.25 per Dexterity)%
20% Chance to cast level 18 Miasma on Melee Attack
45% Attack Speed
+(98 to 114)% Enhanced Damage
Adds (16 to 20)-(41 to 50) damage
(221 to 260)% Bonus to Miasma Haunt Duration
+(9 to 13) to Daedalus (Barbarian Only)
+(31 to 35) Life after each Kill
Socketed (5)
Two-Hand Damage: (83 - 97) to (184 - 203)
Required Level: 53
Required Strength: 288
Required Dexterity: 382
Item Level: 83
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.25 per Dexterity)%
25% Chance to cast level 25 Miasma on Melee Attack
60% Attack Speed
+(115 to 132)% Enhanced Damage
Adds (21 to 30)-(51 to 60) damage
(261 to 300)% Bonus to Miasma Haunt Duration
+(14 to 18) to Daedalus (Barbarian Only)
+(36 to 40) Life after each Kill
Socketed (6)

Body Armor:

Werecat

Werecat
Breast Plate (4)
Defense: (203 - 224) to (379 - 422)
Required Level: 5
Required Strength: 55
Item Level: 8
5% Chance to cast level 1 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
15% Attack Speed
4% Life stolen per Hit
+(24 to 40)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 50) Defense
+(11 to 20) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 3%
Socketed (2)
Defense: (622 - 681) to (1100 - 1207)
Required Level: 23
Required Strength: 81
Item Level: 27
6% Chance to cast level 7 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
30% Attack Speed
6% Life stolen per Hit
+(58 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(81 to 100) Defense
+(21 to 30) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 4%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1471 - 1589) to (2563 - 2777)
Required Level: 40
Required Strength: 170
Item Level: 47
7% Chance to cast level 13 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
45% Attack Speed
8% Life stolen per Hit
+(92 to 109)% Enhanced Defense
+(131 to 150) Defense
+(31 to 40) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (5)
Defense: (2168 - 2330) to (3757 - 4046)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 353
Item Level: 83
8% Chance to cast level 16 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
60% Attack Speed
10% Life stolen per Hit
+(109 to 126)% Enhanced Defense
+(181 to 200) Defense
+(41 to 50) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 6%
Socketed (6)

Gloves:

Toorc's Gift

Toorc's Gift
Heavy Gloves (4)
Defense: (15 - 18) to (30 - 34)
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 24
Item Level: 5
2% Chance to cast level 1 Glacial Nova on Melee Attack
5% Attack Speed
Stun Attack
+(12 to 29)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(11 to 15)%
Socketed (1)
Defense: (129 - 143) to (160 - 177)
Required Level: 20
Required Strength: 35
Item Level: 24
3% Chance to cast level 2 Glacial Nova on Melee Attack
15% Attack Speed
Adds (21 to 30)-(31 to 50) cold damage
Stun Attack
+(47 to 63)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
Defense: (376 - 409) to (448 - 488)
Required Level: 38
Required Strength: 74
Item Level: 44
4% Chance to cast level 3 Glacial Nova on Melee Attack
25% Attack Speed
Adds (71 to 90)-(91 to 125) cold damage
Stun Attack
+(81 to 97)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(31 to 35)%
Socketed (3)
Defense: (568 - 614) to (685 - 740)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 154
Item Level: 77
5% Chance to cast level 3 Glacial Nova on Melee Attack
30% Attack Speed
Adds (161 to 200)-(201 to 250) cold damage
Stun Attack
+(98 to 114)% Enhanced Defense
Cold Resist +(36 to 40)%
Socketed (4)

Boots:

Death Spur

Death Spur
Heavy Boots (4)
Defense: 27 to 39
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 28
Item Level: 5
1% Chance to cast level 6 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.09375 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(11 to 15) to Strength
+(11 to 15) to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: 109 to 141
Required Level: 20
Required Strength: 41
Item Level: 24
1% Chance to cast level 10 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.15625 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(21 to 25) to Strength
+(21 to 25) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: 248 to 310
Required Level: 38
Required Strength: 87
Item Level: 44
1% Chance to cast level 14 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.21875 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(31 to 35) to Strength
+(31 to 35) to Dexterity
Socketed (3)
Defense: 346 to 427
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 179
Item Level: 77
1% Chance to cast level 16 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.25 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(36 to 40) to Strength
+(36 to 40) to Dexterity
Socketed (4)

Helm:

Bogspitter

Bogspitter
Helms
'Yul'
Runeword Level: 100
20% Chance to cast level 11 Miasma on Melee Attack
+1 to All Skills
Adds 60-179 poison damage over 1 seconds
-3% to Enemy Lightning Resistance
+(115 to 143)% Enhanced Defense

Belt:

Deadfall

Deadfall
Heavy Belt (4)
Defense: (135 - 159) to (178 - 210)
Required Level: 7
Required Strength: 63
Item Level: 11
1% Chance to cast level 2 Shower of Rocks on Kill
1% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(24 to 46)% Enhanced Defense
+(16 to 25) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(11 to 15)%
(3 to 5)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (1)
Defense: (485 - 551) to (616 - 700)
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 92
Item Level: 28
2% Chance to cast level 4 Shower of Rocks on Kill
2% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(69 to 92)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 45) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(21 to 25)%
(9 to 11)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1270 - 1400) to (1595 - 1758)
Required Level: 41
Required Strength: 195
Item Level: 48
3% Chance to cast level 8 Shower of Rocks on Kill
3% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(115 to 137)% Enhanced Defense
+(56 to 65) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(31 to 35)%
(15 to 17)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1918 - 2095) to (2403 - 2626)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 404
Item Level: 84
4% Chance to cast level 12 Shower of Rocks on Kill
4% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(138 to 160)% Enhanced Defense
+(66 to 75) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(36 to 40)%
(18 to 20)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)

Amulet: Some random rare with good stats.
Sockets: Bloodstone, Amber, Turquoise, Onyx until max resist, then Diamond or Ko runes for rest.
MO: For weapon %enchanted damage until %200, increased attack speed to reach max frames, then %ewd. For armor %enchanted defense until %200, total character defense, faster hit recory to reach max frames, then strength for rest. You can also MO amulet for some more resist.

Late Game / Dimensional Rift Setup:

Weapon:

Darkspite

Darkspite
Spetum (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (165 - 228) to (302 - 392)
Required Level: 80
Required Strength: 453
Required Dexterity: 492
Item Level: 105
Dexterity Damage Bonus: (0.25 per Dexterity)%
15% Chance to cast level 6 Rust Storm on Melee Attack
(20 to 50)% Attack Speed
+(120 to 160)% Enhanced Damage
Adds (40 to 80)-(140 to 200) damage
(5 to 10)% Deadly Strike
-5 to Light Radius
50% Curse Length Reduction
Socketed (6)

/ Crafted Spetum with Searing Glow proc. Rust storm procs like crazy and reduces the defense of monsters, which we really need in labs because they have huge amount of defense and we dont have %95 hit chance. Searing glow on the other hand, gives the monsters around merc -100% attack rating, which basically makes you have infinite defense. This is really good since it lasts for very long and lab monsters have insane AR, bad thing is that it has low aoe.
Body Armor:

Razorspine

Razorspine
Hard Leather Armor (Sacred)
Defense: (3714 - 4372) to (3961 - 4663)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 486
Item Level: 105
Indestructible
20% Chance to cast level 7 Spike Nova when Struck
+(58 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 50) to Strength
+(100 to 150) Life Regenerated per Second
Physical Resist 15%
Socketed (6)

This spine nova proc will help him slow down the enemies around him as well as proccing other stuff. It also has %15 physical resist which will help with the -10% physical resist debuff in labs.
Helm:

Witchhunter's Hood

Witchhunter's Hood
Witchhunter's Attire Set
Cap (Sacred)
Defense: 1187 to 1201
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 456
+(80 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
10% to Strength
10% to Dexterity
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Elemental Resists +(31 to 40)%
Physical Resist 5%
Total Character Defense (16 to 20)%
Requirements -50%
Socketed (4)

/

Bogspitter

Bogspitter
Helms
'Yul'
Runeword Level: 100
20% Chance to cast level 11 Miasma on Melee Attack
+1 to All Skills
Adds 60-179 poison damage over 1 seconds
-3% to Enemy Lightning Resistance
+(115 to 143)% Enhanced Defense

maximum elemental resist or miasma proc, your choice
Boots:

Epicenter (Xis)

Epicenter
Boots
'ItXis'
Runeword Level: 120
0.125% Chance of Crushing Blow (Based on Character Level)
+(173 to 201)% Enhanced Defense
Maximum Life (25 to 30)%
Cannot be Unsocketed

/

Akarat's Trek

Akarat's Trek
Light Plated Boots (Sacred)
Defense: (1960 - 2352) to (2170 - 2604)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 561
Item Level: 120
2% Chance to cast level 30 Thunder Hammer Nova on Melee Attack
2% Chance to cast level 30 Thunder Wave on Melee Attack
2% Chance to cast level 30 Hammertime on Melee Attack
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+(15 to 20) to Charged Strike
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(100 to 150)%
+(150 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
10% to All Attributes
+10 to Light Radius
Socketed (4)

/

Riptide

Riptide
Boots
'Shaad'
Runeword Level: 100
25% Chance to cast level 16 Arcane Torrent on Melee Attack
+50 magic damage
+50 cold damage
+(146 to 174)% Enhanced Defense
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Physical Resist (1 to 7)%

huge life, good procs or maximum elemental resist, your choice.
Gloves:

Snowsquall

Snowsquall
Gloves
'Krys'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Chance to cast level 9 Cone of Cold on Melee Attack
+1 to All Skills
Adds 40-80 cold damage
Slow Target 20%
+(58 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(21 to 25) to Dexterity
Cold Absorb 5%
Target Takes Additional Damage of 25

MUST item. This item alone caps his slow(which is %25 max in labs), and will help you greatly while clearing lab.
Belt:

Champion of the Triune

Champion of the Triune
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 5209 to 6598
Required Level: 115
Required Strength: 606
Item Level: 120
Ethereal (Cannot be Repaired)
6% Chance to cast level 1 Force Blast on Melee Attack
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
5% Deadly Strike
+200% Enhanced Defense
+(100 to 1000) Defense
Elemental Resists -20%
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (2)

for force blast proc.
Amulet:

Death Ward

Death Ward
Amulet (Sacred)
Required Level: 110
Item Level: 105
+(1 to 3) to All Skills
Maximum Elemental Resists +1%
Poison Resist +30%
Poison Length Reduced by 30%
30% Curse Length Reduction

for maximum elemental resist

Sockets: %15 ias jewels in weapon, Bloodstone , Amber, Onyx in armors as much as you can.
MO: IAS for weapon(Shapeshifter needs this for sure), FHR for armor so that he can reach his max frame(200 fhr needed), then %ed until 200, tcd rest.

Act 3 Abjurer:

This merc actually deals fair amount of damage when geared properly. So we use them for their elemental damage(Since we dont have any) for some clear, rather than using them for utility. This merc gains %defense per level which makes them a tank as well. This merc mostly uses lightning damage, so you gotta stack lightning spell damage and -lightning enemy resist. I never used this merc so i don't know how to gear them, but i know for a fact that they are very good, and in some cases clear some areas without you even contributing.

Act 5 Barbarian:

This merc actually deals fair amount of damage when geared properly. So we use them as a source of damage and some utility procs. They also buff us with gift of the wild, which gives %ewd and atack speed which is always nice to have. This merc gains strength and dex per level, and scales its damage very high with strength. So we have to give them str stacking items for them to be useful. Sadly they are not very tanky so we have to look out for them to not die.

Early Game Setup:

Weapon:

The Dao of Xiansai

The Dao of Xiansai
Great Sword (4)
One-Hand Damage: (14 - 16) to (32 - 45)
Two-Hand Damage: (25 - 29) to (42 - 56)
Required Level: 11
Required Strength: 105
Item Level: 17
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
+1 to All Skills
15% Attack Speed
15% Hit Recovery
+(18 to 35)% Enhanced Damage
+(15 to 25) to Maximum Damage
(51 to 75)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(101 to 150) Defense
+1% to Experience Gained
Socketed (2)
One-Hand Damage: (31 - 35) to (70 - 83)
Two-Hand Damage: (60 - 67) to (96 - 112)
Required Level: 29
Required Strength: 151
Item Level: 33
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
+2 to All Skills
25% Attack Speed
25% Hit Recovery
+(52 to 69)% Enhanced Damage
+(31 to 40) to Maximum Damage
(101 to 125)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(201 to 250) Defense
+2% to Experience Gained
Socketed (4)
One-Hand Damage: (59 - 64) to (123 - 149)
Two-Hand Damage: (114 - 123) to (172 - 201)
Required Level: 49
Required Strength: 291
Item Level: 54
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
+3 to All Skills
35% Attack Speed
35% Hit Recovery
+(87 to 103)% Enhanced Damage
+(51 to 70) to Maximum Damage
(151 to 175)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(301 to 350) Defense
+2% to Experience Gained
Socketed (5)
One-Hand Damage: (77 - 83) to (166 - 193)
Two-Hand Damage: (148 - 160) to (228 - 259)
Required Level: 57
Required Strength: 570
Item Level: 90
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
+4 to All Skills
40% Attack Speed
40% Hit Recovery
+(104 to 120)% Enhanced Damage
+(71 to 90) to Maximum Damage
(176 to 200)% Bonus to Attack Rating
+(351 to 400) Defense
+3% to Experience Gained
Socketed (6)

Body Armor:

Werecat

Werecat
Breast Plate (4)
Defense: (203 - 224) to (379 - 422)
Required Level: 5
Required Strength: 55
Item Level: 8
5% Chance to cast level 1 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
15% Attack Speed
4% Life stolen per Hit
+(24 to 40)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 50) Defense
+(11 to 20) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 3%
Socketed (2)
Defense: (622 - 681) to (1100 - 1207)
Required Level: 23
Required Strength: 81
Item Level: 27
6% Chance to cast level 7 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
30% Attack Speed
6% Life stolen per Hit
+(58 to 75)% Enhanced Defense
+(81 to 100) Defense
+(21 to 30) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 4%
Socketed (4)
Defense: (1471 - 1589) to (2563 - 2777)
Required Level: 40
Required Strength: 170
Item Level: 47
7% Chance to cast level 13 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
45% Attack Speed
8% Life stolen per Hit
+(92 to 109)% Enhanced Defense
+(131 to 150) Defense
+(31 to 40) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (5)
Defense: (2168 - 2330) to (3757 - 4046)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 353
Item Level: 83
8% Chance to cast level 16 Sandstorm on Melee Attack
60% Attack Speed
10% Life stolen per Hit
+(109 to 126)% Enhanced Defense
+(181 to 200) Defense
+(41 to 50) to all Attributes
Physical Resist 6%
Socketed (6)

Gloves:

Visegrip

Visegrip
Light Gauntlets (4)
Defense: 29 to 56
Required Level: 6
Required Strength: 52
Item Level: 11
5% Chance to cast level 5 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(3 to 4) to Maximum Damage
(4 to 5)% to Strength
2% to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: 120 to 176
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 76
Item Level: 28
6% Chance to cast level 10 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(6 to 7) to Maximum Damage
(8 to 9)% to Strength
(3 to 4)% to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: 273 to 381
Required Level: 41
Required Strength: 161
Item Level: 48
7% Chance to cast level 19 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(8 to 9) to Maximum Damage
(12 to 13)% to Strength
(5 to 7)% to Dexterity
Socketed (3)
Defense: 375 to 522
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 333
Item Level: 83
8% Chance to cast level 30 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(9 to 10) to Maximum Damage
(14 to 15)% to Strength
(8 to 10)% to Dexterity
Socketed (4)

Boots:

Death Spur

Death Spur
Heavy Boots (4)
Defense: 27 to 39
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 28
Item Level: 5
1% Chance to cast level 6 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.09375 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(11 to 15) to Strength
+(11 to 15) to Dexterity
Socketed (1)
Defense: 109 to 141
Required Level: 20
Required Strength: 41
Item Level: 24
1% Chance to cast level 10 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.15625 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(21 to 25) to Strength
+(21 to 25) to Dexterity
Socketed (2)
Defense: 248 to 310
Required Level: 38
Required Strength: 87
Item Level: 44
1% Chance to cast level 14 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.21875 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(31 to 35) to Strength
+(31 to 35) to Dexterity
Socketed (3)
Defense: 346 to 427
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 179
Item Level: 77
1% Chance to cast level 16 Spike Nova on Kill
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+0.25 to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
+(36 to 40) to Strength
+(36 to 40) to Dexterity
Socketed (4)

Helm:

Thunderdome

Thunderdome
Assault Helmet (4)
Defense: (118 - 134) to (174 - 198)
(Barbarian Only)
Required Level: 8
Required Strength: 70
Item Level: 13
5% Chance to cast level 10 Flash on Melee Attack
Adds 1-(6 to 10) lightning damage
-3% to Enemy Lightning Resistance
+12 to Lightning Shield
+(41 to 60)% Enhanced Defense
(7 to 10)% to Strength
+5 Mana after each Kill
Socketed (2)
Defense: (391 - 435) to (542 - 602)
(Barbarian Only)
Required Level: 25
Required Strength: 104
Item Level: 29
10% Chance to cast level 20 Flash on Melee Attack
Adds 1-(18 to 35) lightning damage
-6% to Enemy Lightning Resistance
+18 to Lightning Shield
+(71 to 90)% Enhanced Defense
(15 to 18)% to Strength
+10 Mana after each Kill
Socketed (2)
Defense: (952 - 1090) to (1294 - 1481)
(Barbarian Only)
Required Level: 43
Required Strength: 217
Item Level: 50
15% Chance to cast level 30 Flash on Melee Attack
Adds 1-(86 to 100) lightning damage
-9% to Enemy Lightning Resistance
+24 to Lightning Shield
+(101 to 130)% Enhanced Defense
(23 to 26)% to Strength
+20 Mana after each Kill
Socketed (3)
Defense: (1631 - 1755) to (2201 - 2367)
(Barbarian Only)
Required Level: 51
Required Strength: 450
Item Level: 85
20% Chance to cast level 40 Flash on Melee Attack
Adds 1-(261 to 300) lightning damage
-12% to Enemy Lightning Resistance
+30 to Lightning Shield
+(151 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(27 to 30)% to Strength
+35 Mana after each Kill
Socketed (4)

Belt:

Deadfall

Deadfall
Heavy Belt (4)
Defense: (135 - 159) to (178 - 210)
Required Level: 7
Required Strength: 63
Item Level: 11
1% Chance to cast level 2 Shower of Rocks on Kill
1% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(24 to 46)% Enhanced Defense
+(16 to 25) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(11 to 15)%
(3 to 5)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (1)
Defense: (485 - 551) to (616 - 700)
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 92
Item Level: 28
2% Chance to cast level 4 Shower of Rocks on Kill
2% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(69 to 92)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 45) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(21 to 25)%
(9 to 11)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1270 - 1400) to (1595 - 1758)
Required Level: 41
Required Strength: 195
Item Level: 48
3% Chance to cast level 8 Shower of Rocks on Kill
3% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(115 to 137)% Enhanced Defense
+(56 to 65) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(31 to 35)%
(15 to 17)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)
Defense: (1918 - 2095) to (2403 - 2626)
Required Level: 50
Required Strength: 404
Item Level: 84
4% Chance to cast level 12 Shower of Rocks on Kill
4% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(138 to 160)% Enhanced Defense
+(66 to 75) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(36 to 40)%
(18 to 20)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed (2)

Amulet: Some random rare with good stats.

Sockets: Bloodstone, Amber, Turquoise, Onyx until max resist, then Diamond or Ko runes for rest.
MO: For weapon %enchanted damage until %200, increased attack speed to reach max frames, then %ewd. For armor %enchanted defense until %200, total character defense, faster hit recory to reach max frames, then strength for rest. You can also MO amulet for some more resist.

Late Game / Dimensional Rift Setup:

Weapon: Crafted Great Sword with preferably intimidating shrine that has +300 maximum damage, slow, good proc.
Armor:

Erawan

Erawan
Body Armors
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
25% to Strength
25% to Vitality
Physical Resist (11 to 15)%
Total Character Defense (11 to 20)%

/

Razorspine

Razorspine
Hard Leather Armor (Sacred)
Defense: (3714 - 4372) to (3961 - 4663)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 486
Item Level: 105
Indestructible
20% Chance to cast level 7 Spike Nova when Struck
+(58 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(41 to 50) to Strength
+(100 to 150) Life Regenerated per Second
Physical Resist 15%
Socketed (6)

for %physical resist
Boots:

Angel's Wrath

Angel's Wrath
Chain Boots (Sacred)
Defense: (1625 - 2217) to (1762 - 2403)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 527
Item Level: 120
+(0 to 2) to Assassin Skill Levels
+(0 to 2) to Amazon Skill Levels
+(0 to 2) to Barbarian Skill Levels
+(0 to 2) to Druid Skill Levels
+(0 to 2) to Necromancer Skill Levels
+(0 to 2) to Sorceress Skill Levels
+(0 to 2) to Paladin Skill Levels
(0 to 40)% Movement Speed
+(120 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
Maximum Life 10%
Physical Resist 10%
Socketed (4)

for %max life and %physical resist
Helm:

Witchhunter's Hood

Witchhunter's Hood
Witchhunter's Attire Set
Cap (Sacred)
Defense: 1187 to 1201
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 456
+(80 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
10% to Strength
10% to Dexterity
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Elemental Resists +(31 to 40)%
Physical Resist 5%
Total Character Defense (16 to 20)%
Requirements -50%
Socketed (4)

for maximum elemental resist and %physical resist
Gloves:

Demonic Touch

Demonic Touch
Leather Gloves (Sacred)
Defense: 1136 to 1143
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 908
Item Level: 120
1% Chance to cast level 20 Cataclysm on Striking
Adds 10-25 damage
+666 Defense
Elemental Resists +10%
Physical Resist 5%
1% Reanimate as: Edyrem
Requirements +100%
Socketed (4)

/

Facebreaker

Facebreaker
Chain Gloves (Sacred)
Defense: (1784 - 1939) to (2299 - 2469)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 514
Item Level: 120
+1% Attack Speed per 20 Strength
Stun Attack
+(130 to 160)% Enhanced Defense
-15% to Dexterity
+(600 to 1000) Defense
Physical Resist 5%
+2 Life on Striking
Socketed (4)

/

Snowsquall

Snowsquall
Gloves
'Krys'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Chance to cast level 9 Cone of Cold on Melee Attack
+1 to All Skills
Adds 40-80 cold damage
Slow Target 20%
+(58 to 86)% Enhanced Defense
+(21 to 25) to Dexterity
Cold Absorb 5%
Target Takes Additional Damage of 25

for %physical resist or slow
Belt:

Celestia's Ribbon

Celestia's Ribbon
Celestia's Myth Set
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1363 to 1493
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 606
+1 to Amazon Skill Levels
15% Attack Speed
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(11 to 15)% to Strength
+(31 to 50) to Dexterity
Physical Resist 5%
Socketed (2)

for str and %physical resist
Amulet:

Dyers Eve

Dyers Eve
Amulet (Sacred)
Required Level: 100
Item Level: 120
5% Chance to cast level 5 Time Strike on Striking
+2 to All Skills
Adds 15-20 damage
5% Life stolen per Hit
Elemental Resists +10%
Physical Resist (1 to 10)%

for %physical resist

Sockets: Bloodstone , Amber, Onyx as much as you can.
MO: IAS for weapon until max frame ed until %200 than deadly strike, FHR for armor so that he can reach his max frame, then %ed until 200, tcd rest.

Walkthrough

► Show Spoiler

In this section i will try to give you guys an idea about how to progress through early game and reach end game.

You start the game, you will progress very smooth early game thanks to Retaliate and Solar Flare, try not to use Divine Judgement as much because it will drain your mana very quickly. Max your Rapture, Incarnation, Plague, Dragonheart, give 6 points into Divine Judgement. Good thing about this skill build is that you dont need to respec until you are level 120 and have all of the charms.

Try to get all the resistence gems from the ground and socket them whenever you have space. You can progress with whatever you find on the ground until mephisto. When you get to mephisto, try to kill him couple of times to get your

Grim Fang

Grim Fang
Short Sword (4)
One-Hand Damage: (4 - 5) to 7
Required Level: 12
Item Level: 1
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(18 to 29)% Enhanced Damage
(3 to 5)% Life stolen per Hit
-3% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(1 to 3) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+10 to Strength
Poison Resist +(11 to 15)%
Socketed (1)
One-Hand Damage: (12 - 13) to (12 - 13)
Required Level: 19
Required Strength: 18
Item Level: 21
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(41 to 52)% Enhanced Damage
(9 to 11)% Life stolen per Hit
-6% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(3 to 6) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+20 to Strength
Poison Resist +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
One-Hand Damage: (22 - 24) to (24 - 26)
Required Level: 37
Required Strength: 49
Item Level: 41
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(64 to 75)% Enhanced Damage
(15 to 17)% Life stolen per Hit
-9% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(7 to 12) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+30 to Strength
Poison Resist +(31 to 35)%
Socketed (3)
One-Hand Damage: (29 - 31) to (33 - 35)
Required Level: 46
Required Strength: 104
Item Level: 73
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
+(75 to 86)% Enhanced Damage
(18 to 20)% Life stolen per Hit
-12% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(13 to 18) to Plague (Paladin Only)
+40 to Strength
Poison Resist +(36 to 40)%
Socketed (3)

, which should drop quite easily. Disenchant rest of the uniques to make your early game items. Your game should become much smoother when you get the Fang, and should stay that way until nightmare.

At act5, try to farm nithalak to get all of your gear to tier 4 uniques. This makes your game very easy until hell, and makes you not think about your gear at all. You will do Level Challenge after killing Baal's last minion, which should be no challenge at all. You can also watch my video in Challange section. Get your sunstone and upgrade it wth Anya quests, for that extra resistence.

At nightmare you will start to feel like your damage is lacking, you might wanna switch to

Faithshaker

Faithshaker
Hand of God (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (23 - 27) to (34 - 46)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 12
Required Strength: 76
Item Level: 18
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
3% Chance to cast level 4 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(24 to 46)% Enhanced Damage
+(6 to 13) to Maximum Damage
+(51 to 100)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(16 to 25) to Strength
Cold Resist +(16 to 25)%
Fire Resist +(16 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
Two-Hand Damage: (60 - 69) to (93 - 110)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 30
Required Strength: 109
Item Level: 33
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
4% Chance to cast level 12 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(69 to 92)% Enhanced Damage
+(21 to 28) to Maximum Damage
+(151 to 200)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(36 to 45) to Strength
Cold Resist +(36 to 45)%
Fire Resist +(36 to 45)%
Socketed (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (120 - 132) to (175 - 197)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 49
Required Strength: 211
Item Level: 53
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
5% Chance to cast level 20 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(115 to 137)% Enhanced Damage
+(36 to 43) to Maximum Damage
+(251 to 300)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(56 to 65) to Strength
Cold Resist +(56 to 65)%
Fire Resist +(56 to 65)%
Socketed (5)
Two-Hand Damage: (142 - 156) to (238 - 263)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 56
Required Strength: 466
Item Level: 88
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
5% Chance to cast level 24 Thunder Slam on Melee Attack
+(138 to 160)% Enhanced Damage
+(43 to 50) to Maximum Damage
+(301 to 350)% Damage to Demons
+50% Damage to Undead
Stun Attack
+(66 to 75) to Strength
Cold Resist +(66 to 75)%
Fire Resist +(66 to 75)%
Socketed (6)

at this point. Kill the veteran monster in the corresponding areas, to upgrade your class charm as soon as possible for that extra experience modifier. When you get to act 3 mephisto, you should be around level 90 and will attempt to do Ennead Challange. This should be no problem at all as well. At this point, look for sacred/tier 4 hand of god and make it a

Brahman

Brahman
Paladin Clubs, Paladin Maces, Paladin Hammers
'Nas'
Runeword Level: 87
100% Hit Recovery
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Damage
+(51 to 88) to Maximum Damage
+(1 to 4) to Mountain King
+(1 to 6) to Bear Stance
+10% to Summoned Minion Life
+1000 Defense
Dragonheart Spell Blinds Attacker +(2 to 4)

runeword. This will give you bear stance, which when you active gives you the necessary physical resist until you get your Blessed Life at 115. Also look for level 100 runes to make

Erawan

Erawan
Body Armors
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
25% to Strength
25% to Vitality
Physical Resist (11 to 15)%
Total Character Defense (11 to 20)%

and

Nephilim

Nephilim
Boots
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(21 to 25)% to Vitality
+150 Defense
+50 to Strength
+50 to Vitality

which you will use for a long time.

At hell difficulty you might feel a bit squishy, try to mo your gear for more defense and dont forget to make the previous runewords for more defansive stats.With bear stance you should have enough physical resistence to not have any problems. Progress through hell until you get Worldstone level 2 waypoint. Open the waypoint and try to return back and do your uberquests. Also try to begin your sig farming with hell nithalak. You can't kill Baal yet since its a level 120 uberboss, so opening the closest waypoint should be enough.

After completing your ubers, you should farm cows until you are level 115, get your BRC skill Blessed Life and farm TA for that sweet exp, and possible amazing trophy. After 120, you will need to farm Duncraig up to 125 and Fautzinville after that.

General Gameplay

► Show Spoiler

You use your weapon swap(It's fine if you dont have any) to cast your buffs and summon Hoplites if you have any, swap back to your main weapon, travel with Divine Apperation, when you see a monster pack cast your Solar Flare and Vindicate and Colosseum into them to hit the entire screen while also knocking them back and giving them a physical resist debuff. Then depending on the zone, use either Retaliate or Divine Judgement to clear the pack. If the fight is long dont forget to recast your solar flare, and also if you have wolf or bear stance, dont forget to enable it after every skill switch. You should use Retaliate when there are mobs that doesnt require you to deal much damage, but are kinda spread around(like Tran Athulua), or when you feel unsafe about not having knockback(like Bremmtown). Divine Judgement is best versus most of the bosses and is also perfect for p8 Duncraig/Bremmtown farming because you will need that damage to kill those boosted mobs.

Challenges and Sigs

► Show Spoiler

These are the Challanges you have to complete. You can get further info about general structure of these encounters from here: https://docs.median-xl.com/doc/quests/challenges

Level Challange: EASY , You have enough defense from Dragonheart, to deal with their damage. But beware that Divine Judgement will not be as good here simply because the bosses moves a lot, and dont stand in the DJ rain, also since density is low, you might wanna use Retaliate.
https://youtu.be/pX1r2vwST7o?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

Ennead Challange: EASY , You should have enough survivability at this point to have no troubles here. Try to skip te resistent skeletons and colosseum into the crystal balls, so you dont have to deal with the resistence aura.
https://youtu.be/Ak0JTtxZODE?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

Veteran Tokens: EASY , These are a piece of cake, but you might have some trouble "finding" them. They dont always spawn, and even i they do they might not be in the same zone, so you gotta look for them while leveling in nightmare. When you kill the nightmare baal, return back and try to complete this challenge so that you get that extra %20 experience bonus. You can find these monsters in the following areas:

Act 1 : Clawstorm Terror (Barracks, Jail)
Act 2 : Fairy Witch (Canyon of the Magi)
Act 3 : Glowing Blob (Travincal, Durance of Hate)
Act 4 : Landmass (City of the Damned, River of Flame)
Act 5 : Bane Hunter (Worldstone Keep)

Sigs: If you dont know, every char in this mod has the capability to consume signet of learnings up to 400 of them. These signets gives 1 stat point per consume and these can be obtained by using catalyst of learning with set and sacred unique items. The catalyst will destroy the items and give you signets with the same numbers of items it destroyed. Since this is kind of a slow way of obtaining these, there is another way. On Nightmare difficulty, in act 5 Nithalak boss drops 1 signet of learning per kill, on Hell difficulty its 2 per kill. Killing Nithalak is super easy considering the layout has small amount of variations and there is not much threat in the zone to get you killed. I would recommend farming Hell Nithalak after getting level 105. This way you can still get experience from the area, get some early sacred uniques, high end runes, sacred bases for your runewords, some tiered uniques which can be turned into arcane crystals for the mid game jewelcraft and get 2 signets of learning per run. Each run should take about 1.5 minutes max so you can complete this hideous but necessary task within 5 hours or so. Of course you dont have to do it all at once, you can just farm it couple of times, go farm somewhere else to not get bored and repeat the process. Getting 400 sigs will significantly increase your damage and survivability.

Final Words

Thanks for reading my guide, all critisizm or feedback is welcomed. You can message me about the guide on discord or on forums. My discord username in Median XL discord is Ertu#4801.

Acknowledgements

► Show Spoiler

Thanks Bojac for creating the original guide, and being an inspiration for me to write this one. He is a very cool dude, and he also streams you can check his twitch here: https://www.twitch.tv/bojacea/ , he also uploads his streams into youtube, and makes some guides about median xl that you can check here: https://www.youtube.com/user/MrToast0000/videos . I am very active in his Twitch chat and Discord, so if you have a lot of questions regarding the guide you can ask him or me in his channel discord.(You can get the link from his stream)

Thanks helzopro, RandomOnions, HohoHaha, Ben-, Seekers, Connor and Phil for making fun of me all the time for playing holy melee. Love you guys.

[Glamdring26]

Dungeons & Rifts

Dungeons

► Show Spoiler

For further information about these dungeon's locations check: https://docs.median-xl.com/doc/quests/dungeons .

Disclaimer:
In most of the videos, i die quite often. This is due to the fact that im kinda rushing content, and im making these videos as my first try(Or forgot to record and doing it for the second time). I can of course make 4-5 tries and choose the one that went perfect and didn't die at all. But i didnt do that for 2 reason: First im lazy, Second i want you guys to learn that it is OKAY to die in these ubers. You will die a lot of trying to do this ubers, which is complately normal. You will learn the mechanics over time and get better at it. You might not have the items i have, or might get unlucky with the drops, so you might die even more than me, this is all fine. A lot of deaths are avoidable when you learn the mechanics well and can improve yourself from there. Im showing you the "First, and probably worst try" of these ubers for you to gain a general idea, and understand that it is OKAY to die. I show my gear in every beginning of the video, which might be sub-optimal and can be improved, and also so you can compare your gear with me.

HORROR UNDER TRISTRAM: EASY. You just go in and hit him. Easiest uber.
https://youtu.be/mTy3Efn2HGg?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

INFERNAL MACHINE: EASY. Go in, try to lure some monsters away, or try to clear some of them. Then go for the boss. If there are too many mobs still, you might die, So try step 1 again and again until you kill it.
https://youtu.be/FsaSfRE7Z9E?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

DEATH PROJECTOR: EASY. Try to lure some of the mobs away so you can have easier time hitting the boss. You need at least 1 of them or the boss will become immune to damage. Be careful not to die to his beam, it even continues for 1 more cycle after it dies.
https://youtu.be/8bIvq1nFneM?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

THE BINDING OF BAAL: EASY. Try to do this uber after you get your blessed life. We used to have our Dragon's Blessing so we were not turning into Baal, but now since they removed the morph, we are turning into Baal, which has shit frames. When you hit and your hit recovery procs, you will be stuck there for like 1 second. So it is advised to do this uber after you get your blessed life to get tankier. Tal rasha only loses immunity when you kill all of his friends. He is tanky but doesnt deal much damage so it is fine.
https://youtu.be/xYlSMr95yb8?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

HORAZON'S SANCTUM: EASY. You just go in and kill the boss. He spawns portals that spawns more monsters but it is not big of a deal.
https://youtu.be/tF5tQqRySqE?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

AKARAT: EASY. You just go in and kill the boss. She becomes vulnerable when you kill one of his followers near her, which she has a lot of them around.
https://youtu.be/bZBXBdxYdDM?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

ASSAULT ON MOUNT ARREAT: EASY. Same as Binding of Baal, but easier. You don't have to kill all the shamans around, the boss is already vulnerable to damage, but it is advised to claer some of them so they dont stunlock you to death when you are hitting the boss.
https://youtu.be/Zr2osI4bM6k?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

LORD ALDRIC JITAN: EASY. You just go in and kill the boss. Be careful about the towers(Fortress) he spawns, they hit hard. Try to lure him into the entrance and kill him
https://youtu.be/IvFuioJR4Lk?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

BULL PRINCE RODEO: EASY. He is pretty annoying to deal with. He just pushes us back and his cows hits hard. Try to go between walls and the boss, which when he pushes you back your back will be at the wall so it will not work. You also cannot use teleport skills in this area so only use colosseum when you are near the boss, he will still get the debuff.
https://youtu.be/krP2O7WedOk?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

RATHMA SQUARE: EASY. When you kill the little frogs, they will respawn after 10 seconds, so try to clear some of them and rush boss. You might die a lot for this uber at early game simply because frogs hits hard, but since it doesn't have a lockdown its fine. Try to lure the boss close to the entrance and kill him.
https://youtu.be/0t89WrEn4lE?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

BLACK ROAD: EASY. The boss only gets damaged when he is in the fire circle. Just lure him there and kill him. When he dies a lot of thrash mobs runs at you, just kill them as well, they pose no threat to us.
https://youtu.be/QHu5s5-vM-s?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

LEGACY OF BLOOD: EASY. The boss only becomes vulnerable to damage if he uses a certain spell. Try to time your teleport skills when he uses it, and kill him. When he dies every mob in the room explodes and it deals shit ton of damage. So when you kill him, pick up the charm and get the fuck out of there, or you will most likely die.
https://youtu.be/BDqRetjJDDs?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

THE VEILED PROPHET: EASY. Go into the area with your Hoplites. Dont move much until the beam
disappears, and Colosseum into the ball in the middle when it does. Kill everything after killing the ball.
https://youtu.be/eqIdPeQ11T8?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

HEART OF SIN: EASY. Just skip the mobs until you get to boss and drop portal at the boss. He uses a mine skill which damages you when you move in it, and he also occasionally casts flamestrike which is gonna oneshot you. It is a bit hard to see the flamestrike animation on the ground to dodge it, so you gotta look Azmodan to see if he casted it or not. You might die a couple of times but it is pretty easy. Might need a bit more max fire resist if you couldn't do it.
https://youtu.be/cEvIOphyPdE?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

JUDGEMENT DAY: EASY. You should do Malthael first(The left one), simply because the fight takes longer. Try to copy what i do in the video. Summon Hoplites to distract the edyrems, you can even move your summons with your teleport skill and then try to focus the main boss. You might wanna back up and redo if you dont have enough damage to kill him in one go. For upgrade you need to kill both bosses within 1 minute. So kill malthael, go out go into Imperius zone but dont rush. 1 minute is a long time so dont rush and die like an idiot. Use the same strategy here, kill him get the fuck out and cube charm.
https://youtu.be/lGaMYx4nmz4?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

TWIN SEAS: EASY. You should never attack her unless you have your hoplites up. Try to colosseum into her with your hoplites so he hits the summons and not you. Bring some mana potions so you can summon hoplites constantly. It takes a bit long but this is the easiest way.
https://youtu.be/dDpGbP0zFMY?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

QUOV TSIN: EASY. This is a gear check uber. MO your amulet and rings with damage reduction, put Amber,Onyx and Bloodstones into your gear and try to reach as much max resist as you can. Then his beam will deal no damage to you, so you can just follow him around and hit him. Beware of his bone nova, which he casts ocasionally, and it will one shot you. He laughs when he casts that so you might wanna turn on your game sound.
https://youtu.be/MeAzxiFLURY?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

KINGDOM OF SHADOW: EASY. Get as much poison resist as you can, fill your belt with life potions and go. Try to find a shrine in the beginning area since there is always 4 of them. A stamina or posion shrine will be very good to have. Inside the maze, keep up 5 hoplites all the time. Follow the route i take and get to the boss. Teleport up, bait all the zombies to one place and then colosseum into boss. Teleport away and try again. Try not do die while trying to get the charm.
https://youtu.be/6ao2GL9EKfg?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

EVE OF DESTRUCTION: EASY. It is easily doable with mid game gear. Just follow him around and hit him. His black attack cannot even kill you with proper gear. Dont try to attack him when his minions are around, focus them first. Try to lure away the mini bosses he spawns so you can have easier time killing them. He has an annoying mana drain attack so few mana potions might be good to bring.
https://youtu.be/PS8UxXzrWAE?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

BANISHER OF LIGHT: MODERATE. This uber is super easy if you have end game gear but kinda hard if you have mid game gear. Stack as much poison resist as you can. The strategy here is to wait until he pounces on you, hit 1-2 times with Divine Judgement
, and teleport away. Rinse and repeat. The problem here is that if you have low damage, you might get killed some time which he will heal from. Even though he doesnt go to full hp, he gains like %10 hp everytime you die near him. So try not to die and take your time. You might wanna go back to this uber later when you have better gear to farm the charm for better max resists.
https://youtu.be/G5CT4WgatoI?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

LORD OF LIES: MODERATE. Belial has a lot of tanky clones of him so you gotta hit the correct target. He has a purple glowing aura, and he turns into a small rat when he gets damaged. Avoid his wall of illusions that spams skills on you, try to avoid his ice meteors(Even though it doesnt hit much), and keep it in mind that his melee attack hurts a lot. So keep an eye on your health bar while fighting him and teleport away when you get to half hp. Other than that all you have to do is cast Solar Flare, left click him (If you use colosseum you have to aim again which is hard), and dont let it go until you feel in danger. I would even suggest that if you dont feel in danger but your Solar Flare buff run out, you can just keep attacking him. Because when you cast solar flare you have to aim at him again which is hard thing to do considering hes a small rat. You might die a couple of times, but you will get him eventually.
https://youtu.be/St3i9FutPUw?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

GHOSTS OF OLD BREMMTOWN: EASY. You have to go into this area and kill the dragon before 1 minute and 30 seconds. Bind your Retaliate to your left click, always keep Solar Flare up, and just run to the boss. You can also use hoplites to distribute some of the damage. At the end you have shit ton of %physical resist and defense so you should be able to do this uber without a problem. When you kill the boss, pick up the charm and cube it.
https://youtu.be/G8JKICvznk0?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

XAZAX: EASY. Dont try to attack Xazax when he has his golems around, try to lure golems away by running away, or use Hoplites to distract them. Then go in with colosseum and spam Divine Judgement on the boss. Teleport away if he casts his meteor skill, or the golems gets close to you, rinse and repeat. It should take a bit longer when you first try it, but when you get used to the mechanic, it takes 2 minute with mid game gear to kill.
https://youtu.be/IHeLx_Csk_A?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

ASTROGHA: MODERATE.. Astro is very annoying with this build because of 2 reasons. One being he uses his one shot frozen orb skill if you get into the melee range with him, two being he spams totems at you, which when you kill it, it curses you and when you get hit with an attack while under that curse, you will get one shotted. Good thing is that we have insane damage for these bad things to compensate. Dont use colosseum because he will instause frozen orb, dont use hoplites because they will kill totems, dont spend time killing the small spiders they pose no threat and lastly dont engage him while he has totems right next to him. When you kill a totem near him it also heals a percentage of his life. Just walk up to him hit a couple of times, and he will most likely teleport away or oneshot you. Rinse and repeat this until you kill him.
https://youtu.be/zekiI_qM5gE?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

YSHARI SANCTUM: EASY. Even though this uber is very easy to do, it is probably the uber that takes most time out of all. First you need to go into seat of hatred through Caldeum and collect all pieces of yshari set. The bosses are pretty easy and straightforward. Use the following map to find your way:

The map is a bit outdated, the 4th(Duriel) zone exit is not there, you just go left after killing duriel, no need to go back to the entrance. The 5th zone(Baal), there is no boss at the bottom side, there is just baal at the top side. After you kill all bosses, you get the full yshari set. Equip it and go into yshari uber in Caldeum. Spawn the boss by killing the statue in the middle. The boss spawns minions when he is close to you(Melee range) and you can only use the skills granted by the set, when there are those minions near you. So bind the clear skill to your left mouse button and bind the purify skil to your right. The aim is to clear most of the minions and only having 1-2 following you, then you need to circle around the boss and purify him to death. He dies in 25 shots so it doesnt take much time(Like 10 minutes). He pounces on you every 5-6 seconds, and if you are not running fast enough he will spawn more minions, which then you need to clear most of them again. Best strategy is to purify 2 times and than sprint around him so that he misses he pounce and doesnt spawn any minions, and you can just keep the 1-2 minions following you to purify him. You can also watch the video to get an idea.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxcXOki ... 5&index=40

THE VOID: MODERATE. Getting the ring is really easy. For sloth, kill him and run away until he drops the scroll, for gluttony just burst him down, for greed try teleporting and using Colosseum very fast to avoid his curse, for envy try to burst him down because he can go off terrain, for lust, just Colosseum and kill her, for wrath get your yshari set and just wait for him to kill himself, for pride just kill him. I didn't attempt the actual uber yet because im lazy, might do it in the future.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkGjFLy ... 5&index=39

NEPHALEM'S SACRIFICE: IMPOSSIBLE. This uber is not doable with holy melee. The edyrems have insane attack rating and they hit like a truck so you just die to edyrems over and over. An example video of this bullshit is attached.
https://youtu.be/4Av21Mv5cgY?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

Rifts

► Show Spoiler

Check https://docs.median-xl.com/doc/quests/rifts for locations and extra information.

ISLAND OF THE SUNLESS SEA: EASY. The mobs here are mostly invisible. Use Retaliate for mobs and use Divine Judgement for the bosses. Since this is an early rift, your gear might be crap like me, and you might die couple of times, this is normal. You will stomp this area when you have better gear. Kill all angels and cube their bags to get the charm. Also cube the sunless bird with the charm for extra stats(Not a guaranteed drop). This area also grants best gold drop in the game. So if you need gold, you might wanna farm this area.
https://youtu.be/pcrt33jlTvo?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

THE SECRET COW LEVEL: EASY. The cows hits hard, so keep your solar active at all times to counter their damage with your leech. Killing Cow King drops the other leg which opens portal to Bull Prince Rodeo. Even though this area doesnt have a charm, it is the best place to farm until 115. The cows gives amazing exp, and they drop a lot of gold which you will need at that point for your crafts, and mo's.

TORAJAN JUNGLES: EASY. I dont like this area because the treewarden mobs are too tanky to waste time, and the mosquito mobs drain your mana, which is pretty annoying. Only farm this area if you feel like you cant farm cows. Mobs also have a high chance to drop signets.

KURAST 3000 BA: EASY. You can kill skeletons without killing towers if you use Divine Judgement. But it is advised to use Retaliate and kill towers with Divine Judgement, simply because it takes less time. This area has good exp on the way to 120, and has better set drop rates than other areas. So you might wanna farm this area a couple of times. The necromancer's has a chance to drop their charm and they are super easy to kill.
https://youtu.be/Qt7B06SmJ8s?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

HIGH HEAVENS: EASY. Be careful about the punisher towers, if they hit you, even thought it doesnt kill you, it reduces your life to 1. So keep an eye out on your life bar and use a potion when that happens. There are few angels scattered around in the area, and they have a chance to drop their charm. They become vulnerable when you kill the mobs around them.
https://youtu.be/RU2eToGa14c?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

TRAN ATHULUA: EASY. We have high amount of defense to deal with this area. Use Retaliate for mobs and Divine Judgement for bosses. Kill 3 bosses and cube their respective drop to get the charm. This area also has excellent trophy, so you might wanna farm this area until you get the trophy, while also going for level 120. It is also lot easier to clear than K3K, and has greater chance to drop unique items. Which might be a useful Sacred Unique or a Tiered unique to disenchant. Don't forget to open the waypoint at the bottom left side of the map and top right side of the map, which we will need later.
https://youtu.be/KgZyzjyUuwY?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

TEGANZE: MODERATE. Stack as much maximum resist as possible. This guys hurts a lot but their projectile is quite slow, so you can basically teleport all around to dodge it. The problem is that this build does not have fast clear to farm this place for runes, in other words it takes much longer for you to clear this place compared to other builds. So i wouldnt recommend farming it apart from getting your Umbaru Tresure full. The boss itself is not that big of a problem, run away when he is in bat form and Colosseum when he isnt. Easy kill.
https://youtu.be/_j8lrbPvVDQ?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

THE TRIUNE: MODERATE. The zone is not that bad, only real threat is the meteor towers which will one shot you. So try to clear them as soon as possible and dodge the meteors. For the boss, just lure Lucion out and try to hug them with Primus. Primus will ocassionally teleport him around if it is under your possession, so it is kinda annoying to deal with. It might take 20 minutes or so for your first try, but when you get used to the mechanic you can actually farm the boss for the 2 guaranteed cycle it drops.
https://youtu.be/2LxZe_Avz-o?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

DUNCRAIG: EASY. The zone is super easy for us to farm. You can even farm p8 this place for better drops and exp(Even though exp bonus is capped at p5), but you need to use Divine Judgement if you decide to do so. Use your Retaliate otherwise to clear the mobs, teleport away when there is a barrel nearby. The boss requires you to kill all 5 minibosses scattered around the map(You can see their location in the video), also drop a unique item called "Ring of the Five", which is a random drop and cube these 6 together. It will turn the ring into "Assur's Bane" which is a really good mid-game ring and it contains the oskill "Purify". You need to purify the Assur to death(Which takes 2 purify shots in p1). The boss deals heavy fire damage so try to stack as much maximum fire resist as you can.(You can actually see me socketing Bloodstones in video). Once you have enough fire res the boss is super easy. You can farm this place until you are 125, since it also has increased unique drop rate and gives very good amount of exp.
https://youtu.be/HJEV-6D86LI?list=PLQeY ... HTrxRbYxK5

TORAJA: EASY. Use your Hoplites in this because they are very tanky against the mobs in this area. Summon 9 Edyrems with your Judgement Day Charm, go into zone, go into Lilith's area and try to colosseum into her. When 1 of the Edyrems hit her, she will drop her immunity and you can pretty much kill her under 2 second. Pick up the charm and get the fuck out.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0f2DJAA ... 5&index=31

VIZ-JUN: EASY. We have good amount of defense to deal with this zone. Bind your purify skill that you get from Duncraig ring(Assur's Bane), summon Hoplites and just run/teleport to the boss. When you get the boss, clear some of the monsters and purify the boss once. Pick up the charm and leave.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRAK91M ... 5&index=32

FAUZTINVILLE: EASY. First of all, in order to be able to get into this area you need to upgrade your Black Road Charm. For this, go into kabraxis area, teleport to the side zones and kill the totems. When you kill the totem it will spawn the corresponding elementals around you that is resistant to all other damage types except their element. So the fire element one will resist all other damage types but fire. Since they are only resistant but not immune to other damage types, you can easily do this. Run around kill the elementals, and when you kill all, kill the miniboss in the middle, it will drop a Gem/Skull, which you will cube all of those with your Black Road Charm. The Cold elemental uses hailstorm so dont stand still, the Fire elemental uses Flamestrike so dont stand still, Magic elemental uses a spiral beam that Death Projector uses, so try to avoid it, and Stone elemental uses broadside and some traps that damages you when you walk through them, try to avoid those. When you get the upgraded charm you can cube a rune and the charm to create a scroll, which opens the portal to Fautzinville. This area has no charms in it but is a good end game farming area. Sadly our build is not a very good farmer in this place because necrobots are physical resistant and will tank most of our damage, the harpies also runs away from us and are poison resistant so they are kinda annoying. The other mobs just die instantly so you can just try to avoid necrobots and clear the rest if you want to clear this place so much.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uk5exS ... 5&index=29

THE DIMENSIONAL LABYRINTH: HARD. This place is good for leveling up to 140, also has a special drop of Occult Effigies, so look out for those. You need at least 125 level and all the charms up to that point. You also need a spesific setup that utilizes maximum elemental resist. Because the harpies in there deals insane fire damage, as well as other mobs dealing considerable amount of cold/lightning damage. You need all socketable gear (so no runewords) so you can socket them with perfect gems. Try to get a perfect/near perfect roll kabraxis charm as well. You might also want to get an act 2 or act 5 merc that can help you in there. I managed to get to t9 last league, i will push for more and share my results with you as well. Now for spesific gear:

Helm:

Witchhunter's Hood

Witchhunter's Hood
Witchhunter's Attire Set
Cap (Sacred)
Defense: 1187 to 1201
Required Level: 90
Required Strength: 456
+(80 to 120)% Enhanced Defense
10% to Strength
10% to Dexterity
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Elemental Resists +(31 to 40)%
Physical Resist 5%
Total Character Defense (16 to 20)%
Requirements -50%
Socketed (4)

for max elemental resistance
Body Armor:

Khazra Plate

Khazra Plate
Ancient Armor (Sacred)
Defense: (7820 - 8625) to (9683 - 10680)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 2160
Item Level: 120
Level 1 Demon Blood Aura
+100% Damage to Demons
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
10% Deadly Strike
+(172 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
(20 to 25)% to Strength
(20 to 25)% to Vitality
Physical Resist 10%
Requirements +200%
Socketed (6)

for life,str,vit and gem space
Gloves:

Cinadide's Bender

Cinadide's Bender
Cinadide's Craft Set
Gauntlets (Sacred)
Defense: 558 to 653
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 574
5% Chance to cast level 34 Lava Pit on Melee Attack
20% Attack Speed
40% Hit Recovery
Adds 63-125 magic damage
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 50) to Strength
(16 to 25)% Magic Find
Socketed (4)

/

Blind Anger

Blind Anger
Light Gauntlets (Sacred)
Defense: (1179 - 1447) to (1342 - 1647)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 544
Item Level: 105
8% Chance to cast level 13 Crucify on Melee Attack
+(0 to 1) to All Skills
(1 to 5)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Blinds Attacker +3
+(120 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(11 to 15)% to All Attributes
Socketed (4)

need those for str and gem space
Boots:

Riptide

Riptide
Boots
'Shaad'
Runeword Level: 100
25% Chance to cast level 16 Arcane Torrent on Melee Attack
+50 magic damage
+50 cold damage
+(146 to 174)% Enhanced Defense
Maximum Elemental Resists +2%
Physical Resist (1 to 7)%

only runeword in gear because it gives +2 max elemental resist already
Belt:

Cinadide's Anvil

Cinadide's Anvil
Cinadide's Craft Set
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: 1363 to 1493
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 606
+1 to Paladin Skill Levels
Adds 13-25 damage
Adds 63-125 magic damage
+(140 to 170)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(11 to 15)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Requirements -50%
Socketed (2)

for str damage and gem space
Weapon:

Gotterdammerung

Gotterdammerung
Great Axe (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: 496 to 673
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 5400
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Thunderfury
Area Effect Attack
Mega Impact
50% Attack Speed
+200% Enhanced Damage
Adds 250-400 damage
Requirements +800%
Ragh nar Rook
Socketed (6)

for huge damage and nice procs
Prebuff Weapon:

Pax Mystica (Xis)

Pax Mystica
Staves
'NeXis'
Runeword Level: 120
+13 to All Skills
+15% Bonus to Poison Skill Duration
+(20 to 37) to Blink
Elemental Resists +(55 to 66)%
(61 to 80)% Magic Find
Cannot be Unsocketed

for huge +sk prebuff

Beads of the Snake Queen

Beads of the Snake Queen
Amulet (Sacred)
Required Level: 100
Item Level: 120
4% Chance to cast level 33 Scorpion Blade on Kill
Adds 5-10 damage
Stun Attack
(20 to 25)% to Strength
(20 to 25)% to Dexterity
+(200 to 500) Defense
+100 Life after each Kill

for str

Giant's Knuckle

Giant's Knuckle
Ring (Sacred)
Required Level: 100
Item Level: 120
20% Attack Speed
Adds 10-15 damage
(5 to 10)% Life stolen per Hit
5% Deadly Strike
+25 Life Regenerated per Second
Physical Resist 5%

for damage, you can also go for

Empyrean Glory

Empyrean Glory
Ring (Sacred)
Required Level: 50
Item Level: 120
1% Chance to cast level 26 Singularity on Kill
(6 to 10)% to All Attributes
Increase Maximum Life and Mana 15%
15% Gold Find

which gives stat and very good amount of life
Mystic Orbs: Faster hit recovery to get your maximum frame(Since we dont have any jewels for them), some str if you need them to wield

Gotterdammerung

Gotterdammerung
Great Axe (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: 496 to 673
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 5400
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Thunderfury
Area Effect Attack
Mega Impact
50% Attack Speed
+200% Enhanced Damage
Adds 250-400 damage
Requirements +800%
Ragh nar Rook
Socketed (6)

, otherwise normal end game mo's.
Sockets: Perfect Bloodstones until %90 res, then Perfect Onyx until %90 res, then fill rest with Perfect Ambers.

Now you can go farm labs until t10. try to focus on harpie groups since they are the most dangerous mobs in there. Be careful about navigators since they deal insane cold damage as well. You easily kill corrupted heroes but assassin is a bit annoying, try to avoid fighting with her for a long time or else she will fill the room with her spell that hits you constantly. There are also obelisks that spawns a random uberboss when killed, so if you get a hard boss that can kill you easily(like kabraxis), try to avoid them and just blink away. Clear all monsters and try to go for higher tiers.

How to Start the Season

► Show Spoiler

I managed to get the achievement of being the first level 125 solo in Patch 1.5. This made me realize that holy melee paladin is a great league starter and i wanna talk about things that would improve your leveling speed and things that would help you on season starts.



Configure d2stats before you start the game. Make the loot notification default, and then edit it so that it notifies necessary things that would drop while leveling. These are being "Perfect Amber/Turquoise/Onyx/Bloodstone/Diamond", Runes above Jah rune, bases for your early game gear so that you can make them TU when you have enough arcane crystals, rare rings and amulets. Later on when you get to nightmare you should also put runeword bases such as "Ancient Armor/Plated Belt/Greaves/Gauntlets/Hand of God" sacred. These will help you transition into mid game with various runewords.

When you start the game, try killing monster packs when you encounter them in large numbers or when you feel like you are in danger, otherwise just skip them. Socket the resistance gems you get along the way, and use oil of disjunction to get them out when you are changing your gear. Just play the game normally with the gear you find on your way up to Mephisto. There, you can kill him for some early tiered uniques and maybe disenchant them for the early game gear you need. Dont spend much time on him since Nithalak is a much better choice to farm. When you get to nithalak, i would suggest you to farm him until you get all of your gear except amulets and rings unique. Especially body armor and weapon is super important since mobs will start to hurt in nightmare if you get there with crap gear and no resistances. I turned all of my gear T4 uniques except gloves and boots(they were T2) in normal Nithalak so that it would be a smooth gameplay until hell. Which since i became #1 on ladder, it should be a solid strategy and not a waste of time.

After getting your gear, just skip through nightmare since there is not much going on there. You have all T4 gear so you should have no trouble killing mobs or surviving them. If you can get sacred Ancient Armor or sacred Greaves or sacred Hand of God, make the necessary runewords which you can find in gear section to transition into mid game. When you get to hell, you should have

Brahman

Brahman
Paladin Clubs, Paladin Maces, Paladin Hammers
'Nas'
Runeword Level: 87
100% Hit Recovery
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Damage
+(51 to 88) to Maximum Damage
+(1 to 4) to Mountain King
+(1 to 6) to Bear Stance
+10% to Summoned Minion Life
+1000 Defense
Dragonheart Spell Blinds Attacker +(2 to 4)

weapon with

Erawan

Erawan
Body Armors
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
25% to Strength
25% to Vitality
Physical Resist (11 to 15)%
Total Character Defense (11 to 20)%

armor and

Nephilim

Nephilim
Boots
'Nih'
Runeword Level: 100
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
+(144 to 171)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% to Strength
(21 to 25)% to Vitality
+150 Defense
+50 to Strength
+50 to Vitality

boots. Your other can still be tiered uniques. With those gears, you can pretty much do all ubers up to 120 and can finish hell with no difficulty. When you become 105, go farm island of the sunless sea once to get some gold for runewords and some exp and most importantly the charm. That place is buffed this season so it is a bit harder compared to old seasons, so no point spending much time there. After you clear that place, complete the acts until you kill ancients. Then you will be around level 110, which means you can start farming cows. Get your 105 and 110 ubers done, farm cows and get some runeword bases if you still dont have them until 115. Then get your 115 charms, which includes the black road charm that will give you Blessed life so you can skip using bear stance to be capped physical resist. Then farm TA until you become 124. TA zone level is 118, and even when you are 124, you get more xp per minute compared to duncraig(Zone level 125), because your clear speed will be much higher in TA. The way you farm TA is that, you start the game, teleport into TA waypoint, Kill priesstess in this order Lightning > Cold > Fire, and log out. Repeat this until you are 124 or 125. You will need the trophy fragments since they sell for good money and its one of the best if not the best trophy in the game. When you become 125 you can go back and get your 120-125 charms. Some of them will be hard without the cinadide set but most of them should be doable. Try buying cinadide set in trade section of the forum or discord in the meantime, and when you get your cinadide set you should be able to complete all ubers up to and including 125. You can check how to complete them in uber section.

[Crash]

Plague: SMAX. Even though this skill gets kinda redundent later into game, we still max it for free damage and to be able to put more points into Dragonknight morph.

I think you mean more points into Dragonheart base levels, not Dragon knight morph.

Also, I would suggest:

TU War Sword

Lachdanan's Avenger

Lachdanan's Avenger
War Sword (4)
One-Hand Damage: (17 - 19) to (20 - 23)
Required Level: 12
Required Strength: 85
Item Level: 18
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
4% Chance to cast level 3 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+1 to Paladin Skill Levels
+(61 to 80)% Enhanced Damage
+(101 to 125)% Damage to Demons
+(101 to 125)% Damage to Undead
(1 to 2)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(16 to 25) to Strength
+(16 to 25) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(11 to 15)%
Socketed (1)
One-Hand Damage: (38 - 41) to (46 - 50)
Required Level: 30
Required Strength: 125
Item Level: 34
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
5% Chance to cast level 11 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+(1 to 2) to Paladin Skill Levels
+(101 to 120)% Enhanced Damage
+(176 to 200)% Damage to Demons
+(176 to 200)% Damage to Undead
(3 to 4)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(36 to 45) to Strength
+(36 to 45) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(21 to 25)%
Socketed (2)
One-Hand Damage: (72 - 78) to (84 - 91)
Required Level: 49
Required Strength: 244
Item Level: 54
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
6% Chance to cast level 19 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+(2 to 3) to Paladin Skill Levels
+(141 to 160)% Enhanced Damage
+(226 to 250)% Damage to Demons
+(226 to 250)% Damage to Undead
(5 to 6)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(56 to 65) to Strength
+(56 to 65) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(31 to 35)%
Socketed (3)
One-Hand Damage: (98 - 105) to (118 - 126)
Required Level: 57
Required Strength: 481
Item Level: 90
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
7% Chance to cast level 23 Spike Nova on Melee Attack
+3 to Paladin Skill Levels
+(181 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+(276 to 300)% Damage to Demons
+(276 to 300)% Damage to Undead
(7 to 8)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(66 to 75) to Strength
+(66 to 75) to Dexterity
Elemental Resists +(36 to 40)%
Socketed (3)

- all around good stats + proc, most importantly early game resists (especially HC)

TU Balanced Axe

Rockshatter

Rockshatter
Balanced Axe (4)
Throw Damage: (4 - 5) to (33 - 46)
One-Hand Damage: (5 - 7) to (25 - 36)
Required Level: 6
Required Strength: 77
Item Level: 10
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
1% Chance to cast level 7 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(18 to 40)% Enhanced Damage
+(11 to 20) to Maximum Damage
(2 to 3)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(31 to 50)%
+(16 to 25) to Strength
+(11 to 15) Life after each Kill
Socketed (2)
Throw Damage: (19 - 22) to (81 - 98)
One-Hand Damage: (14 - 16) to (55 - 69)
Required Level: 24
Required Strength: 115
Item Level: 27
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
2% Chance to cast level 19 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(64 to 86)% Enhanced Damage
+(21 to 30) to Maximum Damage
(4 to 6)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(71 to 90)%
+(36 to 45) to Strength
+(21 to 25) Life after each Kill
Socketed (4)
Throw Damage: (45 - 51) to (154 - 176)
One-Hand Damage: (29 - 32) to (97 - 114)
Required Level: 43
Required Strength: 225
Item Level: 48
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
2% Chance to cast level 31 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(109 to 132)% Enhanced Damage
+(31 to 40) to Maximum Damage
(7 to 9)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(111 to 130)%
+(56 to 65) to Strength
+(31 to 35) Life after each Kill
Socketed (5)
Throw Damage: (62 - 68) to (205 - 230)
One-Hand Damage: (37 - 40) to (126 - 143)
Required Level: 53
Required Strength: 445
Item Level: 83
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.18 per Strength)%
3% Chance to cast level 37 Blast Wave on Kill
15% Attack Speed
+(132 to 154)% Enhanced Damage
+(41 to 50) to Maximum Damage
(10 to 12)% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(131 to 150)%
+(66 to 75) to Strength
+(36 to 40) Life after each Kill
Socketed (6)

- good speed, big early game damage, nice stats, and easy crowd control proc.

If you want the 2-handed route, don't overlook

The Crucifier

The Crucifier
Holy Lance (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (6 - 7) to (30 - 43)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 3
Required Strength: 34
Item Level: 4
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
5% Chance to cast level 1 Arrow on Striking
+1 to Paladin Skill Levels
-5% Attack Speed
+(21 to 50)% Enhanced Damage
+(16 to 25) to Maximum Damage
(5 to 7)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(11 to 15)% to Strength
Socketed (2)
Two-Hand Damage: (18 - 22) to (72 - 89)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 23
Required Strength: 64
Item Level: 26
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
8% Chance to cast level 3 Arrow on Striking
+2 to Paladin Skill Levels
-10% Attack Speed
+(71 to 100)% Enhanced Damage
+(26 to 35) to Maximum Damage
(8 to 10)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(21 to 25)% to Strength
Socketed (4)
Two-Hand Damage: (39 - 45) to (133 - 155)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 44
Required Strength: 137
Item Level: 48
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
11% Chance to cast level 5 Arrow on Striking
+3 to Paladin Skill Levels
-15% Attack Speed
+(121 to 151)% Enhanced Damage
+(36 to 45) to Maximum Damage
(11 to 13)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(31 to 35)% to Strength
Socketed (5)
Two-Hand Damage: (59 - 66) to (194 - 219)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 53
Required Strength: 276
Item Level: 84
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
14% Chance to cast level 6 Arrow on Striking
+4 to Paladin Skill Levels
-15% Attack Speed
+(171 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+(51 to 60) to Maximum Damage
(14 to 16)% Chance of Crushing Blow
(36 to 40)% to Strength
Socketed (6)

either. Underrated item and faster than Faithshaker for early-mid stuff.

[Anonymous:]

Don't see much difference from Bojac guide.

Also points into incarnation skill tree always made me question this choice. Why not get a gear with enough leach and AR and save those points for something better like more damage. Plus this constant need to cast solar flare is just annoying and interupts farming tempo.

What about

Venom Sting

Venom Sting
Holy Lance (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (132 - 147) to (480 - 505)
(Paladin Only)
Required Level: 100
Required Strength: 514
Item Level: 120
Strength Damage Bonus: (0.26 per Strength)%
Amazing Grace
10% Chance to cast level 50 Punisher on Striking
+(2 to 3) to Paladin Skill Levels
60% Attack Speed
+(171 to 200)% Enhanced Damage
+250 to Maximum Damage
150% Bonus to Attack Rating
(30 to 35)% Life stolen per Hit
-35% to Enemy Poison Resistance
+(50 to 100) to all Attributes
Socketed (6)

as a weapon choice for holy ? Got nice damage, good proc, skills, leach, AR, stats and pierce...

[Glamdring26]

You probably were thinking about wind runners for endgame boots section, not wildhunt HELMET

Yeah thanks, fixed

I think you mean more points into Dragonheart base levels, not Dragon knight morph.

Also, I would suggest:

TU War Sword Lachdanan's Avenger - all around good stats + proc, most importantly early game resists (especially HC)

TU Balanced Axe Rockshatter - good speed, big early game damage, nice stats, and easy crowd control proc.

If you want the 2-handed route, don't overlook The Crucifier either. Underrated item and faster than Faithshaker for early-mid stuff.

Yeah a lot of typo's i guess Yeah i especially remember war sword to get a smooth transition between grim fang and faithshaker. Good suggestions.

Don't see much difference from Bojac guide.

Also points into incarnation skill tree always made me question this choice. Why not get a gear with enough leach and AR and save those points for something better like more damage. Plus this constant need to cast solar flare is just annoying and interupts farming tempo.

What about Venom Sting as a weapon choice for holy ? Got nice damage, good proc, skills, leach, AR, stats and pierce...

Yeah its not much different, its just that he doesn't update it anymore, so i figured i can take over.

When you dont put points into Incarnation, you sacrifice the potential damage you can get from your gear instead of AR. Maybe you can craft all your jewels with AR, and skip that tree all together but i dont mind putting a few points since there is not much else we can put points on. Solar flare kinda gets automated after some time, so i dont mind, but might seem too much of an hassle to newcomers. But then again i dont want those newcomers to spend shit ton of arcane crystals, trying to craft their every jewel with AR, and other needed stats.

I tried venom sting a lot, Its a nice weapon but damage is just not there. Punisher proc is too slow moving to be relevant because you kill packs before punisher reaches them and you dont have enough poison damage to benefit from pierce. SMAX'ed Plague gives like 7k poison damage per second which is pretty much nothing in late game.

[Istaryu]

I am farily convinced, that wind runners is much, much better than Nephilim rw. You say that damage-wise its the same as wind runners, but wind runners has lot of %ar, that scales extremely well with the flat ar from incarnation, and it has life steal, which is always good. Those 2 stats on it allow you to put less points in incarnation, and spend them somewhere else. Sure, you lose a little bit of hp compared to nephilim, but i think that is not a big deal.

[Glamdring26]

I am farily convinced, that wind runners is much, much better than Nephilim rw. You say that damage-wise its the same as wind runners, but wind runners has lot of %ar, that scales extremely well with the flat ar from incarnation, and it has life steal, which is always good. Those 2 stats on it allow you to put less points in incarnation, and spend them somewhere else. Sure, you lose a little bit of hp compared to nephilim, but i think that is not a big deal.

First of all, wind runners doesnt have the 3 jewel socket nephilim has, which means less jewels to cap our max frames and the stat bonus + life + possible AR from those jewels. %AR kinda gets useless in late game because you will always have %95 chance to hit, and even if you say "allow you to put less points in incarnation", where are you gonna put those points? Most valuable thing you can put points into would be Dragonknight morph which gives %1.5 all stat per point so it becomes the same thing as nephilim. And since 1 nih rune is much cheaper/easier to find than 4 EA runes, i would definitely recommend nephilim over wind runner.

[Anonymous:]

I tried venom sting a lot, Its a nice weapon but damage is just not there. Punisher proc is too slow moving to be relevant because you kill packs before punisher reaches them and you dont have enough poison damage to benefit from pierce. SMAX'ed Plague gives like 7k poison damage per second which is pretty much nothing in late game.

The idea is to have an atack that multihits alot to spam punishers with venom stinger. Like wyrd from rings or disco inferno from armor, or even gorefest.

When you dont put points into Incarnation, you sacrifice the potential damage you can get from your gear instead of AR. Maybe you can craft all your jewels with AR, and skip that tree all together but i dont mind putting a few points since there is not much else we can put points on.

Really ? Smax dragonknight, plague and dragonheart. With 3-4 max skill level charms you will not have enough points to max anything else in reality. In the end it will be those 3 skills and leftovers in rapture.

[Glamdring26]

I tried venom sting a lot, Its a nice weapon but damage is just not there. Punisher proc is too slow moving to be relevant because you kill packs before punisher reaches them and you dont have enough poison damage to benefit from pierce. SMAX'ed Plague gives like 7k poison damage per second which is pretty much nothing in late game.

The idea is to have an atack that multihits alot to spam punishers with venom stinger. Like wyrd from rings or disco inferno from armor, or even gorefest.

When you dont put points into Incarnation, you sacrifice the potential damage you can get from your gear instead of AR. Maybe you can craft all your jewels with AR, and skip that tree all together but i dont mind putting a few points since there is not much else we can put points on.

Really ? Smax dragonknight, plague and dragonheart. With 3-4 max skill level charms you will not have enough points to max anything else in reality. In the end it will be those 3 skills and leftovers in rapture.

I tried some other oskill attacks that i can use but couldnt get anything return. I even tried playing pouncedin with eth venom sting but damage just seemed abysmal. Maybe if you stack all -ele poison res with SOTS and such you can make a build around it but not my cup of tea.

Why would you smax dragonknight though. It has no hard point synergy it only gives %1.5 all stats per points. You normally only SMAX dragonheart and plague, 15 points into colosseum, few points into blessed life, rapture and incarnation. IMO, more points put into dragon morph just feels like a waste and doesnt feel rewarding as much.

[Crash]

I would put leftover points in blessed life still because of the flat bonuses + if you're able to reach 100% phys, you can do labyrinth more comfortably since it negates crushing blow.

Idk if the 100% phys is obtainable without very specific stuff and bear stance i.e. removing a good weapon for a 1h slot, but flat phys res is still really nice and I'd imagine a better investment than a few stat points or attack rating