Eq has parsers, tho they are archaic and dont really work very well ( range issues ect ).
Rangers are simply not good in "classic" leveling up, PoP is when they really kick ass but Ive always played one and no matter what anyone tells you they do get better with each expansion. The Jolt line in Kunark helps with aggro control, however if your smart you can control it in classic easy. Once you reach 20 things will get better. Hell even getting to 9 is a huge step here. When you go all out at 50, other classes cant just coast to out dps you, thats for sure. DOnt listen to the bullshit.
Imo, they are more gear centric especially if you want to tank. I tanked through Kunark ( KC basement, Seb, etc, but it is not easy unless you slow every mob before mez is broke ) Even the first few seconds unslowed will rip through any non tank, especially a Ranger.
DPS-
If you use your spells, dots & nukes properly you can do decent dps.
- The good part of a "good" ranger is ghetto CC
- Minor off heals / regen later on
- Snares ! Very needed before all classes got one
- Roots
- Panic Animal ( GG Reverse Fear kiting to be a great solo class against animals)
You can pull with the best classes in Karnors castle and any outdoor environment.
Tracking is pretty damn valuable, especially in Kunark and Velious Eras. The people that dont agree with this most likely are running MQ or know people that do.
The people that constantly bash them are one of two types of people.
1. Min Maxers who would rather coast through the game with the best of the best classes.
2. People who just follow others like puppy dogs and subscribe the age old Ranger bashing.
The bottom line is play what you like, if your good youll have fun.
They are simply painful to play right now, the 40% exp penalty on hybrids is horrid and IMO should never have been a part of this server no matter how authentic people wanted it. But, just dont watch your exp bar, work with what skills / spells your given in a unique way and good smart players will have no issues wanted you in a group.
Theres a shitton of bads on this server, even with faceroll classes. A well played Ranger can shine no matter what anyone says.