Playing bard in group

[Tecmos Deception]

Originally Posted by Jauna [You must be logged in to view images. Log in or Register.]

The only time you should use instruments is when sitting back singing the songs that require instruments or during downtime.

Next time you see a bard sitting back not meleeing its just some burnout who fetishized the idea of bards because they seen them on raids doing that thinking "oh god this job is so easy i can do it" and end up giving all bards a bad name. Its this or they are slow to switch melee and instruments either because of age or lack of a proper UI that they can change on the fly

believe me that extra 10 str the 2-3 others in the group get from using a drum wont be greater than you sitting back with a flute in your ass.

The level 20 mana song is a huge range, learn to take advantage of that.

What's a leveling bard's melee dps? Is it double digit? Lol.

Bards are kings of adapting to the group and the situation in question. Maybe sometimes melee dps is best. But I think as often as not, rocking instruments and dedicating to twisting is just as good or better.

Party is light on heals? There's a bunch of casters in camp? You need snares, mezzes, charms, dispels? Only the most tryhard of minmaxers is going to be swapping instruments to manage that stuff while also trying to melee. And most of those won't be able to handle it efficiently.