My Leveling Route

Just in case anyone was wondering, here's my leveling route for Theeriyi. This includes where I went, and where I'm planning to go.

1-10: Wandering Isle
10-15: Westfall
15-20: Redridge Mountains
20-25: Ashenvale
25-30: Northern Stranglethorn
30-35: Desolace
35-40: Feralas
40-45: Eastern Plaguelands
45-50: Felwood
50-55: Winterspring
55-58: Blasted Lands
58-60: Hellfire Peninsula
60-64: Zangarmarsh
64-67: Nagrand
67-68: Shadowmoon Valley
68-72: Borean Tundra
72-75: Dragonblight
75-78: Sholazar Basin
78-80: Crystalsong Forest
80-82: Vashj'ir
82-83: Deepholm
83-84: Uldum
84-85: Twilight Highlands
85-90: Panda World

5 Level Project: Theeriyi level 45

Oh goodness, level 45! I'm half-way there now! That makes it seem considerably better, doesn't it?

Here is my beautiful panda! I love her outfit right now, but sadly, it's going to change during my awkward transition between Eastern Plaguelands and Felwood...

Equipment:
Rohan's Mask, Light-Touched Pendant, Defiant Spire Shoulderguard, Sensiria's Shroud, Plaguebat Vest, Heraldic Bracers, Duskwing Handwraps, Green Belt of Quiet Understanding, Seeker's Britches, Treads of Banshee Bells, Tarenar's Token, Band of Zeal, Windflight Staff

I'm thinking about keeping these around for transmog. Not entirely sure yet, but maybe!

WoW Pet Peeves

What is the one thing that annoys you more than anything else about WoW as a game? I'm not talking about the social aspect, but as a game?

Personally, I absolutely hate the awkward transition period between questing zones. The equips are so mismatched! Hatred!!!!

Although, that isn't really specific to WoW. It's the same for any game. It just annoys me immensely when my character's outfits don't match!

Must. Reach. Max. Level. For. Transmog!

5 Level Project: Theeriyi level 40!

Level 40! That's amazing for me! I'm so proud of myself! Look at how shiny my monk is now!

 

My (not so shiny) equipment:
Stonegouge Headgear, Choker of Renewal, Defiant Spire Shoulderguard, Sensiria's Shroud, Vest of Flowing Water, Plaguehound Armbands, Prospector's Mitts, Biting Yellow Belt, Well Crafted Leather Britches, Maloof's Spare Boots, Wildhammer Scribe's Band, Windflight Staff

I am so happy right now! Three days in and I'm 50 levels away from max level!

5 Level Project: Theeriyi level 35!

Okay, actually, she's level 37, but, again, I didn't want to waste my exp buff screencapping and writing...
Whoo! Level 37! Only 53 levels to go! When I think about it that way, it doesn't seem quite so bad, honestly. I feel like I've made great progress so far, and I'm still loving my monk. I've been tempted by alts today, especially the new Pandaren Priest my boyfriend convinced me to make today named Yanderechan...But I resisted! I will play her after I get Theeriyi to a suitable level! I'm curing myself of altoholicism!

Here she is in all her panda-ey glory!

And her equipment...
Stonegouge Headgear, Choker of Renewal, Defiant Spire Shoulderguard, Watch Captain's Cloak, Vest of Flowing Water, Battered Bracers, Prospector's Mitts, Biting Yellow Belt, Well Crafted Leather Britches, Archer's Boots of the Monkey, Wildhammer Scribe's Band, Windflight Staff

I think part of the reason why I'm liking this character is because I'm going at my own pace. I hate dungeons, so I'm just not doing them this time around. Not at all. I enjoy the questing aspect. I'll probably never get into raiding or BGs. If I ever get her to level 90, I'll probably go back to the leveling areas I never did and do the quests there. I'll get the Loremaster titles or something.

Also shown there is my beloved pet rusty snail, Pickles.

5 Level Project: Theeriyi level 30

My Monk is now level 30! I'm so happy! I'm only just now starting to get the urge to make an alt, but it's not too strong, so I'm still okay for now!

My equips right now:
Cap of Harmony, Choker of Renewal, Broadleaf Mantle, Watch Captain's Cloak, Expedition Scouting Gear, Bartered Bracers, Prospector's Mitts, Belt of Recurring Raids, Well Crafted Leather Britches, Somber Treads, Wildhammer Scribe's Band, Aspirant's Staff of Grace.
I'm really proud of this character now. Also, I finally have a Dragon Turtle!

5 Level Project: Theeriyi level 25!

Theeriyi just hit level 25! Whoo!

Here she is! Okay, honestly, she's level 26 here, but it still counts! I didn't want to stop when I had my monk exp buff so I could take full advantage of it, but it's worn off now, so I can work on this.

 

Her equipment right now:

Broadleaf Mantle, Watch Captain's Cloak, Expedition Scouting Gear, Leverage Bracers, Prospector's Mitts, Belt of Recurring Raids, Prospector's Woolies, Somber Treads, Aspirant's Staff of Grace

 

And yes, that is my White Kitten yawning in the corner there.

5 Level Project: Theeriyi 15-20

Wow, I only just realized how she really hasn't changed in appearance between levels 15 and 20...
Oh, well! Theeriyi is now level 20! Whoo! Sadly, there's a glitch so I can't get my Dragon Turtle at the moment, but I'm making do.
At level 15, these were her equips:
Equicide Cloak, Sentinal Hill Vest, Stormwind Tabard, Worn Leather Bracers, Troublesome Gloves, Chewed Belt, Spothide Leggings, Boiled Boots, Kobold Basher (mace), Notched Shortsword of Strength.

Now, at level 20, here are her equips:
Patched Leather Shoulderpads, Watch Captain's Cloak, Starvation Vest, Stormwind Tabard, Leverage Bracers, Inscribed Leather Gloves, Belt of Recurring Raids, Mongrel Leggings, Boots of the Prolific Sire, Parker's Yardstick.

I'm really annoyed by the lack of change now! I should go change her hairstyle again, at least!

In other news, my White Kitten is now level 17, I also now have a Mountain Cottentail level 5, and a Snake level 5.

MoP!

So, WoW's Mists of Pandaria launched yesterday! I'm still sick, and still out of school, so here I am.
This is my level 12 Pandaren Monk, Theeriyi. Behind her is my level 3 Black Sheep, Mikuru. I also have trained a level 5 White Kitten named Meowkins, and a level 6 Stormwind Rat named Pru. Whoo!
I am loving this expansion.
I was lucky enough to get into beta fairly early on, so I played around there a bit. I knew then that a Monk was the class for me. So, here's my new, beloved Monk!
Also, Pet Battles are amazing! I love them! That may be because I love Pokemon,  but Pet Battles are sure to keep me playing the game just a bit longer. It's a shame my old pets don't have quality ratings though. Pru is Rare and Mikuru is Uncommon, but poor Meowkins doesn't have a rating! I'll probably replace him later with something better, especially since I have a major weakness at the moment to anything but Critters...
Oh well, of to leveling! I'll keep you all updated with 5 Level Project posts.

Pokemon White: Opelucid

I beat the final gym! Whoo!
Okay, I admit that I transferred my level 50 Vannilish over from Black because I had no ice types or decent dragon types on my White...But I still beat it! Now, to level all my Pokemon up to a level where I can actually beat the Elite Four!

My Pokemon right now...

Deino: Level 39, (Crunch, Slam, Dragon Pulse Headbutt), (67 atk, 55 def, 50 spatk, 52 spdef, 36 spd, 94 HP), Hustle ability, holding a Lucky Egg
Golurk: Level 43, (Shadow Ball, Magnitude, Heavy Slam, Fly), (127 atk, 83 def, 44 spatk, 83 spdef, 64 spd, 136 HP), Iron Fist ability, holding Soft Sand
Eelektrik: Level 39, (Crunch, Thunder Wave, Spark, Charge Beam), (78 atk, 65 def, 72 spatk, 67 spdef, 39 spd, 108 HP), Levitate ability, no held item (wait, really? Must fix!)
Leavanny: Level 40, (Slash, Shadow Claw, X-Scissor, Leaf Blade), (92 atk, 83 def, 73 spatk, 68 spdef, 89 spd, 116 HP), Chlorophyll ability, holding a Miracle Seed
Cinccino: Level 43, (Sing, Wake-Up Slap, Tail Slap, Dig), (106 atk, 59 def, 62 spatk, 56 spdef, 122 spd, 122 HP), Technician ability, holding a Shell Bell
Frillish: Level 32, (Absorb, Water Pulse, Bubblebeam, Ominous Wind), (36 atk, 40 def, 44 spatk, 64 spdef, 37 spd, 84 HP), Cursed Body ability, holding an Exp. Share

I'm working on leveling them to the high 40's at least, if not low 50's.
I obviously want to evolve my Frillish into Jellicent, but I'd also like to get it to level 53 so it can learn Hydro Pump. I'm waiting to evolve my Eelektrik until level 44, so it can learn Thunderbolt. I want Golurk to be level 50 to learn Earthquake at least. I also want to get Deino to level 50 so I can at least say I have a Zweilous.
Honestly though, I'm considering switching out Deino and leveling either an Axew or my Zorua.

Overall, I'm quite happy with my team at the moment. I love my current Pokemon. I intend to beat the game with these guys, even though I could totally trade my two Arceus over and dominate the E4 that way...But I won't! I'll use these guys! Leveling day today, I guess!

Despite all this extra Pokemon-time, I really, really wish I wasn't still sick. I feel terrible...Ugh.

Pokemon White: Preparing for Opelucid

I was at the Highland Games yesterday, so I didn't get a chance to post. I defeated the seventh gym with ease yesterday. One Wake-Up Slap per Pokemon, and I won. Cinccino didn't even take a point of damage.
Now, I'm just level grinding. I got some new Pokemon, and I'm working on evolving most of them.
My team right now...

Golett: 41, (Shadow Ball, Strength, Magnitude, DynamicPunch), Iron Fist
Tynamo: 38, (Tackle, Thunder Wave, Spark, Charge Beam), Levitate
Frillish: 21, (Absorb, Night Shade, BubbleBeam, Recover), Cursed Body
Axew: 30, (Scary Face, Slash, False Swipe, Dragon Claw), Rivalry
Cinccino: 43, (Sing, Wake-Up Slap, Tail Slap, Dig), Technician
Leavanny: 40, (Slash, Shadow Claw, X-Scissor, Leaf Blade), Chlorophyll

I' obviously leveling Frillish and Axew. I'm also trying to evolve Golett and Tynamo.

Pokemon White: Mistralton

Just completed the Mistralton Gym, which was, quite honestly, the easiest one yet.
Have to skip stats again due to being on a mobile device.

My Pokemon...

Cinccino: 37, (Sing, Wake-Up Slap, Tail Slap, Swift), Technician, Shell Bell
Tynamo: 33, (Tackle, Thunder Wave, Spark, Charge Beam), Levitate, Exp. Share
Leavanny: 34, (Slash, Shadow Claw, X-Scissor, Razor Leaf), Chlorophyll, Miracle Seed
Solosis: 29, (Endeavor, Hidden Power, Light Screen, Psyshock), Magic Guard, Smoke Ball
Ducklett: 33, (Water Pulse, Air Slash, Scald, Fly), Keen Eye, Mystic Water
Boldore: 33, (Rock Slide, Power Gem, Iron Defense, Smack Down), Sturdy, Rocky Helmet

Boldore is only temporary...Also, I LOVE Cinccino!

Pokemon White: Driftveil

Just finally beat the Driftveil gym. It took me about five tries, but I finally managed it!
I'm posting from my phone right now, so this will take me longer...

My Pokemon...I'll be skipping most of this because it's hard to type on this.

Leavanny: level 31, (Slash, Grass Knot, Bug Bite, Razor Leaf)
Ducklett: level 30, (Water Pulse, Air Slash, Scald, Roost)
Sandile: level 24, (Dig, Cut, Sand Tomb, Assurance)
Herdier: level 29, (Crunch, Take Down, Strength, Bite)
Solosis: level 25, (Snatch, Hidden Power, Light Screen, Psyshock)
Cinccino: level 31, (Sing, Wake-Up Slap, Tail Slap, Swift)
Herdier and Sandile are only temporary. Looking for more...
Also, I caught a shiny Audino!

Pokemon White: Nimbasa

Sick again today, so still playing all day...
I completed Nimbasa gym about an hour ago, but forgot to write down stuff immediately. So, here I am on Route 5, heading to Driftveil City!
My Pokemon...

Tranquill: Level 24, (Gust, Roost, Air Cutter, Quick Attack), (43 atk, 41 def, 31 spatk, 26 spdef, 41 spd, 63 HP), ability is Big Pecks, holding a Smoke Ball
Solosis: Level 24, (Snatch, Hidden Power, Light Screen, Charm), (25 atk, 30 def, 57 spatk, 35 spdef, 16 spd, 59 HP), ability is Magic Guard, holding an Exp. Share
Herdier: Level 28, (Crunch, Take Down, Strength, Bite), (51 atk, 45 def, 32 spatk, 47 spdef, 46 spd, 81 HP), ability is Sand Rush, holding BlackGlasses
Sandile: Level 23, (Dig, Cut, Sand Tomb, Assurance), (44 atk, 22 def, 25 spatk, 25 spdef, 37 spd, 57 HP), ability is Moxie, holding Soft Sand
Simipour: Level 23, (Scald, Bite, Dig, Cut), (50 atk, 45 def, 50 spatk, 35 spdef, 58 spd, 73 HP), ability is Gluttony, holding Mystic Water
Swadloon: Level 25, (Tackle, Grass Knot, Bug Bite, Razor Leaf), (38 atk, 59 def, 36 spatk, 49 spdef, 30 spd, 65 HP), ability is Chlorophyll, holding a Miracle Seed

For the gym itself, I actually had a Yamask instead of a Solosis, but I switched to Solosis a few minutes ago. I'm working on getting a Minccino, which I actually would like to switch Herdier with. I'll probably keep them both around for a while, since I'll be switching Tranquill and Simipour out for a Ducklett in just a little while here.
I'm still waiting for my Swadloon to evolve into a Leavanny. Swadloon, why you hate me? ;<
I'm not entirely fond of Sandile either. I'm formulating my entire team at the moment. I'm thinking Cinccino, Reuniclus, Swanna, Eelektross, Leavanny, Hydreigon. Until I can actually get a Hydreigon though, I'll probably use a Golurk. Once Golurk can fly, I may consider switching Swanna out and using a Jellicent. I may not even use a Hydreigon at all! Not sure yet...Still solidifying my idea...

Pokemon White: Castelia

Last night, I completed Castelia gym (and fought Bianca again afterwards), but I wasn't near a computer to write down my exact Pokemon after the gym. You'll have to settle with after the fight against Bianca. So here, I am, about to go fight Cheren!
My Pokemon right now...I'm skipping natures this time, because the Pokemon haven't changed that much...

Herdier: Level 22, (Leer, Take Down, Odor Sleuth, Bite), (40 atk, 36 def, 26 spatk, 38 spdef, 36 spd, 66 HP), ability is Sand Rush, holding a Quick Claw
Tranquill: Level 21, (Gust, Roost, Air Cutter, Quick Attack), (37 atk, 36 def, 28 spatk, 24 spdef, 36 spd, 57 HP), ability is Big Pecks, holding a Smoke Ball
Swadloon: Level 22, (Tackle, Grass Knot, Bug Bite, Razor Leaf), (35 atk, 52 def, 32 spatk, 44 spdef, 26 spd, 58 HP), ability is Chlorophyll, holding a Miracle Seed
Blitzle: Level 9, (Quick Attack, Tail Whip, Charge), ability is Lightningrod, holding an Exp. Share (hence why I didn't list the stats yet)
Panpour: Level 20, (Fury Swipes, Bite, Lick, Water Gun), (27 atk, 33 def, 26 spatk, 25 spdef, 36 spd, 54 HP), ability is Gluttony, holding Mystic Water
Throh: Level 20, (Vital Throw, Bide, Focus Energy, Seismic Toss), (46 atk, 42, def, 22 spatk, 38 spdef, 26 spd, 80 HP), ability is Inner Focus, no held item

Tranquill and Panpour are a bit temporary, as I'll be switching them for a Ducklett as soon as I can. Why? Because Ducklett and Swanna are cuter. I may still evolve Panpour after it learns Scald. I have a water stone that has no other purpose, right? Blitzle is also temporary. I just decided to have my Exp. Share on it until I find something I want more. I'm not fond of them is all. Throh is also temporary. I love that I caught one, since I never could find Throh or Sawk on my Black, but I hate fighting types. I've never used a fighting type besides for normal type gyms, and I don't particularly intend to keep one around for much longer.
I want more options now! :)

Pokemon White: Nacrene

Just beat the 2nd gym leader with zero difficulty.
My team so far...

Panpour: Level 12, Bold nature, (Scratch, Thief, Lick, Water Gun), (18 atk, 22 def, 17 spatk, 17 spdef, 23 spd, 36 HP), ability is Gluttony, Holding a Mystic Water
Herdier: Level 18, Calm nature, (Leer, Take Down, Odor Sleuth, Bite), (34 atk, 30 def, 22 spatk, 33 spdef, 30 spd, 55 HP), ability is Sand Rush, no held item
Servine: Level 18, Bold nature, (Tackle, Leaf Tornado, Vine Whip, Wrap), (25 atk, 40 def, 26 spatk, 35 spdef, 36 spd, 51 HP), ability is Overgrow, no held item
Audino: Level 15, Bashful nature, (Helping Hand, Refresh, DoubleSlap, Attract), (27 atk, 30 def, 27 spatk, 31 spdef, 24 spd, 58 HP), ability is Regenerator, no held item
Throh: Level 18, Rash nature, (Vital Throw, Bide, Focus Energy, Seismic Toss), (42 atk, 38 def, 19 spatk, 35 spdef, 24 spd, 73 HP), ability is Inner Focus, no held item
Pidove: Level 12, Quirky nature, (Gust, Growl, Leer, Quick Attack), (18 atk, 19 def, 14 spatk, 13 spdef, 17 spd, 34 HP), ability is Big Pecks, no held item.

Just as a quick note, my policy is generally not to worry about natures until after I beat the game. Trying to get a Pokemon with a good nature is sooooo boring to me, and it honestly makes me not want to play the game...

Really?!

I...I...I messed up with my Lillipup. I accidentally just deleted Tackle to get Take Down...I meant to get rid of Leer :(

Pokemon White: Striaton Gym

Just beat the first gym. Whoo.
My team at the moment...
Snivy: Level 12, Bold nature, (Tackle, Leer, Vine Whip, Wrap), (15 atk, 23 def, 15 spatk, 20 spdef, 20 spd, 34 HP)
Panpour: Level 11, Bold nature, (Scratch, Leer, Lick, Water Gun), (17 atk, 19 def, 16 spatk, 16 spdef, 22 spd, 34 HP)
Patrat: Level 4 (not keeping this one. Currently just a Cut-slave)
Lillipup: Level 11, Calm nature, (Leer, Tackle, Odor Sleuth, Bite) (18 atk, 16 def, 13 spatk, 16 spdef, 19 spd, 33 HP) Pickup ability! Whoo!

Playing Pokemon White!

In anticipation of White 2, I've been playing just normal white. I want to have some Pokemon to transfer over that I can be proud of, so that's why. Unlike usual, I do not have my team pre-planned. I want to wing it this time!
I'll be giving you guys quick updates about my progress when possible. I'm home sick with a cold that's been going around my school, so I have plenty of time.
I will be starting with Snivy this time, purely because I like Panpour better than the other monkeys. I'll likely stop using the both of them, but hey, you never know, right? Snivy in particular is very, very likely to be boxed. Sewaddles are just too cute...I still regret using a Whimsicott in Black instead of a Leavanny.
WHY ARE SEWADDLES SO CUTE?!?!?! D:

Short Hiatus

I apologize for not being able to post much the past couple of days, and I won't be able to post much for a couple of days more. I'm being swamped with an unbelievable amount of homework this week, and, as such, I haven't found the time to play any games at all.
A huge book project, including a soundtrack, ten historically-accurate letters of correspondence (which I'm doing partially in Icelandic, for accuracy...), fifteen photos, a family tree of key characters, a children's story, and one other thing that I totally can't think of right now...all due Friday, plus a college essay due on Friday, a math assignment due tomorrow, an astronomy assignment due tomorrow, and the constant college-search, of course. I'm looking for someplace that offers anthropology and library sciences that's fairly close to home, so I'm having some difficulties at the moment. I have to apply soon, so that's stressful.
I'm currently trying to get an extension on my book project as I broke down from stress today. Next week, I should have this site back up and running. Sorry about the break :(

Update: My homework is all done! I'll be back to playing games tomorrow, and I'll be updating again! Now, to figure out which game I want to play...hmm...

Maybe I'll stray from my usual online games and do something else? Minecraft, Pokemon, Skyrim, Assassin's Creed II? I don't know, I'll find something!
Also, I'm trying out the Opera browser for the first time today! I'm loving it! :)

GW2: Profession Reviews

I figure that I've become comfortable enough with the game to review the professions a bit. I couldn't find many in-depth ones when the game was released, so I figured I would write one for anyone just coming in. I know that this sort of thing is the first thing I look for when starting a new game.

So, in Guild Wars 2, we have a grand total of eight professions to choose from! Like many online games, these classes are split up into characters that wear Light, Medium, and Heavy armor. For Light characters, we have Elementalists, Necromancers, and Mesmers. For Medium characters, we have Engineers, Rangers, and Thieves. Finally, for Heavy characters, we have Guardians and Warriors.

Elementalists, fittingly enough, control the four elements of fire, water, earth, and air (although air is more like lightning, honestly). Unlike most character types, they cannot swap their weapons out mid-battle, but they make up for it by being able to swap their elements. This essentially gives them four different playstyles with one weapon. This certainly allows for them to be a bit less monotonous. If you get bored of Fire, you can switch to Air, or Earth, or Fire. They can also be excellent support. A staff-wielding Elementalist attuned to Water can deal out some of the best healing in the game. They're pretty easy to just get into and play, although you should remember to not just use one attunement, as you need to train the skills for all four in order to play the most effectively.

Necromancers can summon undead minions to fight with them. They also have a special Dark Shroud form that makes them invulnerable to damage, and dish out quite a bit as well. They are masters of negative conditions, and have two weapons that make them particularly skilled in kiting. They have a bit of a learning-curve, in my opinion, but once you're used to them, they are very interesting things to play as.

Mesmers are an interesting character-type. Their attacks are based primarily no their ability to summon clones and phantasms. In other words, at any one time, there can be quite a few of you fighting. These clones are very fragile, however, and need to be used with a bit of caution. They are also excellent for supporting a group. They have a very high learning curve, and are really not recommended to new players.

Engineers specialize in guns and explosives. They can summon turrets to assist them, and can also drop explosives on the ground. They, like Elementalists, cannot swap their weapons during battle, but to make up for it, they instead have many different Kits that they can equip to get a whole new playstyle (and you don't even have the level any skills for them!). These guys can also have a pretty tricky learning-curve, but it's not as bad as a Mesmer's.

Rangers have many different pets that they can call out to help them in battle, and are specialists with the bow. They're excellent at long-range damage, while their pets close the distance. An issue I have with them is that they start with an axe instead of a bow, which really doesn't show off their true talents. If you're intending to play one, get yourself a bow A.S.A.P. A shortbow is fast and great for 1v1, while a longbow is slower but deals nice AoE.

Thieves are fast hitters from the shadows. Unlike most games, you can only stay stealthed for short bursts of time. This is honestly one of the professions I know the least about, so bear with me here. I believe they have traps and poisons to help them out. They also can strike extremely quickly, and enemies generally go down pretty fast. If you like flipping through the air, a dual-dagger Thief is probably for you. From what I've played with one, which isn't much, they don't have too steep of a learning-curve.

Guardians are bulky, damage-absorbing tanks. In addition, they are also pretty effective at supporting their allies. They deal lots of damage as well, so don't think that they're just meat-shields! They're a bit like more magically-inclined Warriors. A greatsword-wielding Guardian is a true might to behold. They're not very difficult to learn how to play, but they have a steep learning curve for WvWvW, as their only ranged weapon is the Staff, which certainly isn't the highest hitter.

Finally, we have Warriors. This is the other class I don't know much about, but they seem to be a Jack-of-all-trades sort (without magic though). They can use most, if not all, melee weapons, but they can also equip a longbow and attack with that. Like most Warriors in online games, they seem to be the simplest to just pick up and go. They can also place down banners, which support their allies. Unlike their Guardian allies, Warriors are a bit easier for WvWvW with the addition of longbows.

If you're brand-new, I highly recommend checking out the Elementalists, Thieves, and Warriors. These are probably the most new-player-friendly professions. If you're brand-new, I would have to advise avoiding Mesmers and Engineers until you're more used to the game. I do recommend trying them out at some point though! They're very fun, but do take some getting used to!

GW2: Gamer Waltz now has a Guild!

In Guild Wars 2, I have now started a guild. Anyone who would like to join can contact me in the game or on this blog. We are based in Isle of Janthir, and I'm hoping for it to be a friendly guild that anyone can join and do well in. I hope for it to span a variety of interests, from PvP, to questing, to crafting!

GW2: How to get to the Desider Atum Vista

I've been seeing people having a lot of trouble getting to this particular vista, so I decided to make a quick tutorial about it. Desider Atum is in Metrica Province, otherwise known as the Asura starting area.
Find the particular vista and the ramps that appear to lead up to it. Stand in front of the ramp that the Armor Merchant, is standing next to.
Turn your camera to the right.
If you look near the brightly colored plants, you should see a series of blocks sticking out of the wall. Climb up those.
On the next platform, there's more blocks. Jump up those as well.
On the third platform, there's a series of blocks and a set of stairs. Go up the stairs this time.
On the final platform, if you keep walking, you should see the vista. Jump off the side to it.It's possible to miss, so you may have to climb back up.
Also of note, taking either the third set of blocks or the stairs near where you jump to the Vista is where you can find the Jeweler and Artificer.

Reasons Why NOT to Attack Stonemist

I've been playing the Eternal Battlegrounds in GW2 all day today...and why does everyone always go for Stonemist when there are different targets that would be easier to take if they'd just help? I don't get it!
So, here's a list of reasons why not to attack Stonemist Castle!

1. The size
Stonemist is giant. As such, it's very, very difficult to take down. Even with a fairly large attack-force, it's not going to go down very quickly. Even once you're inside the outer wall, you still have more to break through.

2. The value to the other team
If the team holding Stonemist loses it, that's 50 points they just lost. As such, they're going to be pretty protective of it. Most likely, their entire world will be over there helping to fend your small-in-comparison crew. Unless you've got a whole lot of seige equipment, they're likely going to wipe the floor with you. By seige equipment, I mean a fair amount of trebuchets, catapults, arrow carts, and ballistas. Not to mention the flame rams. If you can get a couple siege golems in there, all the better.

3. You're much more useful elsewhere
Fighting a near-endless battle where the most likely outcome is failure is not a good use of resources. You could be helping to take down a keep or something.

4. You get the other side's attention
Here's a question for you: If another side was attacking your Stonemist, would you let them get away with it? Probably not. You would want revenge, most likely. You would want to take out their resources and cut them off from your controlled areas. Well, guess what? That's their state of mind as well.

5. You're going to be outnumbered
Stonemist is the most valuable area in the Eternal Battleground. As such, it's going to be extremely well-protected. Not only by the holding team, but also by your other rival team. They want Stonemist just as much as you do, and they're willing to fight you for it. So no matter what, you're going to have the holding team attacking you from above, and possibly the rival team attacking you from the ground. The holding team themselves are a major threat, as it is their own territory. It'll be easy for them to flank you, or fire at you from above.

If you're planning on taking Stonemist, your best bet is at the start of a new match, when it isn't yet controlled. Even then, it's going to take some serious organization from your team. You need to collect the resources to build a ram and other siege equipment as quickly as possible. You also need to have a very significant portion of your team on the offensive, while still having enough to protect any attacks on your current territory. If another team takes the castle before you, it would probably be your best bet to fall back as honorably as possible and work on taking smaller territory. Remember: Two keeps add up to the same amount of points as Stonemist, and they're considerably easier to take. Still hard, yes, but easier than the castle. Once Stonemist is captured, consider it a near-impossible task without a huge force. If you think you have enough people, double that amount, and you may have enough.

Calm Before the Storm

This was the most peace and quiet I saw all day.
It was actually kind of a nice break for my fingers. Back to school tomorrow though, so no more all-day WvW for me until the weekend.

That's my newest favorite character, by the way. Lady Elza, ranger. She specializes both Shortbows and Longbows. She also specializes at taking out enemies <3

GW2: Tips for World vs. World

I started WvW a little while ago, so here's some tips from newbie to newbie.

1. Just get in there and do it!
Don't sit around thinking about whether you should or not! If you have any urge at all to start WvW, go for it! I've found that it's a nice environment that is friendly to new PvPers.

2. Don't stress too much about your profession.
All the professions have their own strengths and weaknesses. Personally, my go-to PvP girl is an Elementalist that wields a staff. I love raining meteors from the skies! If you're really worried about it, try a class that can fight from a range; it's a bit easier that way.

3. The most important task is not always out in the front-lines.
Sometimes, especially if you're a ranged profession, you'll be most valuable on the top of your keep, fighting from above. Sometimes you'll be most useful manning a ballista or a battering ram. Sometimes the most valuable job of all is to repair the keep gates after the enemy gets pushed back.
As far as I can tell, however, escorting Dolyaks is generally not where you're needed.

4. Know where you need to be and be there.
If the enemy's at your keep, you need to be there. No exceptions. I don't care if there's an epic battle on the bridge to the enemy's fortress, you should be guarding your territory. It's more important to keep the territory you have than it is to gain more (or die).

5. If someone says they need reinforcements, head there.
Self explanatory. If you're within a reasonable running distance, and available, head on over immediately!

6. Don't worry about your level or equips so much.
You're all bumped up to level 80 anyway, and you'll survive just fine as long as you stay at a range when possible. Even if you do die, it's not that big of a deal, really. Just make sure that you have the weapon you want, and try to have your skills trained before starting (but that's not really necessary. They'll be all trained up before you know it).

7. If you see an unguarded enemy Dolyak, take it down.
This is pretty self-explanitory. If there are guards or enemy players nearby, don't attack it without a group.

8. If you want something different to do, try escorting your world's dolyaks.
It's a bit dangerous, but somebody does have to do it. Groups are safer, but even one player can sometimes discourage a single enemy to steer clear.

9. Supply camps are almost more important than keeps themselves.
If you have the option between protecting a keep and protecting a supply camp, I would say to think it through rather than just rushing to your keep. Which is closer? Supply camps often have less people attacking and guarding, so I generally say protect it; but honestly? If you're all the way across the map and the keep is closer, or if you're already right near the keep, then head to the keep. By the time you make it to the camp, the battle will probably be over.

I hope these tips are a bit helpful to anyone who's a bit wary about starting WvW. I've found it to be a pretty friendly community; on my server, at least. Jump on in!
If you're new to WvW and happen to be on Isle of Janthir, feel free to come and find me; I can show you the ropes. Ophelia Violet is the character. Cardboard Viking is the ign. :)

I can't be the only one...

I can't be the only one who wanted to play a Necromancer after seeing this outfit, right?



Anyone...?




Too bad I hate playing as one...
I'm playing one anyway.

GW2 Day 4: Where are you now?

So, it's been four days since the release of Guild Wars 2 (7, for those of us who preordered and had early access). I want to know; what is it that you've accomplished thus far?
Personally, I currently have a level 12 Guardian, level 10 Engineer, and a level 5 Elementalist, Thief, and Warrior. I haven't really dabbled in any crafts yet, as I don't have the focus to go grind for mats. On my Guardian, I have completed about 50% of Queensdale exploration. Quite a bit to go, I know, but I'm proud of it. I'm also pretty into her storyline at this point, as I've been going in earlier than I should be (I just went into a level 14 story quest with her, and made it through okay. A few deaths, but not too bad).
So, what have you accomplished that seems noteworthy? For those not playing GW2, what have you accomplished in the games you are playing that you're proud of lately?

What's your favorite profession/weapon combination?

Just wondering...In GW2, what are your favorite weapons to use with each profession? What skills are your favorite?

With my Warrior, I love my Longbow. I can use Pin Down, then quickly use Arcing Arrow and Combustive Shot, then pick them off with Dual Shot.
With my Guardian, I use a Greatsword. I can use Symbol of Wrath to start out. Then Whirling Wrath and Leap of Faith, followed by finishing them off with just normal Strike. I almost never use Binding Blade though. I occasionally switch to my Staff for a more support-like role. That way I can use Symbol of Swiftness, Empower, and Orb of Light, while keeping myself safe with Line of Warding and Wave of Faith. With both, I have my Utility skills set to Hammer of Wisdom and Sword of Justice, although if I was really going to play support, I would probably swap them out for Retreat and Wall of Reflection. For a healing skill, I use Prayer to Dwayna.
With my Engineer, I use two pistols. This way, I can use Explosive Shot, then Poison Dart Volley, then Static Shot, then get in  close and use Blowtorch. I never really use Glue Shot, it's generally by accident. I also tend to spam Throw Mine, Mine Field, and Rifle Turret (although I'm considering switching this for Grenade Kit). For healing, I always use the basic Elixer H. I tried Healing Turret, and hated it.
With my Assassin, I use two Daggers. I often just spam Death Blossom whenever I can, then Double Strike when necessary. Occasionally I'll use Dancing Dagger if I'm fighting multiple enemies. I never really use Cloak and Dagger or Heartseeker though. For a healing skill, I'll probably pick up Signet of Malice or Prayer to Dwayna at some point. For Utility, I only have Assassin's Signet right now. I'll pick up Spider Venom at some point.
And finally, with my Elementalist, I use two Daggers and Air attunement. I generally start out battles with Ride the Lightning, then I'll quickly use Shocking Aura, then Lightning Touch, and then spam Lightning Whip. Occasionally I'll use Updraft to get some space, but I usually only use that if I need to run somewhere. I love staves, so I want to use one, but I hate the Air skills for it...Maybe I'll use it with Water attunement when I feel like playing support?

So what about you? What are your favorite weapons for your professions? How do you play them?

GW2: Shadow Behemoth

After playing for days and always seeing "The swamp lies dormant." I finally got the chance to see what exactly the Swamp Event is! Needless to say, I wasn't really expecting it, and it was really quite amazing.
Being only level 11, I was a bit too weak to actually join in on the fighting, so I was supporting from afar. It took a whole lot of players to take it down, and it seemed like the rewards were pretty nice from it as well. I was very happy to have taken part in this event that seems like it is so rare.
I managed to take some nice screenies in my scramble to resurrect fallen players.

Big Changes Ahead!

As you may have already been able to tell, this blog's name has been changed to Gamer Waltz! This way, it isn't so WoW oriented, and I can focus on other games as well. I hope to make this blog into something special! Sorry for any confusion this may have caused. Our new URL is www.gamerwaltz.blogspot.com