Fighter

Start with the shield

Fighter is a starting vocation for players who want a shield and a one-handed weapon. Its defining defensive action is the shield block; a well-timed deflection offers an alternative to treating every attack as a race to escape. This is a different rhythm from Thief, whose basic defensive tool is Swift Step. The equipment categories are swords, maces and shields.

Skills with a clear purpose

Shield Summons draws attention by striking the shield. Shield Pummel supplies a shield-based attack. These solve different problems: bringing enemies toward a defended position is not the same as choosing an attack after they arrive. See the linked individual skill references for learning requirements rather than assuming every ability is available immediately.

For a first setup, choose a skill only after answering what it adds: approach, crowd control, defense or a punish against an exposed target. Filling every slot with similar attacks makes it harder to diagnose why an encounter went poorly.

A suggested practice sequence

This is an editorial practice plan, not a benchmarked damage rotation. Choose a familiar, low-pressure encounter. Watch one enemy’s wind-up, defend, then make a brief attack instead of committing to a long sequence. Repeat until you can distinguish an opening from an enemy simply pausing between attacks. Next, introduce a skill that solves the most obvious missing job.

When testing Shield Summons, watch where your allies stand. The useful question is whether attention moves away from an exposed caster, not merely whether more enemies surround you. Coordinate this with the Pawn party guide.

Named swords and the next equipment check

The weapon table contains Broadsword and Almace with individual references and acquisition descriptions. Use it to check a named weapon rather than purchasing something only because its family matches. Its numbers describe unenhanced reference weapons, not your final character damage or a promise of current shop stock.

Before spending materials, compare the weapon actually in your inventory, its enhancement state and the job you need it to perform. Keep a usable shield when comparing swords; the vocation is a combined offensive and defensive kit.