The Mesmer class in Guild Wars 2 will undergo a radical change starting February 6th. This renders many old builds useless, but opens up new possibilities. Many players are not happy about this!
The Mesmer class in Guild Wars 2 has primarily focused on so-called illusions. These were illusions that lasted until they were “shattered” by the Mesmer using other skills. Meanwhile, the illusions dealt significant damage, raising the Mesmer’s DPS.
However, with the update on February 6, 2018, the gameplay of the illusions will fundamentally change.
Clones instead of Illusions
The major change in Mesmer gameplay with the update affects those illusions. When you summon an illusion, it attacks once and then breaks. Instead, a so-called “clone” appears.
The clone looks like the Mesmer itself and has a rather weak attack. It cannot match the DPS of the illusion. Instead, it always runs towards the enemy and can be shattered there for more damage. This fundamentally changes the gameplay of the Mesmer.
Developer says: “The old Mesmer was too passive”
According to the developers, this was necessary to break the stagnant meta gameplay of the Mesmer. It was noted that players often summoned only 3 illusions and mostly used standard attacks. Other skills were not widely utilized, as shattering abilities would kill the illusions.
This passive gameplay was not in line with the developers’ vision, who hoped for more dynamism and skill usage from the Mesmer. Thus, they decided on the mentioned changes.
Players angry – Old builds often useless now
In the related forum post about the Mesmer changes, developer Robert Gee anticipates that some players may not be pleased with these changes. And indeed, this is the case, as many players bitterly complain in forums, comment sections, and Reddit posts.
Many see their familiar builds as useless and a waste. ArenaNet has finally ruined the Mesmer. In this form, it draws too much aggro, as the clones no longer deal enough damage. And the important momentum mechanic of the Chronomancer specialization has also been altered.
Not everyone hates the re-balance
However, not all players are angry. Some recognize that the adjustment was necessary and that the old Mesmer was not in line with the creators’ intent. These players look forward to new ideas and builds to adapt to the changed situation.
Guild Wars 2 is not only changing the Mesmer. The WvW mode will also undergo significant changes.
