So, I'm starting a new character with a melee build, but I had a quick question. Choosing Shield Bearer or Master of Arms doesn't really change much gameplay wise. Which of the two should be recommended? I'm leaning towards Master of Arms by looking at the skill trees and comparing the two, it really looks like Master of Arms is always better, regardless if you focus on armor or on shields (since the skills don't boost the items but the character). Thoughts?
Here's my 2 thoughts: Unarmed + Sheild-bearer = Uber-Tank. Duel Wield + Master of Arms = Melee warrior. I would go for the 2nd option. Edit: Basically pick damage or "tankyness"
Shield bearer provides you with the defensive shield bash (which can be very useful, particularly for surviving the early game) and its buffs/procs give a +4 that lasts for a while. On the other hand, both Duck and Cover and Tortoise Maneuver inflict stat penalties (granted, very small ones.) Master of Arms offers only +1 on its buff but +10 on its proc. Most of the time, you're not going to need that much , pretty much only those Going Rogue have a use for 11 . On easy, just the Tortoise Maneuver will give you a health every turn (I think.) On the other hand, Master of Arms gives you more raw HP, more Damage Absorption and more Piercing Resistance. If I can't take both and I'm not taking Unarmed Combat, I would take Master of Arms.
I tend towards Master of Arms because of the better starting item and the earlier +piercing resist. Duck and Cover is a pretty good proc though and Defensive Bash is good for characters that don't have Psionics or Maces. Admittedly I haven't given Shield Bearer much of a chance. I do think the two trees could've been differentiated better.
