Senior Bert is the man. Many thanks!
He is correct, if you keep using Swords, look for +STR gear. You could also get +EE armor to help tank with, and use a STR charm. Either way works, just depends on your role in the group, do you need to do more damage to help them kill faster, or are you needed up front to tank more damage. When in doubt, go with Tank, they are needed.
As for stat point allocation, you could dump a few points into VIT (5-10 usually is what I do on any class) for an extra HP boost, then pump your damage stat.
STR = Swords/Clubs
DEX = Daggers/Staves
MIX = Axes (50/50 mix)
For abilities, I usually try to have every melee character I climb have one ability that Charges with Weapon and also is an Area of Effect attack (hits more than one monster)
Sometimes it is useful to have multiple of these, so you can clear waves fast, but this is more for those with high damage output. As a tank, abilities with Charges with Hits Taken are also nice.
If you need more help feel free to ask here, lots of friendly folks around this neighborhood.
