I think we can all agree that a decrep casting merc is massive value for a wind druid.

That being said, I currently use an A2 defiance merc (sure call me weird, but I like defense for how much i stand still casting) wearing a tretch and reapers toll (andy sometime).

Now... Lawbringer on an a5 merc.

Thinking an eth CB or whatever is fast for them with lawbringer runeword in it:

20% Chance To Cast Level 15 Decrepify On Striking
Level 16-18 Sanctuary Aura When Equipped (varies)
-50% Target Defense
Adds 150-210 Fire Damage
Adds 130-180 Cold Damage
7% Life Stolen Per Hit
Slain Monsters Rest In Peace
+200-250 Defense Vs. Missile (varies)
+10 To Dexterity
75% Extra Gold From Monsters

still use a tretch and an arreats likely with a 15 ias or whatever makes sense.

Does the -50% target defense work for you as a character? or is it specific to the merc attack? Thinking of this like the -light% on an infinity merc.
Also, this seems highly viable if not even better? Also unlocks areas of the map currently locked to a wind druid (arcane, wsk lvl 3 sometimes). Sanctuary aura kinda neat for this, but I also think knockback might be rather annoying. Haven't tested this. I do think "theory craft" on this makes a lot of sense - not sure in actuality if it performs better or worse.

Am I crazy? are a2 mercs just THAT op? Food for thought and discussion, would love some input.

Reapers does the same and merc make like 10 times the damage.



No. Only for merc.



Yes, they are that op.

I'd suggest that Holy Freeze is better than Defiance for your purposes.

Decrep must be nice for its -dmg reduce to enemies but I would've thought a high roll Insight would be comparable, as it has superior dmg/AR (especially with +6 crit), and with Meditation allows you to spam to your heart's content.

Not an expert on druids though.

Shame that Act 3/5 mercenaries are so underused. As part of rebalancing the game I'd at least like to see Act 5 barbs offer Battle Orders or Shout or something, or War Cry, or even hork for items occasionally... Or even just masteries for superior damage.

This post was edited by Strategist on Oct 25 2021 12:28pm