This is going to be a looong entry and it won't be pretty. Don't try to read it unless you're digging through this and are that curious. zOMG will put a major ring balance update into effect. I just want to record some opinions on what rings were like before this update. I will also include what the rings are supposed to change to.
I know, I'm weird. But hey, there might be some time two years from now where I wonder about my first days of zOMG and all guides will have been rewritten by then.
http://www.gaiaonline.com/forum/zomg-gaia-s-mmo/pie-s-guide-to-sets-and-builds/t.44741513/
Pie
The Individual Sets
Pirate
Hack, Slash, Keen Aye, Shark Attack
Boosts Speed
This is, in my opinion, the best offensive set. The footspeed bonus helps, but I use it because the rings are all good - Keen Aye to buff your accuracy to make the attacks hit, Hack to take down individual foes, Slash to take out an area of foes, and Shark Attack to chomp them from a distance. This is my favorite set for solo training.
Ninja
Mantis, Shuriken, Ghost, Dervish
Boosts Dodge
I haven't used this set yet, but I've seen it in action, and that dodge bonus used to be crazy. A high-level Ninja could once avoid being touched by anything, and with some Teflon Spray, even the final boss couldn't touch them.
It's been nerfed, but to be honest, I still think this is a great offensive set, second maybe only to Pirate. The advantage offered here is strategy - the AoE of the attacks are larger, the buffs are better, and enemies get anti-buffed by fighting the Ninja. It dishes out less damage than the Pirate, but for many Gaians, that's more than an acceptable cost - it's a matter of preference, really.
And yes, it does boost Dodge, not Accuracy. Read this thread before you PM me about it.
Chef
Meat, Pot Lid, Knife Sharpen, Teflon Spray
Boosts Armor
This is my favorite set, period. Whether soloing or supporting, the Chef set is one of the best buffers in the lot. That Armor can protect you from much of the incoming damage, to the point that at higher levels almost nothing can touch you unless it's a set damage amount. Meat also helps to this end, because with more HP, when things do touch you it actually doesn't matter very much. Pot Lid also gives some help in areas where there are a lot of range attackers - and believe me, there's a number of them in the final area. Knife Sharpen is a great support for your allies when you're on a team, and Teflon Spray is the best shield in the game. I highly recommend this set for everyone, especially those who find they're taking heavy damage and want to survive more of the blows.
Medic
Bandage, Diagnose, Adrenaline, Defibrillate
Boosts Health Regeneration
Pretty obvious why this one is useful. I recommend it only for crews - if you're soloing, Bandage is better, or more than that Chef and its Meat. But when you are in a crew, consider having at least one person with this set and multiple of you having at least Diagnose and Defibrillate. If you're playing the Medic, the game suddenly changes a lot. Your focus is going to be less on taking the enemies and more on supporting your allies - watch everyone's HP levels! Stay in the center and send off Diagnose regularly. Watch for anyone taking heavy damage to give them a Bandage and Adrenaline. And, of course, Defibrilate as soon as some is down and you can get to them. It's one of the key sets for a good crew.
Space Trooper
Solar Ray, Turtle, My Density, Guns, Guns, Guns
Boosts Weight
I haven't really seen this one or its rings in action much yet, but after some consideration, I think this one might be most useful in the Hive area and other enclosed areas with high knockbacks and high damage. And yes, there are a number of those in the high CL areas.
Demon
Hot Foot, Fire Rain, Iron Will, Scaredy Cat
Boosts Stamina Regeneration
Haven't seen this one or its rings in action much yet, but the Stamina Regeneration already sounds supremely useful. I've been hearing a lot of mixed things about it, though - apparently the Regen boost is the same as that with Divinity, so if you have at least one person with Divinity around, there's no real benefit. Which means its usefulness comes down to its rings. And Fire Rain is rather controversial, because from what I've heard it's a strong attack, but the animation causes major slowdown.
So, I guess I'm going to have to try this one out for myself.
Angel
Healing Halo, Divinity, Wish, Hunter's Bow
Boosts Luck
Though I've only seen a little of this one, I can already tell why people seek it so much. There's a lot of generally good rings in this, and that Luck means more loot, which is why a lot of people are playing this game in the first place. Just had someone mention in the game that they tend to build up Rage quickly using it.
Prankster
Improbability Sphere, Duct Tape, Gumshoe, Heavy Water Balloon
Lightly Boosts Accuracy and Dodge
Haven't seen this one in action either, but it sounds kind of like the poor man's Ninja. The focus seems to be on limiting what your enemy can do in general, not just to you, so it would probably be useful for crews.
Shaman
Hornet's Nest, Quicksand, Rock Armor, Coyote Spirit
Boosts Willpower
I've started trying this one out, and it's definitely a set for strategy and support. There's not a lot of oomph to your punch in any manner, but the Coyote Spirit, Rock Armor and Willpower Boost help out you and your friends quite a bit if you use 'em right, making this fairly useful for crew work. As for its attacks... it's all about strategy. Quicksand can help out in a pinch if you're running away with Coyote Spirit, because by the time they escape from your trap, you should be long gone. Hornet's Nest is pretty weak but it works well with Quicksand, as you throw that nest right where the Quicksand hit and stand safely out of range of the repercussions. It also helps if you're just trying to snag the attention of a lot of enemies to gather them in close for a much stronger AoE attack, like Pirate's Slash or Ninja's Dervish.
Anyway, it's a set better for crews than soloing, and while it has some fun techniques I really don't think it should be the central focus of a build. If you're going to use it for a solo build, make sure you pack some rings with a stronger punch!
Athlete
Bump, Taunt, Fleet Feet, Fitness
Boosts Maximum Health
I've been trying this one out lately and I'm finding that while it's not great in any one particular area, it's an all-around good set. Bump is the only attack, but it's a good one. Taunt is useful for saving your friends. Fleet Feet adds to the usefulness of Taunt, and is good by itself for saving your own hide. Fitness is simply wonderful, and that Health boost is delicious. This is a set for strategists, to be sure, but if you're not sure which direction to take your character in, or aren't sure what to support your other four favorite rings with, this is a set worth considering!
Pirate
Hack, Slash, Keen Aye, Shark Attack
Boosts Speed
This is, in my opinion, the best offensive set. The footspeed bonus helps, but I use it because the rings are all good - Keen Aye to buff your accuracy to make the attacks hit, Hack to take down individual foes, Slash to take out an area of foes, and Shark Attack to chomp them from a distance. This is my favorite set for solo training.
Ninja
Mantis, Shuriken, Ghost, Dervish
Boosts Dodge
I haven't used this set yet, but I've seen it in action, and that dodge bonus used to be crazy. A high-level Ninja could once avoid being touched by anything, and with some Teflon Spray, even the final boss couldn't touch them.
It's been nerfed, but to be honest, I still think this is a great offensive set, second maybe only to Pirate. The advantage offered here is strategy - the AoE of the attacks are larger, the buffs are better, and enemies get anti-buffed by fighting the Ninja. It dishes out less damage than the Pirate, but for many Gaians, that's more than an acceptable cost - it's a matter of preference, really.
And yes, it does boost Dodge, not Accuracy. Read this thread before you PM me about it.
Chef
Meat, Pot Lid, Knife Sharpen, Teflon Spray
Boosts Armor
This is my favorite set, period. Whether soloing or supporting, the Chef set is one of the best buffers in the lot. That Armor can protect you from much of the incoming damage, to the point that at higher levels almost nothing can touch you unless it's a set damage amount. Meat also helps to this end, because with more HP, when things do touch you it actually doesn't matter very much. Pot Lid also gives some help in areas where there are a lot of range attackers - and believe me, there's a number of them in the final area. Knife Sharpen is a great support for your allies when you're on a team, and Teflon Spray is the best shield in the game. I highly recommend this set for everyone, especially those who find they're taking heavy damage and want to survive more of the blows.
Medic
Bandage, Diagnose, Adrenaline, Defibrillate
Boosts Health Regeneration
Pretty obvious why this one is useful. I recommend it only for crews - if you're soloing, Bandage is better, or more than that Chef and its Meat. But when you are in a crew, consider having at least one person with this set and multiple of you having at least Diagnose and Defibrillate. If you're playing the Medic, the game suddenly changes a lot. Your focus is going to be less on taking the enemies and more on supporting your allies - watch everyone's HP levels! Stay in the center and send off Diagnose regularly. Watch for anyone taking heavy damage to give them a Bandage and Adrenaline. And, of course, Defibrilate as soon as some is down and you can get to them. It's one of the key sets for a good crew.
Space Trooper
Solar Ray, Turtle, My Density, Guns, Guns, Guns
Boosts Weight
I haven't really seen this one or its rings in action much yet, but after some consideration, I think this one might be most useful in the Hive area and other enclosed areas with high knockbacks and high damage. And yes, there are a number of those in the high CL areas.
Demon
Hot Foot, Fire Rain, Iron Will, Scaredy Cat
Boosts Stamina Regeneration
Haven't seen this one or its rings in action much yet, but the Stamina Regeneration already sounds supremely useful. I've been hearing a lot of mixed things about it, though - apparently the Regen boost is the same as that with Divinity, so if you have at least one person with Divinity around, there's no real benefit. Which means its usefulness comes down to its rings. And Fire Rain is rather controversial, because from what I've heard it's a strong attack, but the animation causes major slowdown.
So, I guess I'm going to have to try this one out for myself.
Angel
Healing Halo, Divinity, Wish, Hunter's Bow
Boosts Luck
Though I've only seen a little of this one, I can already tell why people seek it so much. There's a lot of generally good rings in this, and that Luck means more loot, which is why a lot of people are playing this game in the first place. Just had someone mention in the game that they tend to build up Rage quickly using it.
Prankster
Improbability Sphere, Duct Tape, Gumshoe, Heavy Water Balloon
Lightly Boosts Accuracy and Dodge
Haven't seen this one in action either, but it sounds kind of like the poor man's Ninja. The focus seems to be on limiting what your enemy can do in general, not just to you, so it would probably be useful for crews.
Shaman
Hornet's Nest, Quicksand, Rock Armor, Coyote Spirit
Boosts Willpower
I've started trying this one out, and it's definitely a set for strategy and support. There's not a lot of oomph to your punch in any manner, but the Coyote Spirit, Rock Armor and Willpower Boost help out you and your friends quite a bit if you use 'em right, making this fairly useful for crew work. As for its attacks... it's all about strategy. Quicksand can help out in a pinch if you're running away with Coyote Spirit, because by the time they escape from your trap, you should be long gone. Hornet's Nest is pretty weak but it works well with Quicksand, as you throw that nest right where the Quicksand hit and stand safely out of range of the repercussions. It also helps if you're just trying to snag the attention of a lot of enemies to gather them in close for a much stronger AoE attack, like Pirate's Slash or Ninja's Dervish.
Anyway, it's a set better for crews than soloing, and while it has some fun techniques I really don't think it should be the central focus of a build. If you're going to use it for a solo build, make sure you pack some rings with a stronger punch!
Athlete
Bump, Taunt, Fleet Feet, Fitness
Boosts Maximum Health
I've been trying this one out lately and I'm finding that while it's not great in any one particular area, it's an all-around good set. Bump is the only attack, but it's a good one. Taunt is useful for saving your friends. Fleet Feet adds to the usefulness of Taunt, and is good by itself for saving your own hide. Fitness is simply wonderful, and that Health boost is delicious. This is a set for strategists, to be sure, but if you're not sure which direction to take your character in, or aren't sure what to support your other four favorite rings with, this is a set worth considering!
Pie
Standard Builds
Generalist
Anything Good
Recommended: Hack, Slash, Dervish, Teflon Spray, Turtle, Divinity, Defibrillate, Diagnose...
The most common type of build will fall into this category. Generally good attacks, generally good buffs, generally good heals. All good rings, no unique focus.
I won't lie: there is nothing wrong with a Generalist build, and there are people who can get from the Village Greens to the Otami Ruins and beyond with just one good Generalist set, not even switching for solo training or crews.
However, while this build is arguably the best since it is good for all situations, this guide does not focus on different variations of the Generalist build much at all. There's nothing with the Generalist build that needs explanation. It's a very intuitive build, especially if you picked out the good rings early and decided it worked well enough to stick with it. And many of the best players I know use Generalist more often than not.
The drawback to the Generalist build grows more apparent in the later levels, when you compare them side to side with specialists like an Angel, or a Medic, or in particular a Ninja and/or Chef. Specialists don't have all the best rings, but they are crazy good at what they do. They start getting assigned more specific jobs in groups, and become focal points of strategies. On the other hand, the Generalist is... just, um, generally helping. And while they're not bad to have around, unless they are an invaluable player in other regards, a Generalist can be a dime a dozen. If they are a lower CL, aren't willing to try new rings and aren't pulling their weight in the crew? They're worthless.
Does this mean you should avoid Generalist? Not at all, especially if you're working solo. But the more you and your crew diversify, the more you can find ways to focus on different areas and learn to support each other as a team. And by doing this, rather than having a flock of good players, you'll have a real team.
Generalist
Anything Good
Recommended: Hack, Slash, Dervish, Teflon Spray, Turtle, Divinity, Defibrillate, Diagnose...
The most common type of build will fall into this category. Generally good attacks, generally good buffs, generally good heals. All good rings, no unique focus.
I won't lie: there is nothing wrong with a Generalist build, and there are people who can get from the Village Greens to the Otami Ruins and beyond with just one good Generalist set, not even switching for solo training or crews.
However, while this build is arguably the best since it is good for all situations, this guide does not focus on different variations of the Generalist build much at all. There's nothing with the Generalist build that needs explanation. It's a very intuitive build, especially if you picked out the good rings early and decided it worked well enough to stick with it. And many of the best players I know use Generalist more often than not.
The drawback to the Generalist build grows more apparent in the later levels, when you compare them side to side with specialists like an Angel, or a Medic, or in particular a Ninja and/or Chef. Specialists don't have all the best rings, but they are crazy good at what they do. They start getting assigned more specific jobs in groups, and become focal points of strategies. On the other hand, the Generalist is... just, um, generally helping. And while they're not bad to have around, unless they are an invaluable player in other regards, a Generalist can be a dime a dozen. If they are a lower CL, aren't willing to try new rings and aren't pulling their weight in the crew? They're worthless.
Does this mean you should avoid Generalist? Not at all, especially if you're working solo. But the more you and your crew diversify, the more you can find ways to focus on different areas and learn to support each other as a team. And by doing this, rather than having a flock of good players, you'll have a real team.
Pie
One-Set Builds
Hibachi Chef
Chef and Area Attacks
Recommended: Dervish, Fire Rain, Heavy Water Balloon, Fitness
Angelbow
Angelic and Ranged Attacks
Recommended: Shuriken, Guns, Shark Attack, Solar Rays, possibly a support ring like Ghost for better dodge or Fitness for more luck
Speed Racer
Pirate and Speed Buffs
Recommended: Coyote Spirit, Fleet Feet, Fitness
Theoretical build that I just wanted to write down before I forgot. Speed is moderately useful - good for dodging and escaping, but not the most critical stat of the game. But after playing with the stacking of Coyote and Fleet Feet, and realizing how much more I enjoy playing with my Pirate set than without, I couldn't help but think about stacking that stat to the heavens. Whee!
Hibachi Chef
Chef and Area Attacks
Recommended: Dervish, Fire Rain, Heavy Water Balloon, Fitness
Zeek Slider
I don't like mobs, but at the same time I like to hit as many enemies and cause as much damage with as little effort as possible. sweatdrop So this is great when Soloing and I find myself in the middle of an Aggro because I killed a buddy. It also helps in Crew settings because, in theory, I can "buff and bump" allies and baddies, which has always been a difficult thing to do in ANY kind of RPG setting.
If anything, I'd like to think that this set is great for a Habachi Cook. Those guys love to cook and show off for a large group of people, and the Habachi Chefs I've had in the past just love to play pranks on me (hence Water Balloon).
If anything, I'd like to think that this set is great for a Habachi Cook. Those guys love to cook and show off for a large group of people, and the Habachi Chefs I've had in the past just love to play pranks on me (hence Water Balloon).
Angelbow
Angelic and Ranged Attacks
Recommended: Shuriken, Guns, Shark Attack, Solar Rays, possibly a support ring like Ghost for better dodge or Fitness for more luck
Bria_Teragram
Doing this I pretty much was at full rage after attacking a monster that conned green to me. Which meant I just did a RR4 Shark Attack to the next monster and if it didn't kill them it almost did. :3
The con is that you go through your Stamina really fast, but you do have divinity so it's not as bad if you keep divinity up.
Shuriken, Guns and Hunter's Bow all have really quick cool downs, which is why it builds the rage so fast.
It's also a great set for Sand Fluffs since they use Quicksand on you. Since all your attacks are ranged it pretty much means you can still hit them even if you are stuck out of close attack range.
The con is that you go through your Stamina really fast, but you do have divinity so it's not as bad if you keep divinity up.
Shuriken, Guns and Hunter's Bow all have really quick cool downs, which is why it builds the rage so fast.
It's also a great set for Sand Fluffs since they use Quicksand on you. Since all your attacks are ranged it pretty much means you can still hit them even if you are stuck out of close attack range.
keito melfina
I use all the long-range moves and throw them all at the opponent like scattering debris (Hunter's Bow included)!
I can find more loot with this as well.
I can find more loot with this as well.
Speed Racer
Pirate and Speed Buffs
Recommended: Coyote Spirit, Fleet Feet, Fitness
Theoretical build that I just wanted to write down before I forgot. Speed is moderately useful - good for dodging and escaping, but not the most critical stat of the game. But after playing with the stacking of Coyote and Fleet Feet, and realizing how much more I enjoy playing with my Pirate set than without, I couldn't help but think about stacking that stat to the heavens. Whee!
Pie
Two-Set Builds
Kaizoku
Pirate Ninja
All right! All right! I think everyone has pointed out to me by now that this is an awesome offensive set - and it is! Pirate and Ninja are possibly the two best melee sets in the game, and with all the attacks provided and Keen Aye, there would be no limit to your attacks except your own stamina. As for defense, you have the Pirate's Speed, the Ninja's Dodge, and Ghost all working together to get you out when you're in over your head.
Exhausted by all the punny suggestions I've been getting for this, I looked up the Japanese word for a Pirate.
Captain Cook
Pirate Chef
This is my favorite set for soloing. It is basically being a knight in shining armor... except you're a pirate and that shining armor is cooking utensils. The offensive strength of the Pirate matched with the defensive strength of the Chef is a perfect way to become a one-person tank.
???
Pirate Medic
I've been hearing a lot of people using this one, because the Pirate and Medic sets are both good sets... however, in my experience, I found these a difficult match to use, and encountered a major conflict of interests. A Pirate is a very good offensive set, best in the front lines and doing tank work. A Medic, however, is a very good support set, and unless it's matched with defensive buffs like those of Pacifist, it's risky to put them in the action. Besides that, it takes a lot of juggling between targeting the enemies and targeting allies to make the most of both sets. However, it is fairly flexible, so if you think you can keep up with this double-duty with no support, then there's no harm in trying it. Otherwise, if you're really interested in being an offensive healer, I'd recommend Ninja - it's weaker than Pirate, but allows you to back off from the front lines and offers some good defense - or a set with long-range attacks like Space Trooper.
Space Pirate
Pirate Space Trooper
You know, a lot of the obvious Space Trooper build names are just the regular builds IN SPAAACE. But there are Space Pirates in some anime or another I think so I'll let it pass this time.
Davy Jones
Pirate Demon
He was the devil long before Pirates of the Caribbean got to him, yarr.
Albatross
Pirate Angel
Name suggested by Silver Spryte. I need more names like this - simple, easy to remember, well-researched and fitting. Plus, well, I like these birds.
???
Pirate Prankster
???
Pirate Shaman
???
Pirate Athlete
Iron Chef
Ninja Chef
This is actually at this point only a theoretical set, since I have yet to try it out. However, between Ninja's epic dodge level and Chef's epic armor level, with both having buffs to boost both even further, this may be the most untouchable build in the entire game.
Doctor McNinja
Ninja Medic
Names rarely get as suiting as this. From what I've heard, this is a useful set, too, and a real lifesaver for crewmates. Ninja offers a lot of offensive and defensive strength, and Medic provides the essential healing power that keeps people up. I always worry about matching Medic with an offensive set, since my experience with Pirate and Medic showed me that trying to be a main attacker and a main healer can really tear your focus apart. I would say this one probably has a better run of it than its Pirate counterpart, however, because the Ninja should be able to distance itself from the action better and, when it is on the front lines, survive long enough to shoot off heals that keep it and crewmates alive.
???
Ninja Space Trooper
Oni
Ninja Demon
???
Ninja Angel
???
Ninja Prankster
???
Ninja Shaman
???
Ninja Athlete
Pacifist
Chef Medic
A.K.A. Medichef or Fist of the Pacific. This is currently the only possible two-set build with no attacks. Besides this, it may very well be the most critical member of an endgame crew at this point.
This was the set I used to help take on the final boss with the first crew to beat it. It is a completely useless set for soloing, because as the name suggests, it has no attacks. The Pacifist is there as total crew support. They need one eye on the screen (just to see where everyone is) and the other on the crew panel, ready to hand out the heals and buffs and defibs as they're needed. On the plus side, it's also very good for self-buffing with the Chef set, so you don't have to worry as much about protecting yourself while you're keeping the party alive.
???
Chef Space Trooper
???
Chef Demon
???
Chef Angel
Cream Pie
Chef Prankster
Have I mentioned I love some of these build names? This one made me laugh a lot harder than it should have.
Cannibal
Chef Shaman
Okay, this name is mostly just dark humor, I am accepting other suggestions.
Meatshield
Chef Athlete
This theoretical build was suggested by Naitomare. Its bonuses are for exactly what the name says - Chef boosts Defense and Athlete boosts Health, plus Fitness is a good all-around boost and Chef provides Meat and Teflon Spray, making this build soak up a lot of damage easily. And this will be your main purpose - with Fleet Feet, you can dash into combat first and take the aggros, as well as speed up your allies and boost their attacking power with Knife Sharpen. Unfortunately, you'll only have one attack, Bump, so soloing is slow at best and overwhelming at worst. This build is better for crews.
???
Medic Space Trooper
Bad Medicine
Medic Demon
I am not actually very witty, but I keep trying anyway.
Guardian Angel
Medic Angel
I've heard a lot of good things about this build. It has all healing rings, save for Meat, and also has Divinity and Adrenaline to boost, so I'm sure this is an outstanding support build. Good luck soloing with just Hunter's Bow. Can it be done? With all those heals, definitely. But it'd take forever.
???
Medic Prankster
Medicine Man
Medic Shaman
Physician
Medic Athlete
The name might be self-explanitory. This is a build that is very much based around Health. Defensively, it only has Fitness and Fleet Feet for itself, and Adrenaline for others. And offensively, it only has Bump, But it can take a considerable amount of hits still, due to a higher Health value and a lot of Heals to replenish that. Plus, that Fleet Feet allows them to run into a dangerous situation for a quick save with a Defibrillate.
???
Space Trooper Demon
Galaxy Angel
Space Trooper Angel
A theoretical set named by GFSummoner. I really like the sound of this one - it works the Angel and Ranged combo into a double set. And it has a very large amount of buffs. This would probably be my build of choice if I could bring any to the Hive.
???
Space Trooper Prankster
???
Space Trooper Shaman
Supersoldier
Space Trooper Athlete
Semi-theoretical build - I've been trying out Athlete with some of these rings, and while I've been too distracted by certain other things to try out the whole build, I think these two work together nicely. Besides the boosts, Fitness and My Density keep you buffed and weighted to throw a mean punch in combat - and with Bump, Solar Rays and Guns Guns Guns, you've got more than just a punch you can throw! The drawback is that you have no heals. However, this can still be an effective solo set if you're paying attention. As soon as things are getting too rough to handle, you can use Turtle and Fleet Feet to get out of the fray with a fast, safe retreat. Head to a safe spot, rest, and then head back into the action!
Archgaian
Demon Angel
Heh. I haven't tried this set myself or considered its possibilities, but I figure that these two sets deserve a cool name when their powers combine, and after some thought, this is what I came up with. Arch means higher - like Archangel, Archdemon... and now, Archgaian. Also called a Fallen Angel by some.
Imp
Demon Prankster
Name suggested by Mendacii.
???
Demon Shaman
???
Demon Athlete
Sprite
Angel Prankster
Name suggested by Mendacii - ... I'm actually really not fond of this one, because Sprites, Fairies, and the like are very much not Angels. But to be honest, I can't think of anything better. sweatdrop
???
Angel Shaman
Quicksilver
Angel Athlete
Okay, my love for puns is showing up here. First I thought of calling this Hermes, after the swift-footed Greek God of athletes. But Hermes is called Mercury in Roman mythology, and the element Mercury is also called Quicksilver, which fits very well with this theoretical set: The Angelic bonus plus the Fitness ring boots the luck of this build well beyond other sets and should give very substantial drops. It's got a series of generally good buffs, a close-range and a long-range attack, and with Taunt and Fleet Feet you can help your friends get away from enemies in a pinch. I'm not sure how this would do for soloing, but I'm sure it'd be a great build for crew training.
???
Prankster Shaman
Frat Boy
Prankster Athlete
Overzealous Track Coach
Shaman Athlete
Kaizoku
Pirate Ninja
All right! All right! I think everyone has pointed out to me by now that this is an awesome offensive set - and it is! Pirate and Ninja are possibly the two best melee sets in the game, and with all the attacks provided and Keen Aye, there would be no limit to your attacks except your own stamina. As for defense, you have the Pirate's Speed, the Ninja's Dodge, and Ghost all working together to get you out when you're in over your head.
Exhausted by all the punny suggestions I've been getting for this, I looked up the Japanese word for a Pirate.
Captain Cook
Pirate Chef
This is my favorite set for soloing. It is basically being a knight in shining armor... except you're a pirate and that shining armor is cooking utensils. The offensive strength of the Pirate matched with the defensive strength of the Chef is a perfect way to become a one-person tank.
???
Pirate Medic
I've been hearing a lot of people using this one, because the Pirate and Medic sets are both good sets... however, in my experience, I found these a difficult match to use, and encountered a major conflict of interests. A Pirate is a very good offensive set, best in the front lines and doing tank work. A Medic, however, is a very good support set, and unless it's matched with defensive buffs like those of Pacifist, it's risky to put them in the action. Besides that, it takes a lot of juggling between targeting the enemies and targeting allies to make the most of both sets. However, it is fairly flexible, so if you think you can keep up with this double-duty with no support, then there's no harm in trying it. Otherwise, if you're really interested in being an offensive healer, I'd recommend Ninja - it's weaker than Pirate, but allows you to back off from the front lines and offers some good defense - or a set with long-range attacks like Space Trooper.
Space Pirate
Pirate Space Trooper
You know, a lot of the obvious Space Trooper build names are just the regular builds IN SPAAACE. But there are Space Pirates in some anime or another I think so I'll let it pass this time.
Hermes the Swift
It can be considered and alternative to the Captain Cook Set. This one is a big stamina burner, but provides more attack options with all the attack rings.
Pro's: Versatile attacks: GGGuns for spamming, Shark for when the times call for heavy hitting, Solar Rays for long distances, Hack (need i say anymore?), Slash for AoE, Turtle for Defense. Better for the "tank" of the party.
Con's: No healing rings, it may be a versatile attack set but it's still a big stamina burner.
Pro's: Versatile attacks: GGGuns for spamming, Shark for when the times call for heavy hitting, Solar Rays for long distances, Hack (need i say anymore?), Slash for AoE, Turtle for Defense. Better for the "tank" of the party.
Con's: No healing rings, it may be a versatile attack set but it's still a big stamina burner.
Davy Jones
Pirate Demon
He was the devil long before Pirates of the Caribbean got to him, yarr.
Hermes the Swift
Another good offensive pirate set. The Demon set boost provides a little bit of help to all the stamina draining attacks.
Pro's: Offensive like the Space pirate set, but this one includes DoT rings and the legendary laggy AoE ring Fire Rain. Scaredy Cat has always been one of my favorite rings simply because it not only helps even the odds for a bit or when you need to regain stamina, but it's fun to watch them run and cower at the opposite side of the screen.
Con's: Keen Eye and Iron will are useless (at least that's my opinion about those rings). The Demon Set stam boost isn't really that great in terms of slowing down the process when attacking with all those high class rings.
Pro's: Offensive like the Space pirate set, but this one includes DoT rings and the legendary laggy AoE ring Fire Rain. Scaredy Cat has always been one of my favorite rings simply because it not only helps even the odds for a bit or when you need to regain stamina, but it's fun to watch them run and cower at the opposite side of the screen.
Con's: Keen Eye and Iron will are useless (at least that's my opinion about those rings). The Demon Set stam boost isn't really that great in terms of slowing down the process when attacking with all those high class rings.
Albatross
Pirate Angel
Name suggested by Silver Spryte. I need more names like this - simple, easy to remember, well-researched and fitting. Plus, well, I like these birds.
Hermes the Swift
Somewhat the Jack of all trades Pirate. Versatile by himself or in a crew of any sizes. Pirate on offensive, Angel to support himself.
Pro's: With the Angel set, now the Pirate user can support himself in battle (although Healing Halo is no Bandage or Diagnose). Divinity ftw! Since the Angel set effects anyone this makes him perfect for being able to use those rings in a crew. Hunters bow can be used to lure then use Hack and Shark Attack up close.
Con's: Healing Halo is still a DoT type of ring, so even if you use it, it's best used for when you resting before/after a battle since it isn't quick recovery like Diagnose or Bandage.
Pro's: With the Angel set, now the Pirate user can support himself in battle (although Healing Halo is no Bandage or Diagnose). Divinity ftw! Since the Angel set effects anyone this makes him perfect for being able to use those rings in a crew. Hunters bow can be used to lure then use Hack and Shark Attack up close.
Con's: Healing Halo is still a DoT type of ring, so even if you use it, it's best used for when you resting before/after a battle since it isn't quick recovery like Diagnose or Bandage.
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Pirate Prankster
Hermes the Swift
An "ok" Supporting offensive build. Prankster and Pirate don't really mix all to well in battle. I really don't recommend this set too much.
Pro's: It's allows the user to be a Support offensive member in a crew, while still being able to use the rings while solo-ing.
Con's: Once again, no healing rings. Prankster and Pirate is a poor mix, because #1 Prankster rings don't last all too long #2 Pirate set requires more concentration to spam the rings with all your might so you don't really have much time to pay attention to the Prankster Rings.
Pro's: It's allows the user to be a Support offensive member in a crew, while still being able to use the rings while solo-ing.
Con's: Once again, no healing rings. Prankster and Pirate is a poor mix, because #1 Prankster rings don't last all too long #2 Pirate set requires more concentration to spam the rings with all your might so you don't really have much time to pay attention to the Prankster Rings.
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Pirate Shaman
Hermes the Swift
The "better" pirate support offensive build in this case. Shaman Rings are actually more useful to the pirate set then the prankster set.
Pro's: The Shaman Build is quite useful as apposed to the Prankster build. Coyote Spirit to boost your speed further. Hornet's Nest to replace Heavy Water Balloon as a AoE lure. Rock armor to provide defensive boosts in a party. Quicksand to hold down enemies and safely throw hornets and sharks from a safe distance or to root them down so you can get past them without being chased (for the moment). Pirate set itself to help defend yourself
Con's: No healing rings. Rock armor is useless when your by yourself. Fleet Feet would have been a better speed boost choice (but that would go against the Shamen set so w/e) since Coyote Spirit Speed boost=the exact same as the pirate set bonus.
Pro's: The Shaman Build is quite useful as apposed to the Prankster build. Coyote Spirit to boost your speed further. Hornet's Nest to replace Heavy Water Balloon as a AoE lure. Rock armor to provide defensive boosts in a party. Quicksand to hold down enemies and safely throw hornets and sharks from a safe distance or to root them down so you can get past them without being chased (for the moment). Pirate set itself to help defend yourself
Con's: No healing rings. Rock armor is useless when your by yourself. Fleet Feet would have been a better speed boost choice (but that would go against the Shamen set so w/e) since Coyote Spirit Speed boost=the exact same as the pirate set bonus.
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Pirate Athlete
Hermes the Swift
Not much of a supporter at all but like all pirates this set knows how to make a quick getaway.
Pro's: Fitness for all around boosts (especially weight so you can stand your ground which is important to the pirate sword dueling ways), especially stamina. Fleet Feet for the ultimate speed boost (next to the speed racer set). Taunt to help in parties or to just be a regular pirate and give some Tiny Terror Witch Doctors "The Bird". Bump to give a few Sea Sprouts "some a dat1!!1!11" and then get sea slapped by them.
Con's: The athlete set isn't quite that useful, it seems best for only living out your pirate fantasy's, so there a much better sets out there for the pirate, especially if a One-set Pirate build.
Pro's: Fitness for all around boosts (especially weight so you can stand your ground which is important to the pirate sword dueling ways), especially stamina. Fleet Feet for the ultimate speed boost (next to the speed racer set). Taunt to help in parties or to just be a regular pirate and give some Tiny Terror Witch Doctors "The Bird". Bump to give a few Sea Sprouts "some a dat1!!1!11" and then get sea slapped by them.
Con's: The athlete set isn't quite that useful, it seems best for only living out your pirate fantasy's, so there a much better sets out there for the pirate, especially if a One-set Pirate build.
Iron Chef
Ninja Chef
This is actually at this point only a theoretical set, since I have yet to try it out. However, between Ninja's epic dodge level and Chef's epic armor level, with both having buffs to boost both even further, this may be the most untouchable build in the entire game.
Doctor McNinja
Ninja Medic
Names rarely get as suiting as this. From what I've heard, this is a useful set, too, and a real lifesaver for crewmates. Ninja offers a lot of offensive and defensive strength, and Medic provides the essential healing power that keeps people up. I always worry about matching Medic with an offensive set, since my experience with Pirate and Medic showed me that trying to be a main attacker and a main healer can really tear your focus apart. I would say this one probably has a better run of it than its Pirate counterpart, however, because the Ninja should be able to distance itself from the action better and, when it is on the front lines, survive long enough to shoot off heals that keep it and crewmates alive.
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Ninja Space Trooper
Oni
Ninja Demon
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Ninja Angel
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Ninja Prankster
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Ninja Shaman
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Ninja Athlete
Pacifist
Chef Medic
A.K.A. Medichef or Fist of the Pacific. This is currently the only possible two-set build with no attacks. Besides this, it may very well be the most critical member of an endgame crew at this point.
This was the set I used to help take on the final boss with the first crew to beat it. It is a completely useless set for soloing, because as the name suggests, it has no attacks. The Pacifist is there as total crew support. They need one eye on the screen (just to see where everyone is) and the other on the crew panel, ready to hand out the heals and buffs and defibs as they're needed. On the plus side, it's also very good for self-buffing with the Chef set, so you don't have to worry as much about protecting yourself while you're keeping the party alive.
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Chef Space Trooper
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Chef Demon
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Chef Angel
Cream Pie
Chef Prankster
Have I mentioned I love some of these build names? This one made me laugh a lot harder than it should have.
discodogmakei
I am using a combination of prankster and chef and I love it!!! it is a very buff debuff set I know, but tell ya what, you don't need much attack with the combination. I figured that I would give you some feedback on that since I saw that it was an unnamed set on your list. I figured I would try it and tell you what, I am pleasently surprised. I have been using a general build before this, so I think I have a new set!
Cannibal
Chef Shaman
Okay, this name is mostly just dark humor, I am accepting other suggestions.
Meatshield
Chef Athlete
This theoretical build was suggested by Naitomare. Its bonuses are for exactly what the name says - Chef boosts Defense and Athlete boosts Health, plus Fitness is a good all-around boost and Chef provides Meat and Teflon Spray, making this build soak up a lot of damage easily. And this will be your main purpose - with Fleet Feet, you can dash into combat first and take the aggros, as well as speed up your allies and boost their attacking power with Knife Sharpen. Unfortunately, you'll only have one attack, Bump, so soloing is slow at best and overwhelming at worst. This build is better for crews.
Naitomare
Pro's~
Bonus DEF from the chef set+Bonus HP from the athlete set. Additionally, the Fitness ring buffs the users stats by how many charge orbs are pumped into it, and it gets the great self-support buffs, Meat and Teflon Spray. Using all that, it becomes a great support build. Buff others with Fleet Feet and Knife Sharpen, and use Taunt to get the enemies attacking you, letting your teammates do the damage. Due to all the aforementioned stat bonuses and self-buffs, you should be relatively unharmed. Bump sounds like an awesome ring (I never got to use it during the zETA), that can knock monsters away from the fragile members of your team.
Con's
You only have one attack. A nice attack, but only one, nonetheless, which will limit how you can get rid of enemies. Whilst being a support character, you can't heal others, and you don't have a healing ring yourself (I see meat as a buff, instead of a heal) Also, since I can't play yet, this is nearly all theory.
By Naitomare smile
It's a build I just thought of, feel free to use it. I might be using it myself, infact...
Bonus DEF from the chef set+Bonus HP from the athlete set. Additionally, the Fitness ring buffs the users stats by how many charge orbs are pumped into it, and it gets the great self-support buffs, Meat and Teflon Spray. Using all that, it becomes a great support build. Buff others with Fleet Feet and Knife Sharpen, and use Taunt to get the enemies attacking you, letting your teammates do the damage. Due to all the aforementioned stat bonuses and self-buffs, you should be relatively unharmed. Bump sounds like an awesome ring (I never got to use it during the zETA), that can knock monsters away from the fragile members of your team.
Con's
You only have one attack. A nice attack, but only one, nonetheless, which will limit how you can get rid of enemies. Whilst being a support character, you can't heal others, and you don't have a healing ring yourself (I see meat as a buff, instead of a heal) Also, since I can't play yet, this is nearly all theory.
By Naitomare smile
It's a build I just thought of, feel free to use it. I might be using it myself, infact...
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Medic Space Trooper
Bad Medicine
Medic Demon
I am not actually very witty, but I keep trying anyway.
Guardian Angel
Medic Angel
I've heard a lot of good things about this build. It has all healing rings, save for Meat, and also has Divinity and Adrenaline to boost, so I'm sure this is an outstanding support build. Good luck soloing with just Hunter's Bow. Can it be done? With all those heals, definitely. But it'd take forever.
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Medic Prankster
Medicine Man
Medic Shaman
Panda.Ba
This set would allow you to have your healing skills, but also have some attack skills. The support skills aren't the greatest (not as good as Chef), but Quicksand can help in a crew also and being able to attack means that the healer can go out on his own.
Physician
Medic Athlete
The name might be self-explanitory. This is a build that is very much based around Health. Defensively, it only has Fitness and Fleet Feet for itself, and Adrenaline for others. And offensively, it only has Bump, But it can take a considerable amount of hits still, due to a higher Health value and a lot of Heals to replenish that. Plus, that Fleet Feet allows them to run into a dangerous situation for a quick save with a Defibrillate.
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Space Trooper Demon
Galaxy Angel
Space Trooper Angel
A theoretical set named by GFSummoner. I really like the sound of this one - it works the Angel and Ranged combo into a double set. And it has a very large amount of buffs. This would probably be my build of choice if I could bring any to the Hive.
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Space Trooper Prankster
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Space Trooper Shaman
Supersoldier
Space Trooper Athlete
Semi-theoretical build - I've been trying out Athlete with some of these rings, and while I've been too distracted by certain other things to try out the whole build, I think these two work together nicely. Besides the boosts, Fitness and My Density keep you buffed and weighted to throw a mean punch in combat - and with Bump, Solar Rays and Guns Guns Guns, you've got more than just a punch you can throw! The drawback is that you have no heals. However, this can still be an effective solo set if you're paying attention. As soon as things are getting too rough to handle, you can use Turtle and Fleet Feet to get out of the fray with a fast, safe retreat. Head to a safe spot, rest, and then head back into the action!
Archgaian
Demon Angel
Heh. I haven't tried this set myself or considered its possibilities, but I figure that these two sets deserve a cool name when their powers combine, and after some thought, this is what I came up with. Arch means higher - like Archangel, Archdemon... and now, Archgaian. Also called a Fallen Angel by some.
Imp
Demon Prankster
Name suggested by Mendacii.
Hermes the Swift
Similar to the Athlete Prankster, this set in as equally good for supporters. Only this set gives more freedom to the user to attack. Prankster set itself has always been a good combo maker. Athlete Prankster was more of a defensive support set, Demon Prankster is more of an offensive set (explained later Pro's and Con's).
Pro's: The offensive supporter's set, which can actually do well in soloing. Hot Foot and Fire Rain to attack and the Prankster set to back up. *Hint: This is the offensive set for reasons because (i figured out this combo myself) you can totally pair up the Gumshoe, Scardy Cat and Hot Foot. #1 Hot Foot em #2 Scaredy Cat them once they get close #3 Gumshoe em before they can get away #4 Hotfoot em too. This method causes them to A: Take DoT, B: Run away from you, C: Return back to you slowly, D: Take DoT while they're running away from you.* This is set also great for holding off enemies.
Cons: Demon Set bonus=a substitute for the Fitness stam bonus. Iron Will is pretty much a useless Ring period. While i said this set is better for solo-ing (and it is) it's still all DoT so you better have a lot of patience if you are solo-ing with it.
Pro's: The offensive supporter's set, which can actually do well in soloing. Hot Foot and Fire Rain to attack and the Prankster set to back up. *Hint: This is the offensive set for reasons because (i figured out this combo myself) you can totally pair up the Gumshoe, Scardy Cat and Hot Foot. #1 Hot Foot em #2 Scaredy Cat them once they get close #3 Gumshoe em before they can get away #4 Hotfoot em too. This method causes them to A: Take DoT, B: Run away from you, C: Return back to you slowly, D: Take DoT while they're running away from you.* This is set also great for holding off enemies.
Cons: Demon Set bonus=a substitute for the Fitness stam bonus. Iron Will is pretty much a useless Ring period. While i said this set is better for solo-ing (and it is) it's still all DoT so you better have a lot of patience if you are solo-ing with it.
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Demon Shaman
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Demon Athlete
Sprite
Angel Prankster
Name suggested by Mendacii - ... I'm actually really not fond of this one, because Sprites, Fairies, and the like are very much not Angels. But to be honest, I can't think of anything better. sweatdrop
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Angel Shaman
Quicksilver
Angel Athlete
Okay, my love for puns is showing up here. First I thought of calling this Hermes, after the swift-footed Greek God of athletes. But Hermes is called Mercury in Roman mythology, and the element Mercury is also called Quicksilver, which fits very well with this theoretical set: The Angelic bonus plus the Fitness ring boots the luck of this build well beyond other sets and should give very substantial drops. It's got a series of generally good buffs, a close-range and a long-range attack, and with Taunt and Fleet Feet you can help your friends get away from enemies in a pinch. I'm not sure how this would do for soloing, but I'm sure it'd be a great build for crew training.
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Prankster Shaman
Frat Boy
Prankster Athlete
Hermes the Swift
It's pretty nice in terms of stat boosts, Accuracy & Dodge (given by both set bonuses), Weight, Luck etc, but lacks in attack strength with only one attack ring (i consider Heavy Water balloon to be a luring ring, not combat ring). I recommend this being better as a Supporter ring set.
Pro's: Lots of bonuses, Prankster rings are excellent in a party to help hold on monsters and to buy your teammates time (the entire prankster set and taunt from athlete) and draw them to you. Fleet feet for traveling and quick escapes.
Con's: Only one attack ring, Bump is an ok ring and all, but this is a poor choice of rings for solo-ing. And if your solo-ing with this set it's more for when your bored and wanna have fun. No healing rings.
Pro's: Lots of bonuses, Prankster rings are excellent in a party to help hold on monsters and to buy your teammates time (the entire prankster set and taunt from athlete) and draw them to you. Fleet feet for traveling and quick escapes.
Con's: Only one attack ring, Bump is an ok ring and all, but this is a poor choice of rings for solo-ing. And if your solo-ing with this set it's more for when your bored and wanna have fun. No healing rings.
Overzealous Track Coach
Shaman Athlete
EvilGuyInLadyDisguise
With this build you can inspire other players to go for the gold medal and run their fastest (Coyote Spirit + Fleet Feet). You can also put them through some minor endurance training on occasion (Rock Armor). Those that you coach know better than to slack off, because you're always ready to toss a Hornet's Nest at their head if you so much as think they're going to slip up (which can also come in handy against the Animated). Leading by example, you're in top physical form yourself (Fitness). So much so, that went you attack your foes you can knock them back with your powerful Bump. Even with all that power, you still feel you need an extra edge, and that's why you looked up how to make Quicksand on HowStuffWorks.com. And with that extra edge, you feel confident enough to challenge any foe that stands between you and the Gold (Taunt)
You believe running trains your body and mind, and some how this actually worked increasing you Health and Willpower slightly (Athlete and Shaman buffs).
You believe running trains your body and mind, and some how this actually worked increasing you Health and Willpower slightly (Athlete and Shaman buffs).
