shields need an overhaul.

[Nomad-phx]

I main pld, always have, always will. I like the sword/shield combo but as of lately (Alexander savage being tuned for drk over pld, please see countless forum entries for proof can't miss em) I feel as though the potential for how a pld should should be functioning is not being reached. For starters the selection of shield types is just horrible: either tower or kite that's it. Sure some might say "but what about onion shield/true ice shield?" But no lol i90 and i115 just no. The 2nd issue is function, every shield should have 4 stats: block strength/block rate, magic deflection/deflection rate. I'm no saying shields should block magic at same %, just that it should be a function of shields. I won't go into what %s should go where as I ain't nerdy enough to know what's good and what would be O.P. but my word, I made a shield where I work and it blocks sparks, flames, molten aluminum/steel, all of which SE would consider magic damage so how about throwing us a freaking bone here?

[Canadane]

Not only do I agree with you, but they should bring back WHM/BLM shields as well.

[TouchandFeel]

But those sparks, flames, etc. you were blocking with the shield you made weren't magical in nature so they don't count.

Joking aside, having magic deflection stats on a shield could be interesting and would open up some new possibilities with a bit of horizontal gear progression.
For example you could have shields that are your traditional big bulky metal shield that has high physical defense capabilities but virtually none versus magic, then on the other end there could be a shield that is great at deflecting magic but not great at physical defense.

If they did this for shields/block they would probably need to do this with parry too.

[Archaell]

Totally agree. It feels like the potential of the shields is highly wasted.

I also miss some kind of "hold the line" ability which would let you actively increase block while causing pacification or channeling. Combine it with reflecting damage etc. and the shield would be much more utilized.

[Fevelle]

Not only do I agree with you, but they should bring back WHM/BLM shields as well.

Please! I miss using wands.

[Kosmos992k]

Not only do I agree with you, but they should bring back WHM/BLM shields as well.

I agree with this and the original post. Shields get no love in this game, it's time for that to change.

[Tint]

Not only do I agree with you, but they should bring back WHM/BLM shields as well.

no thanks. i'm glad there are no new shields and one handed weapons for whm. so ugly D:

[NolLacnala]

[Whiston]

Shields blocking magic? That's ridiculous, just ask Haurchefant how that works out.

[Eye_Gore]

Shields blocking magic? That's ridiculous, just ask Haurchefant how that works out.

Obviously not a "magic" shield.