Thread: Improving as s WAR

I’m pretty much in the exact same spot so I’d like to know as well, but I’m pretty sure I have an idea of what I’m doing wrong (so this may or may not apply.) I tend to see 5k+ wars getting off a couple more fell cleaves during a fight so for me I think it comes down to not refreshing storms eye at just the right time. More reapplying of the buff translates to less beast gauge which also translates to less fell cleaves. People who know more than I do can point out other stuff, but I would expect this to be a common theme among wars trying to absolutely optimize their dps. Hope that’s helpful!

You're using Onslaught too often, try not to have to use Butcher's Block, work on Storm's Eye uptime, and make sure to optimize raid buff windows. Also keep in mind that your personal DPS is limited by your raid composition (SAM over MNK or DRG, no AST, etc.).

Thanks for the advice so far!

My Eye timing could definitely be improved as I often hit a wrong button. As for Onslaught, should that not be used on cooldown? Or is saving that 20 gauge for Cleave/Upheaval more beneficial?

I understand that I'm limited by the buffs given and that raid co-ordination only usually happens in established Statics (might look into joining one) but I hate to think that I'm under performing.

Originally Posted by JackBlaine

Thanks for the advice so far!

My Eye timing could definitely be improved as I often hit a wrong button. As for Onslaught, should that not be used on cooldown? Or is saving that 20 gauge for Cleave/Upheaval more beneficial?

I understand that I'm limited by the buffs given and that raid co-ordination only usually happens in established Statics (might look into joining one) but I hate to think that I'm under performing.

Avoid using Onslaught on cooldown. Comparing on potency per pauge (ppg) basis:

Onslaught: 100p for 20g; 5ppg
Upheaval: 300p* for 20g; 15ppg*
Fell Cleave: 520p for 50g; 10,2ppg
Inner Beast: 350p for 50g; 7ppg**

* = if HP at 100% and no HP boosting buffs active
** = simply added for comparison in less-than-ideal scenarios

So Upheaval has full dibs on gauge priority, followed by FC / IB. Onslaught is best used as a gap closer to increase uptime if for some unfortunate reason walking between GCDs isn't enough when you eventually have to do a bee line for mechanics. Alternatively its decent for snap aggro in fights with adds that start with 0 enmity along wizh Equilibrium. Also affected by Unchained, if you need a lot enmity FAST.

Originally Posted by JackBlaine

Thanks for the advice so far!

My Eye timing could definitely be improved as I often hit a wrong button. As for Onslaught, should that not be used on cooldown? Or is saving that 20 gauge for Cleave/Upheaval more beneficial?

I understand that I'm limited by the buffs given and that raid co-ordination only usually happens in established Statics (might look into joining one) but I hate to think that I'm under performing.

as reinhardt sow you onslaught is a dps loss and works only as a gap closer better or as a gauge control to avoid overflow but thats pretty hard to happen, but in inner release window is the contrary, you have to use all you fell cleaves,onslaught and upheaval since they gauge cost is removed and are free oGCD so more raw potency by the face.

Originally Posted by Reinhardt_Azureheim

Avoid using Onslaught on cooldown. Comparing on potency per pauge (ppg) basis:

Onslaught: 100p for 20g; 5ppg
Upheaval: 300p* for 20g; 15ppg*
Fell Cleave: 520p for 50g; 10,2ppg
Inner Beast: 350p for 50g; 7ppg**

* = if HP at 100% and no HP boosting buffs active
** = simply added for comparison in less-than-ideal scenarios

So Upheaval has full dibs on gauge priority, followed by FC / IB. Onslaught is best used as a gap closer to increase uptime if for some unfortunate reason walking between GCDs isn't enough when you eventually have to do a bee line for mechanics. Alternatively its decent for snap aggro in fights with adds that start with 0 enmity along wizh Equilibrium. Also affected by Unchained, if you need a lot enmity FAST.

Actually, using onslaught on cooldown is pretty much dps neutral than not doing so, and the reason is due to keeping your gauge at higher levels. This means you crit more frequently.

While I’ve read that using onslaught on cd is dps neutral, after making the switch I’ve found not spamming it to be a dps gain. I’d suggest trying it out for a few fights at least and looking at your numbers.