Embarking on a journey through the enchanting realms of Blade & Soul, one finds themselves amidst a myriad of choices, each class offering its unique playstyle and tasteful appeal. Within this diverse array beckons the path of the Summoner, a role that intertwines the mastery of nature’s might with the camaraderie of a trusty feline companion. This guide aims to unfold the layers of the Summoner class, guiding initiates and pros alike through the essentials of mastering this captivating role.

Understanding the Summoner Class#

At its core, the Summoner is a ranged DPS class with a twist, gifted not only with potent abilities channeled through their affinity with nature but also with the unique ability to summon an animal familiar to fight by their side. This class stands apart for its strategic depth, healing capabilities, and crowd control skills, making it a formidable ally in any party and a versatile contender in solo endeavors.

The Bond with Nature#

Summoners draw their power from the natural world, weaving spells that can both nurture and devastate. Their repertoire includes restoring health to allies, ensnaring foes in thorny grips, and calling upon the elements to unleash fury. Moreover, their connection to nature allows them to revive fallen comrades, making them invaluable in prolonged battles.

The Feline Familiar#

The feline companion that accompanies every Summoner is more than just a pet; it is a true partner in combat. This loyal ally can tank, distract enemies, and even rescue its master. The bond between Summoner and familiar is a crucial aspect of the class, dictating many of its strategic facets.

Essential Summoner Skills#

To harness the full potential of a Summoner, one must understand the key abilities at their disposal. These skills form the foundation upon which successful combat tactics are built.

Rumblebees#

Rumblebees is a staple offensive spell, sending a swarm of bees to pester the enemy. It shines in its ability to be cast while moving, allowing Summoners to maintain their distance and mobility.

Sunflower#

Sunflower, akin to Rumblebees, serves as the core of the Summoner’s sustained damage output. When properly managed, it can bloom into a supercharged version, dealing hefty damage to targets.

Briars#

Briars allow Summoners to root enemies in place, setting the stage for devastating combos or providing a momentary respite from assault. Its utility in controlling the battlefield cannot be overstressed.

Doom ‘n’ Bloom#

This skill exemplifies the dual nature of the Summoner, inflicting damage over time on foes while simultaneously healing allies within its radius. It embodies the balance between offense and support that is central to the class.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon#

Adept Summoners can command their feline friends to engage in various acts of valor. Among these, employing the pet to attract enemy attention away from vulnerable allies or to execute powerful attacks is critical. Understanding when and how to utilize your companion is pivotal in mastering the Summoner.

Summoner Combat Strategies#

Knowledge of skills is but the first step; weaving them together into effective combat strategies is where the Summoner’s art truly lies.

The Dance of Distance#

Maintaining optimal distance from foes while ensuring your familiar is properly positioned to tank and distract is fundamental. This dance allows for the execution of powerful skills without interruption.

Harmonizing Offense and Support#

Striking a balance between unleashing damage and providing aid to allies is key. Knowing when to shift from assaulting with Sunflower and Rumblebees to deploying Briars for crowd control or Doom ‘n’ Bloom for healing can turn the tide of battle.

Synergy with the Familiar#

Coordination with your feline ally amplifys the Summoner’s efficacy manifold. Directing it to taunt adversaries while you cast from safety, or to perform joint attacks for amplified damage, is crucial.

Mastering the Combo#

Effective Summoners seamlessly transition between skills to maximize their impact. An example combo could start with Briars to root an enemy, followed by a barrage of Sunflower, with Doom ‘n’ Bloom weaved in for healing and damage over time, culminating in a joint attack with the familiar for a devastating finish.

Gear Recommendations for Summoners#

Equipping oneself with the right gear is crucial for augmenting the Summoner’s natural strengths and shoring up weaknesses. Here’s what to look for:

Weapons#

Seek out weapons that enhance critical hit rates and damage, as Summoners rely heavily on their ability to consistently land powerful strikes. The Hongmoon Staff is a quintessential choice, offering progression and power.

Soul Shields#

Focus on Soul Shields that bolster your health, critical hit chance, and damage. The balance between survivability and offensive potency is key, making a set like the Moonwater Soul Shield a solid option in midgame, advancing towards endgame sets that further accentuate these traits.

Accessories#

Prioritize accessories that uplift your critical rate, accuracy, and pierce. These pieces will ensure your abilities hit harder and more frequently, a fundamental aspect of the Summoner’s combat effectiveness.

PvP Tips for Summoners#

Entering the arena of player versus player (PvP) combat, Summoners must adapt their strategies to outmaneuver live opponents who are unpredictable and cunning.

Know Your Enemy#

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of opposing classes can give you the upper edge. Adjust your plan to exploit their vulnerabilities while mitigating their advantages.

Positioning is Paramount#

In PvP, keeping yourself out of the enemy’s reach while your familiar harasses them can frustrate and weaken an opponent before you move in for the kill.

Control and Counter#

Utilizing your abilities to control the field and counter your opponent’s moves can make all the difference. Briars can stop a charging foe in their tracks, and a well-timed Doom ‘n’ Bloom can swing the health advantage in your favor.

Adaptability#

Being rigid in your tactics can lead to downfall. The dynamic nature of PvP demands flexibility; modify your strategies on the fly based on the flow of the battle and the behavior of your opponent.

Summoning to the Forefront

Mastering the Summoner class in Blade & Soul is a journey of harmony between the forces of nature, the bond shared with a feline companion, and the strategic prowess of the player. This guide serves as a foundation, but the true depth of the class is realized through experience, experimentation, and adaptation. Engage in the mesmerizing dance of combat, refine your skills, and perhaps most importantly, enjoy the companionship of your loyal familiar as you carve your path through the breathtaking world of Blade & Soul.