Description
The Ranger of Norrath is a cousin of the Druid, though one that specialises in melee as opposed to magical combat. They are usually referred to as Guardians or Wardens of Nature and many have similar beliefs and principles to Druids; though as their equipment often requires repairs and periodic replacing Rangers tend to be more comfortable socially than their spell casting counterpart. They do still have a similar ability to call upon spirits (of nature) and unseen forces but it is much more limited in its power, as such they are extensively trained in many weapon types and combat abilities, usually to a far greater level of proficiency than any Druid would be expected to reach.
A Rangers combat training focuses on offensive skills, with the defensive side left to an individuals cunning and agility. Many of a Rangers spells can either be used at a distance or allow the Ranger to fight outside their opponents range, archery is one of a Rangers primary weapon skills and when mastered becomes one of the most powerful weapons available to them. Rangers can also slow movement, 'root' a target to the ground and when fighting animals make them flee in fear. They gain some of the Druid 'blast' spells and can transform into a wolf when they reach the required level of power.
While defensively limited, a Ranger does have some defensive boons including the capability to wear chain armour. Their armour class and hit points can be magically raised and they can cast a shield which harms their opponent when they strike the Ranger. In addition Rangers can reduce aggression and 'lull' creatures enough that they wouldn't attack when approached, giving enough distraction to pick groups of them off one by one. Along with the best tracking ability of any profession this means Rangers are often considered the masters of hunting, commonly taking responsibility for scouting ahead or choosing suitable 'prey' for a party.
Ranger Races
Drakkin, Half Elf, Halfling, Human, Wood Elf
Stats
Rangers need to be strong to deal high damage in combat with the stamina to take any hits they may catch in return. Archery requires great dexterity in combination with their strength and its power can benefit greatly from enchanted arrows. The armour a Ranger wears is usually not very heavy or protective but the wearers agility can significantly contribute to its effectiveness.
Rangers cast a lot of spells during and between combat, requiring a lot of mana to be spent in the process. Wisdom determines a large proportion of the total mana available, giving an exceptionally wise Ranger far more spells to cast between each rest than the average. With some quite damaging spells Rangers can attract a lot of attention during combat and use their agility to avoid incoming blows.
Tips
- Strength is important for you to do sufficient damage with your weapons but it is easy to obtain strength enhancing items. Do consider strength but don't make it your priority.
- Increasing your stamina gives you more hit points which can really make a difference in a tough fight, though Rangers shouldn't be taking the defensive role of a Warrior.
- Consider learning the relevant trade skills at an early level, they can be useful in practicing archery and replenishing supplies far into the wilderness.
- Wisdom gives you a bigger mana pool (meaning more casts before you run out of mana), this can really help when soloing or venturing into areas that are difficult to fight through.
Screenshots
With thanks to Bonair (Human), Icemind (Wood Elf), Jendrake (Wood Elf), Tiloliane (Wood Elf) and Tinlaas (Wood Elf) of the The Rathe (Karana) server for being the Ranger screenshot models!
Sites
Casters Realm
http://eq.crgaming.com/menu/ranger.aspThe Casters Realm menu for Rangers, providing links to their articles and descriptions on topics such as hunting, skills, spells and strategies.
EQ Outrider
http://www.eqoutrider.netUseful resource, including epic guides and an active forum.
The Ranger's Glade
http://interealms.com/rangerUseful skill chart with descriptions and several handy guides (mostly for starting out) and a forum.