How Physiologic Plays PL: A video example on how to be an archer

[Physiologic]

A Video example on how to be an archer
by Physiologic

Check out my other Pocket Legends guides:
How Drop Rates Work (Simplified) and the Factor of Luck Elixirs (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?30059-How-Drop-Rates-Work-%28Simplified%29-and-the-Factor-of-Luck-Elixirs)
Post-Global Cooldown (GCD) Video Runs at Balefort Sewers (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?23726-Post-Global-Cooldown-%28GCD%29-Video-Runs-at-Balefort-Sewers)
In-Depth Guide to Farming Balefort Sewers (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?22587-In-Depth-Guide-to-Farming-Balefort-Sewers)
Comprehensive Archer Skills and Equipment Guide (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?16244-Comprehensive-Archer-Skills-and-Equipment-Guide)
Complete Lv 55 Archer Gear List (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?19819-Complete-Lv-55-Archer-Gear-List)
Pocket Legends Enemy, Boss, and NPC Compendium (http://tinyurl.com/4tmz87x)
How to Craft Lv 55 Gear (http://tinyurl.com/4lcxe23)
How to calculate your attributes using STR, DEX, and INT (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?20606-How-to-calculate-your-attributes-using-STR-DEX-and-INT)
Ring List (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?18941-Ring-List)
Guide to Advanced Mechanics in PL: DPS, Crits, etc. (http://tinyurl.com/4u6bkuj)
Void Set versus Sentinel equips: An Unbiased Analysis (http://tinyurl.com/4g72okf)
In-Depth Guide to Farming Alien Oasis 3: Victory Lap (http://tinyurl.com/4u62hxt)

Check out my other Star Legends guides:
Star Legends General Attributes (STR, DEX, INT) Guide (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?30467-Star-Legends-General-Attributes-%28STR-DEX-INT%29-Guide)
Prefix/Suffix Compendium for Weapons and Armors (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?30417-Prefix-Suffix-Compendium-for-Weapons-and-Armors)
Lv 20-21 Operative Weapons and Equips (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?30545-Lv-20-21-Operative-Weapons-and-Equips)

Despite countless numbers, data-crunching, respecing, comparing between equips, and every other inconsequential aspect of our builds that we can argue about without an end, there is only one most important variable that will differentiate you between other players: you.

Yes, you.

You, the player, and how you play is the biggest determinant on the outcome of your XP grinding and farming runs. How fast your team can finish a map depends on how fast YOU can efficiently kill enemies.

It does not matter if you have the best equips in the game.

It really doesn't. If you have top-notch gear and the player next to you has average gear but he can play his character better, he/she will be better than you, even if your gear costs 2m and their gear costs 1500 gold.

Skill is not bought; it is nurtured, refined, and perfected.

To my fellow archers: your days of staying in the back, timid and afraid because your armor is too squishy, are over. You belong in the head of the battlefield, right next to the mages and warriors. Don't be lazy and NEVER hold off on skills because you're afraid of aggro. You chose to be the best damage dealing class, so fulfill your role. I hope some of you may be inspired and take charge as well.

And now I present a video on how I play. Friends that know how I play know I do not have any Raid Roach or Customized equips - I use Bagman's (the green archer gear that costs 500g) and a Crown of Persistence (also not bought, but earned). The only thing "bought" is the ring that costs 10 platinum, and my vanity helm.

This is not a step-by-step instructional video on what to do. This is a video of a run showing you:
1. How quickly skills should be used
2. How to be in the frontline of your party while keeping a close distance with them
3. How fast potions should be consumed
4. How to "setup" enemy mobs for the rest of your party

Hideout Run #1, with 2 selected friends and 2 random members (no elixirs used)
Runners: Physiologic, Adapts, Paleriderz, Kimgomdol, Morgott

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEtO7nIjjNc

Hideout Run #2, with selected friends, finished in 3:26 (no elixirs used)
Runners: Physiologic, Mitsuisun, Fnordic, Apollo, Moogerfooger

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_qza65CO_A

Catacombs run, with selected friends, finished in 3:50 (no elixirs used)
Runners: Physiologic, Mitsuisun, Ellyidol, Drucapu, Moogerfooger

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXpwubCFFa8

[Ellyidol]

How did you take that video? :) Seemed really close, I'd think it was your chin taking a video :P

Good one man :)

[Physiologic]

2 words bro: Pepsi can.

http://i54.tinypic.com/aakr54.jpg

[Ellyidol]

LMAO!

Genius bro! Hahahahahaha

Find me a way to video from a top view, since I play on an iPad on table ;) Lol jk

[Physiologic]

I believe Parth made some crazy tripod to record his ipad...forget what he used exactly but our makeshift camera holders work :) and they're cheap too.

[Ellyidol]

I believe Parth made some crazy tripod to record his ipad...forget what he used exactly but our makeshift camera holders work :) and they're cheap too.

I'll check that out, I think I'll be able to do the same as you.

Just need to find that camera..

[Tamino]

Really nice video, a demonstration of how an archer rocks!

Apart from excellent Physiologic positioning and timing abilities, the video shows two things I learned only after long play:
Archer, don not be short on health potion. Yes, you can rely on mage healing, but if your style is enough aggressive (and appreciated) it comes a moment in the boss fight or the mobs group approach in which you must burn 2-4 health pot - this allows you to keep the attack position and continue to blast off enemies. If you retreat, save the pots but the rush or the attack dissolves in chaos.

Most inflicted damage come from skills (and combo). Because you never will have enough INT for a good M/s (and you never should spend money in it), you need a slow, constant mana pot usage. Don't let the stinginess leave your group without support because you finished mana.

Thank you again Physiologic, looking for your next guide !

[Ellyidol]

Finally added a video Phys! TYVM for the idea :)

Its in the Balefort Bear Play Guide thread in my sig :)

[adwin]

Yes, you can rely on mage healing

Unless you played with that mage and you trust him, you can NEVER totally rely on a mage, especially if there's only 1 for the whole group.
Don't forget, that except for keeping an eye on everyone's status/health, he has to throw in the occasional combo as well. They're doing double shift, and can sometimes miss a heal. Don't be stingy, and have a sufficient amount of pots, especially right before boss runs or while entering an area with a high concentration of both enemies and traps.


@Phys: depending on the party I'm playing with, I sometimes rush ahead, kill some or most of the mob, and leave the rest "wounded".
My fellows coming in after me just need to finish the job and put the poor mob out of its misery.
This style is quite often used when doing boss runs.
BUT
It also requires some degree of trusting your companions.

[Echelong]

I agree with you Physio, its not the gear but the player itself. Some players just don't want to pull their weight or want to depend on others to do the killing and healing. I try to keep everyone alive in a group even if I am the only one, I try to do the most damage possible and not die, but a lot of players think that if there is an enchantress on the group they don't need to use any health pots because thats my job.

The past few days I have been farming on what I can say are elite groups and I don't think I can run pugs anymore they tend to be very painful. Maybe running in these groups just spoiled me but I prefer to farm plasma pyramid than go on random pugs because on bosses like Gold Fever 1 player can wipe a team or slow down runs enough to make it worthless.

[Moogerfooger]

So sad, I could barely keep up with Phys...then again, I had to help clean up some "wounded", lol. I should just concentrate more on staying in front of (or in P-dawg's case, just even) with the party.

Awesome video!

[Yvonnel]

Awesome vid. Its awesome to see how the "Pro's" do it.

[Physiologic]

Tamino brings up another great point - do NOT be stingy with potions.

It's not about plunging headfirst in front of everyone, its about playing offensively while being defensive as well - something that can only be achieved through a lot of runs.

But yeah, I generally stopped relying on mages to heal me and instead just spam health potions especially when I know a large mob is coming up. And adwin brings up a good point too - if your party is deficient, you won't be as efficient :) Pub games can be fun and random but you'll rarely find a party as good as friends you play with. And yeah that's why I stopped running pure pubs as well Eche.

In the case of my video, only Adapts and Paleriderz were buddies (other 2 were random), but we could still play decently well even when I knew only 2 of them.

And moog, I'll probably redo the run, get on your bird later :) We can vid the Death Train.

[Echelong]

Physio I think you have some stat points or skill points left to use. Still have your flashing name bar.

[Physiologic]

Physio I think you have some stat points or skill points left to use. Still have your flashing name bar.

Yeah, those are the 5 attribute points gained for hitting 56 but for various testing purposes I left my attribute points at "level 55" :p

[Echelong]

Yeah, those are the 5 attribute points gained for hitting 56 but for various testing purposes I left my attribute points at "level 55" :p

They should give you a job as a tester. Maybe go to the next season of the tester 3 from Playstation.

[Zeus]

I'll check that out, I think I'll be able to do the same as you.

Just need to find that camera..

I used my iphone 4 to record my ipad. Suprisingly good quality. Go check out the guides in my signature if you don't believe me :p. I also think my tripod was shown in that thread as well.

[Moogerfooger]

Phys, I can do that. I am just more comfortable playing Archer these days, the bear is still a work in progress, compared to some of the excellent 50+ bears I have played with. I think I do okay, but I "pale" in comparison to some of them.

I've got a tripod, but I can't show it in public or I end up in a nice holding cell :p

[Ellyidol]

I used my iphone 4 to record my ipad. Suprisingly good quality. Go check out the guides in my signature if you don't believe me :p. I also think my tripod was shown in that thread as well.

Really good!

If only I can find a tripod like that...

[Echelong]

Really good!

If only I can find a tripod like that...

http://cgi.ebay.com/Mini-Tripod-Stand-Holder-ALL-iPhone-3G-4-4G-/180578288771?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item2a0b4e0483

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-iPhone-4G-8X-Zoom-Telescope-Lens-Tripod-Holder-Case-/250784303416?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item3a63e8c938

http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=p5197.m570.l1311&_nkw=iphone+4+tripod&_sacat=See-All-Categories

There you go....

[Zeus]

Really good!

If only I can find a tripod like that...

Lol were you being sarcastic? The tripod was composed of two toilet paper rolls and a bottle of neutrogena cream.

[Ellyidol]

Lol were you being sarcastic? The tripod was composed of two toilet paper rolls and a bottle of neutrogena cream.

No not at all! Lol I couldn't open some videos on my phone, so I didn't really see the tripod. Only saw how stable it was taping your iPad from that view :)

I just can't find a way to video my iPad like that, without having someone actually hold the phone on top, but then it's wobbly. I'll definitely try and look for one soon.

[srcnix]

Physiologic,

I used to be extremely cautious when playing and while sometimes I would run ahead I would tend to stay back from afar and attack. While this was effective it's not half as effective nor as fun as being the "damage" guy. I have taken all your tips and the video into play and I am now, finally, enjoying PL again without having to rely on mages.

I was always stingy with pots, why spend money on pots when mages should be healing. At least, that's how I used to see it. Sadly, though, a lot of the newer players cannot get to gripes with their roles in a team. Thankfully I now can, thanks to this post and others of yours.

Thanks very much for this contribution and bringing the fun back into PL for me.

[srcnix]

Come to think of it, I have a quick question.

Do you "blatter" your way through your skills or do you have some form of order, other than what is already mentioned on previous posts?

[Zeus]

No not at all! Lol I couldn't open some videos on my phone, so I didn't really see the tripod. Only saw how stable it was taping your iPad from that view :)

I just can't find a way to video my iPad like that, without having someone actually hold the phone on top, but then it's wobbly. I'll definitely try and look for one soon.

Try putting you iPad against a wall and record. That what I did. The appearance is that it is on flat on the ground. But really its not :p

[Physiologic]

Physiologic,

I used to be extremely cautious when playing and while sometimes I would run ahead I would tend to stay back from afar and attack. While this was effective it's not half as effective nor as fun as being the "damage" guy. I have taken all your tips and the video into play and I am now, finally, enjoying PL again without having to rely on mages.

I was always stingy with pots, why spend money on pots when mages should be healing. At least, that's how I used to see it. Sadly, though, a lot of the newer players cannot get to gripes with their roles in a team. Thankfully I now can, thanks to this post and others of yours.

Thanks very much for this contribution and bringing the fun back into PL for me.


Come to think of it, I have a quick question.

Do you "blatter" your way through your skills or do you have some form of order, other than what is already mentioned on previous posts?

You're very welcome! You'll have some deaths here and there from charging in the frontline but you'll get more and more used to this type of aggressive play - it is very fun and more exciting than just sitting in the back :p

And yes, I do have a set order in which skills are used, though not followed 100% of the time. Check section V in this guide (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?16244-Comprehensive-Archer-Skills-and-Equipment-Guide) (the skill map example). Buffs first, Thorn Root/Blinding Shot/Break Armor/Repulse Shot on random single mobs, Thorn Wall when there's a particular large group of mobs (for mages to Nature Strike), and Cruel Blast combo whenever surrounded. It's way too chaotic to follow that in-game of course but that's about the gist of things :) Also, get in the habit of using skills as soon as they're available, but do this smartly - you don't want to use Thorn Wall or Cruel Blast on a single enemy.

[srcnix]

You're very welcome! You'll have some deaths here and there from charging in the frontline but you'll get more and more used to this type of aggressive play - it is very fun and more exciting than just sitting in the back :p

And yes, I do have a set order in which skills are used, though not followed 100% of the time. Check section V in this guide (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?16244-Comprehensive-Archer-Skills-and-Equipment-Guide) (the skill map example). Buffs first, Thorn Root/Blinding Shot/Break Armor/Repulse Shot on random single mobs, Thorn Wall when there's a particular large group of mobs (for mages to Nature Strike), and Cruel Blast combo whenever surrounded. It's way too chaotic to follow that in-game of course but that's about the gist of things :) Also, get in the habit of using skills as soon as they're available, but do this smartly - you don't want to use Thorn Wall or Cruel Blast on a single enemy.

Thanks Physiologic, great help!

[Apostar]

lol! good one Nice example thanks. Curious as to way bagman and not drainer set

[Doubletime]

Nice post Physiologic. Nice to see someone giving the example out of staying in the front with the bird. When I run with a good bear like Ellyidol, MrWallace, Aabe, etc. I try to stay on top of them as they run in front. As soon as they beckon in the mob, I can lay down my combos and thorn wall for the following mages to clean up the leftovers with lightning. Works for fast clean runs.

I tend to use a ton of health and mana pots, but it is a more fun way to play (at least for me).

[Physiologic]

lol! good one Nice example thanks. Curious as to way bagman and not drainer set

Bagman's has massive crit/damage/DPS - drainer's has more armor but is really lacking in the damage department.

[Joshooaaa]

I agree, Echelong, it gets very frustrating when you have someone not pulling their weight in a group, or even worse, "the lone ranger". I can't stand people that are in Farming or exp runs, and they are off doing their own thing, oblivious that a group exists.... arg

[Dalonewolf]

I cant view video :0 on Itouch btw

[Conradin]

thanks- you have given me ispiration to evel my birdy

[Physiologic]

I cant view video :0 on Itouch btw

Direct link to video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEtO7nIjjNc

[Phana]

As if the video wasn't smart enough you had to have the pepsi can idea too xD

[Physiologic]

Pepsi is the true drink of champions :) Great refreshing taste and a wonderful camera holder.

[Adapts]

Er dude wish you said u were recording, i would have brought the A game haha, I played sloppy that run ;mao and randoms screwing up combos :P

next vid 4 bird 1 mage group :P

[IamBored]

Wow look at how fast his thumb is moving. Do you get tired playing like that for long? You used a total of 45 pots which is a lot for most people that are poor like myself. With a leading bear, you wouldn't use that many potions and kill as fast.

[Frenzyn]

"o my fellow archers: your days of staying in the back, timid and afraid because your armor is too squishy, are over. You belong in the head of the battlefield, right next to the mages and warriors. Don't be lazy and NEVER hold off on skills because you're afraid of aggro. You chose to be the best damage dealing class, so fulfill your role. I hope some of you may be inspired and take charge as well."
+1

How are u just ganna make a video and not put a shoutout to me in the background... >.>
You know u love me. lol jk, but why didn't u speak bruh?

[noobmigo]

If I had a nickel for every time Phys got a +1, I'd be a trillionaire by now.

[MITSUISUN]

Phy, you never stop to amaze me in both games and on forums lol. I too, am ashamed and inspired when I run with you. People should pay for your service up front when they join your group like I have been lol. I still dont remember how I leveled from 53-55 in 1 night with you

I knew something was up when seeing you rocking bagman's and like i said last night, it's the player, you will still wipe the floors with anything even if you are in cyber ( then of course both you and Moog loaded Cyber up and we still did like 3 something in hideout )

Awesome work.


I agree with you Physio, its not the gear but the player itself. Some players just don't want to pull their weight or want to depend on others to do the killing and healing. I try to keep everyone alive in a group even if I am the only one, I try to do the most damage possible and not die, but a lot of players think that if there is an enchantress on the group they don't need to use any health pots because thats my job.

The past few days I have been farming on what I can say are elite groups and I don't think I can run pugs anymore they tend to be very painful. Maybe running in these groups just spoiled me but I prefer to farm plasma pyramid than go on random pugs because on bosses like Gold Fever 1 player can wipe a team or slow down runs enough to make it worthless.

Exactly, Echelong.
I've always grouped with 1 mage and another friend (lv50bird/bear/mage) pre-BS campaign for same reason of a strong core group base into a PUG game. If they are not on, I practice how my skills can improve by soloing, or help out other friends need with boss etc.

Since BS I ran into birds like Phy/Moog/Elar/Kujen, mages such as yourself and Attackelf, bears like Warhammerben and TerminatorHK and tons of other awesome players (I named because longest grouping time)

Like you I been spoiled because I feel like I found my core group once again. But it's more than just melting the mobs away and getting a pink. It's the chat, the personality and willingness/understanding of one another, extending a hand when in need, having patience and building relationships, it's really the thoughts that counts and what good MMORPG experience should be.

There are seas of awesome players out there and everyone can improve their game by learning on forums/in game ( I don't think i really knew how to play until lv48 / started to read forums heh ) Although it's becoming hard to have a long list of good player friends and only get to play with 4 of them at same time and cant join other parties.
Perhaps later on bigger scale of game will take place where you need 4 groups of 20 players to enter a map and co-op a portion of maps in order to take down the final big boss.

For all the wonderful posts by forum members, I thank you/applaud for all your hardwork to better the community.

Happy huntings all~

[WhoIsThis]

I'm thinking ... maybe I should be more aggressive with mage; I wouldn't need nearly as many health pots as I heal and my mana regen means that I won't need mana pots.

[MITSUISUN]

I'm thinking ... maybe I should be more aggressive with mage; I wouldn't need nearly as many health pots as I heal and my mana regen means that I won't need mana pots.

I thought you are already aggressive Attackelf ^^

[Junside]

I have no idea how you play. I watched it twice and I can't really tell what you're doing lol I assume it is very under control though. But looked like skill mashing. But I'm sure that isn't it.

I have a very simple set up, divided into two combos, not a flurry of attacks like you do. But of course, I have a warbird.

[davidis57]

Seriously, I fight like this. Only diff I use Underling set and use root skills in a group of mobs.

[Physiologic]

Thank you all for your kind words :)

Few replies:
@IAmBored - I overpotted in my run to ensure I would have 0% chance of death, so my pot usage is usually 15-20 per round with a selected team.
@Junside - There's button mashing, and then there's smart button mashing. It's perfectly fine to button mash on mobs, as soon as your skill is available. But finger memory allows me to make quick educated decisions on Thorn Wall and Cruel Blast placement. All other single-targeting attacks are pretty much button mashed, and that's what allows you to be a fast killer. If you're slower than a button masher, you will do less total damage/DPS/DPM. Of course, you don't button mash when there's no mobs around. I just prefer to use my skills immediately when they are available, and when there are mobs around.

[JemNI]

Ok, like Junside, I was overwhelmed by your actions and couldn't always tell what exactly you were doing with regard to mob control and skill selection. I think I'll rewatch it a few times. But I did notice one thing I was confused about. You seem to hammer on the targeting button. I do this too, accidentally. Which brings up my question? What purpose does it serve if you are already targetting something to keep hitting the button? Doesn't that turn off your autotarget or are you watching it for how fast you kill a mob and reset it? Or can you explain how that works?

[Moogerfooger]

Which brings up my question? What purpose does it serve if you are already targetting something to keep hitting the button? Doesn't that turn off your autotarget or are you watching it for how fast you kill a mob and reset it? Or can you explain how that works?

I play almost identically to Phys, although with a slightly different skill map...style is the same. So...

It is in order to target the next mob. As soon as I see 'auto' disappear, I know that mob is dead and I tap it to lock the next. It may look like random tapping/de-targeting, but at least for me, it is not. And I'd be willing to bet a lot of pretzels that Phys is doing the same...targeting the next mob in a split second as soon as 'Auto' disappears. Yeah, I occasionally randomly hit it on accident when I shouldn't and un-target someone, but another tap re-locks them.

Controlled chaos is the key to aggressive up-front archery: Staying alive while dealing max damage possible. It is not random button mashing :p

[Physiologic]

Ok, like Junside, I was overwhelmed by your actions and couldn't always tell what exactly you were doing with regard to mob control and skill selection. I think I'll rewatch it a few times. But I did notice one thing I was confused about. You seem to hammer on the targeting button. I do this too, accidentally. Which brings up my question? What purpose does it serve if you are already targetting something to keep hitting the button? Doesn't that turn off your autotarget or are you watching it for how fast you kill a mob and reset it? Or can you explain how that works?

When I'm running in the front about the clash with 5-10 enemies, I don't think about "hmm which skill combo should I do first" at all. The single-target attacks can be spammed without any regard - just spam whenever they are available. You do have to watch out for Thorn Wall placement and Cruel Blast placement, as these are the only AoE attacks an archer has. So just keep that in mind - spam away with everything else, and use Thorn Wall and Cruel Blast with a little thought.

And Moog is right - I do occasionally spam the Auto-Attack because once an enemy dies, you have to tap it again to lock to the next enemy. Spamming auto-attack ensures that an enemy is always locked. Staring at an enemy's health until it falls to zero and then tapping it again detracts attention from the other mobs, at least for me. It's also annoying to be running around attacking and realizing that the enemy you auto'd is already dead, and I am not auto-attacking anyone while I'm thinking I am.

[StompArtist]

When I'm running in the front about the clash with 5-10 enemies, I don't think about "hmm which skill combo should I do first" at all. The single-target attacks can be spammed without any regard - just spam whenever they are available. You do have to watch out for Thorn Wall placement and Cruel Blast placement, as these are the only AoE attacks an archer has. So just keep that in mind - spam away with everything else, and use Thorn Wall and Cruel Blast with a little thought.

And Moog is right - I do occasionally spam the Auto-Attack because once an enemy dies, you have to tap it again to lock to the next enemy. Spamming auto-attack ensures that an enemy is always locked. Staring at an enemy's health until it falls to zero and then tapping it again detracts attention from the other mobs, at least for me. It's also annoying to be running around attacking and realizing that the enemy you auto'd is already dead, and I am not auto-attacking anyone while I'm thinking I am.

Ya forgot to mention that your fingers are as quick as lightning. I would have to play me in 4X to be able to match your speed. No wonder some kids think I am slow... that's because: I am! LOL

[Pandamoni]

That was fun to watch! I don't know all of the archer skills so I couldn't really tell what you were doing but it looked like you were in fast motion! Archer skills regenerate so much faster than mage skills! You make me want to level my bird.

[Physiologic]

Stomp, are you playing on the phone or an iPad/Galaxy pad? I think everyone's optimal reaction time is on a phone device simply because the thumb is big enough to glide through all the skills, whereas you need more hand movement using a pad device.

And yes Panda, being a bird is very fun indeed :) It's exciting to charge in the front bashing pots and skills and generally ripping apart mobs while you're thinking "I wonder if I'm going to die"...

[StompArtist]

Stomp, are you playing on the phone or an iPad/Galaxy pad? I think everyone's optimal reaction time is on a phone device simply because the thumb is big enough to glide through all the skills, whereas you need more hand movement using a pad device.

And yes Panda, being a bird is very fun indeed :) It's exciting to charge in the front bashing pots and skills and generally ripping apart mobs while you're thinking "I wonder if I'm going to die"...

I am playing on a G-Tablet (10" screen) Tegra 2 processor! :D

Tablet = fast. Stomp = Slow. lol

[Frenzyn]

I want to know how you recorded that almost 100% quality, when i put my camera to the iphone, it looks like this:
http://demo.physics.uiuc.edu/lectdemo/descript/232/102-35a.jpg

And i have like a $600 camera too + tripod...
It is a 32x optical zoom cannon power-shot XS 30 IS digital photographer pro
And yes i knew that off the top of my head.

[Conradin]

My videos look like crap too I have a 200$ camera but still.

[Zeus]

I want to know how you recorded that almost 100% quality, when i put my camera to the iphone, it looks like this:
http://demo.physics.uiuc.edu/lectdemo/descript/232/102-35a.jpg

And i have like a $600 camera too + tripod...
It is a 32x optical zoom cannon power-shot XS 30 IS digital photographer pro
And yes i knew that off the top of my head.

There is your problem. 600 dollar camera? That is way to intense for something like this. And you are using an iphone 3gs, meaning the pixels are VERY easy to see, especially with a camera like that. Try using a normal HD camera like something that comes off the iphone 4. It suits scenarios like this just right.

[WhoIsThis]

When I'm running in the front about the clash with 5-10 enemies, I don't think about "hmm which skill combo should I do first" at all. The single-target attacks can be spammed without any regard - just spam whenever they are available. You do have to watch out for Thorn Wall placement and Cruel Blast placement, as these are the only AoE attacks an archer has. So just keep that in mind - spam away with everything else, and use Thorn Wall and Cruel Blast with a little thought.

Even with mage and AOE attacks, it's best to try to get into an optimal position to try to hit as many targets as possible. I don't usually spam attacks as soon as they recharge, except for frostbite. I usually allow myself to get into the best position to hit the most targets. That improves your net damage considerably. You can always tell between mages that do that and the ones that button mash - their spells aren't nearly as effective because they don't hit all the targets they could be hitting. The only drawback is the increased deaths.

[Physiologic]

@Frenzyn: I use a very bad camera...It's a 10mp Kodak I bought for like $70 or something :D I suppose light exposure and the macro setting has something to do with quality I got.

@WhoIsThis: Yeah, that's what I try to do as well, but unfortunately I don't many times (when I replay my videos, I think WTF to myself). But as long as you ATTEMPT to AoE mobs instead of mindless skill mashing, the outcome will still be favorable.

I uploaded 2 more vids of runs with select elite friends that I trust to do well (one is in Hideout, one is in Catacombs).

[Ellyidol]

And to cap it off, a pink for Mooger :P

[Physiologic]

And to cap it off, a pink for Mooger :P

Today was pink day...you came too late. We had like 4 pink drops total in ~20-25 runs :(

[Ellyidol]

Today was pink day...you came too late. We had like 4 pink drops total in ~20-25 runs :(

Ahh, its fine :)

Should be able to play more now, but then again you guys aren't or won't be on for long anymore. Timezones..

[neko]

And yes Panda, being a bird is very fun indeed :) It's exciting to charge in the front bashing pots and skills and generally ripping apart mobs while you're thinking "I wonder if I'm going to die"...

That's exactly how I felt! You guys definitely taught me that I can be so much more aggressive with my bird. Pot spamming is fun, but living on that edge of "I think I'm going to definitely die now" has its high! Thanks Physiologic, Moogerfooger, Mitsuisun, and Fnordic (Royce) for those epic runs! BTW, congrats on 56, Royce!

[Moogerfooger]

And to cap it off, a pink for Mooger :P

I paid for that with my Leroy Jenkins moment early in the Catacombs run, haha.

+1 death, +1 Royal Sewer Helm. I will take that any day.

[Zeus]

@Frenzyn: I use a very bad camera...It's a 10mp Kodak I bought for like $70 or something :D I suppose light exposure and the macro setting has something to do with quality I got.

@WhoIsThis: Yeah, that's what I try to do as well, but unfortunately I don't many times (when I replay my videos, I think WTF to myself). But as long as you ATTEMPT to AoE mobs instead of mindless skill mashing, the outcome will still be favorable.

I uploaded 2 more vids of runs with select elite friends that I trust to do well (one is in Hideout, one is in Catacombs).

Not to mention your pixel density is much higher on your device, so the screen flaws don't show up as well.

[WhoIsThis]

@WhoIsThis: Yeah, that's what I try to do as well, but unfortunately I don't many times (when I replay my videos, I think WTF to myself). But as long as you ATTEMPT to AoE mobs instead of mindless skill mashing, the outcome will still be favorable.

Another thing I should point out - when I am already in position, I use skills as soon as the combos allow me to. Ideally, you will already be in position when you fire your first volley and will remain in position after that. The hard part is holding position long enough because you aren't as durable as a bear.

[Physiologic]

Yeah that's the worst part of being squishy, if I feel I'm surrounded by mobs and my party isn't close enough to assist, I run back just a bit so I'm "within" the party mass. Gotta have the other players take a few hits for me too :p

[WhoIsThis]

For mage, it depends. First, heal is actually worth something. So is drain life. If you have mana shield, that buys you some time. The question is, can you last long enough to cast a series of spells? Against the bandit boys, in most cases, the answer is yes. Against those green mutant things in the catacombs, a sustained bombardment will kill very rapidly, so fire one volley and fall back.

If your health bar is going down very rapidly, that's the only time I gobble pots. The majority of deaths these days I find come from vent accidents, one hit KOs (try fighting the king and queen together - watch what the queen does: lightning), or situations where your hp bar goes down so fast that you can't hit the health pot button.

[adwin]

@Phys:
A great idea would be to make a vid of each BS stage, with a full team of archers, a mage and a bear.
That would give ppl an idea regarding the tactics both for the stage and the char they are playing with.
Assemble your team and off you go to recording on that pepsi can ;]

Back to topic:
1 very important skill to develop is aggro+pull with a bird.
Try to cover as much an area as possible with shatter scream in order to grab a massive combo. While moving, of course.

[Tengotengo]

@Phys:
A great idea would be to make a vid of each BS stage, with a full team of archers, a mage and a bear.
That would give ppl an idea regarding the tactics both for the stage and the char they are playing with.
Assemble your team and off you go to recording on that pepsi can ;]

ooh, good idea. I'd like to have a little visual reference on how I'm supposed to run with a bunch of archers. Also, getting tired of getting lip from them. :\ I can just say "hey, sucka bird, I'm playing like so-and-so on Physiologic's teams. You're dying because YOU suck, not me. Now stop chatting about drops/running way ahead/etc etc. and stay around my mage/behind my bear."

[adwin]

@tengo:
I discussed the matter with another player today. And I quote (myself) - "I sometimes lol at my own majestic noobness".
It's really hard to switch styles to adjust to new players after you've been doing runs with another team for hours.
Furthermore, it's hard to concentrate on a harder map when you're tired (I concentrate most of the time on grinding to lv56).
And yes, when I join in that state, I die. Miserably. ;]
Do I care? If it's with good players I usually run with, then yes. Kindda.
If it's with 1-run-stand players? Then hell no.

Remember. You're playing for the fun of it. Nothing more, nothing less (unless, tengo, you have a separate plan?)
;]

Back to the topic:
It's not how you're supposed to run with a bunch of archers, but more like tips and hints, how to play with a different player setup, on each map which is specific in nature.
It's how you take advantage of other players, and your surroundings in order to make the most damage. It IS called PvEnvironment for a reason, isn't it?
;]

[Physiologic]

I may record more runs in the future :p

[MITSUISUN]

what happened to videos of our cyber / mystery / Ao2-3 gear runs :p

[Physiologic]

I haven't uploaded them, I will when I get home today :D

[Moogerfooger]

I predict the videos have Mitsuisun dying more than anyone else. I bet one million Jolly Ranchers.

[Frenzyn]

I like how in hideout #2 run, it says no elixers used when fnordic is using one.

I would also like to know, why do you excessively press the attack button when its on auto?
whats the difference? it isn't going to go any faster....

[Moogerfooger]

I like how in hideout #2 run, it says no elixers used when fnordic is using one.

I would also like to know, why do you excessively press the attack button when its on auto?
whats the difference? it isn't going to go any faster....

1. Fnordic was using an xp elixir not a pot, as in a damage/tank/speed pot. Minor typo on Phys' part. XP Elixirs do not affect speed/gameplay at all.

2. He is not excessively pressing the attack button, he is trying to lock on to the next target or untarget a trap.

[Physiologic]

At the rate runs go for us, enemies die so fast that I repeatedly tap auto-attack because once an enemy dies, auto-attack stops. I don't spam-tap auto-attack all the time, only in situations when I know that enemies will die fast. That way I ensure there is no human lag time in-between attacking one enemy with another :D It may seem like an annoyance to do but I believe it does help out the party overall, at the expense of sweaty, tired fingers.

[Yvonnel]

Physio, hope to see some more of your videos.

BTW, it was nice running with you the other night. Look forward to some more runs.

[xuz]

Very nice recording and ign play/

but some things i didnt like:
- your skill tree is a bit weird, not quick access to aoe combos and skills( maybe just the way i like to playu, pvp)
- your spam alot of the time, better to wait for things like scream blast or wall and blast for good aoe combos
- lastly bears are a great impact on most of my games they do massive pulls like ellyidol :)

[Physiologic]

Haha I know the skill map looks messy, but the layout is on purpose:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/d1nonlik/tut.png

I describe how it's used in section V in my archer guide (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?16244-Comprehensive-Archer-Skills-Guide).

Also, it's better to spam when enemies are around but I do try to Cruel Blast and place Thorn Wall right before a huge mob. Of course it's not perfect placement all the time since I try to attack as fast as possible, but I'm sure mages that have run with me see Nature Strike quite often.

[Frenzyn]

Haha I know the skill map looks messy, but the layout is on purpose:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v84/d1nonlik/tut.png

I describe how it's used in section V in my archer guide (http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?16244-Comprehensive-Archer-Skills-Guide).

Also, it's better to spam when enemies are around but I do try to Cruel Blast and place Thorn Wall right before a huge mob. Of course it's not perfect placement all the time since I try to attack as fast as possible, but I'm sure mages that have run with me see Nature Strike quite often.

i use the exact layout you use, accept for avian scream. :)
every skill u have is 6 accept 1 on thorn wall and no avian scream. same layout too.
thanks physio! You have the best idea for this ever. :)

[Fallen Caccavari]

This pumped me to try out an Archer but I can't get into it once I did.

[Primal]

Dude, I just started and that's how i play, lol! That Cruel Blast combo demands being front so you can lure/mob. No pain, no gain.
Although, I admit that if my party members are lagging (or sleeping...) then I'll step back for the bear. :)

[Physiologic]

Dude, I just started and that's how i play, lol! That Cruel Blast combo demands being front so you can lure/mob. No pain, no gain.
Although, I admit that if my party members are lagging (or sleeping...) then I'll step back for the bear. :)

Ah these vids...something to look back to months later when we say "remember what it was like pre-GCD?" :D

[MITSUISUN]

Phys, I still want our Ao2/Cyber/Mystery video runs uploaded >.<

[Physiologic]

I went through them and the Cyber one was shoddily recorded and the Mystery vid was cut short bc my camera ran out of batteries...but we can surely make it again :)

[Moogerfooger]

I went through them and the Cyber one was shoddily recorded and the Mystery vid was cut short bc my camera ran out of batteries...but we can surely make it again :)

You run without me this time, someone is getting hurtzed! I nominate Mits and a fire trap may be involved, naturally.

[MITSUISUN]

I am bad at video editing, so I am not gonna attempt and let someone else do the camera work so I can properly play with full noobness on.

Actually, Noneo recorded a Stronghold run with Noneo, Mr.Wallace, Moog's mage, DT and myself the other night. Because he wanted to show how skills are not working properly on the device.

Being a Mits and chance to show community on how to noob, I successfully made the party noob with me on the run.

I died, then Mr.Wallace died(gasp), finally DT-bird died (expected). Then I aggroed both King/Queen, fought Queen in room while others take on King in hall. Moog was kind enough to come in and keep me company with queen, although 3 is a crowd :p I barely touched Queen; group came in to aid after King, then Mr.Wallace or some else said “you guys are not done yet??!!”

Then of course, with 3 bird deaths (2 birds+1bow bear=3bird) I get a pink.

MM cowl but a pink is a pink :p

[Mr.Wallace]

... then Mr.Wallace or some else said “you guys are not done yet??!!” ...

Hehehe yeah I said that... Always thought you guys were kinda fast, well... :-p

Hope my death is on the video, it was a tragic and beautiful floor slide!

[azulflame]

physio, download the app shootme. you can take screenies with it, and after tinkering with it, you can take videos. Android only, (are you using a galaxy S, by any chance?) but it looks a lot more professional and looks tons cleaner.

[Wicked Caccavari]

Inspires me to make an Archer.

[Pokechmp]

Hey do u need a giant video cam to record iPad?

[xRaNdU]

Mannnnn, i wish archers weren't so underpowered in PvP, this makes me really want to make a third char....

[FianDeBoris]

waw . .
really fantastic , :D

[WhoIsThis]

Phys, you might want to consider updating this with the new content when you have the time because there has been a substantial rise in difficultly.

[Singleteddy]

As long as this thread has been bumped anyway, I'll point out to experienced players that although the videos and this thread focus on the Sewers, you can play this way even with lower-level archers. Just get max damage gear (which except for Osiris tends to have minimal armor and be purple instead of pink), spam pots, and you can blow through levels and out-damage other party members many, many levels higher than you.

[Orcish]

Do you all know what's the fastest way between two points? Physiologic on a combo elixir!! I've witnessed his awesomeness first hand. Note to Self - Avoid Physiologic in pvp...

[Physiologic]

I was cheating with Combos though :(

Anyway I do need to update this thread, I did not know it was stickied during my 3 month hiatus so I sort of abandoned it for a while. Will probably post vids of Nuri's Hallow using non-pinks and un-comboed.

[Snub]

I do exactly what you doin your videos except I run with 2000 health potions lol, I just spam them non-stop.

I notice when I’m in a group with more archers and they also do this, we crush (even just one more lvl 60). But sometimes (60% of the time) U get a crap group and people are lazy or just suck and it’s like i do all the work and die 10 times because they don't contribute :( not to mention I go through pots three times faster.

[Obliterdeath]

If you use an iDevice to play PL you can use an app called Display Recorder. That way you won't have to use a camera with grainy imaging. I've used it. It can be a little sticky sometimes, but it should work out. I'll test it later. It's not free though, unless you jailbreak and use XSellize or whatever they put on YouTube.

[Obliterdeath]

Yeah, I wouldn't reccomend it unless you want slidey footage. It almost looks as if the video is just a sideshow put on ultra fast mode.

[JaytB]

Yeah, I wouldn't reccomend it unless you want slidey footage. It almost looks as if the video is just a sideshow put on ultra fast mode.

This thread is really old lol...

But anyway, Display Recorder actually runs very well on the latest Apple hardware (iPhone 4s or New iPad). I recently recorded a video on my iPad and it's far from a 'slideshow'. If you want, you can check it out yourself (link below).

http://www.spacetimestudios.com/showthread.php?t=62485

One more thing, I'd suggest you edit your previous post where you talk about getting software illegally. I'm pretty sure that isn't allowed on these forums. If you like any software, you should show some decency and support the people who made it :)

[teoafreakindexbird]

ahhh good ole days huh

[Zzink]

Archer is the best

[Danthemanoy]

Archer is the best

I agree with ya