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Elden Ring Shield Build Guide: Mastering the Carrying and Thrusting Shield

Welcome, Tarnished! If you're looking to dominate the Lands Between with an unstoppable shield build, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting your journey in Elden Ring Runes  , mastering a shield build can provide you with unmatched defense and offensive capability. In this guide, we will delve into the mechanics of the Carrying and Thrusting Shield build, highlighting weapon choices, talismans, stat allocation, and combat strategies that can help you become a force to be reckoned with. For the Elden Ring items needed to perfect your shield build, players are advised to check out MMOEXP, a reliable source for high-quality gaming resources, including runes and gear.

Let’s dive in!

The Shield Build in Elden Ring: A Balanced Approach
When it comes to building a strong character in Elden Ring, balance is key. A successful shield build offers you the opportunity to absorb damage while dealing consistent, powerful blows. The Carrying and Thrusting Shield stands out as the centerpiece of this setup, offering both defensive advantages and offensive opportunities that allow you to strike back while keeping your guard up. This combination of power and defense is what makes this build a favorite among players who prefer a more tactical approach.

The Main Attraction: The Carrying and Thrusting Shield
The Carrying and Thrusting Shield is the primary focus of this build, and for good reason. This shield is exceptionally versatile, providing a solid defense while also enabling you to launch thrusting attacks. What sets it apart from other shields is its ability to execute thrusting moves without draining stamina, which is a game-changer in prolonged battles.

Blocking Power: The Carrying Shield provides a solid physical damage reduction, making it great for   Elden Ring Runes   tank-style gameplay. With this shield in hand, you can withstand heavy blows from enemies, allowing you to wait for the perfect opening to strike back.

Thrusting Attacks: When equipped, the Thrusting Shield can deliver quick, powerful thrusting attacks that work exceptionally well when combined with the Flame Skewer Ash of War. These attacks are not only fast but deal significant damage, allowing you to break through enemy defenses while keeping your own intact.

Weapon Choice: Flame Skewer Ash of War
A crucial component of this shield build is the Flame Skewer Ash of War. This Ash of War enhances your thrusting attacks by adding fire damage and increasing your overall damage output. When charged, Flame Skewer can unleash a devastating flame-infused thrust that can deal upwards of 8,000 damage depending on the strength of your build.

Why Flame Skewer?

Fire Elemental Damage: The addition of fire damage to your thrusts can make a huge difference against certain enemies that are weak to fire or resistant to physical damage.
Massive Damage Potential: When fully charged, the Flame Skewer can unleash devastating amounts of damage. With the right stat distribution and buffs, you can deal explosive damage while keeping your defenses strong.
To maximize your damage potential, pair the Flame Skewer with a two-handed sword like the Talman. The Talman, a colossal sword, benefits from high Strength scaling, allowing you to deal massive damage while maintaining the flexibility to use the shield for defense.

Talismans to Enhance Your Build
When it comes to talismans, stat boosts and damage enhancements are key to elevating your shield build. Here are the talismans that synergize perfectly with the Carrying and Thrusting Shield:

Great-Jar's Arsenal: This talisman boosts your equip load, allowing you to wear heavier armor and wield larger weapons without sacrificing mobility. As a shield user, your stamina and mobility are critical to staying in control of the fight. Great-Jar's Arsenal ensures that you can keep up with your opponents while maintaining your defense.

Shard of Alexander: The Shard of Alexander is essential for maximizing the damage output of your Ash of War attacks. It increases the potency of any Ash of War, including Flame Skewer, making every thrust count. This talisman can dramatically increase your ability to deal heavy damage, especially during longer fights where every bit of damage matters.

Spears Talisman: This talisman increases the effectiveness of thrusting attacks, further enhancing the Flame Skewer Ash of War. This is particularly useful for turning your shield's thrusting moves into a devastating weapon, allowing you to break enemy defenses while keeping yourself safe.

Stat Allocation for Optimal Performance
The key to unlocking the full potential of your shield build lies in proper stat allocation. Here is a suggested stat distribution at level 200 to optimize both your defense and damage output:

60 Vigor: This stat will increase your HP significantly, allowing you to withstand heavy damage from powerful enemies. As a shield tank, you’ll want to be able to absorb hits without being knocked out in a few blows.

40 Endurance: Endurance is critical for managing stamina, which is essential for dodging and attacking. The higher your Endurance, the more stamina you’ll have to execute thrusting attacks and perform rolls to avoid damage.

80 Strength: To maximize the damage output of your thrusting shield and other heavy weapons like the Talman, you’ll need to invest heavily in Strength. This stat ensures that you hit hard and can stagger enemies with ease.

55 Dexterity: Since the Flame Skewer scales with Dexterity, it’s important to invest in this stat as well. It allows your thrusting attacks to deal even more damage, making your hits faster and more effective.

18 Intelligence: While not a core requirement, having a small amount of Intelligence is useful for utility, particularly in activating certain Ashes of War or buffing your defense against magic.

Crafting Your Strategy for Battle
Engage in Combat: Defense and Offense
The combination of defense and offensive thrusting attacks makes this build very effective in various combat scenarios. Here's how you can use it:

Start with Shield Up: In every fight, start with your shield raised to absorb incoming attacks. This will allow you to defend against the most aggressive foes while you look for openings for your Flame Skewer thrusts.
Keep Pressuring Enemies: Your thrusting attacks allow you to maintain constant pressure on enemies, even while defending. Use these thrusts to chip away at enemy health while minimizing the risks to your own life.
Use Healing Items
In the heat of battle, having the right healing items is crucial. Make sure to stock up on:

Hefty Rock Pots: These can be used to both distract and damage enemies. They can also provide a bit of breathing room when fighting against aggressive opponents.
Flask of Wondrous Physick: This flask is essential for keeping your health topped off. Be sure to have healing and stamina regeneration buffs prepared to ensure you can sustain long fights.
Invasion Tactics
When invading other players' worlds, your role as a defensive tank can be very effective:

Parry and Counter: Use your shield to parry enemy attacks, particularly against melee-focused opponents. If they overcommit to a strike, counter with a Flame Skewer for high damage.
Pressure the Host: When invading, focus on keeping pressure on the host and their allies with your thrusting attacks. If they try to retreat or reposition, you can use your shield’s offensive capabilities to close the gap quickly.
Team Play: The Tank Role
In cooperative play, your role as the tank is vital:

Absorb Damage: Your shield will be your primary tool for absorbing damage, allowing your teammates to deal with enemies while you draw attention and soak up the damage.
Consistent Thrusting: Keep dealing consistent thrusting damage to weaken your foes. Your shield will keep you safe while you continue applying pressure on the enemy team.
Handling Specific Scenarios
Dealing with Magic Users: When facing enemies that rely on magic, be sure to close the distance quickly while using your shield to block incoming spells. Once you're in range, unleash your Flame Skewer thrusts to deal damage.
Multiple Opponents: In group fights, positioning is critical. Keep your allies safe while using your shield to absorb damage. Focus on hitting enemies with thrusting attacks to weaken them, but always be mindful of your positioning.
Recovery After Close Calls: If your health drops low, use your Flask of Wondrous Physick to recover, but do so when you’re not in the line of fire.
Conclusion: Becoming an Unstoppable Shield Tank
With the Carrying and Thrusting Shield in hand, you’ll become a formidable force in Elden Ring. The combination of defense and offensive thrusting attacks allows you to outlast and outsmart your enemies. To fully master this build, make sure to focus on stat allocation, talismans, and combat strategies that emphasize both survivability and damage output.

For those looking to level up faster or acquire Elden Ring items, consider visiting MMOEXP for a wide selection of resources, including best site to buy elden ring items  and other essential materials. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to conquer the Lands Between with your shield raised high!

The world of Elden Ring is one of darkness, mystery, and challenge. As players traverse its vast landscapes, they encounter powerful enemies, intricate lore, and treasures that enhance their combat abilities. Among the new and exciting additions in the game's downloadable content (DLC) is the Omen Set, a heavy armor ensemble that may not immediately impress visually but offers substantial benefits to Elden Ring Runes those who take the time to explore its unique features.

The Omen Set stands out not for its aesthetics, but for its synergy with the Omen Son and Exalted Omen Son abilities. This set is a powerful choice for players looking to maximize their tanky, high-damage build, especially for those who engage in melee combat or are drawn to the raw power of these specific abilities. In this guide, we will take a deep dive into the Omen Set, its acquisition, and the strategies that players can use to fully maximize its potential.

Understanding the Omen Set: More Than Meets the Eye
At first glance, the Omen Set might not seem like the most glamorous choice for an armor set. Its aesthetic is rough and unrefined, with a design that evokes a sense of grimness and darkness—fitting for the world of Elden Ring but perhaps a bit too crude compared to other armor sets, which are often more intricate or majestic. However, the true value of the Omen Set lies in its utility and the significant bonuses it provides to the player's combat prowess.

The Omen Set’s Key Features
The Omen Set is primarily designed for players who favor a tanky, damage-absorbing playstyle. The armor grants high physical resistance, making it an excellent choice for close-combat encounters where you need to take hits while dishing out your own. Additionally, the set has a unique synergy with the Omen Son and Exalted Omen Son abilities, offering a 5% damage boost to both of these powers. This bonus is particularly valuable for players who rely on these abilities to maximize their output in battle.

Aesthetic Debate: Function Over Form
While many players in the Elden Ring community appreciate the lore-heavy design of the Omen Set, others have criticized its somewhat utilitarian appearance. The set is not designed to be visually striking in the same way as, for example, the Radahn or Raging Knight sets, which are known for their grandeur and elegance. Instead, the Omen Set's look mirrors the gritty and dark themes of the game itself, with a focus on utility and durability rather than on ornate details.

However, as with many elements in Elden Ring, beauty is subjective. While some players might be put off by the Omen Set’s ruggedness, others appreciate the deeper lore and the design that reflects the darker corners of the game world. In any case, the set's aesthetic is something that players will need to weigh against its performance benefits.

The Journey to Obtain the Omen Set
Acquiring the Omen Set is not a straightforward task. Players must journey to the Underground Sanctuary of the Capital of Rendal, a dangerous and labyrinthine location filled with perilous traps and enemies. The area is known for its harsh conditions and complex design, requiring careful preparation and strategy to navigate.

The main obstacle standing between players and the Omen Set is the Dung Eater, a notorious and challenging boss in Elden Ring. The Dung Eater is not just another boss fight—he represents the darker, twisted themes of the game. Defeating him is no easy feat, and players will need to employ patience, skill, and strategy to overcome him.

Once the Dung Eater is defeated, he will drop the Omen Set, allowing players to equip it and begin experiencing its unique advantages. This armor is especially useful for players who plan on focusing on the Omen Son and Exalted Omen Son abilities, which are some of the more powerful abilities available in the game.

Maximizing the Potential of the Omen Set
While the Omen Set provides a significant damage boost to the Omen Son and Exalted Omen Son abilities, its true value lies in how it fits into various combat strategies. The armor is designed for tanky builds, but that doesn’t mean it’s limited to one specific playstyle. Players can maximize the Omen Set’s potential by following a few key strategies.

1. Pairing with Buffs and Consumables
One of the easiest ways to enhance the Omen Set’s effectiveness is to pair it with consumables or buffs that further amplify damage. Buffs such as Flame, Grant Me Strength or Golden Vow can significantly increase the potency of the Omen Son and Exalted Omen Son abilities, turning your damage output into a devastating force.

In boss fights, where every extra bit of damage can make a huge difference, combining the Omen Set with the right buffs can make all the difference. Consumables like Boluses or Ritual Pots can also offer useful buffs or healing that work in tandem with the Omen Set’s durability and tankiness.

2. Embrace a Tank-Oriented Playstyle
The Omen Set is designed for players who want to absorb damage while remaining effective in combat. To truly leverage the set, players should embrace a tank-oriented playstyle. This means getting up close to enemies, drawing their attention, and dealing substantial damage while withstanding their retaliatory strikes.

A tanky build is particularly useful in multiplayer scenarios, where you can act as a front-line warrior, drawing enemy attention and absorbing damage for your allies. You’ll be able to withstand powerful blows from even the most dangerous foes while continuing to unleash devastating attacks. The Omen Set’s physical resistance and durability make it ideal for this type of role.

3. Experiment with Loadouts and Weapon Choices
Another advantage of the Omen Set is its versatility. While it excels in increasing the damage of Omen Son and Exalted Omen Son, it also allows for flexibility in how players approach combat. The Omen Set can be paired with a wide range of weapons, depending on the player’s preference and playstyle.

For instance, pairing the Omen Set with heavy weapons like Greatswords or Colossal weapons can maximize both your damage and your ability to tank hits. On the other hand, lighter weapons, such as katanas or straight swords, might be more suited for players who prefer mobility and speed, especially when combined with the set’s damage-boosting abilities.

Furthermore, players can experiment with various spells and incantations to see what synergizes best with the Omen Set. The set’s focus on offense and defense allows for a variety of builds, so it’s worth experimenting to find the loadout that best fits your style of play.

Why Choose the Omen Set?
In the end, the Omen Set is all about balancing functionality and performance. While its appearance may not be as refined as other armor sets in Elden Ring, it excels in terms of practicality, providing players with a solid boost to their damage output when using the Omen Son and Exalted Omen Son abilities. The armor is perfect for players who want to maintain their durability in combat while still being able to dish out massive damage.

The Omen Set is also an excellent choice for those who appreciate the game's darker themes. Its design, which reflects the bleakness and horror of the Elden Ring universe, will resonate with players who enjoy exploring the depths of the game’s lore. Despite its rough exterior, the Omen Set is a valuable addition for players who wish to enhance their combat abilities and explore the more sinister aspects of Elden Ring.

Conclusion: The Omen Set as a Testament to Functionality
The Omen Set may not be the most glamorous armor set in Elden Ring, but it is certainly one of the most functional. Its combination of high physical resistance, damage boosting to specific abilities, and versatility in combat makes it an excellent choice for players looking to maximize their effectiveness in both PvE and multiplayer scenarios. Whether you're a tanky melee fighter or someone looking to bolster their Omen Son abilities, the Omen Set is a valuable tool in your arsenal.

As Elden Ring continues to evolve and expand with new DLCs and updates, the Omen Set stands as a testament to the game's philosophy of balancing form and function. For those who prioritize performance and power over appearances, this heavy armor set is a treasure waiting to be claimed. And with the added bonus of
Elden Ring Runes buy  its lore-heavy design, the Omen Set is sure to be a favored choice for players seeking a powerful, immersive experience.

Diablo 4’s immersive gameplay offers players the choice of six unique classes, each with its own set of skills and strategies. Among these, the Druid stands out for its mastery over nature and Diablo IV Items elemental forces, providing a versatile playstyle that can dominate both PvE and PvP environments. With the arrival of Season 6, significant changes to the game’s mechanics and content have reinvigorated gameplay, making it an exciting time to explore new builds. One such standout is the Lightning Storm Build for Druids. Leveraging the class’s strengths and adapting to current game mechanisms, this build is poised for success even beyond Season 6.

This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Lightning Storm Build, including skill allocations, casting strategies, Spirit Boons, Paragon Glyphs, and tips for PvP effectiveness. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned veteran, this build offers a powerful and adaptable approach to conquering Diablo 4’s challenges.

Why Choose the Lightning Storm Build?

The Lightning Storm Build capitalizes on the Druid’s unique ability to harness the elements, combining devastating area-of-effect (AoE) damage with survivability and utility. This build excels in crowd control, sustained damage output, and adaptability to various game modes. With the right skills, gear, and strategy, the Lightning Storm Build can tackle anything from dungeon crawls to intense PvP battles.

Core Skills for Lightning Storm Build

To maximize the effectiveness of the Lightning Storm Build, skill allocation plays a crucial role. Below is a recommended setup for both active and passive skills:

Active Skills

Maul (Enhanced): 1 point

A solid melee attack to regenerate Spirit when needed.

Lightning Storm (Enhanced, Raging): 5 points

The core skill of this build, delivering continuous AoE damage with high scalability.

Earthen Bulwark (Enhanced): 1 point

Provides a protective shield to absorb damage, crucial for survivability.

Cyclone Armor: 1 point

Reduces incoming damage and provides crowd control.

Blood Howl (Enhanced, Preserving): 1 point

A versatile skill that heals and boosts attack speed when transformed into a werewolf.

Cataclysm (Prime, Supreme): 5 points

A powerful ultimate ability that unleashes a storm of destruction, ideal for taking down large groups of enemies.

Passive Skills

Predatory Instinct: 1 point

Iron Fur: 3 points

Backlash: 3 points

Ancestral Fortitude: 1 point

Vigilance: 3 points

Nature’s Reach: 3 points

Feral Aptitude: 3 points

Electric Shock: 3 points

Bad Omen: 2 points

Endless Tempest: 2 points

Neurotoxin: 1 point

Envenom: 3 points

Natural Disaster: 3 points

Defiance: 3 points

Circle of Life: 3 points

By the time you’ve allocated these points, your Druid will be well-equipped to handle the challenges of both PvE and PvP environments.

Skill Casting Order

Efficiency in combat depends not only on skill selection but also on the sequence of casting. Here’s the optimal casting order for the Lightning Storm Build:

Cyclone Armor: Activate before engaging enemies to reduce incoming damage.

Earthen Bulwark: Deploy as an additional shield for survivability.

Cataclysm: Use this ultimate ability at the start of large encounters to maximize damage output.

Lightning Storm: Spam this skill for consistent AoE damage.

Maul: Switch to this melee attack when Spirit runs low.

Blood Howl: Use for healing and Spirit regeneration during intense battles.

This sequence ensures maximum damage output while maintaining durability and resource efficiency.

Recommended Spirit Boons

The Druid class in Diablo 4 offers access to Spirit Boons, which provide unique passive bonuses. For the Lightning Storm Build, prioritize the following Boons:

Deer - Wariness: Reduces damage from elites.

Eagle - Avian Wrath: Increases critical strike damage.

Wolf - Calamity: Extends the duration of ultimate skills by 35%.

Snake - Calm before the Storm: Reduces cooldowns for magic skills.

Eagle - Iron Feather: Boosts maximum life for increased survivability.

Paragon Glyphs for Lightning Storm

The Paragon system becomes available at level 60, allowing for further customization. Prioritize the following Glyphs to enhance the Lightning Storm Build:

Level 15 Paragon Glyphs

Spirit: Enhances Spirit regeneration and capacity.

Keeper: Boosts defensive stats for added survivability.

Earth and Sky: Synergizes with earth and storm-based skills.

Fulminate: Amplifies lightning damage output.

Electrocution: Increases damage over time effects from lightning.

Level 46 Paragon Glyphs

Spirit

Keeper

Earth and Sky

Fulminate

Electrocution

These Glyphs ensure balanced progression and scalability for the build as you level up.

Choosing the Right Mercenaries

Introduced with the Vessel of Hatred expansion, mercenaries can significantly augment your build’s potential. For the Lightning Storm Build, consider hiring:

Varyana

Skill: Bloodthirst (increases attack speed by 25%).

Rahier

Skill: Bastion (provides crowd control resistance and survivability).

These mercenaries complement the build’s strengths by increasing damage output and durability.

Adapting the Build for PvP

While the Lightning Storm Build is primarily optimized for PvE, it can be highly effective in PvP with minor adjustments. Focus on:

Increasing mobility by prioritizing movement speed gear.

Enhancing cooldown reduction for skills like Earthen Bulwark and Blood Howl.

Balancing damage output with survivability by tweaking Spirit Boons and Paragon Glyphs.

Tips for New and Returning Players

New Players: Focus on completing story missions and earning Diablo 4 Gold to quickly reach level 50. Use skill points wisely and experiment with the build as you progress.

Returning Players: Take advantage of Renown rewards to allocate skill points efficiently. Start at level 50 if possible to unlock endgame content faster.

Conclusion

The Lightning Storm Build for Druids in Diablo 4 Season 6 is a powerhouse, combining devastating damage, crowd control, and adaptability. Whether you’re facing hordes of enemies in dungeons or squaring off against other players in PvP, this build provides the tools needed to excel. With the right skill setup, casting order, Spirit Boons, and Paragon Glyphs, you can unleash the full potential of your Druid and dominate the battlefield.

Season 6 is the perfect time to buy Diablo 4 Items try out this build, and its versatility ensures it remains viable in future seasons. Dive into the game, harness the power of the elements, and let the storm rage!

The holiday season is upon us, and NBA 2K25 is bringing the heat with its highly anticipated Tis the Season event. Fans of MyTeam can expect an exciting array of new content, highlighted by the NBA 2K25 MT release of Galaxy Opal LeBron James, one of the most dominant cards to ever grace the game. But it’s not just the star-studded pack contents that are getting attention—players are also eagerly anticipating free content, Locker Codes, and the kind of holiday events that have become a hallmark of previous years.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into what makes the Tis the Season event so special, break down the standout cards in the promo, explore what free content and events players can expect, and offer some pro tips for making the most of this festive time in NBA 2K25’s MyTeam.

The Star of the Show: Galaxy Opal LeBron James
The Tis the Season event’s centerpiece is undoubtedly the release of Galaxy Opal LeBron James. This card is a game-changer and promises to be a cornerstone for any MyTeam player’s lineup. With insane stats and a complete skill set, this LeBron card brings his real-life greatness to the digital court, with some of the most impressive attributes we’ve seen in NBA 2K25 to date.

Key Stats of Galaxy Opal LeBron James:

97 Speed: LeBron's ability to move quickly on the court is one of his most distinguishing characteristics, and this card reflects that. Whether it’s breaking down defenders in transition or powering through the defense to finish at the rim, his speed is elite.
92 Three-Point Rating: For a player of his size and athleticism, LeBron’s three-point shooting is nothing short of remarkable. This rating ensures that he can stretch the floor effectively, punishing opponents who dare to leave him open behind the arc.
98 Driving Dunk: Known for his powerful finishes at the rim, LeBron’s dunking ability is fully captured in this card. Whether you’re driving to the basket or taking it strong in transition, expect plenty of highlight-reel dunks.
LeBron’s combination of athleticism, playmaking, and scoring makes him a must-have for any serious MyTeam player. Whether you’re using him to anchor your offense or lock down opponents on the defensive end, this card has the potential to be a game-changer. Given his status as one of the best players in NBA history, it’s no surprise that 2K chose him as the face of this festive promotion.

Other Notable Cards in the Tis the Season Promo
While Galaxy Opal LeBron James takes center stage, the Tis the Season promo brings plenty of other exciting cards to MyTeam. From Pink Diamonds to Diamonds, there’s something for every type of player, whether you’re spending big or looking for budget-friendly options.

Galaxy Opal Penny Hardaway
Penny Hardaway is one of the best point guards to ever play the game, and his Galaxy Opal version is no exception. Standing at 6'7" and equipped with 93 speed, elite ball-handling, and impressive playmaking skills, this Penny card is perfect for players who like to run their offense through a tall and versatile point guard. His ability to facilitate, score, and defend makes him a top-tier option for any MyTeam lineup.

Pink Diamond Yao Ming
Yao Ming is a giant on the court, standing at 7'6", and his Pink Diamond card brings all of that size and dominance to MyTeam. While his three-point rating is on the lower side (54), his ability to dominate the paint on both offense and defense more than makes up for it. Yao is a great option for players who prioritize rebounding, shot-blocking, and rim protection. He could also serve as a valuable piece when the Chinese New Year promo rolls around, making him an intriguing option for long-term MyTeam planning.

Pink Diamond Kyle Korver
If you need an elite shooter, look no further than Kyle Korver. With a staggering 98 three-point rating, Korver can hit from nearly anywhere on the floor. While he might not offer much in terms of defense or driving ability, his role as a spot-up shooter makes him invaluable in certain systems, especially for players who rely on spacing the floor and running pick-and-pop plays. For those on the hunt for a top-tier shooter to stretch their offense, Korver is a fantastic addition.

Pink Diamond Steve Smith
Steve Smith is a versatile 6'8" wing with excellent stats across the board. His solid shooting, combined with his length and defensive ability, make him a reliable all-around player. Whether you need a secondary scorer, a defender, or someone to create offense off the dribble, Smith offers plenty of flexibility. This card is a great choice for those who need a dependable role player who can do a little bit of everything.

Pink Diamond Brad Miller
Brad Miller is an interesting inclusion in the Tis the Season promo, especially for players who might be looking for a budget-friendly center with decent shooting and mobility. Standing at 6'11", Miller is a capable offensive threat, and his solid perimeter shooting and passing make him a unique option for a center. He could be an excellent choice for players who are just getting started in MyTeam and don’t want to break the bank on a high-tier card.

The Call for Better Free Content
While the Tis the Season packs are a major draw, many in the MyTeam community are hoping for better free content that matches the quality of what’s available in packs. The holiday season is an opportunity for 2K to reward its player base with exciting freebies, and there’s a lot of anticipation surrounding the free content this year.

The 12 Days of Giving:

This year’s 12 Days of Giving event has been somewhat underwhelming so far, with many players feeling that the rewards haven’t lived up to the hype. However, the Christmas holiday presents an opportunity for 2K to deliver something truly special. Fans are hoping for a free Galaxy Opal Locker Code, similar to past years where exclusive cards like Zion Williamson and Ja Morant were made available through Locker Codes. These Locker Codes offer players the chance to earn top-tier cards without spending money, and they’re always a favorite among the MyTeam community.

Holiday Event Ideas:

Another fan-favorite idea is a Christmas-themed event similar to the “Hoopsmas” event from previous years. In this type of event, players could collect presents or complete challenges to earn exclusive rewards. These could range from Hall of Fame badges to event packs or even free player cards. A holiday event like this would keep players engaged and add additional value to the holiday season in MyTeam.

What to Expect Moving Forward
With the Tis the Season event in full swing, there are a few things we can expect as the holiday season progresses in NBA 2K25:

Locker Codes: It’s almost certain that we’ll see at least one major Locker Code drop around Christmas. This could include a free Pink Diamond or even a Galaxy Opal player to celebrate the holidays, and many players are hopeful that 2K will deliver something special for the community.

Holiday Events: Limited-time events like “Season of Giving” or “Hoopsmas” have been a staple in previous years, and there’s a good chance that something similar will appear this year. Players can look forward to more opportunities to grind for exclusive rewards.

Auction House Activity: With the release of Galaxy Opal LeBron James, expect a surge of activity in the auction house. Players are likely to panic-sell cards to afford the King, creating opportunities for others to snatch up discounted Pink Diamonds and Hall of Fame badge cards.

Budget-Friendly Additions: The Tis the Season promo typically includes a variety of Diamonds and Amethysts that are affordable yet effective. Players who don’t want to spend much NBA 2K25 MT should keep an eye out for these hidden gems, as they can offer solid value for a fraction of the price.

Pro Tips for the Season
Here are a few pro tips to help you make the most of the holiday season in NBA 2K25 MyTeam:

Invest Wisely: If you spot a Pink Diamond LeBron James with multiple Hall of Fame badges in the auction house, grab it! With the release of the Galaxy Opal version, prices for the Pink Diamond are likely to drop, making it a great time to snag a deal.

Stay Updated: Keep an eye on Locker Codes and event announcements. Following reliable sources for the latest updates will help you maximize your rewards and stay ahead of the competition.

Enjoy the Grind: Even if the free content doesn’t match the packs, take advantage of events like the 12 Days of Giving and other limited-time opportunities. Every reward counts when building a competitive lineup.

Final Thoughts
The Tis the Season promo in NBA 2K25 is shaping up to be an exciting holiday event for MyTeam players. With the introduction of Galaxy Opal LeBron James and other powerful cards, players have a lot to look forward to in terms of packs and lineup upgrades. However, the real excitement lies in the potential for free content, Locker Codes, and holiday events that can offer more ways to improve your team without spending money.

As we approach Christmas and the new year, it’s clear that NBA 2K25 is making sure the holiday season is filled with excitement. Whether you’re chasing after the top-tier cards or just enjoying the NBA 2K25 MT Coins grind for free content, there’s no better time to dive into MyTeam. Happy holidays, and good luck on your journey to building the ultimate team!

In NBA 2K25, the ability to hit consistent three-pointers can drastically influence the outcome of a game. Whether you're playing as a guard, forward, or center, having the right jump shot can elevate your gameplay, increase your shooting efficiency, and make you a more versatile threat on the court. For players looking to   NBA 2K25 MT   maximize their three-point potential, choosing the perfect jump shot setup is crucial.

Jump shot success in NBA 2K25 is not just about selecting a random shot animation—it's about finding a release that matches your build, height, and playstyle. From shorter, quick-footed guards to tall, powerful centers, every player needs a jump shot tailored to their unique strengths. This guide will cover the best jump shots for builds ranging from 5'9" to 6'10"+, helping you optimize your shot selection and improve your three-point consistency.

Best Jump Shots for Builds Between 5'9" and 6'4"
For players in the 5'9" to 6'4" height range, speed and agility are often key components of their shooting game. These builds benefit from fast, fluid jump shots that can help you get your shot off quickly, either off the dribble or in catch-and-shoot situations. If you're looking for a setup that combines speed with accuracy, the following jump shots are ideal.

1. Starter 4+ Jump Shot
If you've reached Starter 4 or beyond in NBA 2K25, you likely have a solid understanding of the game’s shooting mechanics. This jump shot setup is fast and efficient, designed for players who can handle quick releases and need a fluid motion to get off clean shots.

Base: Patty Mills
Upper Release 1: Oscar Robertson
Upper Release 2: Darius Garland
Release Speed: 3 out of 4
Animation Blending: 70% Oscar Robertson, 30% Darius Garland
Visual Cue: Release at the end of the motion
The Patty Mills base is known for its rapid release, making it perfect for quick shooters who rely on getting their shot off in a hurry. The combination of Oscar Robertson and Darius Garland creates a smooth, high-release shot, which is crucial for shooting over defenders. This setup also offers a forgiving green window, allowing for more consistent greens.

2. Non-Starter 4 Jump Shot
For players who haven’t yet reached Starter 4 or are still new to NBA 2K25, this Non-Starter 4 Jump Shot setup is perfect for beginners who need a more forgiving and slightly slower release. The base offers a smoother rhythm, which can help with consistency.

Base: Cameron Thomas
Upper Release 1: Oscar Robertson
Upper Release 2: Collin Sexton
Release Speed: 3 out of 4
Animation Blending: 75% Oscar Robertson, 25% Collin Sexton
Visual Cue: Release at the peak of the jump
The Cameron Thomas base offers a comfortable, smooth release speed that is ideal for beginner players. It’s easier to time than faster bases like Patty Mills, making it a solid choice for catch-and-shoot situations and off-the-dribble threes. With Oscar Robertson’s release providing excellent consistency, you’ll find it easier to green your shots.

Best Jump Shots for Builds Between 6'5" and 6'9"
For taller players, such as guards or forwards in the 6'5" to 6'9" range, jump shots need to balance speed with a higher release point. Taller players often face the challenge of slower release speeds due to their height, which can result in contested shots. The following setups are tailored to provide a smooth release while maintaining a high point for shooting over defenders.

1. Scotty Pippen Base Jump Shot
The Scotty Pippen base is a favorite for builds in this height range because of its smooth release and versatility. This jump shot is effective for both catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble shots, making it a great choice for versatile players who can score in multiple ways.

Base: Scotty Pippen
Upper Release 1: Troy Brown Jr.
Upper Release 2: Oscar Robertson
Release Speed: 3 out of 4
Animation Blending: 30% Troy Brown Jr., 70% Oscar Robertson
Visual Cue: Release when the ball reaches the top of your head
The Scotty Pippen base is popular for its quick, reliable release, which is ideal for tall players who want to shoot off the dribble or spot-up. It’s forgiving enough to help you hit more greens with minimal delay, and Oscar Robertson’s release adds a clean, high point to make shooting over defenders much easier.

2. J Scrubb Base Jump Shot
If you're looking for a quick-release shot that doesn't sacrifice fluidity, the J Scrubb base is another excellent option for players in the 6'5" to 6'9" range. This jump shot is designed for players who want a faster release while still ensuring that they don’t get blocked easily.

Base: J Scrubb
Upper Release 1 & 2: Oscar Robertson
Release Speed: Maxed out at 4 out of 4
Animation Blending: 50% Oscar Robertson, 50% Oscar Robertson
Visual Cue: Release when the ball reaches the push point
The J Scrubb base is an excellent choice for catch-and-shoot specialists or those who spot-up after setting screens. It’s perfect for "poppers"—big men who space the floor after setting picks. With the Oscar Robertson release, the shot is smooth and consistent, allowing for great accuracy from deep, especially in catch-and-shoot scenarios.

Best Jump Shots for Builds 6'10" and Taller
For centers or power forwards who stand 6'10" or taller, finding the right jump shot can be difficult due to slower release speeds. However, some of the best jump shots for bigs are designed to overcome these challenges, allowing you to shoot efficiently from beyond the arc, even with a slower release. These setups are optimized for stretch bigs and poppers who want to space the floor and knock down threes.

1. Donovan Clingan Base Jump Shot
For players who are 6'10" and taller, Donovan Clingan’s base provides an unexpectedly fast release for a big man, making it ideal for stretch centers and power forwards who want to shoot from deep.

Base: Donovan Clingan
Upper Release 1: Davis Bertans
Upper Release 2: GG Jackson
Release Speed: 3 out of 4
Animation Blending: 25% Davis Bertans, 75% GG Jackson
Visual Cue: Release when the ball is at the top of your head
The Donovan Clingan base is quick for a big-man jump shot, which is crucial for getting your shot off before defenders close out. The high release point provided by Bertans and Jackson ensures that the shot is difficult to contest, especially from beyond the arc. This jump shot is perfect for bigs who want to stretch the floor and hit consistent threes in pick-and-pop situations.

Tips for Improving Your Shooting in NBA 2K25
No matter what jump shot you choose, consistent shooting comes down to more than just the right setup. Here are some key tips to improve your shooting and maximize your three-point percentage in NBA 2K25:

1. Pay Attention to Visual Cues
In NBA 2K25, shooting is more about visual cues than muscle memory. Focus on the release point of your jump shot and practice shooting until you can consistently time the release. Whether it’s the peak of your jump or the ball reaching a certain point, knowing when to release the shot is crucial for maximizing your green window.

2. Utilize Shot Feedback
Enable shot feedback in your settings to get real-time information about how close you are to hitting a green shot. This feedback can help you fine-tune your timing and make necessary adjustments.

3. Practice in the Gatorade Facility
The Gatorade Facility is a great place to practice your jump shot under no pressure. Spend time shooting from different spots on the court—especially the corners, wings, and top of the key—to get comfortable with your release.

4. Equip the Right Shooting Badges
Badges can make a significant difference in your shooting consistency. Equip Deadeye, Catch & Shoot, Green Machine, and Hot Zone Hunter to increase your chances of hitting more greens and making contested shots.

5. Adjust Controller Settings
Experiment with your controller settings to fine-tune your shooting mechanics. Lowering the shot meter sensitivity can help you hit your release point more consistently.

Conclusion
Choosing the right jump shot in NBA 2K25 can make a world of difference when it comes to improving your three-point shooting. Whether you’re a quick, agile guard, a tall forward, or a powerful center, there’s a jump shot setup for every build. By carefully selecting your jump shot and practicing with the right tips and tools, you’ll be able to dominate beyond the arc and take your game to the next level.

Remember, consistency is key, so keep practicing, equip the right shooting badges, and
Cheap NBA 2K MT Coins   soon enough, you’ll be hitting greens from all over the court. Happy shooting!

In the world of NBA 2K25, the guard position holds the key to  NBA 2K25 MT  controlling the game’s tempo. The ability to make precise passes, hit clutch shots, and drive to the basket are all essential skills that can change the outcome of a match. Among the many choices for guard builds, the 6'2" guard stands out for its perfect blend of speed, versatility, and effectiveness across various playstyles. Whether you’re looking to facilitate the offense with pinpoint passes or dominate defensively with elite finishing and defense, a 6'2" guard build gives you the best of both worlds.

In this article, we’ll break down two optimized 6'2" guard builds in NBA 2K25. The first focuses on playmaking and shooting precision, while the second is centered around finishing and defense, providing you with multiple options based on your preferred playstyle.

Why 6'2" Guards?
While shorter guards, like the 5'9" builds, offer incredible speed and agility, they come with limitations in terms of defense and finishing near the rim. On the other hand, taller guards or wings can sometimes lack the quickness and burst needed to truly dominate on the offensive end.

A 6'2" guard provides the best of both worlds, offering great mobility and the ability to excel in multiple areas. This height is optimal for maintaining agility while still having the physical attributes necessary to finish at the rim, hit deep shots, and play solid defense. The build fits seamlessly into most team compositions, whether you’re running a fast-paced offense or a more methodical approach. Plus, with the right combination of attributes and badges, a 6'2" guard can dominate in any game mode, whether it’s MyCareer, Park, Pro-Am, or Rec.

Build 1: The Sharpshooting Playmaker
Physicals
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 165 lbs
Wingspan: 6'3"
The Sharpshooting Playmaker is built for players who want to facilitate the offense and knock down shots with pinpoint accuracy. The speed and agility of this build allow for fast-paced play, while the shooting and playmaking attributes ensure you can run the floor, create opportunities for teammates, and score when needed.

Speed: 89
Agility: 82
Strength: 35
Vertical: 70
Shooting Attributes
This build is a sharpshooter’s dream, designed to hit deep shots with precision from anywhere on the court. The Legend Limitless Range and Legend Mini Marksman badges ensure that you can shoot from deep, giving you an almost unlimited shooting range.

Three-Point Shot: 94
Mid-Range Shot: 84
Free Throw: 69 (adjustable based on game mode)
Key Badges:
Legend Limitless Range
Legend Mini Marksman
Legend Deadeye
Shifty Shooter
These badges will allow you to pull up from long distances, shoot off the dribble, and make contested shots with ease. Whether you're pulling up from deep in transition or hitting clutch shots in the half-court, this build has the shooting precision you need.

Playmaking Attributes
In addition to being a shooting threat, the Sharpshooting Playmaker excels at controlling the ball and dishing out assists. With 94 Ball Handle and 94 Speed with Ball, this build is perfect for quick transitions, weaving through defenses, and setting up plays.

Ball Handle: 94
Speed with Ball: 94
Pass Accuracy: 85
Key Badges:
Hall of Fame Handles for Days
Gold Unpluckable
Hall of Fame Ankle Assassin
Legend Lightning Launch
With Hall of Fame Handles for Days and Legend Lightning Launch, this build can break down defenders with ease and pass with high efficiency. The 85 Pass Accuracy ensures you can make crisp, accurate passes, especially in transition or while creating for teammates in the half-court.

Defense Attributes
While not as defensive-focused as the second build, this guard still provides solid defense, particularly in the passing lanes. With 85 Steal and decent Perimeter Defense, you can disrupt the opposing offense and pick off passes.

Perimeter Defense: 74
Steal: 85
Key Badges:
Bronze Challenger
Silver Off-Ball Pest
Gold Interceptor
Silver Glove
These badges give you enough defensive ability to hold your own on the perimeter, interrupt passing lanes, and even grab some steals.

Finishing Attributes
While finishing isn’t the main focus of this build, it’s still effective around the basket. The 81 Driving Dunk allows for flashy dunks, especially in transition, while the 80 Driving Layup ensures smooth finishes at the rim.

Driving Layup: 80
Driving Dunk: 81
Key Badges:
Bronze Posterizer
Silver Aerial Wizard
These attributes give you the tools to finish in the paint when needed, especially in transition plays or off an offensive rebound.

Build 2: The Finishing Defender
Physicals
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 185 lbs
Wingspan: 6'5"
The Finishing Defender is designed for players who want to dominate at the rim and provide elite defense. This build is ideal for those who prefer to drive and score in the paint while being a lockdown defender on the other end.

Speed: 87
Agility: 84
Strength: 50
Vertical: 75
Finishing Attributes
This build is a finishing machine, designed to finish strong around the basket, whether it’s through contact dunks or layups. With 92 Driving Dunk and access to Hall of Fame Aerial Wizard and Gold Posterizer, you’ll be a constant threat in transition and in half-court plays.

Driving Layup: 85
Driving Dunk: 92
Standing Dunk: 50
Key Badges:
Hall of Fame Aerial Wizard
Gold Posterizer
Silver Acrobat
This build will allow you to finish through contact, perform acrobatic layups, and throw down spectacular dunks, all while being one of the toughest defenders on the court.

Playmaking Attributes
While this build’s primary focus is on finishing and defense, the playmaking attributes allow for effective ball-handling and smooth transitions. With 90 Ball Handle and 90 Speed with Ball, you can handle the rock and get to the basket at will.

Ball Handle: 90
Speed with Ball: 90
Pass Accuracy: 75
Key Badges:
Gold Handles for Days
Gold Quick First Step
Silver Ankle Assassin
These badges give you excellent ball control and the ability to explode past defenders off the dribble, making you a dual threat on the offensive end.

Defense Attributes
The defensive prowess of this build is where it truly stands out. With 85 Perimeter Defense and 90 Steal, you’ll be able to lock up ball handlers, interrupt passes, and apply constant pressure on the opposing offense.

Perimeter Defense: 85
Steal: 90
Key Badges:
Gold Glove
Gold Interceptor
Silver Challenger
Silver Pick Dodger
These badges make you a nightmare for any offensive player. You’ll be able to snag steals, shut down ball handlers, and navigate screens with ease.

Shooting Attributes
Shooting isn’t the focal point of this build, but it’s still functional. The 80 Three-Point Shot and 75 Mid-Range Shot make this build capable of hitting open shots when needed.

Three-Point Shot: 80
Mid-Range Shot: 75
Key Badges:
Silver Catch and Shoot
Silver Corner Specialist
These badges ensure you’re a reliable shooter from beyond the arc, especially when left open.

Which Build Should You Choose?
Ultimately, your choice between the Sharpshooting Playmaker and the Finishing Defender will come down to your playstyle.

Sharpshooting Playmaker: If you want to facilitate the offense, knock down shots from anywhere on the court, and create plays for your teammates, this build is perfect for you. It’s versatile and can adapt to almost any team composition.

Finishing Defender: If you’re looking to dominate both offensively and defensively with an aggressive playstyle, the Finishing Defender build is the way to go. You’ll be a physical presence on both ends of the court, with the ability to finish strong around the basket and lock down your opponents.

Both builds are designed to be effective across all NBA 2K25 game modes, including Rec, Park, Pro-Am, and MyCareer. Whether you want to create a scoring machine or an 
NBA 2K MT Coins For Sale all-around two-way player, these builds provide everything you need to succeed.

In the world of Diablo 4, players have the opportunity to explore a  Diablo IV Items multitude of character builds, each offering its unique playstyle and strategy. With the arrival of the Vessel of Hatred expansion, the game introduces a brand-new class: Spiritborn. This class offers a variety of mechanics and potential builds that are perfect for players who enjoy experimenting with powerful synergies. Among the many builds available, the Rock Splitter Thorns Build stands out as an AoE (Area of Effect) powerhouse, delivering high damage while maintaining strong defensive capabilities. This build uses the Rock Splitter skill combined with Thorns damage to overwhelm enemies and survive in tough situations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the mechanics, key skills, gear, and other aspects you need to fully optimize your Rock Splitter Thorns Spiritborn Build in Diablo 4.

Rock Splitter Thorns Build Overview
The Rock Splitter Thorns Build utilizes a unique synergy between the Thorns damage mechanic and the Rock Splitter skill. Unlike traditional builds that rely on taking damage to apply Thorns, this build allows you to apply 100% of your Thorns damage with each hit, making it one of the most offensive Thorns builds in the game. This is where Sepazontec, a key item in the build, comes into play. The third attack bonus granted by Sepazontec ensures that Rock Splitter hits multiple times, significantly increasing your AoE damage.

The key to the build’s effectiveness is its offensive power combined with a solid defense. While it can easily handle a wide range of content, it does face challenges when enemies are spread out, as it relies on the synergy between Binding Morass, Lithwat, and XolKry Runewords to pull enemies together for maximum effectiveness. Despite these challenges, this build offers players the ability to apply devastating Thorns damage to enemies while simultaneously maintaining a high level of survivability.

How the Rock Splitter Thorns Build Works
At its core, the Rock Splitter Thorns Build capitalizes on Thorns damage by hitting enemies with the Rock Splitter skill, which applies 100% of the player's Thorns damage with each hit. Unlike other builds that require taking hits to activate Thorns damage, this build allows you to deal damage to enemies without taking any incoming damage yourself. The key to this build is the use of Sepazontec, which guarantees that your third attack with Rock Splitter will always apply maximum damage, making it an extremely potent AoE (Area of Effect) tool.

Additionally, Toxic Skin serves as a passive damage dealer, ensuring that your Thorns damage is constantly active even when your Ultimate Ability is on cooldown. The build is defensive in nature, requiring you to manage multiple defensive skills to reduce damage taken and ensure you remain effective in combat.

One of the challenges of this build lies in dealing with enemies that are scattered across the battlefield. This is where the synergy between Binding Morass and the Lithwat and XolKry Runewords comes in. These mechanics help draw enemies together, allowing your AoE attacks to hit as many enemies as possible, increasing your damage output and keeping enemies from running away.

Building the Rock Splitter Thorns Spiritborn: Skills and Ability Points
When constructing the Rock Splitter Thorns Build, it’s important to focus on key defensive and damage-dealing abilities. The build requires a specific set of skills and passive points to maximize its effectiveness. Below is a breakdown of the Skill Tree and how you should allocate your points:

Basic Nodes
Rock Splitter (1/5): The cornerstone of this build. It’s enhanced by two upgrades: Enhanced Rock Splitter and Accelerated Rock Splitter, which increase your damage output and attack speed.
Core Nodes
Follow Through (3/3): Increases the effectiveness of your skills, especially in conjunction with Thorns damage.
Unrestrained Power (3/3): Enhances your overall power, providing a solid boost to your damage output.
Focal Point (1/3): Adds additional scaling to your Rock Splitter damage.
Diminishment (3/3): Increases your resistance to incoming damage, which is essential for surviving prolonged encounters.
Apex (3/3): Boosts your overall damage potential, increasing the potency of all abilities.
Mirage (3/3): Adds a dodge mechanic that allows you to evade incoming attacks, improving your survival.
Potency Nodes
Resilient (3/3): Boosts your armor, making you much harder to kill.
Dominant (3/3): Increases your damage resistance against specific damage types, helping you mitigate incoming elemental damage.
Potent (3/3): Boosts your overall damage output, further enhancing the effectiveness of Thorns and Rock Splitter.
Ultimate Skills
The Hunter (5/5): Maximizes your damage during the Ultimate state. This ability increases your damage dealt significantly when activated, which is essential for high-tier bosses and elite enemies.
Harmonious Hunter and Exalted Hunter upgrades increase the duration and damage scaling.
Resolution (3/3): Provides healing over time during your Ultimate state, keeping you sustained during long battles.
Spiritual Attunement (1/3): Increases your synergy with spirit abilities, allowing for easier activation of your defensive and offensive abilities.
Supremacy (3/3): Enhances your overall damage potential while in Ultimate form, making it critical for dealing maximum damage.
Key Passive Skills
Adaptive Stances: This is the key passive ability that ties the entire build together. It allows you to utilize multiple spirits, which in turn provide significant bonuses to your overall power. The extra skill rank doesn’t contribute much as most skills won’t be maxed out, but it provides utility and flexibility for your character.
Spirit Hall Bonuses
The Spirit Hall provides several bonuses that can improve the effectiveness of the Rock Splitter Thorns Build. The main goal is to enhance Thorns damage and defensive stats.

Primary Spirit Bonus
Gorilla is the optimal choice for the primary Spirit bonus. It increases Thorns damage and grants a Barrier for added survivability. Additionally, all skills used by the build are converted into Gorilla Skills, activating Gorilla-exclusive passives and further improving the build’s defensive and offensive capabilities.
Secondary Spirit Bonus
Gorilla is again the ideal choice for the secondary Spirit bonus, as it allows you to benefit from Loyalty’s Mantle, enhancing your defense and giving you unlimited uptime on your key abilities.
Gear & Affixes for Rock Splitter Thorns Build
While the Rock Splitter Thorns Build does require some specific items, it doesn’t have overly stringent gear requirements. However, there are several Unique Items and Runewords that can significantly enhance the build's performance.

Key Items
Sepazontec: This unique staff is essential for ensuring the third attack bonus, which significantly boosts the damage of Rock Splitter.
Lithwat and XolKry Runewords: These two Runewords are key for drawing enemies together, ensuring that your AoE attacks hit multiple targets.
Loyalty’s Mantle: Provides a significant defensive boost, improving survivability.
Razorplate: Increases your armor, enhancing your defenses.
Strong Affixes
When selecting affixes, prioritize the following:

Aspect of Binding Morass: Enhances the ability to control enemy positioning.
Aspect of Adaptability: Increases resistance to various damage types.
Rapid Aspect: Reduces cooldowns, allowing you to use key abilities more frequently.
Aspect of Moonrise: Increases your critical hit chance, improving damage output.
Hectic Aspect: Boosts your damage reduction.
Aspect of Endurance: Improves overall health regeneration and damage resistance.
Stat Priorities
This build doesn’t prioritize critical strike or suppression like most other builds. Instead, the focus is on maximizing Thorns damage and defense. Key stats to prioritize include:

Thorns damage +3000%
Armor to 1000 (after penalties)
Resistances capped (after penalties)
Health to 6000
Rock Splitter Size +100%
Movement Speed +160%
Dexterity +2000
Attack Speed +100%
Basic Damage +600%
Runewords & Gems
Since the Lithwat and XolKry Runewords occupy two of your most important gear slots, be mindful of how you manage the remaining slots. In your armor slots, you should use Emeralds to increase Dexterity, and in your jewelry, Diamonds will help cap your Elemental Resistance.

Mercenaries and Reinforcement Hires
To further optimize the build, consider hiring mercenaries who complement your playstyle. Raheir and Varyana are excellent choices for this build:

Varyana: With her Ancient Harpoons ability, she can gather enemies, making it easier for your Rock Splitter to hit multiple targets.
Raheir: Provides support and utility, enhancing the overall effectiveness of your build.
Conclusion
The Rock Splitter Thorns Build offers players a unique and powerful way to deal with enemies in Diablo 4. By combining Thorns damage with Rock Splitter, Runewords, and Spirit bonuses, you can create an AoE powerhouse that excels in both offense and defense. This build offers versatility, allowing you to adapt to various combat scenarios, and
cheap Diablo IV Gold is ideal for players who enjoy high-damage playstyles with strong defensive elements. Whether you’re facing hordes of monsters or elite bosses, the Rock Splitter Thorns Build provides all the tools you need to succeed in the dangerous world of Sanctuary. Happy hunting!

The release of Diablo 4’s Vessel of Hatred DLC on October 7 has introduced a fresh wave of content, exciting players with new areas, characters, and Diablo IV Items   mechanics. Most notably, this expansion brings the Spiritborn class and a new explorable area, Nahantu, along with a continuation of the story from the base game. However, as much as fans were excited for this new chapter, the question remains: Does the new story in Vessel of Hatred enhance or improve upon the base game’s narrative?

In this article, we’ll dive into the content of Vessel of Hatred, its impact on the Diablo 4 story, and whether it truly fills in the narrative gaps or leaves players longing for a more cohesive continuation of the saga.

Vessel of Hatred: A Brief Overview
The Vessel of Hatred DLC, as with all major expansions to the Diablo series, serves to expand the game’s lore and deepen its world-building. This time, the focus shifts to Neyrelle, a central character introduced in the base game, and her quest to deal with the dangerous influence of Mephisto, the Lord of Hatred.

After Neyrelle trapped Mephisto’s essence inside the Soulstone, she ventured into the jungle area of Nahantu, hoping to confront the demon lord directly and prevent his malevolent influence from spreading further into the world of Sanctuary. The main narrative of the DLC revolves around tracking Neyrelle’s footsteps, uncovering the secrets of her journey, and ultimately stopping the corruption that could destroy her from within.

In addition to this personal, character-driven story, Vessel of Hatred introduces new elements to the Diablo 4 world. The Nahantu region presents a bright and vibrant landscape, a stark contrast to the usual bleakness of Sanctuary. This setting also ties in thematically with the Spiritborn class, a new addition that draws power from animal souls, further deepening the game’s lore surrounding spiritual energy and the connection between humans and the supernatural.

While this new story does provide fresh content, it also raises questions about its relationship to the overarching conflict of Diablo 4’s Eternal Conflict and whether it adds any meaningful continuation to the narrative established in the base game.

A Smaller, More Personal Story
One of the most notable aspects of Vessel of Hatred is its departure from the epic scale of the Eternal Conflict, which has always served as the backdrop for the Diablo series. The High Heavens and Burning Hells are still present, but this DLC focuses more on a personal narrative. The central figure is Neyrelle, a relatively small-scale character whose actions become pivotal in the fight against Mephisto’s influence.

Unlike the grand conflicts and battles that are typical in the Diablo universe, Vessel of Hatred introduces a storyline about a young woman’s struggle with her connection to Mephisto and the threat that her own Soulstone presents. This shift in focus to Neyrelle’s emotional journey, her inner turmoil, and her determination to prevent corruption provides a more intimate, human story.

While this smaller scale may be a refreshing change of pace, it does leave some questions about how this DLC fits into the larger narrative. After all, the Diablo series has long been defined by its grand-scale battles between angels and demons, with humanity caught in the middle. The decision to focus on a more personal, almost “side quest”-like narrative in Vessel of Hatred feels like a departure from the core themes of the series.

The Setting: Nahantu’s Tribal Theme
In line with the personal focus of the DLC, the Nahantu region offers a distinct change of scenery from the rest of Sanctuary. The vibrant, tropical jungles stand in stark contrast to the usual dark and foreboding landscapes of the Diablo world. This new environment is not just a visual refresh, but also an important part of the narrative. The people of Nahantu are depicted as proud defenders of their land, unwilling to let Mephisto’s influence corrupt their culture and way of life.

The tribal theme of Nahantu fits seamlessly with the introduction of the Spiritborn class. The Spiritborn, who can harness animal souls to gain supernatural powers, are heavily influenced by the lore of nature and the animal kingdom. The Nahantu region serves as a perfect backdrop for this class, allowing players to engage with the Spiritborn abilities in a setting that emphasizes the spiritual and primal elements of Diablo’s universe.

While the Nahantu area is visually striking and thematically rich, it still feels somewhat disconnected from the larger narrative of Diablo 4. The Nahantu people’s struggle against Mephisto’s influence is important, but it doesn’t tie into the overall story of the Eternal Conflict or the larger stakes of the Diablo universe. This disconnection makes the Nahantu story feel a bit like a side story rather than an integral part of the ongoing battle between the High Heavens and Burning Hells.

Story Disconnect Between Vessel of Hatred and the Base Game
One of the most significant issues with Vessel of Hatred is the disconnect between the DLC’s story and the unresolved plot points from the base game. The most glaring example is Neyrelle’s fate after she traps Mephisto’s essence in the Soulstone. In the main story of Diablo 4, Neyrelle disappears without any resolution to her storyline. Players were hoping that the Vessel of Hatred expansion would shed light on what happened to her and how the Soulstone’s corruption affected her.

While the DLC does provide some answers, they are not as conclusive as many players had hoped. At the end of Vessel of Hatred, Neyrelle is freed from her immediate connection to the Soulstone, but some dialogue hints that she will eventually face Mephisto again in the future. This open-ended conclusion doesn’t fully resolve the plot point from the base game, leaving players with more questions than answers. In fact, the DLC feels like it merely extends the story’s ending rather than tying up loose ends in a meaningful way.

This lack of closure may be a bit frustrating for players who were hoping for a more comprehensive resolution to the events of the base game. It suggests that the developers may be saving the full resolution for a future expansion or season, which leaves Vessel of Hatred feeling incomplete in the context of the larger story.

Should Players Care About This Disconnect?
While the story disconnect between Vessel of Hatred and the base game may be disappointing to some players, it’s not necessarily a major disadvantage. One benefit of the lack of strong continuity is that players can jump directly into the Vessel of Hatred expansion without feeling lost or needing to finish the base game’s main campaign. This makes the expansion more accessible to new players or those who want to focus on the fresh content without being bogged down by unresolved plot points.

That said, for long-time fans of the series who have invested time in the base game and its narrative, the disconnect can feel a bit unsatisfying. It doesn’t seem like the Vessel of Hatred DLC truly builds upon or resolves the existing story, but rather offers a separate narrative thread that operates largely in isolation from the broader conflict between Heaven and Hell.

Looking Ahead: Future Expansions and Resolutions
While Vessel of Hatred might not fully answer all the questions left by the base game, it’s likely that future expansions will delve deeper into these unresolved plot points. The ongoing narrative of Diablo 4 is vast and intricate, and it’s clear that the developers have a long-term plan for the story.

For now, Vessel of Hatred can be seen as a stepping stone—a way to introduce new characters, regions, and mechanics while setting the stage for future developments. While the DLC doesn’t fully resolve the lingering questions about Neyrelle or the fate of Mephisto, it adds a new layer to the Diablo 4 universe, leaving plenty of room for future expansions to tie everything together.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vessel of Hatred DLC for Diablo 4 introduces a fresh and personal narrative that shifts focus away from the Eternal Conflict. While the story in this expansion offers new content, lore, and areas to explore, it doesn’t fully resolve the plot points left by the base game. The disconnect between the DLC and the main story may leave some players disappointed, but it also makes the Diablo 4 Items  expansion more accessible to newcomers. Overall, Vessel of Hatred offers exciting new content, but it doesn’t quite live up to the expectations of tying up the base game’s story. Hopefully, future expansions will address these lingering threads and provide the satisfying conclusions that fans are eagerly awaiting.