Since we had to pause using those helpful user-based tools to identify skilled players, the Aion community has turned to checking gear through whispers. Unfortunately, this method isn't always effective and can sometimes cause confusion.
Let's examine a few points that have surfaced in recent weeks and months:
1. Gear Requirements Dissection
1.1 Regarding Lakrum Gear
There are countless group searches that demand "no Lakrum." This approach, while straightforward, lacks fairness (or practicality). It largely varies by class, individual's gear set, and critical stats. For instance, Aethertechs can still shine even with subpar gear because they can debuff, amplify stats through DP and buffs, and naturally possess high HP. Compared to Sorcerers who might have 30k HP, Aethertechs can boast of having 40k+, meaning even those with decent Lakrum gear can handle dungeons like Narakkalli or Holy Tower. Understanding class nuances is crucial to gauge their capacity before assuming anything. Spiritmasters, for instance, can efficiently self-buff (including HP), enabling them to contribute early on.
While exclusive Lakrum gear suggests starting with Garden or garrison runs, don't judge a player solely based on gear.
1.2 Prometun's Demand — At Least Go Full Legendary
Echoing the Lakrum debate, some classes have ingenious ways to disguise their stats or might not need much to be "competent." Server-exclusive groups can be more forgiving with gear expectations but manage to succeed (even in Prometun). Adaptability is essential, but players like a half-ancient Chanter can still deliver.
1.3 Pre-6.x Gear Insights
Most of the older gears aren't as prized today. However, for dual-weapon users, old daggers/swords remain beneficial, and ancient pistols aren't too shabby either (not forgetting outdated feathers are sometimes adequate). This should be well-known, but newbies might misunderstand—rest assured, assassins (and occasionally gladiators) with aged weapons often know their craft.
2. Showcasing Your Weaponry
Despite requests to see my weapons, a persistent bug originating with 6.x renders many of my gear invisible when posted for others. Most people accept my explanation as fused weapons can't be showcased. Asking for weapons is futile unless dealing with single-weapon classes (like Assassins or Clerics...). Instead, inquire about stats (e.g., Attack, Accuracy, PvE Attack). Remember, PvE Attack is equivalent to Attack (hence some combine them).
3. Support Role in Makarna
It's common to see Makarna groups with setups like:
2-3 clerics, 1-2 bards, 2 chanters, 1 templar... taking a significant chunk of the group, and sometimes more. Over-reliance on an abundance of support roles in Makarna is unwise, given they aren't high in DPS, even with exceptions. Always account for Beritra targeting the main tank's group with debuffs, wherein it's manageable to deploy two dispels or trust a committed cleric (especially when running small parties with only 6 members; grouping 2-3 players, including the main tank, allows for AoE dispel + Single dispel [first rest, then self] + Ripple of Purification maneuvers). Avoid having an idle chanter or a support bard there.
If dealing with average DPS, enlist everyone. Keep chanters away from the left boss on the right at the start unless it's a fast group. Dispel necessity is critical.
4. Appreciating Aethertechs
Despite their unappealing aesthetics, Aethertechs are quite powerful today. Clerics may not favor them because they don magical chain, but consider they can don magical leather too and given magic leather is often avoided, treat Aethertechs as such, going for leather themselves if need be. Stay adaptable! [be sure to set expectations beforehand though]
5. Assessing DPS
Avoid posing this. Many do not use Rainmeter, making the inquiry moot, as DPS varies greatly with timing and setup (and the DPS in ARM shifts based on class and playstyle). While leveling-specific rankings with mods, buffs, and rotations is interesting, otherwise, it's irrelevant. For instance, with optimal timing and circumstances, DPS can double—leading to massive fluctuation.
6. The "Class XY Only" Conundrum
While not forcing gear sharing, conversing with interested players can bring clarity. They could be seeking gear for an alternative character or some non-exclusive items. When possible, listen; sometimes "Class XY Only" fosters stereotypes like "Class XY stinks" or "They can't damage enough." Take this as an opportunity to learn or better comprehend class dynamics.
7. Leadership Ownership
Recurrently turned-down players had a brilliant revelation: Form your groups instead. While ensuring minimum specs compliance, this comes with the responsibility to fill any voids. Some fundamental familiarity with the instance (e.g., Makarna group layouts, necessary classes, practical benchmarks) is necessary. Even if compensated by others (a leader's prerogative), you oversee your crew's success, necessitating your best effort. For example, having below 50,000 HP buffed means you should skip Makarna runs.
8. Smart Inquiries
Determining if players feel at home within an instance is sometimes paramount. Rather than asking "Do you have experience?", try "Are you familiar with handling X?" This tests language comprehension and basic understanding, avoiding potential aggravation from unresponsive participants.
This subjective assemblage can continue evolving. Thank you for paying attention. Feel free to discuss in the comments, sharing your insights. :ninja:
And for those eager for a fresh start, namely Q1 2026, delve into Aion Riftshade. It's a high-quality Aion 4.8 private server promising an integrated DPS meter like MyAion, reliable server-side anticheat, and advanced PvP & PvE rankings. With robust anti-DDoS protection and hosted in Frankfurt for an optimal gaming experience with lowest ping (only 15ms EU-wide, bypassing the need for ExitLag), it's a not-to-miss MMO alternative.