I recently joined my guild for the weekly Fractal challenges using my Tempest. I’ve been playing a pistol/warhorn condition build, but it seems my DPS is lagging behind others’. I admit a lot of it comes down to my skill level as I struggled to stay alive during some fights. A guild mate suggested switching to a power build to maximize my damage output, especially since Fractals tend to be shorter fights. Although I’m working on a power setup, I’m really drawn to condition builds due to my love for DoT specs in other games. I’m looking for some opinions on whether I should commit to power for Fractals or if there are ways to enhance my condition build. Any advice?
4 Answers
Most Fractals favor power builds since enemies don’t have much health, and many bosses go through phases. You want to burst them down quickly and let your cooldowns recover during those invulnerable moments. There are specific fights, like in Silent Surf or Nightmare Fractal, that can benefit from conditions, but in general, starting with a power build is advisable.
With condition builds, you’ll hit a snag because they need time to ramp up before they deal good damage. In shorter fights, your damage might not be substantial because by the time your DoTs start ticking, the boss might phase out and become invulnerable. Most builds can work in Fractals, but if you’re looking for consistent damage, power builds are generally more effective for quick fights.
Exactly! In T4 Fractals, a well-played power Soulbeast can wipe out bosses super fast. If you’re not going for burst damage in solid groups, then you’re likely going to underperform.
While power builds are welcome for most Fractals, there are exceptions. For example, the fights at 98 and 99 can suit condition builds. It’s a good strategy to start with power and, over time, build up your condition gear for select fights where they shine, like Silent Surf.
Just to add, Silent Surf is a solid choice for ranged condition builds. However, it’s a common misconception that condition damage is always better for ranged fights. It often hinges on the boss mechanics; some just make it very easy for condition builds to shine.
In lower tier Fractals like 96 and 97, the fights have such short phases that your DoTs might not even have time to really kick in before the boss becomes invulnerable. That’s why power builds are favored; you have to maximize your damage windows efficiently. Just remember, Tempest is a glass cannon—you really need to be on top of your Fractal mechanics to survive.
Exactly! Even if a boss phases, if you’re quick enough with a power build, you can get in tons of damage before you have to wait. Just keep an eye on movement—it’s all about timing!