BLM as a first

[Feenicks]

Re: BLM as a first

The biggest benefits to SMN/SCH are Sublimation, Regen II, Aspir, Dispel and Sleep. Unfortunately it lacks Stoneskin and Blink but if you can keep up Earthen Ward then it's not an issue. I go SMN/SCH whenever I can.

[Nuriko]

Re: BLM as a first

Yes, SMN/BLM would really be that gimp. All you could do that is worth the effort is use your avatars, without native skill none of your BLM spells are worth casting. WHM gives cures which are more effective with the half skill, and status cures where skill doesn't matter.

As for Bio, there are a few reasons for casting it. First, the damage it does when it lands isn't all the damage it does, it keeps doing damage. Second, it reduces the mob's ability to do damage by a bit. Third, that BLM probably wanted some Dark Magic skillups ... often, letting the WHM or RDM cast Dia is the better choice, as that lets your PT do more damage.

[Tinks]

Re: BLM as a first

Okay. So...
Casting Dia then Bio would get cancel Dia...
But Bio then Dia keeps both effects going, right?

[The Mauva Syndicate]

Re: BLM as a first

It overwrites like this: Dia > Bio > Dia II > Bio II > Dia III > Bio III (priority reads from right to left).

[Icemage]

Re: BLM as a first

Should also note that SMN/SCH, unlike SMN/BLM, can actually choose to nuke fairly reliably due to the presence of Dark Arts's ability to push any existing Elemental/Dark/Enfeebling skill up to rank B (256 skill at level 75).

Granted, the number of nukes you have access to is extremely low and limited. Like tier 2 at best at level 75... but what you CAN cast will probably land, even if it hits for peanuts.


Icemage

[Nuriko]

Re: BLM as a first

No, if something has Bio then Dia won't stick ... it gets BLM that use Bio yelled at sometimes. If you REALLY want to skill Dark Magic, spam Bio in Besieged.