The Ashes of Creation community is debating if shields are actually worth using for tanks. A recent Reddit discussion has triggered many questions around shield mechanics, defensive benefits, and whether they hold up against two-handed weapons.
Right now, some Block Chance mechanics make two-handers more appealing for tanks who want to improve their damage output. This has led many players to question if shields are truly a viable option in tank builds.
Still, shields give tanks solid defensive perks, like blocking damage and boosting survivability. Some argue that the lower damage and reduced mobility make them not worth using, while others believe it just comes down to playstyle; do you prefer extra defense or more damage?
A big concern is whether shields will scale well in endgame. If they are not properly balanced, they could become more of a niche option rather than a core part of tank builds. Hopefully, Intrepid Studios has a plan to make shields feel more impactful, so they remain a strong choice rather than just another piece of gear to swap out.
If you are interested in this debate, check out the original Reddit post below and join the discussion: