I would like to add my thoughts on defenders.
they are my favorite archetype by far.
to me its all about team support.
the best part is it can come in a variety of ways.
In my opinion they are the most versatile group to play.
my main and favorite is my empath/dark defender (Moonbeem)
I have 3 builds I use with her.
1st build (damage build)- I focused on damage and less on heals and buffs. (they are there but not maxed out).
2nd build (support build)- all my attacks are slotted for -to hit debuff; heals and support powers are maxed out.
3rd build (hami build) - this build was made on a challenge and I use it to tank hamidon in the hive. (as long as I get a little regen support)
I can also buff/heal with her on the same build.
the main issue I run into is you never know if your team you just joined is going to be weak or solid.
So when I join a task force I will play my damage build.
If after the first mission I feel they need more support I can switch to that build and better serve the team.
The - to hit debuff the support build brings to the table can make a huge impact.
Add in the other buffs for defense, regen, recovery and mez protection and she definitely can make a difference.
My favorite thing to do is watch a scrapper run off and get killed by a group all alone.
I come in and mez the crap out of them and rez the scrapper.
Then I head back to the main group making him look like a fool.
Yes there are days where the team doesn't seem to need much of the empathy side of my powers and I have learned to adapt to it.
Just do more damage and keep them out of trouble.
Also I play very aggressive.
You will find I prefer to follow right behind or next to the tank. They are my first priority!
anyway the most important thing i have learned is no build is best for everyone.
you need to make the powers in your build fit your playstyle to maximize your performance.
As such I prefer to level my toons playing them in task forces.
Its a personal choice.
It helps me decide how to play them and what powers to pick.
If you want to farm your toon to level 50 I dont have a problem with that either.
what matters most is are you having fun! :)
