Looking For Dom Mind Control/PSY

[Elfin]

Probably not a popular build but a friend wants it so I am trying to figure it out. It's been a while since I have worked with builds and I can't seem to get anything to work with Mids. Old Mids can't open the build and Mids Reborn just won't open.

[stealthnight]

Here is one I put together.

 

This Villain build was built using Mids Reborn 3.1.2.5
https://github.com/LoadedCamel/MidsReborn

Click this DataLink to open the build!

Spoiler

Level 50 Natural Dominator
Primary Power Set: Mind Control
Secondary Power Set: Psionic Assault
Power Pool: Flight
Power Pool: Speed
Power Pool: Leadership
Power Pool: Concealment
Ancillary Pool: Psionic Mastery

Villain Profile:
Level 1: Mesmerize -- CaloftheS-Acc/Rchg(A), CaloftheS-EndRdx/Sleep(3), CaloftheS-Acc/EndRdx(3), CaloftheS-Sleep/Rng(5), CaloftheS-Acc/Sleep/Rchg(5)
Level 1: Psionic Dart -- OvrFrc-Dam/KB(A)
Level 2: Dominate -- UnbCns-Hold(A), UnbCns-Hold/Rchg(9), UnbCns-Acc/Hold/Rchg(9), UnbCns-Acc/Rchg(11), UnbCns-EndRdx/Hold(11)
Level 4: Telekinetic Thrust -- KntCrs-Dmg/KB(A), KntCrs-Acc/KB(13), KntCrs-Rchg/KB(13), KntCrs-Rechg/EndRdx(15), KntCrs-Dmg/EndRdx/KB(15), KntCrs-Acc/Dmg/KB(17)
Level 6: Confuse -- CrcPrs-Conf(A), CrcPrs-Conf/Rchg(17), CrcPrs-Acc/Conf/Rchg(19), CrcPrs-Acc/Rchg(19), CrcPrs-Conf/EndRdx(21)
Level 8: Fly -- HypSnc-Fly(A), HypSnc-End/Fly(21), HypSnc-End(23), HypSnc-+Special(23), Frb-Stlth(25)
Level 10: Mass Hypnosis -- AscoftheD-Acc/Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear(A), AscoftheD-Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear/Rchg(25), AscoftheD-EndRdx/Rchg(27), AscoftheD-Acc/Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear/EndRdx(27), AscoftheD-Acc/Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear/EndRdx/Rchg(29)
Level 12: Hasten -- RechRdx-I(A), RechRdx-I(29)
Level 14: Mental Blast -- Dcm-Build%(A)
Level 16: Psychic Scream -- Ann-ResDeb%(A)
Level 18: Total Domination -- SprEnt-Acc/Hold(A), SprEnt-Hold/Rchg(31), SprEnt-End/Rchg(31), SprEnt-Acc/Hold/End(31), SprEnt-Acc/Hold/End/Rchg(33)
Level 20: Drain Psyche -- Prv-Absorb%(A), Prv-Heal/EndRdx(33), Prv-EndRdx/Rchg(33), Prv-Heal/Rchg(34)
Level 22: Maneuvers -- LucoftheG-Def/EndRdx(A), LucoftheG-EndRdx/Rchg(34), LucoftheG-Def(34), LucoftheG-Def/Rchg+(36)
Level 24: Hover -- LucoftheG-Def/EndRdx(A), LucoftheG-EndRdx/Rchg(36), LucoftheG-Def(36), LucoftheG-Def/Rchg+(37)
Level 26: Tactics -- EndRdx-I(A), EndRdx-I(37)
Level 28: Subdue -- GrvAnc-Immob(A), GrvAnc-Acc/Immob/Rchg(37), GrvAnc-Acc/Rchg(39), GrvAnc-Immob/EndRdx(39), GrvAnc-Hold%(39)
Level 30: Evasive Maneuvers -- LucoftheG-Def/EndRdx(A), LucoftheG-EndRdx/Rchg(40), LucoftheG-Def(40), LucoftheG-Def/Rchg+(40)
Level 32: Mass Confusion -- DmnGrs-Acc/Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear(A), DmnGrs-Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear/Rchg(42), DmnGrs-EndRdx/Rchg(42), DmnGrs-Acc/Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear/EndRdx(42), DmnGrs-Acc/Conf/Hold/Immob/Sleep/Stun/Fear/EndRdx/Rchg(43)
Level 35: Psionic Lance -- Apc-Dmg/Rchg(A), Apc-Acc/Dmg/Rchg(43), Apc-Acc/Rchg(43), Apc-Dmg/EndRdx(45), Apc-Dam%(45)
Level 38: Psychic Shockwave -- Arm-Dmg/Rchg(A), Arm-Dam%(45), Arm-Acc/Dmg/Rchg(46), Arm-Acc/Rchg(46), Arm-Dmg/EndRdx(46)
Level 41: Indomitable Will -- ShlWal-ResDam/Re TP(A), Rct-ResDam%(48), Ksm-ToHit+(48)
Level 44: Mind Over Body -- StdPrt-ResDam/Def+(A), GldArm-3defTpProc(48)
Level 47: Link Minds -- LucoftheG-Def/EndRdx(A), LucoftheG-EndRdx/Rchg(50), LucoftheG-Def(50), LucoftheG-Def/Rchg+(50)
Level 49: Stealth -- LucoftheG-Def/Rchg+(A)
Level 1: Domination 
Level 1: Brawl -- Empty(A)
Level 1: Sprint -- Empty(A)
Level 2: Rest -- Empty(A)
Level 1: Swift -- Flight-I(A)
Level 1: Hurdle -- Jump-I(A)
Level 1: Health -- NmnCnv-Regen/Rcvry+(A), Mrc-Rcvry+(7), RgnTss-Regen+(7)
Level 1: Stamina -- EndMod-I(A)
Level 49: Quick Form 
Level 8: Afterburner 

Edited April 6, 2022 by stealthnight

[JJDrakken]

2 hours ago, Elfin said:

Probably not a popular build but a friend wants it so I am trying to figure it out. It's been a while since I have worked with builds and I can't seem to get anything to work with Mids. Old Mids can't open the build and Mids Reborn just won't open.

 

Dominator - Mind Control - Psionic Assault.mxd

[Golden Azrael]

Mind/Psi.  Pretty.  Sedate.

 

Hard work.

 

Interesting to play.  Slower paced.  I guess you are a 'mind tank.'

 

Accept when you get hit, you really get hit.  Such is the life of a squishie.

 

The builds look decent enough.

 

I have one at L40.  It's slow, not enough recharge.  Not damaging enough (no build up?)  So x2 dam slots isn't quite enough to polish white even cons off in minimum shots.  (It always takes an extra hit or two!)  Not enough defence.  (I'm on about 5%.)  (This can be helped with a carefully chosen inspire tray and FILL it up before each missions. eg. DAMs and DEF'.  And yes, until Perma-Domi?  Breakers.)

 

Even con.  Vs.  Council?  I can plod along.

 

I've tried +0x8 with some inspires(!) and AoE damage stacking with control spams.  Doable.

 

Tried -1x4.  Much easier.  Don't get hit as hard and I can hit harder.

 

+0x1 on Carnie.  The Illusionists are hard to handle (deflected...deflected...deflected...).  So I try to get the minions confused to duff her up.

 

Needs patience.

 

What epic you'd go for?  Scorpion Shield for S&Lethal protection via defence.  Also get the energy def' too from that shield.  Then you could go fighting pool and get the Tough, Weave (moAR) def'.  slot Tough with x2 Global defences.

 

There is the Psi Epic pool...  Mind Link etc and the Psi Shield.

 

I don't know how to play it fully yet.  Usually takes me 50 levels to 'hot wire' the playstyle.  I did get a L50/have a Mind/Rad Domi.  The Damage was a bit more on the front foot.

 

Azrael.

 

 

[Vince]

Some quick things...

 

Mind/Psi is my main...it's a great, fun Dom to play. Definitely my favorite, and I have several other doms that I play on the regular.

 

With that said, some quick notes in regards to power picks and slotting...

 

Powers to skip in Mind/ are Levitate and TK.  All others are fair game, mass hypnosis is optional but useful as an "oh sh*t" power if you run into trouble with a mob.

 

Dominate & Terrify - you want to proc out, 1 acc/dam +5'd (or a Nuc HO) and 5 procs.  These are some the best attacks you get in that combo. Use it for damage.  Domination will take care of the duration and the magnitude so slotting it with a mez set is a compete waste.

 

For /Psi, TK Thrust and Psychic Scream are trash. Skip them and use the power spots for your epics.  I personally also skip Mental Blast.  Mind Probe and Subdue are solid (also gives you the immob piece that Mind/ lacks).

 

For APP/Patrons...Psi, Ice, and Soul are the best IMO.  My favorite being Ice.  The res debuff you get is -30% and you get another "oh sh*t" power which is Hibernate.  Psi is good too in performance and theme.  Mace I think is a waste...You shouldn't be chasing defense on a dominator when you can stop all incoming damage with multiple powers and kill whatever isn't stopped.  Pop a Luck if you need some defense in a situation and head on in. 

 

 

 

 

 

[oedipus_tex]

One of the first things I like to do with any new pairing is pull up the Damage/Anim screen in Mids to have a look at the baseline DPAs we're dealing with. In the case of Mind/Psi we have this:

 

 

 

I then like to think through the proccability of each power and whether that changes the rankings. In this case we have these options:

• Dominate is both our highest DPA ST Mind Control power AND is highly proccable. This is a must take and must proc for me.
• Mind Probe is our highest DPA single target attack, followed by TK Thrust. Mind Probe is no more proccable than any other ST melee attack; TK Thrust takes an extra KB damage proc. However, the KB in it probably needs mitigation with KB to KD, losing us a slot, so they break about even, with Mind Probe a bit ahead.
• Snipes are always must-take powers on Dominators.
• Psionic Dart, Mental Blast, and Subdue all have nearly the same DPA (exactly the same for Mental Blast and Subdue, actually). But, we are forced to take Psionic Dart. Given that, Psi Dart is the clear winner and the others mostly ignorable unless you need the Immobilize in Subdue. Note Subdue can also be used as a delivery mechanism for the Dominator ATO proc.
• Psy Shockwave and Psychic Scream are both thoroughly average AoE powers. Pick the one that works for you. Sadly despite having enhanceable Stun, Psy Shockwave doesn't take the Dominator ATO proc... which I think is an oversight/bug, since other similar Dom powers do take that proc. This is the power where I would otherwise put that proc.
• You're forced to pick between Mesmerize and Levitate, and that's a shame, because neither is very good on a Dominator. If Mind Control worked like other sets, you'd take tke the ST hold. We can't do that with Mind, so we're basically losing a power slot that might otherwise go to a better power. Given the forced option, I'd personally take Mesmerize, since despite its lower DPA at least that will instantly sleep an AV in Domination mode.
  • Note the updated version of Mesmerize is autohit, so you don't need to expend slots on it to get the instant sleep AV effect. Just cast it, it will always hit. To do damage with it you do need Accuracy, though.

 

As for the remainder of the powers:

• Drain Psyche is the keystone of the build. The build will rely on this for its healing and recovery. This will involve approaching close range on enemies. 
• Mass Confusion is the only absolute must-take. It has frustrating long recharge, but not taking it isn't really an option.
• Terrify is probably required as well. Terrify is an "okay" power. It's a 40 sec recharge Fear cone with 2 second animation time that deals a base 50 damage. It's helpful to compare that that to the typical Dominator AoE Immobilize Mind doesn't get: 8 second recharge, 1.17  to 1.67 second animation time (varies by set), 15 base damage. So, Terrify has pretty good DPA (base 50 for 2 sec anim) but not great DPS.
  • Also note that one of Mind's chief rival sets, Plant Control, deals 31.7 damage with 1.67 animation time, every 8 seconds. No one is sure if this is intentional or a bug. but that's double what any other AoE immobilize does, and actually as good as a lot of 'real' Defender AoE blasts. E.g. Defender Explosive Arrow is base 32 damage, 16 recharge. 
  • Anyway, Terrify is a cone, and Drain Psyche is a PBAoE, so its up to you how to resolve that conflict. I think some players have had success using Combat Teleport with macros. That would also clear you to pick up Fold Space if you wanted to go that route. If you're going to solo a lot, its how I'd roll it.
• Mass Hypnosis is now autohit. It's an easy place to put a chance for a +15% heal proc. Open every fight with this if you're starting out with less than full HP. Enemies won't notice and you get a free 15% HP back.

 

 

RE: Drain Psyche strategies and Mind Control in general.

• Teleport doesn't wake enemies up. Given this, and the fact that Drain Psyche benefits so much from clumped enemies, I'd consider a Fold Space strategy.
  • If you team a lot, this will be a lot less effective and I'd recommend going a more traditional Defense route.
• You'll have to decide which APP powers to take. Personally, I think if you're taking Fold Space and Drain Psyche anyway, the right choice is the Soul APP for Soul Drain. But there are also good arguments for Psi (more defense) and Ice (excellent -Resist in Sleet and more HP in Hoarfrost).

 

 

Basic proposed build below. I wish it had a bit more Defense, but it's not terrible, Move slots around as you think is appropriate.

 

 

 

 

 

This Villain build was built using Mids Reborn 3.2.17
https://github.com/LoadedCamel/MidsReborn

Click this DataLink to open the build!

Level 50 Natural Dominator
Primary Power Set: Mind Control
Secondary Power Set: Psionic Assault
Power Pool: Speed
Power Pool: Concealment
Power Pool: Teleportation
Power Pool: Fighting
Ancillary Pool: Soul Mastery

Villain Profile:
Level 1: Mesmerize -- FrtHyp-Plct%(A)
Level 1: Psionic Dart -- Thn-Acc/Dmg(A), Thn-Dmg/Rchg(3), Thn-Acc/Dmg/EndRdx(3), Thn-Dmg/EndRdx/Rchg(5), Thn-Dmg/EndRdx(7), Thn-Acc/Dmg/Rchg(7)
Level 2: Mind Probe -- SprBlsCol-Rchg/HoldProc(A), SprBlsCol-Dmg/EndRdx/Acc/Rchg(9), SprBlsCol-Acc/Dmg/Rchg(9), SprBlsCol-Acc/Dmg/EndRdx(11), SprBlsCol-Dmg/EndRdx(11), Mk'Bit-Dam%(13)
Level 4: Telekinetic Thrust -- Hct-Dam%(A), Hct-Dmg/EndRdx(13), Hct-Acc/Rchg(15), Hct-Acc/Dmg/Rchg(15), Hct-Dmg/Rchg(17), OvrFrc-Dam/KB(17)
Level 6: Dominate -- GhsWdwEmb-Dam%(A), UnbCns-Dam%(19), GldNet-Dam%(19), Apc-Dam%(21), HO:Nucle(21), SprAscoft-Rchg/+Dmg%(23)
Level 8: Confuse -- MlsIll-Acc/Conf/Rchg(A), MlsIll-Conf/Rng(23), MlsIll-Acc/EndRdx(25), MlsIll-EndRdx/Conf(25), MlsIll-Acc/Rchg(27)
Level 10: Mass Hypnosis -- CaloftheS-Heal%(A)
Level 12: Hasten -- RechRdx-I(A), RechRdx-I(27)
Level 14: Stealth -- LucoftheG-Def/Rchg+(A), Ksm-ToHit+(29)
Level 16: Teleport Target -- WntGif-ResSlow(A)
Level 18: Total Domination -- BslGaz-Acc/Hold(A), BslGaz-Rchg/Hold(29), BslGaz-EndRdx/Rchg/Hold(31), BslGaz-Acc/Rchg(31)
Level 20: Drain Psyche -- TchoftheN-Heal/HP/Regen/Rchg(A), TchoftheN-Acc/Heal(31), DctWnd-Heal/Rchg(33), EffAdp-Acc/Rchg(33)
Level 22: Boxing -- Empty(A)
Level 24: Tough -- StdPrt-ResDam/Def+(A), GldArm-3defTpProc(33)
Level 26: Terrify -- PstBls-Dam%(A), PstBls-Acc/Dmg/EndRdx(34), PstBls-Dmg/Rng(34), PstBls-Dmg/Rchg(34), PstBls-Dmg/EndRdx(36)
Level 28: Weave -- LucoftheG-Def/Rchg+(A), LucoftheG-Def(46), LucoftheG-Def/EndRdx(50)
Level 30: Combat Teleport -- BlsoftheZ-ResKB(A), BlsoftheZ-Travel/EndRdx(43)
Level 32: Mass Confusion -- CrcPrs-Conf%(A), CrcPrs-Conf/EndRdx(36), CrcPrs-Conf(36), CrcPrs-Conf/Rchg(37), CrcPrs-Acc/Conf/Rchg(37), CrcPrs-Acc/Rchg(37)
Level 35: Psionic Lance -- StnoftheM-Dam%(A), StnoftheM-Dmg/EndRdx/Rchg(39), StnoftheM-Dmg/ActRdx/Rchg(39), StnoftheM-Acc/Dmg(39), StnoftheM-Dmg/EndRdx(40), GldJvl-Dam%(40)
Level 38: Psychic Shockwave -- Obl-%Dam(A), Arm-Dam%(40), Arm-Dmg/EndRdx(42), Arm-Acc/Rchg(42), Arm-Acc/Dmg/Rchg(42), Arm-Dmg/Rchg(43)
Level 41: Dark Embrace -- UnbGrd-Max HP%(A), HO:Ribo(43)
Level 44: Soul Drain -- Erd-%Dam(A), Erd-Acc/Rchg(45), Erd-Dmg/Rchg(45), Obl-%Dam(45), Obl-Acc/Rchg(46), Obl-Acc/Dmg/Rchg(46)
Level 47: Dark Obliteration -- PstBls-Dam%(A), PstBls-Acc/Dmg/EndRdx(48), PstBls-Dmg/EndRdx(48), PstBls-Dmg/Rchg(48), PstBls-Acc/Dmg(50), Bmbdmt-+FireDmg(50)
Level 49: Fold Space -- Acc-I(A)
Level 1: Brawl -- Empty(A)
Level 1: Domination 
Level 1: Sprint -- Empty(A)
Level 2: Rest -- Empty(A)
Level 1: Swift -- Empty(A)
Level 1: Health -- Pnc-Heal/+End(A), NmnCnv-Regen/Rcvry+(5)
Level 1: Hurdle -- Empty(A)
Level 1: Stamina -- PwrTrns-+Heal(A)
Level 49: Quick Form 
------------

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Edited April 9, 2022 by oedipus_tex

[Golden Azrael]

Welcome insight Vince and _Tex.

 

Thank you for the build suggestion, Oedipus.  It is being perused. 🙂

 

The proc slotting of Dominate.  Interesting.  Something to try.

 

Ice as an epic is interesting.  It has some good debuffs.

 

Are the two AoEs proccable to push the envelope on their damage?

 

The Fold Space idea is innovative.

 

TK is passable.  I'm not that fussed about Mental Blast either.   Too many of the blasts are 'medium' hitting.  Much of the same.  Though they do all look pretty.

 

Mind Probe and Mind Thrust have a good 1-2 punch in melee for a dominator.

 

Azrael.

[Vince]

You definitely won't regret proccing out Dominate.  For the two AoEs, which ones? I'm gonna guess you're referring to the ones in Ice Mastery given the previous sentence in your post.  In that case, no there aren't.  Sleet I just slot a +5 recharge IO and ice storm I do not take.  If you're referring to Terrify, then yes proc it all out for max damage.  And Psy Shockwave I usually slot 5 piece Armageddon w/ proc and 1 eradication proc.

 

Definitely agree with the Fold Space strategy.  Also combat tp if used well with binds allows you to get in and out of mobs really quickly to fire off DP and Psy Shockwave.  Cheers.

Edited April 10, 2022 by Vince

[oedipus_tex]

3 hours ago, Golden Azrael said:

Welcome insight Vince and _Tex.

 

Thank you for the build suggestion, Oedipus.  It is being perused. 🙂

 

The proc slotting of Dominate.  Interesting.  Something to try.

 

Ice as an epic is interesting.  It has some good debuffs.

 

Are the two AoEs proccable to push the envelope on their damage?

 

The Fold Space idea is innovative.

 

TK is passable.  I'm not that fussed about Mental Blast either.   Too many of the blasts are 'medium' hitting.  Much of the same.  Though they do all look pretty.

 

Mind Probe and Mind Thrust have a good 1-2 punch in melee for a dominator.

 

Azrael.

 

 

Sleet is frankly an overpowered APP power, but that's okay because its existence elevates Dominators out of probable obscurity. 

 

A /Psi Dominator with Sleet and Drain Psyche is packing around -30% to -60% resist debuff and -500% Regen. That's actually rather good. A high Defender or Corruptor will often have somewhat better -Resist, but you're still landing close to what an average-ish Buff/Debuff set brings. 

 

The real downside of Dominators in general and /Psi specifically IMO is the point blank, blapper style damage. That's fine in "normal" content where you can get in close. Completely falls apart against archvillains and iTrial bosses, in most cases. I still enjoy Dominators, but iTrial masters most are not. It's still a fun way to play debuffer though if you want to go all in like that.

Edited April 10, 2022 by oedipus_tex

[Golden Azrael]

11 hours ago, Vince said:

You definitely won't regret proccing out Dominate.  For the two AoEs, which ones? I'm gonna guess you're referring to the ones in Ice Mastery given the previous sentence in your post.  In that case, no there aren't.  Sleet I just slot a +5 recharge IO and ice storm I do not take.  If you're referring to Terrify, then yes proc it all out for max damage.  And Psy Shockwave I usually slot 5 piece Armageddon w/ proc and 1 eradication proc.

 

Definitely agree with the Fold Space strategy.  Also combat tp if used well with binds allows you to get in and out of mobs really quickly to fire off DP and Psy Shockwave.  Cheers.

 

My initial thoughts?  Psychic Scream and Psychic Shockwave.  Pretty mediocre damage as _Tex says.  But my aim with AoEs is always to cut the mob to its knees with x2 AoE stacks.  X2 mediocre with fast recharge becomes something 'better.'  (If I stack Psychic Tornado on top...then that's x3 AoEs.)   With proc damage?  (If possible...)  That can rough up mobs.  Add in Terrify for more proc?  And that's alot of AoE proc shock for mobs.  A purple set in Shockwave and Erad'?  Why not?

 

Azrael.

[Golden Azrael]

11 hours ago, oedipus_tex said:

 

 

Sleet is frankly an overpowered APP power, but that's okay because its existence elevates Dominators out of probable obscurity. 

 

A /Psi Dominator with Sleet and Drain Psyche is packing around -30% to -60% resist debuff and -500% Regen. That's actually rather good. A high Defender or Corruptor will often have somewhat better -Resist, but you're still landing close to what an average-ish Buff/Debuff set brings. 

 

The real downside of Dominators in general and /Psi specifically IMO is the point blank, blapper style damage. That's fine in "normal" content where you can get in close. Completely falls apart against archvillains and iTrial bosses, in most cases. I still enjoy Dominators, but iTrial masters most are not. It's still a fun way to play debuffer though if you want to go all in like that.

 

Domis have that Range to Blapper tension in their Primary and Secondary.  And it is, indeed, for the individual hero to decided if they go range, or close to blap.  Mediocre is how I'd describe Domi damage.  I'd like a 20% Domination bonus to Damage.  Just me.

 

I think (along with Procs noted above) that -res debuffs are the way to try and tip the scales of balance in your favour.  I 'have' used the ice epic set before.  The Sleet, the Hiberate, the Cold Shield.  All good powers giving debuff, Panic Press and Defensive capability.

 

I'll have to look at your mids build to see what the Dark Patron brings to the table.

 

I am intrigued by the 'Fold Space' idea with Drain Psyche.

 

If you could bring the mob to the Sleet Ice mat.  That could be interesting and then hit them with Drain Psyche.

 

Having 2-4 attack powers fitted out with Procs and a sweeping -res power could stack to bring more 'bite' to the combo.  (No build up.  So I'm surprised at the Light to Medium damage with dominates the Psi assault set.

 

Azrael.

[Golden Azrael]

Update.  

 

L45.  Gone with Ice Epic.  x3 slots.  -def.  Acc.  End.  Rech'.  It's a great debuff.  -41% def'.  Slows.  Makes Psi hit 'harder.'  

 

Added Ice Shield.  Smashing def' x3 SO slots.  1 end red'.

 

I'll probably go Ice Storm next...

 

and then Hasten.

 

Problems were?

 

Speed.  Dam (with -res and proc uniques to be added.)  Def'.

 

So all of those will have been addressed.

 

Update: L50.  Hasten aquired.  Big difference.  Went for Snow/Ice Storm to stack with Sleet...and the two other AoEs I have plus Terrorize.  I use the 'Hold' to keep the mob from running off sleet.

 

Alpha.  Cardiac?  Bit of an end problem.  But the radial cardiac gives end red, fear, range, sleep, absorb. dam resistance.  That's good value for a Domi?  I was going to go Musc'.  But does it give as much as that?

 

Can I perma-domi this?  What's perma-domi?  85% global rech'?

 

I got Cardiac Alpha.  I don't get hurt as much.  End is a distant problem.  

 

Azrael.

Edited April 11, 2022 by Golden Azrael

[Golden Azrael]

Double post.

Edited April 11, 2022 by Golden Azrael

[Vince]

Yep 85% or higher is good for permadom.

 

i recommend intuition radial or musculature core for the dom. Intuition will get your more dmg, longer holds/range. Musc will get you even more dmg.

 

You shouldn’t have end problems on /psi. That’s what drain psyche is for :)

[oedipus_tex]

Usually instead of taking Cardiac Alpha I recommend either Musculature (either tree) or Intuition Radial. All of those provide Damage above the normal cap, so you end up with either +22% or +30% damage depending on the one you take.

 

If you still need Endurance, which a lot of Doms will, you can take Destiny Ageless, which will solve your end bar problems permanently, at least as long you stick to level 50 content.  

 

A bonus to Ageless is it provides some extra barrier against -Recharge debuffs and can also help you skimp a little on global Recharge, allowing more procs.

Edited April 11, 2022 by oedipus_tex

[EnjoyTheJourney]

23 hours ago, Golden Azrael said:

Update.  

 

L45.  Gone with Ice Epic.  x3 slots.  -def.  Acc.  End.  Rech'.  It's a great debuff.  -41% def'.  Slows.  Makes Psi hit 'harder.'  

 

Added Ice Shield.  Smashing def' x3 SO slots.  1 end red'.

 

I'll probably go Ice Storm next...

 

and then Hasten.

 

Problems were?

 

Speed.  Dam (with -res and proc uniques to be added.)  Def'.

 

So all of those will have been addressed.

 

Update: L50.  Hasten aquired.  Big difference.  Went for Snow/Ice Storm to stack with Sleet...and the two other AoEs I have plus Terrorize.  I use the 'Hold' to keep the mob from running off sleet.

 

Alpha.  Cardiac?  Bit of an end problem.  But the radial cardiac gives end red, fear, range, sleep, absorb. dam resistance.  That's good value for a Domi?  I was going to go Musc'.  But does it give as much as that?

 

Can I perma-domi this?  What's perma-domi?  85% global rech'?

 

I got Cardiac Alpha.  I don't get hurt as much.  End is a distant problem.  

 

Azrael.

I'd echo Tex's suggestion, and suggest that musculature core is a good choice. Take barrier core for your destiny pick if your defenses are a little lacking. Otherwise, take ageless for more recharge and better damage (and more access to AOE controls that allow you to take the initiative against mobs). Considering taking and trying out melee core hybrid for better resists, regen, and mez protection (assault maxes out damage, but melee core hybrid adds sooo much to survivability, in most content). 

[oedipus_tex]

Somewhere in my train of thought I lost sight of the fact that this is a /Psi Dominator.

 

You shouldn't be having endurance problems. If you are, it's because you're probably being too timid with Drain Psyche. Even if you are down to just two enemies remaining its usually worth it to Drain them. Alternatively, take off toward the next pack of enemies when your DP is just about to recharge and make the other enemies chase you. 

 

Destiny Barrier all the way for /Psi Assault. The ability to pick Barrier is one of the highlights of having Drain Psyche handling your healing and recovery.

[Golden Azrael]

Hello _Tex.  Ty for your reply.

 

I'm reasonably efficient in 'energy siphon' style powers.  (Dark/Dark tank/scrapper, Elec Domi/blaster, Elec/kin corr'...)  Tend to like the ol' blap.  I tend to eshew the 'play at range' style (in general.)   Drain Psyche isn't 'bad.'  I remember even thinking it was good on live when my Duo partner had it.  (Wow.  He has no end problems and I'm here with my tongue hanging out...)  I guess I've been thoroughly spoiled by the room style end hoover that is a War Shade which I played to death one or two alts ago.   (Azrael..., so you're saying?)  By comparison, you have to be 'really tight' to the mob to get the full bounty on that Drain Psyche.  I often find I'm getting 1, 2 or 3 mobs but not quite the fully monty on it.  It works.  But when you've floored your end bar (which is easy to do on Dominators...ie.  Good job I have Power Sink on my Elec Elec Domi...) it can 'take its time' for the end bar to get back up (relative to the sun aka the War Shade.)  I'm not fully hard wired in on Mind/Psi.  So, probably more practice required on it.  I have had more than 3/4 samples of DS from 'moar' mobs (if you're really surrounded.)  Perhaps that is where Domi's could have their radius improved like you've suggested, _Tex?  It's a bit tight compared to the WS mire hoover.  Just something I've noticed from 'end sucking' on both.

 

Not fully built out yet.  But most major attacks or controls are x2 end reducted.  I don't like alts that bleed end.  Partly my reason for choosing Cardiac.

 

It might partly be the hasten crash (which causes a chunk of end to go) just as you're in the 'thick' of giving the 'gift' in combat.

 

Two mobs will give you a reasonable return from Drain Psyche.  I've noticed that.  It's good enough.  For sure.  But the combat tip of moving to the next juicy mob to get a more juicy return on it is the voice of experience talking.  Good point.

 

Hmm.  Barrier.  Wit you saying dat, it now seems such an obvious choice for so many reasons and yes, Drain Psyche.  It's one of the two choices I'm considering.  I know with end game content 40-50+.  It's all about the debuff.  I've had my fire/fire tank thrown to Hospital from a Carnie mission.  And squishies, in addition to the handicap of being stunned, or slapped by a Wolf and HP'd in a few punches...the debuffs can cripple you're only modus operandi for survival.  Your controls and assaults.  Radial Ageless is the one I was thinking of taking to counter this.  You get debuff, blistering speed and moAR end.  Barrier was my other choice.  Perhaps I can take the latter when my global recharge is 85%+.

 

Caveat.  I@m not built out yet.  But I have started with the two global defence uniques in the Ice Shield.   I'm looking at your build, in particular, _Tex.  (if I can find out why the latest version of Mids won't load up...)

 

Azrael.

Edited April 12, 2022 by Golden Azrael

[Golden Azrael]

13 hours ago, EnjoyTheJourney said:

I'd echo Tex's suggestion, and suggest that musculature core is a good choice. Take barrier core for your destiny pick if your defenses are a little lacking. Otherwise, take ageless for more recharge and better damage (and more access to AOE controls that allow you to take the initiative against mobs). Considering taking and trying out melee core hybrid for better resists, regen, and mez protection (assault maxes out damage, but melee core hybrid adds sooo much to survivability, in most content). 

 

Aha.  Another vote for Barrier.  (12% def positions and about 36% Smashing.  Not enough for the crazy stuff I like to do...)  So Barrier would certainly add a dollop of defence and res' for the initial alpha mob attack (currently doing +1x8 on Council maps....) allow to Drain Psyche and stack those AoE/Cone (Scream and Shock') plus Fear.  Actually one thing I do remember from playing my Dark Dark Defender?  Opening with Fear in combat can buy you some time to close to melee.  (I@m not sure it's as all encompassing as the Dark defender version which is fearsome stare?)

 

I'd have to respec to get the TP 'blink' to TP the mob so I can 'Drain Psyche' them.  I just have Hover and CJ at L50 and the cheapo freebie athletic run.  (I Know, that's no way for a L50 to be getting around...)

 

You're spot on re: Melee Hybrid Core.  I've used it on quite a few alts and it smooths out so many rough edged on a build in most general game content.

 

Musc' core.  Given the advice you and Tex have given.  I'm going two ways.

 

Cardiac, Ageless Radial and Assault Radial.

Musc, Barrier and Hybrid.

 

Mano' uh Mano.  I'd like to try both on this.  I suspect the latter when I'm built out will be the comfy slippers and armchair version I'm after.  

 

Azrael.

[Golden Azrael]

16 hours ago, Vince said:

Yep 85% or higher is good for permadom.

 

i recommend intuition radial or musculature core for the dom. Intuition will get your more dmg, longer holds/range. Musc will get you even more dmg.

 

You shouldn’t have end problems on /psi. That’s what drain psyche is for 🙂

 

Cheers, Vince.  I thought it was somewhere around there.  I think I have a build path to get there.  (I was working that out in my head instead of counting sheep last night...)  When Domi is active?  It really elevates Mind/Psi.  Fights just turn in an instant.  

 

Intuition or Musc' Radial.  Noted.  They both have a shopping list of QoLife features attached which could benefit a Domi.  Primarily Damage but the other stuff is 'good' to have.  You notice if it benefits your alt.  I am eager to try the 'MOAR' damage option.  I@m not completely crazy.

 

I think I'd like a bigger radius on DPsyche.  🙂  MoaR practice required for me.  *Goes back to Mind / Psy' school with 'L' plates on.

 

Azrael.

[oedipus_tex]

13 hours ago, Golden Azrael said:

Two mobs will give you a reasonable return from Drain Psyche.  I've noticed that.  It's good enough.  For sure.  But the combat tip of moving to the next juicy mob to get a more juicy return on it is the voice of experience talking.  Good point.

 

 

This is part of what the Fold Space is for. 🙂 Fold Space >> Drain Psyche. 

 

Although this is a video of a Elec/Psi Dom, not Mind/Psi, you can see the basic technique here. Electric plays very very differently from Mind, so all of the strategies may not be the same. With Electric Control for example it's often effective to drop the Sleep patch underfoot and yoink enemies onto you with Fold Space, so you can drain them the instant they land.

 

There's a reasonably good example of the technique at about 4:00.

 

With Mind Control, it may be effective to Sleep them with Mass Hypnosis first (since it won't alert them) and then yoink. Or Mass Confuse first. Or some other method.

 

Please don't judge my playstyle based on the ridiculous first few minutes of this video where I somehow forgot how to play and opened with some of the worst technique of my "career." I feel like the portions that come later, including the bits with the ambushes, show the technique better. Up until my death at around 18:30 that is due to awkwardly walking right into a pack and letting them open fire on me while Defense was low. 

 

 

Edited April 13, 2022 by oedipus_tex

[Golden Azrael]

Thank you for providing the 'Fold Space' clip.  It clearly demonstrates the technique you mention, _Tex.

 

Update.  I've fitted purple sets and others.  And due to my 'sub-standard' slotting...I've fallen agonizingly short of the Domi - Perma 85%?  At?  82.5% Global Recharge. 😄

 

To offset this.  I've taken Ageless Radial and I have Hasten and they give a blistering speed boost to overcome this short fall.  So I'm well inside to 'Perma.'  Having Perma=Domi is major league ownership on x8 mobs.  Carnies.  Council.  You name it.  They don't like Domination.  😛

 

The damage is still somewhat 'light' (I do think the Psi set could do with a pass.)  I can see why you went with the dark patron to augment the damage as a multiplier from the drain.

 

I've gone Ice Epic.  So I'm doing the 'reverse' I'm -def the mobs.  And it does put the boot in.

 

I have all primary power sets.  All 2ndary power sets.  Ice Epic: Sleet, Snowstorm (stacks nicely with sleet...) and the Ice Armour for S&L defence.  CJ.  Hover.  (Yes.  I@m hover blasting/blapping/doming.)

 

I've sought inspiration from your build, _Tex.  Though, I'm not sure I could live without Psy' Scream.  Really stacks with Shockwave and the Fear.

 

Because of the 'all in' selection of powers, the slotting isn't entirely optimised.  I'd have to respec to get the eg. TP powers in.  Probably lose Stealth (which would be nice to have.) and keep 'Scream.'

 

Cardiac.  Ageless Radial.  Storm cloud Lore Pets.  (Thematic.  And Carnie don't seem to like them?)  Judgement.  Ice blast.  Interface.  Not fitted yet.  Hybrid not open yet.

 

Might do a 'build 2' with the dark patrons and the tp stuff.  And lose some of the Psy blasts as per your build.  Not struck on mental blast, another blast I can't remember and a few others eg. TK and maybe 'Lift' if I have to leave 'something' out.

 

Current build needs tweaking.  Still some headroom for more damage and defence.  But that may require a respec.

 

Azrael.

 

 

[Golden Azrael]

Update:

 

So, I finished the build.  It's somewhat flawed.  There are powers I could trade for an extra 12% S*L defence and push the global recharge past 82.5%.

 

I have all powers Inc' Shifted.  Hybrid Tier 3 Radial Assault.  (Really builds on the procs I've put in the build and the damage pops nicely in a crowded mob.)  I'll take it to Tier 4 for more 'Double Hit' chances.  Taking a Psi Double Hit moves it from mediocre to 'decent' if not Earth moving.

 

I've also changed the alpha from Cardiac and tried Musc which is currently Tier 3 radial.  (I think Left Side Tier 4 45% damage is where I'm going with that.)  Suffice to say?  Musc lifts the Psi damage up a level.  You know those 'last sliver of white even cons that take 3 ranged psi shots to take down - yes, it was that bad levelling up - then you don't get any more multi shot sliver of mob life nonsense anymore.  Mind blam.  On the floor with brain fry (with fries.)

 

I think Stacking Musc' Left Tier 4 with Radial Tier 4 Assault is the way to go.  With Destiny's Radial Tier 3 speed, hasten and global rech' you have quite a rinse machine.  I'm now up to +3x8 Council Mobs.  Because of the blistering speed, I can use 'controls' as weapons rather than purely defensively and conservatively.   ie.  In a far more offensive way in melee.  I can start with range and move to melee with far more conviction.

 

So, if you want a Domi' that isn't Fir-UR and Puh-LANT, this has possibilities.  It has some reach.  But you'll have to stick at it.  The ice epic 'Sleet' hurts them and with the insane recharge you can pretty much each Mob some 'Sleet' (I said, 'Sleet.')  The procs elevate some of the powers from AoE mediocrity.  Eg. Fear and Psi-Scream...and Shockwave.  3 blams of that and mobs have had a psychic skewer run through them leaving them in tatters.  There are AoE stacking possibilities here.

 

I could probably lose Subdue.  Don't use it much.  Mental blast.  Don't use it much.  TK.  Don't use it much.  Levitate.  Don't use it much.  That would give me the Fighting Pool and Weave would add 6.5 defence.  I could with the spare slots, fitted another Purple set into the Tier 1 blast.  Giving me another 10% Global Rech' to take me to 92.5%.  It would allow me to take the recharge set of 5% fitted into the Tier 2 power and fit eg. The set Tex has in his Tier 2.  That's another 5% smashing and lethal def.  But it would -5% recharge to my global to 87.5%.

 

The net gain would be 87.5% Global recharge.  6.5% global positional defence would be added to what it currently is which is quite modest at the moment at around 10%.  And 11.5% to S*L taking me from a 'modest' 25.5% to 37%.  Which leaves me only needed a modest 'luck' to cap out in that regard.  I could add the extra power to select Man's from Leadership to give me 7.5% more Global Rech'.  And 3.5% more defence?  Taking me from 37 to 40.5% S*L.  I could add extra slots to Mind AoE and Total Dom' to get an extra 18.5% global recharge as they are currently 1 slot short in each to get that 'extra recharge.'  Though I could take Stealth rather than Man's.  How much of Stealth's defence remains after you attack or are discovered?  Does Stealth make it harder for mobs to hit you in combat?  I have it on my Night Widow.   (It does seem to keep some defence once attack begins.)  I do have a 'Celebrity' Stealth Unique in my Sprint power.

 

So, yes.  The build isn't perfect.  And plenty of room for optimisation.

 

🙂

 

Azrael.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 15, 2022 by Golden Azrael

[Golden Azrael]

Update. 🙂

 

I have fully built out the Mind/Psi Domi'.  Very good.

 

I have improved the defence S*L beyond the cap with Stealth.  Dropped CJ.  I'm a 'Hover' Domi.

 

I have improved Global Recharge to 90%+.

 

Domi does perma.

 

I've gone back from building out Musc to Cardiac.  End bar is very wobbly due to no end red' in Weave or Stealth.  Expensive toggles compared to 'just' Cj.

 

No end problems now.  So I've focused on maxing damage opportunities from Assault radial.  Now Tier 4.  It builds upon the 'proc' damage I have in the build.  (I brought 5 more proc's into the build...much better 'base' damage.  Be nice to have Musc Tier 4 but I wasn't happy having to make the DS call every 30 seconds.  If you miss your end tanks.  Well it did on my build.  Fighting is expensive on end as is Stealth.)

 

I've brought in Barrier insttead of Ageless Radial.  Didn't need the extra 10% speed now I've boosted global recharge and hasten is 8 secs off perma too.

 

Much happier with build now.

 

Just Tier 4 of Barrier Left Side to do.  Currently T3.  Just need to make the 'defences/res' last longer over 2 mins.  I can take an alpha beating from 2 mobs no problem.  Look at them and then put the controls down.  It's a show of force.

 

Much better survivability with Barrier less burning of Lucks to stay alive.  On the original build I was burning lucks each mission.  

 

Decent (but not brute or scrapper levels of damage...) damage, super fast, AoE stacking.  Great controls.  Locking down mobs, sleeping them, making them lampposts, Confusing them....

 

I like it.

 

Azrael.

Edited April 17, 2022 by Golden Azrael

[Golden Azrael]

Oh.  +3x8 anything on Tips missions.  Domination rocks.  Longbow.  Arachnos.  Council.  Carnie.  All p-OwNeD.

 

The Psi damage may be mediocre.  But somethings you have to play the hand you've been given.  I've put procs in the Assault (inspired by Tex's build) and?  I went Assault Radial to have a high chance of a double hit.  That's reasonably potent for a Domi AT.  So whilst I didn't 'hit hard' I NOW hit way HARDER than I did.  Something for mediocre damage dealers to think about.  You have to build it in and make the right trade offs to get certain things.

 

Not Blaster or Brute territory.  But not everything is about them.  ('My ego says otherwise.' Blaster's voice.)

 

I a bit bored with it having shelved it at L40.  But _Tex and the other contributors to this thread gave me the inspiration to 'reach higher.'

 

Azrael.