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[[Category:Arch Mage]]
[[Category:Arch Mage]]
== Introduction ==
== Introduction ==
The main purpose of this guide is to provide information on the gear progression for Soul Vulcan Strike-focused Arch Mages. However, as the gear and concepts are similar across different builds, this should also be helpful for other Arch Mage builds as well as other Magic Damage classes like Soul Ascetic and Elemental Master. Please feel free to reach out to me (IGN: Choi) for any questions or feedback!
The main purpose of this guide is to provide information on the gear progression for Soul Vulcan Strike-focused Arch Mages. However, as the gear and concepts are similar across different builds, this should also be helpful for other Arch Mage builds as well as other Magic Damage classes like Soul Ascetic and Elemental Master. Please feel free to reach out to me (IGN: Choi or Tokki) for any questions or feedback!
 
Also, I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has helped me, as I learned and continue to learn AM!


== Notes ==
== Notes ==
The Soul Vulcan Strike build has a very fluid progression that will allow the user to be strong throughout all parts of the game. Among the Arch Mage skills, Soul Vulcan Strike has the shortest Fixed Cast Time at 1s. Along with its short cooldown, high damage, and 11 x 11 AoE, Soul Vulcan Strike is a very effective ability for leveling and farming. Additionally, with the Warlock Telekenesis Intense skill providing a 3x damage buff for ghost damage, the Soul Vulcan Strike scales very well into the late game allowing you to MVP even the toughest MVPs.  
The Soul Vulcan Strike build has a very fluid progression that will allow the user to be strong throughout all parts of the game. Among the Arch Mage skills, Soul Vulcan Strike has the shortest Fixed Cast Time at 1s. Along with its short cooldown, its high damage and 11 x 11 AoE make Soul Vulcan Strike a very effective ability for leveling and farming. Additionally, with the Warlock Telekenesis Intense skill providing a 3x damage buff for ghost damage, Soul Vulcan Strike scales very well into the late game allowing you to MVP even the toughest MVPs.  


However, due to the nature of Dim Glacier Weapons providing large damage bonuses to specific abilities and the strength of specific elemental MVP cards, you will be mostly gated to having Soul Vulcan Strike as your main magic damage ability. As such, you will be weaker against [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Neutral&p=1 Neutral], [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Holy Holy], [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Poison Poison], and [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Dark&p=1 Shadow] Elemental MvPs and mobs (The main one to note here is Betelgeuse). Even so, you will still be a highly effective MVPer!  
However, due to the nature of Dim Glacier Weapons providing large damage bonuses to specific abilities and the strength of specific elemental MVP cards, you will be mostly gated to having Soul Vulcan Strike as your main magic damage ability. As such, you will be weaker against [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Neutral&p=1 Neutral], [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Holy Holy], [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Poison Poison], and [https://muhro.eu/flux/?module=monster&action=index&name=&mvp=yes&size=-1&race=-1&element=Dark&p=1 Shadow] Elemental MvPs and mobs (The main ones to note here is Betelgeuse and Jabberwocky). Even so, you will still be a highly effective MVPer!  


For other classes and builds, the gear progression and concepts should be fairly similar other than a change in weapon and gear.
For other classes and builds, the gear progression and concepts should be fairly similar other than a change in weapon and gear


== Relevant Skills ==
== Relevant Skills ==
* {{#skill:5220}}: Soul Vulcan Strike is your bread-and-butter ability.  
* {{#skill:5220}}: Your bread-and-butter ability. The formula for Soul Vulcan Strike is MATK (((250 * Skill Level) + (3 * SPL)) * (Base Level/100))%.
* {{#skill:5217}}: Mystery Illusion will be your secondary ability due to the enchantment on your Dim Glacier Weapon. It also pairs well with Soul Vulcan Strike as Mystery Illusion does Shadow Property damage which is effective against holy and not resisted by Neutral.
* {{#skill:5217}}: Your secondary ability due to the enchantment on your Dim Glacier Weapon. It also pairs well with Soul Vulcan Strike as Mystery Illusion does Shadow Property damage which is effective against holy and not resisted by Neutral.
* {{#skill:5012}}: Telekinesis Intense provides a 3x Ghost Magic Damage and 50% Variable Cast Time Reduction Buff for 1 minute or until death. However, it has a 5-minute cooldown, so use it wisely, but don't be frugal about it!
* {{#skill:5012}}: Provides a 3x Ghost Magic Damage and 50% Variable Cast Time Reduction Buff for 1 minute or until death. However, it has a 5-minute cooldown, so use it wisely, but don't be frugal about it!
* {{#skill:366}}: Mystical Amplication provides a 1.5x Matk buff. It has no cooldown, so you should always try to keep it up!
* {{#skill:366}}: Provides a 1.5x Matk buff. It has no cooldown, so you should always try to keep it up!
* {{#skill:2206}}: Recognized Spell provides a buff that lets you do the maximum damage. It's a great overall buff and also allows you to test different gear effectively.  
* {{#skill:2206}}: Provides a buff that lets you do the maximum damage. It's a great overall buff and also allows you to test different gear effectively.  
* {{#skill:2210}}: Drain Life has a 90% chance to absorb 40% of the damage you do with this skill. It should basically full heal you when you use it on a mob.
* {{#skill:2210}}: A damaging ability with a 90% chance to absorb 40% of the damage you do with this skill. It should basically full heal you when you use it on a mob.  
* {{#skill:5216}}: Rain of Crystal is a water elemental 13x13 AoE skill that hits targets around you. Very useful for farming.  
* {{#skill:2213}} AKA {{#skill:2231}} and {{#skill:2230}}: A large AoE skill that provides decent damage. However, it's main use is that it applies a 50% elemental resist decrease debuff for 20s to targets hit by it. However, rather than casting the actual ability, most Arch Mages opt to using Reading Spell Book with {{#item:100073}} and using Release to cast it to avoid any cast time.  
* {{#skill:2213}} AKA {{#skill:2231}} and {{#skill:2230}}: Comet is a large AoE skill that provides decent damage. However, it's main use is that it applies a 50% elemental resist decrease debuff for 20s to targets hit by it. However, rather than casting the actual ability, most Arch Mages opt to using Reading Spell Book with {{#item:100073}} and using Release to cast it to avoid any cast time.  


Your other Arch Mage skills are still powerful, so feel free to use what you would like!
While Soul Vulcan Strike will be your main ability, you should also utilize the rest of an Arch Mage's kit, particularly the AoE Ground Skills. Play around with the different abilities to see which you prefer. These are the abilities I use though!
* {{#skill:5232}}: Provides a buff or different effect to many of your skills. Different levels of Climax will provide different effects. I tend to use Level 3 Climax when trying to do the most damage. On weaker maps, I will use Climax 2. Read through the abilities that you plan on using to understand the effects.
* {{#skill:5222}}: A fire elemental 9x9 ground skill that does significant damage.
* {{#skill:5218}}: An earth elemental ground skill that summons rocks in a 9x9 area. The area of effect is a bit bigger than 9x9 because the rocks have their own aoe as well.
* {{#skill:5216}}: A water elemental 13x13 AoE skill that hits targets around you. One of your biggest AoEs.
* {{#skill:5215}}: A wind elemental 11x11 AoE skill that hits targets around you.
* {{#skill:5227}}: A wind elemental 9x9 ground skill.
* {{#skill:5229}}: A fire elemental 9x9 ground skill.
* {{#skill:5230}}: A powerful neutral elemental 11x11 ground skill. It benefits from the bonus from {{#item:300375}}. However, the skill will require a large skill point investment and costs AP which is hard to recover for the SVS build.
 
== Stats and Traits ==
Generally, Stats should be based on what best suits you. As such, I won't provide my exact Stat distribution, as you should update yours accordingly. Instead, I'll provide my priority and the benefits of each Stat:
# '''Int:''' Provides the highest bonus in StatusMATK. It also provides the second-highest reduction in Variable Cast Time.
# '''Dex:''' Provides the third-highest bonus in StatusMATK. It also provides the highest reduction in Variable Cast Time from stats. Early on, you will want a lot of Dex, as your gear may not provide the VCT reduction you need. Later on, it will be a lower priority. However, I tend to keep a lot of dex in my full build, as I don't always use my full build in lieu of item drop rate gear.
# '''Vit:''' Provides a lot of tankiness through HP, SoftDEF, and SoftMDEF.
# '''Agi:''' Provides some additional tankiness by providing FLEE, and the ATKSPD improves DPS by reducing Cast animation.
# '''Str:''' Provides additional weight capacity which will help for farming.
# '''Luk:''' Provides the second-highest bonus in StatusMATK. However, I use more Dex than Luk because of the cast time reduction.
 
Traits are additional stats that provide bonuses for fourth classes. Traits are bit more straightforward:
# '''SPL (110):''' Provides the highest bonus in S.MATK and your abilities will additionally scale off SPL.
# '''CON (100-110):''' Provides the second-highest bonus in S.MATK.
# '''WIS (50-82):''' Provides Magical Resistance which I prioritize over Physical Resistance, as you will have a lot of Flee for physical damage. 
# '''STA (0-32):''' Provides Physical Resistance.


== Gear Progression ==
== Gear Progression ==
[[Yvonne's Guide]] has a very useful section for Gear Progression and Useful Cards, so please check that out! The information I will provide for Gear Progression will be more specific to Magic Damage Classes, particularly SVS Build Arch Mages.  
[[Madame Celery's Guide to MuhRO]] has a very useful section for Gear Progression and Useful Cards, so please check that out! The information I will provide for Gear Progression will be more specific to Magic Damage Classes, particularly SVS Build Arch Mages. As you read through, you can look at the [[Choi's_Guide_To_Magic#Magic_Gear_Progression|Magic Gear Progression Table on my Guide to Magic]]. This table will have links that will guide you to the relevant pages.  


It may be tempting starting out to want to rush your end-game gear. However, I do not recommend doing this and instead recommend improving your gear gradually, so you can farm more effectively.  
It may be tempting starting out to want to rush your end-game gear. However, I do not recommend doing this and instead recommend improving your gear gradually, so you can farm more effectively.  


=== Phase Eden ===
=== Phase Eden ===
At Level 100, you can talk with Labraham and Louis at @go Eden to get your [[Beginners_Guide#Eden_Gear| Advanced Paradise Gear]]. These gears will require {{#item:7318}}, {{#item:1034}}, and {{#item:7200}}. Additionally, you can talk with Lucy in the same room to receive your [[Beginners_Guide#Shadow_Gear| Advanced Paradise Shadow Gear]] by renting it for 20 Eden Coins for 3 days or buying the set permanently for 230 in total.  
At Level 100, you can talk with Labraham and Louis at @go Eden to get your [[Beginners_Guide#Eden_Gear| Advanced Paradise Gear]]. These gears will require {{#item:7318}}, {{#item:1034}}, and {{#item:7200}}. <br> Additionally, you can talk with Lucy in the same room to receive your [[Beginners_Guide#Shadow_Gear| Advanced Paradise Shadow Gear]] by renting it for 20 Eden Coins for 3 days or buying the set permanently for 230 in total.


=== Phase One ===
=== Phase One ===
Moving forward, your main priority is to see where you can reduce your fixed cast time, and your second priority will be increasing your damage output (for now). Abilities will have a specific Fixed Cast Time and Variable Cast Time. For Soul Vulcan Strike your fixed cast time is 1s and your Variable Cast time is 3s. <br>
Moving forward, your main priority is to see where you can reduce your fixed cast time, and your second priority will be increasing your damage output (for now). <br> Abilities will have a specific Fixed Cast Time and Variable Cast Time. For Soul Vulcan Strike your fixed cast time is 1s and your Variable Cast time is 3s. <br>
Fixed Cast Time can be reduced by equipment (Most often through Shoes, Costume Enchant Stones, Accessories, and Higher Level Headgear).<br>
Fixed Cast Time can be reduced by equipment (Most often through Shoes, Costume Enchant Stones, Accessories, and Higher Level Headgear).<br>
Variable Cast Time can be reduced by gear (all types of gear) and stats. The formula for Variable Cast Time is (((Int + (Dex*2))/530) * Bonus VCT from gear). <br>
Variable Cast Time can be reduced by gear (all types of gear) and stats. The formula to calculate your Variable Cast Time Reduction is 1 -((1-((Int + (Dex*2))/530)) * (1 - Bonus VCT from gear)). <br>
For now, just assume that your VCT will come in time and go full int and dex for your stats.  
For now, just assume that your VCT will come in time and go full int and dex for your stats.  


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| Armor || {{#item:450186}} or +7 to +9 {{#item:450110}} || Crimson Bolt is a good secondary ability while you level.  
| Armor || {{#item:450186}} or +7 to +9 {{#item:450110}} || Crimson Bolt is a good secondary ability while you level.  
|-
|-
| Weapon || {{#item:550030}}, {{#item:26109}} or {{#item:2039}} ||
| Weapon || +7 to +11 {{#item:550030}}, +7 to +9 {{#item:2051}}, or +8 to +10 {{#item:2039}} ||
|-
|-
| Shield || N/A || The Two Handed Mastery Passive provides +20 S.Matk, so use Two Handed for now.  
| Shield || N/A || The Two Handed Mastery Passive provides +20 S.Matk, so use Two Handed for now.  
|-
|-
| Garment || +9 to +11 {{#item:20948}} || You can use {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} depending on how long you plan on staying on Illusion Morpheus Shawl. Make it +11 if you decide to enchant it.  
| Garment || +9 to +11 {{#item:20948}} <br> +7 or +9 {{#item: 480019}}|| You can use {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} depending on how long you plan on staying on Illusion Morpheus Shawl. Make it +11 if you decide to enchant it.  
|-
|-
| Shoe || +7 to +9 {{#item:470021}} ||
| Shoe || +7 to +9 {{#item:470021}} ||
|-
|-
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:32238}} or {{#item:490020}} || Use the Grace Ring if you're using the Grace Robe.
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:32238}} or {{#item:490020}} || Use the Grace Ring if you're using the Grace set.
|-
|-
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:32239}} ||
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:32239}} ||
|}
|}
Zeny Tip: Illusion of Underwater 2 and Illusion of Labyrinth are great places to farm zeny starting out, and you'll be able to get {{#item:100425}} and {{#item:100423}} to upgrade your gear or to make Safe to Refine tickets!


=== Phase Two ===
=== Phase Two ===
1s Fixed Cast Reduction is what you need. However, 1.5s is better since most of your other skills (Mystery Illusion, Rain of Crystal, etc.) have 1.5s Fixed Cast. It's up to you to decide whether you want to upgrade to 1.5s by getting the {{#item:470088}} with the {{#item:310602}} or whether you want to sit on the {{#item:470021}} until Phase Three.
1s Fixed Cast Reduction is what you need. However, 1.5s is better since most of your other skills (Mystery Illusion, Rain of Crystal, etc.) have 1.5s Fixed Cast. It's up to you to decide whether you want to upgrade to 1.5s by getting the {{#item:470088}} with the {{#item:310602}} or whether you want to sit on the {{#item:470021}} until Phase Three.
* For Soul Ascetics and Elemental Masters, go for the Gray Wolf Boots; the 1s Fixed Cast Reduction is necessary for you.


The [[Brilliant_Light_Accessories| Brilliant]]/[[Sinful_Accessories| Sinful]] Sapphire Accessory Pairs give a good amount of damage and provide .2s and .3s FCT reduction respectively. With the {{#item:25170}} that gives .3s FCT reduction, you'll have a total of 1s or 1.1s FCT reduction. Additionally, you can get a {{#item:1000614}} for .5s FCT reduction. I do not recommend getting a {{#item:25067}}; it's too expensive, and you'll already have enough FCT!<br>
The [[Brilliant_Light_Accessories| Brilliant]]/[[Sinful_Accessories| Sinful]] Sapphire Accessory Pairs give a good amount of damage and provide .2s and .3s FCT reduction respectively. With the {{#item:25170}} that gives .3s FCT reduction, you'll have a total of 1s or 1.1s FCT reduction. Additionally, you can get a {{#item:1000614}} for .5s FCT reduction. I do not recommend getting a {{#item:25067}}if it's too expensive, as you'll already have enough FCT!<br>
Moving forward, we're just working on damage; let's up those numbers!!  
Moving forward, we're just working on damage; let's up those numbers!!  
Between the {{#item:450178}} and the {{#item:450207}}, both options are great. {{#item:450178}} provides more damage and {{#item:450207}} provides more tankiness. Generally, {{#item:450207}} will be cheaper, as you can buy the necessary enchantment stones from other players. However, this requires other players to have and be willing to sell those stones, which may not always be the case. {{#item:450178}}, however, requires farming of {{#item:1000405}} which may be grindier but more reliable. My recommendation if you plan on going the snow flower route is to make sure that the stones you need for the {{#item:450207}} are available.
The Vesper Headgear is time-gated, requiring mysterious ores from a 24hr cooldown instance. You can try to farm these if you would like or buy these from a vendor.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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! Type !! Item !! Notes
! Type !! Item !! Notes
|-
|-
| Upper || +9 to +11 {{#item:400154}}|| [[Equipment_Crafting#Orbs_of_Survival.2C_Survival_Circlet.2C_Heart_Wings_Hairband.2C_Rosary.27s_Necklace.2C_Drooping_Gunslinger| To Craft]] and [[Various_Headgears_Reform#Survival_Circlet| To Reform]]
| Upper || +9 to +11 {{#item:400154}} or +9 {{#item:400111}}|| [[Equipment_Crafting#Orbs_of_Survival.2C_Survival_Circlet.2C_Heart_Wings_Hairband.2C_Rosary.27s_Necklace.2C_Drooping_Gunslinger| To Craft]] and [[Various_Headgears_Reform#Survival_Circlet| To Reform the Survival Circlet]]. [[Equipment_Crafting#EXP_Advisor,_Vesper_Headgear|To Craft the Vesper Helmet]]
|-
|-
| Middle || {{#item:410017}} or {{#item:410092}} || Unslotted versions are fine if you don't have a card to use.  
| Middle || {{#item:410017}} or {{#item:410092}} || Unslotted versions are fine if you don't have a card to use.  
|-
|-
| Lower || {{#item:420066}}|| [[Equipment_Crafting#Orbs_of_Survival.2C_Survival_Circlet.2C_Heart_Wings_Hairband.2C_Rosary.27s_Necklace.2C_Drooping_Gunslinger| To Craft]] and [[Various_Headgears_Reform#Orbs_of_Survival| To Reform]]
| Lower || {{#item:420066}} <br> {{#item:420022}} <br> {{#item:420003}} || OoS: [[Equipment_Crafting#Orbs_of_Survival.2C_Survival_Circlet.2C_Heart_Wings_Hairband.2C_Rosary.27s_Necklace.2C_Drooping_Gunslinger| To Craft]] and [[Various_Headgears_Reform#Orbs_of_Survival| To Reform]]. Use OoS if you're using Survival Circlet. <br> YL: {{#item:311081}} or {{#item:310985}}, {{#item:4814}} or {{#item:310989}}, {{#item:4712}}. Use Young Leaf if you are using Vesper Helm. Any Young Leaf is fine; it's the enchants that matter.<br> Alternatively, you can continue to use CD in mouth combo for a while.
|-
|-
| Armor || +9 to +11 {{#item:450178}} || {{#item:310532}}{{#item:310510}}{{#item:310507}} [[Gray_Wolf_Equipment#Gray_Wolf_Armor_Enchantments| Gray Wolf Gear can be obtained after completing Episode 18]]
| Armor || +9 to +11 {{#item:450178}} <br> +9 to +11 {{#item:450207}} <br> +9 to +11 {{#item:450265}} || GW: {{#item:310532}}{{#item:310510}}{{#item:310507}}. [[Gray_Wolf_Equipment#Gray_Wolf_Armor_Enchantments| Gray Wolf Gear can be obtained after completing Episode 18 ]]  
SF: {{#item:1000717}} or {{#item:1000718}}, {{#item:1000721}}, {{#item:1000773}}. [[Issgard_Equipment#Enchantment_Snow_Flower| Snow Flower gear can be obtained after completing Episode 19 ]]. Only get Snow Flower if the related Ice Flower Magic Stones are easily obtainable (available in vend). <br> Glacier: {{#item:312066}}, {{#item:312063}} or {{#item:312067}}, {{#item:312059}}. [[20_The_Immortal| Glacier gear can be obtained after completing Episode 20 ]].
|-
|-
| Weapon || +9 {{#item:640033}} || {{#item:311353}}{{#item:311351}}{{#item:311349}}{{#item:311343}} '''Just buy this from a seller!'''
| Weapon || +9 {{#item:640033}} || {{#item:311353}}{{#item:311351}}{{#item:311349}}{{#item:311343}} '''Just buy this from a seller!'''
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| Garment || +9 or +11 {{#item:20948}} || You can use {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} depending on how long you plan on staying on Illusion Morpheus Shawl. Make it +11 if you decide to enchant it.  
| Garment || +9 or +11 {{#item:20948}} || You can use {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} depending on how long you plan on staying on Illusion Morpheus Shawl. Make it +11 if you decide to enchant it.  
|-
|-
| Shoe || +9 {{#item:470021}} or +7 {{#item:470088}} || {{#item:310602}} if Gray Wolf
| Shoe || +9 {{#item:470021}} <br> +7 {{#item:470088}} <br> +7 {{#item:450268}} || <br> GW: {{#item:310602}} <br> Glacier: {{#item:312076}}
|-
|-
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:490064}} or {{#item:490052}} || [[Brilliant_Light_Enchantment| For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil]]. [[Sinful_Enchantment| For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale]]. I recommend at least level 3 for both.  
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:490064}} <br> {{#item:490052}} || [[Brilliant_Light_Enchantment| For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil]]. <br> [[Sinful_Enchantment| For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale]]. I recommend at least level 3 for both.  
|-
|-
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:490065}} or {{#item:490053}} || [[Brilliant_Light_Enchantment| For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil]]. [[Sinful_Enchantment| For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale]]. I recommend at least level 3 for both.
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:490065}} <br> {{#item:490053}} || [[Brilliant_Light_Enchantment| For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil]]. <br> [[Sinful_Enchantment| For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale]]. I recommend at least level 3 for both.
|}
|}


In terms of Priority:  
In terms of Priority:  
# Weapon, Accessories, Minor Cast Stone  
# Weapon, Accessories, Minor Cast Stone  
# Headgears and Garment
# Armor and Headgears
# Armor and Shoes.  
# Garment and Shoes.
 
Zeny Tip: Thanatos 11 and 12 are great places to farm at this point and in general, and you'll be able to farm the materials for your accessories. {{#item:12710}} will help tremendously to prevent the {{#skill:30}} debuff effect.


=== Phase Three ===
=== Phase Three ===
You can sit pretty comfortably on the Phase Two gears for a while. The best spots to upgrade are probably the Garment and Shoes if you're still on Grace. Now would be a good time to start farming your [[Shadow_Gear#Master_Shadow_Gear| Master Shadow gear]] as well!
You can sit pretty comfortably on the Phase Two gears for a while. The best spots to upgrade are probably the Garment and Shoes if you're still on Grace. Now would be a good time to start farming your [[Shadow_Gear|Shadow gear]] as well!


Dim Glacier Weapons are a great place to start dipping your toes into the [[Grade_Enhancing| painful world of item grading]]! Luckily, the {{#item:101637}} helps ease you in. This is also where you should decide whether you want to go for Two-Handed for more Damage or One-Handed for more tankiness. [[Issgard_Equipment|Dim Glacier and Snow equipment can be obtained after completing Episode 19]]
Dim Glacier Weapons are a great place to start dipping your toes into the [[Grade_Enhancing| painful world of item grading]]! Luckily, the {{#item:101637}} helps ease you in. [[Issgard_Equipment|Dim Glacier and Snow equipment can be obtained after completing Episode 19]].
I highly recommend the Dim Glacier Wand over the Dim Glacier Staff. The Dim Glacier Staff is stronger initially, but the s.matk you gain from {{#skill:5228}} will lose value as you gain more s.matk.
* For other magic classes, the main difference here is going to be in the weapon you use.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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! Type !! Item !! Notes
! Type !! Item !! Notes
|-
|-
| Upper || +9 to +11 {{#item:400154}} ||  
| Upper || +9 to +11 {{#item:400154}} or +9 {{#item:400111}}|| [[Equipment_Crafting#Orbs_of_Survival.2C_Survival_Circlet.2C_Heart_Wings_Hairband.2C_Rosary.27s_Necklace.2C_Drooping_Gunslinger| To Craft]] and [[Various_Headgears_Reform#Survival_Circlet| To Reform the Survival Circlet]]. [[Equipment_Crafting#EXP_Advisor,_Vesper_Headgear|To Craft the Vesper Helmet]]
|-
|-
| Middle || {{#item:410017}} or {{#item:410080}} ||
| Middle || {{#item:410017}} or {{#item:410080}} ||
|-
|-
| Lower || {{#item:420066}} ||  
| Lower || {{#item:420066}} <br> {{#item:420022}} || OoS: [[Equipment_Crafting#Orbs_of_Survival.2C_Survival_Circlet.2C_Heart_Wings_Hairband.2C_Rosary.27s_Necklace.2C_Drooping_Gunslinger| To Craft]] and [[Various_Headgears_Reform#Orbs_of_Survival| To Reform]]. Use OoS if you're using Survival Circlet. <br> YL: {{#item:311081}} or {{#item:310985}}, {{#item:4814}} or {{#item:310989}}, {{#item:4712}}. Use Young Leaf if you are using Vesper Helm. Any Young Leaf is fine; it's the enchants that matter.
|-
|-
| Armor || +11 {{#item:450178}} || {{#item:310532}}{{#item:310510}}{{#item:310507}}
| Armor || +11 {{#item:450178}} <br> +9 to +11 {{#item:450207}} <br> +9 to +11 {{#item:450265}}|| GW: {{#item:310532}}{{#item:310510}}{{#item:310507}} <br> SF: {{#item:1000717}} or {{#item:1000718}}, {{#item:1000721}}, {{#item:1000773}} <br> Glacier: {{#item:312066}}, {{#item:312063}} or {{#item:312067}}, {{#item:312059}}
|-
|-
| Weapon || +12 [A]{{#item:640034}} or +12[A] {{#item:550089}} || {{#item:311458}}{{#item:311294}}{{#item:311294}}
| Weapon || +12[A] {{#item:550089}} || {{#item:311458}}{{#item:311294}}{{#item:311294}}
|-
|-
| Shield || +10 {{#item:460018}} || {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} Use the shield if you're using a One-Handed weapon.  
| Shield || +11 {{#item:460018}} <br> +10 {{#item:460040}} || ISG: {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} <br> Glacier: Your choice on the enchants for the Glacier Guard. <br> Switch to shield if you're using a One-Handed weapon.  
|-
|-
| Garment || +11 {{#item:480125}} || Please see below notes for more information on the convertible Wing
| Garment || +11 {{#item:480125}} <br> +9 or +10 {{#item:450267}} || CMW: Please see below notes for more information on the convertible Wing <br> Glacier: {{#item:312070}} for Slot 2
|-
|-
| Shoe || +7 to +9 [C] {{#item:470204}} || Start on the Dim Glacier Weapon until you have the 30 {{#item:1001033}} [[Equipment_Crafting#Pirate_Captain's_Coat,_Moan_of_Corruption,_Crown_of_Beelzebub| to craft it]]
| Shoe || +7 to +9 [C] {{#item:470204}} || Start on the Dim Glacier Weapon until you have the 30 {{#item:1001033}} [[Equipment_Crafting#Pirate_Captain's_Coat,_Moan_of_Corruption,_Crown_of_Beelzebub| to craft it]]
|-
|-
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:490064}} or {{#item:490052}} ||  
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:490064}} <br> {{#item:490052}} || [[Brilliant_Light_Enchantment| For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil]]. <br> [[Sinful_Enchantment| For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale]]. I recommend at least level 3 for both.
|-
|-
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:490065}} or {{#item:490053}} ||
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:490065}} <br> {{#item:490053}} || [[Brilliant_Light_Enchantment| For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil]]. <br> [[Sinful_Enchantment| For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale]]. I recommend at least level 3 for both.
|}
|}


Line 141: Line 175:
* You need Episode 15 done (you can use a clear ticket)
* You need Episode 15 done (you can use a clear ticket)
* You can use Safe to Refine Tickets on {{#item:20732}}, {{#item:20733}}, {{#item:16030}}, and {{#item:480125}}
* You can use Safe to Refine Tickets on {{#item:20732}}, {{#item:20733}}, {{#item:16030}}, and {{#item:480125}}
Zeny Tip: You should be able to farm comfortably at Clock Tower Basement and Niflheim 2 now, and they'll provide a lot of great end-game material as well. As mentioned, now would be a great time to work on your shadow gear, as both those maps provide {{#item:25729}}.


=== Phase Four ===
=== Phase Four ===
We're almost at End Game. Time to make some of the tougher gears. You can skip to Phase Five if you think you can comfortably get the Equipment from Constellation Tower (Hard).
We're almost at End Game. Time to make some of the tougher gears. You can skip to Phase Five if you think you can comfortably get the Equipment from Constellation Tower (Hard), Alice Twisted Madness (Hard) and Depth 1 and 2.  
 
Note: The Vesper Headgear is time-gated, requiring mysterious ores from a 24hr cooldown instance. I recommend going ahead and farming these daily with some friends before you get to Phase Four.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 158: Line 192:
| Lower || {{#item:420022}} || {{#item:311081}} or {{#item:310985}}, {{#item:4814}} or {{#item:310989}}, {{#item:4712}}. Do not change to Young Leaf until you switch to the Vesper Headgear. Any Young Leaf is fine; it's the enchants that matter.  
| Lower || {{#item:420022}} || {{#item:311081}} or {{#item:310985}}, {{#item:4814}} or {{#item:310989}}, {{#item:4712}}. Do not change to Young Leaf until you switch to the Vesper Headgear. Any Young Leaf is fine; it's the enchants that matter.  
|-
|-
| Armor || +11 {{#item:450178}} || {{#item:310532}}{{#item:310510}}{{#item:310507}}
| Armor || +11 {{#item:450178}} <br> +9 to +11 {{#item:450207}} <br> +9 to +11 {{#item:450265}} || GW: {{#item:310532}}{{#item:310510}}{{#item:310507}} <br> SF: {{#item:1000717}} or {{#item:1000718}}, {{#item:1000721}}, {{#item:1000773}} <br> Glacier: {{#item:312066}}, {{#item:312063}} or {{#item:312067}}, {{#item:312059}}
|-
|-
| Weapon || +12 [A]{{#item:640034}} or +12 [A] {{#item:550089}} || {{#item:311458}}{{#item:311294}}{{#item:311294}}
| Weapon || +12 [A] {{#item:550089}} || {{#item:311458}}{{#item:311294}}{{#item:311294}}
|-
|-
| Shield || +11 {{#item:460018}} || {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} Use the shield if you're using a One-Handed weapon.  
| Shield || +11 {{#item:460018}} or <br> +10 or +11 [C] {{#item:460040}} || ISG: {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} <br> Glacier: Your choice on the enchants for the Glacier Guard.
|-
|-
| Garment || +11 {{#item:480125}} ||
| Garment || +11 {{#item:480125}} <br> +9 or +10 {{#item:450267}} || <br> Glacier: {{#item:312070}} for Slot 2
|-
|-
| Shoe || +12 [A] {{#item:470204}} ||
| Shoe || +12 [A] {{#item:470204}} ||
Line 174: Line 208:


=== Phase Five ===
=== Phase Five ===
AKA the final phase. I was considering combining Phase Four with Phase Five, but Phase Five is essentially gated by the Gear that you get from Constellation Tower.  
AKA the final phase. Phase Five revolves around the gear you get from Constellation Tower, Alice Twisted Madness, and Biosphere Depths and Depths 2.  
The Enchants on the Stellar Spell Seal provide a large boost in VCT reduction that you'll need after losing the Convertible Magical Wing and Wolf Robe. I don't recommend switching out of the Convertible Magical Wing until you get the Stellar Spell Seal fully enchanted and upgraded.  
The Enchants on the Stellar Spell Seal provide a large boost in VCT reduction that you'll need after losing the Convertible Magical Wing and Wolf Robe. I don't recommend switching out of the Convertible Magical Wing until you get the Stellar Spell Seal fully enchanted and upgraded.  
The {{#item:450284}} is the better armor, particularly against bosses. However, you will still likely need {{#item:450173}} before being able to farm Biosphere Depths effectively. 
The Items from Alice Twisted Madness can provide S.Matk and Magic Damage with Element or provide a lot of VCT Reduction. You should get enchants according to the amount of VCT reduction you need for your build.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 182: Line 220:
! Type !! Item !! Notes
! Type !! Item !! Notes
|-
|-
| Upper || +11 to +12  [A]{{#item:400111}} ||  
| Upper || +11 to +12  [A]{{#item:400111}} <br> +12  [A]{{#item:400535}} || <br> TD: {{#item:4714}}, {{#item:312718}} or {{#item:312700}} or {{#item:312709}}, {{#item:312759}}
|-
|-
| Middle || {{#item:410017}} or {{#item:410080}} ||
| Middle || {{#item:410233}} ||
|-
|-
| Lower || {{#item:420022}} || {{#item:311081}} or {{#item:310985}}, {{#item:4814}} or {{#item:310989}}, {{#item:4712}}
| Lower || {{#item:420213}} ||
|-
|-
| Armor || +11 to +12 [A]{{#item:450173}} || {{#item:310688}},{{#item:310738}} or {{#item:310744}}, {{#item:4714}}
| Armor || +12 [A]{{#item:450173}} <br> +11 to +12 [A]{{#item:450284}} || Nebula: {{#item:310688}},{{#item:310738}} or {{#item:310744}}, {{#item:4714}} <br> Depth: {{#item:312374}}, {{#item:312364}}, {{#item:312359}}
|-
|-
| Weapon || +12 [A]{{#item:640034}} or +12 [A] {{#item:550089}} || {{#item:311458}}{{#item:311294}}{{#item:311294}}
| Weapon || +12 [A] {{#item:550089}} <br> +12 [A] {{#item:640049}} or +12 [A] {{#item:640050}} || Dim: {{#item:311458}}{{#item:311294}}{{#item:311294}} <br> TD: For the TD Weapon, use the enchant you prefer.
|-
|-
| Shield || +11 {{#item:460018}} || {{#item:29001}} {{#item:29001}} Use the shield ifyou're using a One-Handed weapon.  
| Shield || +9 to +12 [A] {{#item:460020}} <br> +10 to +12  [C] {{#item:460040}} || MB: {{#item:310860}} or {{#item:310872}}. <br> Glacier: Your choice on the enchants for the Glacier Guard. <br> With the TD Weapons, you will not be able to use a shield.
|-
|-
| Garment || +11 [A] {{#item:480233}} || {{#item:310925}}{{#item:4714}} Second Slot Enchant is your choice.
| Garment || +11 [A] {{#item:480233}} <br> +11 [A] {{#item:480284}} || DRM: {{#item:310925}}{{#item:4714}} Second Slot Enchant is your choice. <br> Dim: {{#item:312157}}, {{#item:312156}}, {{#item:312136}}
|-
|-
| Shoe || +12 [A] {{#item:470204}} ||
| Shoe || +12 [A] {{#item:470204}} ||
|-
|-
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:490136}} || {{#item:310711}}{{#item:310711}}
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:490136}} <br> {{#item:490304}} || SSS: {{#item:310711}}{{#item:310711}} <br> TRR: {{#item:311958}}{{#item:311998}} If you don't need the VCT Reduction from Stellar Spell Seal you can use a Temple Rune Ring instead.
|-
|-
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:490307}} || {{#item:311958}}{{#item:311998}} Second Slot Enchant is your choice. Best is {{#item:311943}}
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:490307}} || TMR: {{#item:311958}}{{#item:311998}} Second Slot Enchant is your choice. Best is {{#item:311943}}
|}
|}


=== Misc ===
For pure damage, {{#item:490304}} is better than {{#item:490136}} due to the power of the Second Slot Enchant. However, the Second Slot Enchant is limited to two races (unless you get the normal/boss enchant). Additionally, the Stellar Seal gives 30% variable cast reduction from a single accessory which is very powerful.
Shadow Gear: the [[Shadow_Gear#Master_Shadow_Gear| Master Shadow Gear]] provides the greatest damage boost for magic classes. Especially those that primarily focus on one ability, as [[Shadow_Enchanting#Master_Shadow_Gear_Enchanting| the enchants will increase the damage for one ability]]. <br>
 
Costume Stones: The Arch Bishop ({{#item:1000857}}, {{#item:1000859}}, and {{#item:25709}}/{{#item:1000019}}) Combo provides the largest Magic Damage increase.  
{{#item:490052}} and {{#item:490053}} will still be useful to have due to its race modifiers against dragon which will be very strong against Betelgeuse and Jabberwocky.
 
== Misc ==
=== Shadow Gear ===
For more information on Magic Shadow Gear, please check out the [[Choi's_Guide_To_Magic#Shadow_Gear|Shadow Gear section on the Guide to Magic]].
 
Some great options for mixed Blue Shadow Gear are:
* Armor: {{#item:24883}}
* Weapon: {{#item:24753}}
* Shield: {{#item:24754}}
* Shoes: {{#item:24884}}
* Earring: {{#item:24665}}
* Pendant: {{#item:24668}}
 
=== Costume Stones and Pets ===
[[Costume_Enchants_(Fashion_Points)#Enchant_Stones| Costume Stones]]: <br>
* Arch Mage Combo: {{#item: 1001787}}, {{#item: 1000613}}, {{#item: 1000614}}, {{#item: 1000615}}<br>
* Arch Bishop Combo: {{#item:1000857}}, {{#item:1000859}}, and {{#item:25709}}/{{#item:1000019}} <br><br>
 
[[Pet_System|Cute Pets]]: {{#item:9122}}, {{#item:9134}}, and Icewind Egg (9147) are good choices.
 
=== Cards ===
You can find a list of cards to use in my [[Choi's_Guide_To_Magic#Cards|Guide to Magic]].
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Cards
|+ Cards
Line 215: Line 275:
| Middle || {{#item:4598}} or {{#item:4169}} || Depends on how much VCT you need
| Middle || {{#item:4598}} or {{#item:4169}} || Depends on how much VCT you need
|-
|-
| Armor || {{#item:4392}} || Pairs with {{#item:300269}}
| Armor || {{#item:4392}}, {{#item:300376}}, or {{#item:300308}} || {{#item:4392}} Pairs with {{#item:300269}}
|-
|-
| Weapon || {{#item:27384}} ||
| Weapon || {{#item:27384}} or {{#item:300455}} || {{#item:300455}} Pairs with {{#item:300458}}
|-
|-
| Shield || {{#item:27385}} ||
| Shield || {{#item:27385}} or {{#item:300379}} || {{#item:300379}} should be used on a +12 shield
|-
|-
| Garment || {{#item:300269}} or {{#item:300375}} || One Eyed Dollocaris is better with Level 2 +12 Garment
| Garment || {{#item:300269}}, {{#item:300375}}, or {{#item:300424}} ||
|-
|-
| Shoe || {{#item:4658}} ||
| Shoe || {{#item:4658}} or {{#item:300458}} || {{#item:300455}} Pairs with {{#item:300458}}
|-
|-
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:4577}} ||  
| Accessory (Right) || {{#item:300470}}, {{#item:4577}}, {{#item:4040}}|| {{#item:4040}} allows the use of teleport!
|-
|-
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:300370}} ||  
| Accessory (Left) || {{#item:300370}} ||  
|}
|}
For other classes or builds, [[Madame_Celery's_Guide_to_MuhRO#Card_List|Celery's guide has a great list of relevant cards]].

Latest revision as of 03:32, 17 November 2024

Introduction

The main purpose of this guide is to provide information on the gear progression for Soul Vulcan Strike-focused Arch Mages. However, as the gear and concepts are similar across different builds, this should also be helpful for other Arch Mage builds as well as other Magic Damage classes like Soul Ascetic and Elemental Master. Please feel free to reach out to me (IGN: Choi or Tokki) for any questions or feedback!

Also, I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has helped me, as I learned and continue to learn AM!

Notes

The Soul Vulcan Strike build has a very fluid progression that will allow the user to be strong throughout all parts of the game. Among the Arch Mage skills, Soul Vulcan Strike has the shortest Fixed Cast Time at 1s. Along with its short cooldown, its high damage and 11 x 11 AoE make Soul Vulcan Strike a very effective ability for leveling and farming. Additionally, with the Warlock Telekenesis Intense skill providing a 3x damage buff for ghost damage, Soul Vulcan Strike scales very well into the late game allowing you to MVP even the toughest MVPs.

However, due to the nature of Dim Glacier Weapons providing large damage bonuses to specific abilities and the strength of specific elemental MVP cards, you will be mostly gated to having Soul Vulcan Strike as your main magic damage ability. As such, you will be weaker against Neutral, Holy, Poison, and Shadow Elemental MvPs and mobs (The main ones to note here is Betelgeuse and Jabberwocky). Even so, you will still be a highly effective MVPer!

For other classes and builds, the gear progression and concepts should be fairly similar other than a change in weapon and gear

Relevant Skills

  • 5220.png Soul Vulcan Strike: Your bread-and-butter ability. The formula for Soul Vulcan Strike is MATK (((250 * Skill Level) + (3 * SPL)) * (Base Level/100))%.
  • 5217.png Mystery Illusion: Your secondary ability due to the enchantment on your Dim Glacier Weapon. It also pairs well with Soul Vulcan Strike as Mystery Illusion does Shadow Property damage which is effective against holy and not resisted by Neutral.
  • 5012.png Telekinesis Intense: Provides a 3x Ghost Magic Damage and 50% Variable Cast Time Reduction Buff for 1 minute or until death. However, it has a 5-minute cooldown, so use it wisely, but don't be frugal about it!
  • 366.png Mystical Amplification: Provides a 1.5x Matk buff. It has no cooldown, so you should always try to keep it up!
  • 2206.png Recognized Spell: Provides a buff that lets you do the maximum damage. It's a great overall buff and also allows you to test different gear effectively.
  • 2210.png Drain Life: A damaging ability with a 90% chance to absorb 40% of the damage you do with this skill. It should basically full heal you when you use it on a mob.
  • 2213.png Comet AKA 2231.png Reading Spell Book and 2230.png Release: A large AoE skill that provides decent damage. However, it's main use is that it applies a 50% elemental resist decrease debuff for 20s to targets hit by it. However, rather than casting the actual ability, most Arch Mages opt to using Reading Spell Book with 100073.png Spell Book (Comet) (100073) and using Release to cast it to avoid any cast time.

While Soul Vulcan Strike will be your main ability, you should also utilize the rest of an Arch Mage's kit, particularly the AoE Ground Skills. Play around with the different abilities to see which you prefer. These are the abilities I use though!

  • 5232.png Climax: Provides a buff or different effect to many of your skills. Different levels of Climax will provide different effects. I tend to use Level 3 Climax when trying to do the most damage. On weaker maps, I will use Climax 2. Read through the abilities that you plan on using to understand the effects.
  • 5222.png All Bloom: A fire elemental 9x9 ground skill that does significant damage.
  • 5218.png Violent Quake: An earth elemental ground skill that summons rocks in a 9x9 area. The area of effect is a bit bigger than 9x9 because the rocks have their own aoe as well.
  • 5216.png Rain of Crystal: A water elemental 13x13 AoE skill that hits targets around you. One of your biggest AoEs.
  • 5215.png Destructive Hurricane: A wind elemental 11x11 AoE skill that hits targets around you.
  • 5227.png Tornado Storm: A wind elemental 9x9 ground skill.
  • 5229.png Floral Flare Road: A fire elemental 9x9 ground skill.
  • 5230.png Astral Strike: A powerful neutral elemental 11x11 ground skill. It benefits from the bonus from 300375.png One Eye Dollocaris Card (300375) . However, the skill will require a large skill point investment and costs AP which is hard to recover for the SVS build.

Stats and Traits

Generally, Stats should be based on what best suits you. As such, I won't provide my exact Stat distribution, as you should update yours accordingly. Instead, I'll provide my priority and the benefits of each Stat:

  1. Int: Provides the highest bonus in StatusMATK. It also provides the second-highest reduction in Variable Cast Time.
  2. Dex: Provides the third-highest bonus in StatusMATK. It also provides the highest reduction in Variable Cast Time from stats. Early on, you will want a lot of Dex, as your gear may not provide the VCT reduction you need. Later on, it will be a lower priority. However, I tend to keep a lot of dex in my full build, as I don't always use my full build in lieu of item drop rate gear.
  3. Vit: Provides a lot of tankiness through HP, SoftDEF, and SoftMDEF.
  4. Agi: Provides some additional tankiness by providing FLEE, and the ATKSPD improves DPS by reducing Cast animation.
  5. Str: Provides additional weight capacity which will help for farming.
  6. Luk: Provides the second-highest bonus in StatusMATK. However, I use more Dex than Luk because of the cast time reduction.

Traits are additional stats that provide bonuses for fourth classes. Traits are bit more straightforward:

  1. SPL (110): Provides the highest bonus in S.MATK and your abilities will additionally scale off SPL.
  2. CON (100-110): Provides the second-highest bonus in S.MATK.
  3. WIS (50-82): Provides Magical Resistance which I prioritize over Physical Resistance, as you will have a lot of Flee for physical damage.
  4. STA (0-32): Provides Physical Resistance.

Gear Progression

Madame Celery's Guide to MuhRO has a very useful section for Gear Progression and Useful Cards, so please check that out! The information I will provide for Gear Progression will be more specific to Magic Damage Classes, particularly SVS Build Arch Mages. As you read through, you can look at the Magic Gear Progression Table on my Guide to Magic. This table will have links that will guide you to the relevant pages.

It may be tempting starting out to want to rush your end-game gear. However, I do not recommend doing this and instead recommend improving your gear gradually, so you can farm more effectively.

Phase Eden

At Level 100, you can talk with Labraham and Louis at @go Eden to get your Advanced Paradise Gear. These gears will require 7318.png Old Pick (7318) , 1034.png Blue Hair (1034) , and 7200.png Elastic Band (7200) .
Additionally, you can talk with Lucy in the same room to receive your Advanced Paradise Shadow Gear by renting it for 20 Eden Coins for 3 days or buying the set permanently for 230 in total.

Phase One

Moving forward, your main priority is to see where you can reduce your fixed cast time, and your second priority will be increasing your damage output (for now).
Abilities will have a specific Fixed Cast Time and Variable Cast Time. For Soul Vulcan Strike your fixed cast time is 1s and your Variable Cast time is 3s.
Fixed Cast Time can be reduced by equipment (Most often through Shoes, Costume Enchant Stones, Accessories, and Higher Level Headgear).
Variable Cast Time can be reduced by gear (all types of gear) and stats. The formula to calculate your Variable Cast Time Reduction is 1 -((1-((Int + (Dex*2))/530)) * (1 - Bonus VCT from gear)).
For now, just assume that your VCT will come in time and go full int and dex for your stats.

At Level 150, you can start using 470021.png Grace Magic Boots [1] (470021) , which can be obtained after completing the 17.1 Questline from the Sentinel NPC. The boots are the easiest way to obtain some Fixed Cast Reduction, providing .5s at Refine Level 7.
At Level 170, you will have access to the Illusion of Labyrinth and its related equipment. The Illusion Morpheus Set will provide a good boost in damage, and a +9 19428.png Illusion Morpheus's Hood [1] (19428) will give you Skill Cast Interruption Protection.
Lastly, the Advanced Paradise Equipment does not provide a Middle or Lower Headgear, so getting middle and lower headgears will provide an easy upgrade.

Phase 1 Gear
Type Item Notes
Upper +9 to +11 19428.png Illusion Morpheus's Hood [1] (19428) You can use 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) depending on how long you plan on staying on Illusion Morpheus Hood. Make it +11 if you decide to enchant it.
Middle 410091.png Cor Core Booster (410091) or 410092.png Cor Core Booster [1] (410092) Depending on if you have a card or not.
Lower 420003.png CD in Mouth (420003)
Armor 450186.png Advanced Paradise Robe (450186) or +7 to +9 450110.png Grace Crimson Robe [1] (450110) Crimson Bolt is a good secondary ability while you level.
Weapon +7 to +11 550030.png Illusion Thorny Staff of Darkness [2] (550030) , +7 to +9 2051.png Illusion Survivor's Staff [2] (2051) , or +8 to +10 2039.png Illusion Wizardry Staff [2] (2039)
Shield N/A The Two Handed Mastery Passive provides +20 S.Matk, so use Two Handed for now.
Garment +9 to +11 20948.png Illusion Morpheus's Shawl [1] (20948)
+7 or +9 480019.png Grace Magic Manteau [1] (480019)		 You can use 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) depending on how long you plan on staying on Illusion Morpheus Shawl. Make it +11 if you decide to enchant it.
Shoe +7 to +9 470021.png Grace Magic Boots [1] (470021)
Accessory (Right) 32238.png Illusion Morpheus's Ring [1] (32238) or 490020.png Grace Magic Ring [1] (490020) Use the Grace Ring if you're using the Grace set.
Accessory (Left) 32239.png Illusion Morpheus's Bracelet [1] (32239)

Zeny Tip: Illusion of Underwater 2 and Illusion of Labyrinth are great places to farm zeny starting out, and you'll be able to get 100425.png Underwater Refinement Box (100425) and 100423.png Labyrinth Refinement Box (100423) to upgrade your gear or to make Safe to Refine tickets!

Phase Two

1s Fixed Cast Reduction is what you need. However, 1.5s is better since most of your other skills (Mystery Illusion, Rain of Crystal, etc.) have 1.5s Fixed Cast. It's up to you to decide whether you want to upgrade to 1.5s by getting the 470088.png Gray Wolf Shoes [1] (470088) with the 310602.png Wolf Orb (Fixed Casting) Lv.3 (310602) or whether you want to sit on the 470021.png Grace Magic Boots [1] (470021) until Phase Three.

The Brilliant/ Sinful Sapphire Accessory Pairs give a good amount of damage and provide .2s and .3s FCT reduction respectively. With the 25170.png Minor Casting Stone (Garment) (25170) that gives .3s FCT reduction, you'll have a total of 1s or 1.1s FCT reduction. Additionally, you can get a 1000614.png Warlock Stone (1000614) for .5s FCT reduction. I do not recommend getting a 25067.png Cast Stone (Garment) (25067) if it's too expensive, as you'll already have enough FCT!
Moving forward, we're just working on damage; let's up those numbers!!

Between the 450178.png Gray Wolf Robe [1] (450178) and the 450207.png Snow Flower Robe [1] (450207) , both options are great. 450178.png Gray Wolf Robe [1] (450178) provides more damage and 450207.png Snow Flower Robe [1] (450207) provides more tankiness. Generally, 450207.png Snow Flower Robe [1] (450207) will be cheaper, as you can buy the necessary enchantment stones from other players. However, this requires other players to have and be willing to sell those stones, which may not always be the case. 450178.png Gray Wolf Robe [1] (450178) , however, requires farming of 1000405.png Amethyst Fragment (1000405) which may be grindier but more reliable. My recommendation if you plan on going the snow flower route is to make sure that the stones you need for the 450207.png Snow Flower Robe [1] (450207) are available.

The Vesper Headgear is time-gated, requiring mysterious ores from a 24hr cooldown instance. You can try to farm these if you would like or buy these from a vendor.

Phase 2 Gear
Type Item Notes
Upper +9 to +11 400154.png Survival Circlet-LT [1] (400154) or +9 400111.png Vesper Headgear [1] (400111) To Craft and To Reform the Survival Circlet. To Craft the Vesper Helmet
Middle 410017.png Battle Processor [1] (410017) or 410092.png Cor Core Booster [1] (410092) Unslotted versions are fine if you don't have a card to use.
Lower 420066.png Orbs of Survival-LT (420066)
420022.png Young Leaf of World Tree (Intelligence) (420022)
420003.png CD in Mouth (420003)		 OoS: To Craft and To Reform. Use OoS if you're using Survival Circlet.
YL: 311081.png SPL Lv2 (311081) or 310985.png S.MATK Lv.2 (310985) , 4814.png Spell Lv2 (4814) or 310989.png MATK Lv.2 (310989) , 4712.png INT+3 (4712) . Use Young Leaf if you are using Vesper Helm. Any Young Leaf is fine; it's the enchants that matter.
Alternatively, you can continue to use CD in mouth combo for a while.
Armor +9 to +11 450178.png Gray Wolf Robe [1] (450178)
+9 to +11 450207.png Snow Flower Robe [1] (450207)
+9 to +11 450265.png Glacier Robe [1] (450265)		 GW: 310532.png Wolf Orb (Shadow Spell) (310532) 310510.png Wolf Orb (Mage) Lv.3 (310510) 310507.png Wolf Orb (Mage) Lv.2 (310507) . Gray Wolf Gear can be obtained after completing Episode 18

SF: 1000717.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Physical Defense) (1000717) or 1000718.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Magical Defense) (1000718) , 1000721.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Magician) (1000721) , 1000773.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Shadow Spell) (1000773) . Snow Flower gear can be obtained after completing Episode 19 . Only get Snow Flower if the related Ice Flower Magic Stones are easily obtainable (available in vend).
Glacier: 312066.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Grand Mage) (312066) , 312063.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Mage) (312063) or 312067.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Power Force) (312067) , 312059.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(SPL&WIS) (312059) . Glacier gear can be obtained after completing Episode 20 .

Weapon +9 640033.png Glacier Staff (640033) 311353.png Glacier Flower Spell (Magical - Element) (311353) 311351.png Glacier Flower Spell (Magical - Size) (311351) 311349.png Glacier Flower Spell (Magical - Race) (311349) 311343.png Glacier Flower Spell (MATK) (311343) Just buy this from a seller!
Shield N/A
Garment +9 or +11 20948.png Illusion Morpheus's Shawl [1] (20948) You can use 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) depending on how long you plan on staying on Illusion Morpheus Shawl. Make it +11 if you decide to enchant it.
Shoe +9 470021.png Grace Magic Boots [1] (470021)
+7 470088.png Gray Wolf Shoes [1] (470088)
+7 450268.png Glacier Shoes [1] (450268)
GW: 310602.png Wolf Orb (Fixed Casting) Lv.3 (310602)
Glacier: 312076.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Fixed Casting) (312076)
Accessory (Right) 490064.png Brilliant Light Sapphire Ring [1] (490064)
490052.png Sinful Sapphire Ring [1] (490052)		 For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil.
For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale. I recommend at least level 3 for both.
Accessory (Left) 490065.png Brilliant Light Sapphire Necklace [1] (490065)
490053.png Sinful Sapphire Necklace [1] (490053)		 For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil.
For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale. I recommend at least level 3 for both.

In terms of Priority:

  1. Weapon, Accessories, Minor Cast Stone
  2. Armor and Headgears
  3. Garment and Shoes.

Zeny Tip: Thanatos 11 and 12 are great places to farm at this point and in general, and you'll be able to farm the materials for your accessories. 12710.png Guyak Pudding (12710) will help tremendously to prevent the 30.png Decrease Agility debuff effect.

Phase Three

You can sit pretty comfortably on the Phase Two gears for a while. The best spots to upgrade are probably the Garment and Shoes if you're still on Grace. Now would be a good time to start farming your Shadow gear as well!

Dim Glacier Weapons are a great place to start dipping your toes into the painful world of item grading! Luckily, the 101637.png Dim Glacier Reinforcement Device (101637) helps ease you in. Dim Glacier and Snow equipment can be obtained after completing Episode 19. I highly recommend the Dim Glacier Wand over the Dim Glacier Staff. The Dim Glacier Staff is stronger initially, but the s.matk you gain from 5228.png Two-Handed Staff Mastery will lose value as you gain more s.matk.

  • For other magic classes, the main difference here is going to be in the weapon you use.
Phase 3 Gear
Type Item Notes
Upper +9 to +11 400154.png Survival Circlet-LT [1] (400154) or +9 400111.png Vesper Headgear [1] (400111) To Craft and To Reform the Survival Circlet. To Craft the Vesper Helmet
Middle 410017.png Battle Processor [1] (410017) or 410080.png Deep Blue Sunglasses [1] (410080)
Lower 420066.png Orbs of Survival-LT (420066)
420022.png Young Leaf of World Tree (Intelligence) (420022)		 OoS: To Craft and To Reform. Use OoS if you're using Survival Circlet.
YL: 311081.png SPL Lv2 (311081) or 310985.png S.MATK Lv.2 (310985) , 4814.png Spell Lv2 (4814) or 310989.png MATK Lv.2 (310989) , 4712.png INT+3 (4712) . Use Young Leaf if you are using Vesper Helm. Any Young Leaf is fine; it's the enchants that matter.
Armor +11 450178.png Gray Wolf Robe [1] (450178)
+9 to +11 450207.png Snow Flower Robe [1] (450207)
+9 to +11 450265.png Glacier Robe [1] (450265)		 GW: 310532.png Wolf Orb (Shadow Spell) (310532) 310510.png Wolf Orb (Mage) Lv.3 (310510) 310507.png Wolf Orb (Mage) Lv.2 (310507)
SF: 1000717.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Physical Defense) (1000717) or 1000718.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Magical Defense) (1000718) , 1000721.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Magician) (1000721) , 1000773.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Shadow Spell) (1000773)
Glacier: 312066.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Grand Mage) (312066) , 312063.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Mage) (312063) or 312067.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Power Force) (312067) , 312059.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(SPL&WIS) (312059)
Weapon +12[A] 550089.png Dim Glacier Wand [1] (550089) 311458.png Glacier Flower Spell (Magical Grade) Lv5 (311458) 311294.png Glacier Flower Spell (Illusion Soul Magic) (311294) 311294.png Glacier Flower Spell (Illusion Soul Magic) (311294)
Shield +11 460018.png Illusion Silver Guard [1] (460018)
+10 460040.png Glacier Guard [1] (460040)		 ISG: 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001)
Glacier: Your choice on the enchants for the Glacier Guard.
Switch to shield if you're using a One-Handed weapon.
Garment +11 480125.png Convertible Magical Wing [1] (480125)
+9 or +10 450267.png Glacier Muffler [1] (450267)		 CMW: Please see below notes for more information on the convertible Wing
Glacier: 312070.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Caster) (312070) for Slot 2
Shoe +7 to +9 [C] 470204.png Moan of Corruption [1] (470204) Start on the Dim Glacier Weapon until you have the 30 1001033.png Poisonous Magic (1001033) to craft it
Accessory (Right) 490064.png Brilliant Light Sapphire Ring [1] (490064)
490052.png Sinful Sapphire Ring [1] (490052)		 For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil.
For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale. I recommend at least level 3 for both.
Accessory (Left) 490065.png Brilliant Light Sapphire Necklace [1] (490065)
490053.png Sinful Sapphire Necklace [1] (490053)		 For Brilliant Enchants: Any Happiness, Any Destructive Evil.
For Sinful Enchants: Any Horror, Any Dragon Scale. I recommend at least level 3 for both.

To craft the 480125.png Convertible Magical Wing [1] (480125) , you'll need a +7 20732.png Supplement Part VIT [1] (20732) , a +7 20733.png Upgrade Part - Engine [1] (20733) , a +7 16030.png Pile Bunker S [1] (16030) , 5 727.png Opal (727) , and 3 27015.png Repair Robot Turbo Card (27015) .

Zeny Tip: You should be able to farm comfortably at Clock Tower Basement and Niflheim 2 now, and they'll provide a lot of great end-game material as well. As mentioned, now would be a great time to work on your shadow gear, as both those maps provide 25729.png Shadowdecon (25729) .

Phase Four

We're almost at End Game. Time to make some of the tougher gears. You can skip to Phase Five if you think you can comfortably get the Equipment from Constellation Tower (Hard), Alice Twisted Madness (Hard) and Depth 1 and 2.

Phase 4 Gear
Type Item Notes
Upper +11 to +12 [A]400111.png Vesper Headgear [1] (400111)
Middle 410017.png Battle Processor [1] (410017) or 410080.png Deep Blue Sunglasses [1] (410080)
Lower 420022.png Young Leaf of World Tree (Intelligence) (420022) 311081.png SPL Lv2 (311081) or 310985.png S.MATK Lv.2 (310985) , 4814.png Spell Lv2 (4814) or 310989.png MATK Lv.2 (310989) , 4712.png INT+3 (4712) . Do not change to Young Leaf until you switch to the Vesper Headgear. Any Young Leaf is fine; it's the enchants that matter.
Armor +11 450178.png Gray Wolf Robe [1] (450178)
+9 to +11 450207.png Snow Flower Robe [1] (450207)
+9 to +11 450265.png Glacier Robe [1] (450265)		 GW: 310532.png Wolf Orb (Shadow Spell) (310532) 310510.png Wolf Orb (Mage) Lv.3 (310510) 310507.png Wolf Orb (Mage) Lv.2 (310507)
SF: 1000717.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Physical Defense) (1000717) or 1000718.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Magical Defense) (1000718) , 1000721.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Magician) (1000721) , 1000773.png Ice Flower Magic Stone(Shadow Spell) (1000773)
Glacier: 312066.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Grand Mage) (312066) , 312063.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Mage) (312063) or 312067.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Power Force) (312067) , 312059.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(SPL&WIS) (312059)
Weapon +12 [A] 550089.png Dim Glacier Wand [1] (550089) 311458.png Glacier Flower Spell (Magical Grade) Lv5 (311458) 311294.png Glacier Flower Spell (Illusion Soul Magic) (311294) 311294.png Glacier Flower Spell (Illusion Soul Magic) (311294)
Shield +11 460018.png Illusion Silver Guard [1] (460018) or
+10 or +11 [C] 460040.png Glacier Guard [1] (460040)		 ISG: 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001) 29001.png Rune of Intellect Lv2 (29001)
Glacier: Your choice on the enchants for the Glacier Guard.
Garment +11 480125.png Convertible Magical Wing [1] (480125)
+9 or +10 450267.png Glacier Muffler [1] (450267)
Glacier: 312070.png Glacier Flower Meow Power(Caster) (312070) for Slot 2
Shoe +12 [A] 470204.png Moan of Corruption [1] (470204)
Accessory (Right) 490304.png Temple Rune Ring [1] (490304) 311958.png Intelligence of Varmundt Lv5 (311958) 311998.png Fragment of Varmundt (SPL) Lv5 (311998) Second Slot Enchant is your choice. Best is 311943.png Brilliant Biosphere Gem (Boss Type) (311943) but its a .05% chance.
Accessory (Left) 490307.png Temple Magic Ring [1] (490307) 311958.png Intelligence of Varmundt Lv5 (311958) 311998.png Fragment of Varmundt (SPL) Lv5 (311998) Second Slot Enchant is your choice. Best is 311943.png Brilliant Biosphere Gem (Boss Type) (311943) but it's a .05% chance.

Phase Five

AKA the final phase. Phase Five revolves around the gear you get from Constellation Tower, Alice Twisted Madness, and Biosphere Depths and Depths 2. The Enchants on the Stellar Spell Seal provide a large boost in VCT reduction that you'll need after losing the Convertible Magical Wing and Wolf Robe. I don't recommend switching out of the Convertible Magical Wing until you get the Stellar Spell Seal fully enchanted and upgraded.

The 450284.png Engraved Soul Purification Rune Robe [1] (450284) is the better armor, particularly against bosses. However, you will still likely need 450173.png Nebula Robe of Spell [1] (450173) before being able to farm Biosphere Depths effectively.

The Items from Alice Twisted Madness can provide S.Matk and Magic Damage with Element or provide a lot of VCT Reduction. You should get enchants according to the amount of VCT reduction you need for your build.

Phase 5 Gear
Type Item Notes
Upper +11 to +12 [A]400111.png Vesper Headgear [1] (400111)
+12 [A]400535.png Time Dimensions Rune Crown(Arch Mage) [1] (400535)
TD: 4714.png INT+5 (4714) , 312718.png Time Dimension Jewel (Wisdom) 3Lv (312718) or 312700.png Time Dimension Jewel (Agility) 3Lv (312700) or 312709.png Time Dimension Jewel (Intelligence) 3Lv (312709) , 312759.png Magic Essence Jewel 1Lv (312759)
Middle 410233.png Gambler's Seal [1] (410233)
Lower 420213.png Ace of Spades in Mouth (Magical) (420213)
Armor +12 [A]450173.png Nebula Robe of Spell [1] (450173)
+11 to +12 [A]450284.png Engraved Soul Purification Rune Robe [1] (450284)		 Nebula: 310688.png Star Cluster of Spell Lv.3 (310688) ,310738.png Nebula of Spell Lv.3 (310738) or 310744.png Nebula of Health Lv.3 (310744) , 4714.png INT+5 (4714)
Depth: 312374.png Soul Purification Rune 10Lv (312374) , 312364.png Purification Rune 5Lv (312364) , 312359.png Soul Rune 5Lv (312359)
Weapon +12 [A] 550089.png Dim Glacier Wand [1] (550089)
+12 [A] 640049.png Dimensions Arch Staff [2] (640049) or +12 [A] 640050.png Dimensions Arch Rod [2] (640050)		 Dim: 311458.png Glacier Flower Spell (Magical Grade) Lv5 (311458) 311294.png Glacier Flower Spell (Illusion Soul Magic) (311294) 311294.png Glacier Flower Spell (Illusion Soul Magic) (311294)
TD: For the TD Weapon, use the enchant you prefer.
Shield +9 to +12 [A] 460020.png Mad Bunny-LT [1] (460020)
+10 to +12 [C] 460040.png Glacier Guard [1] (460040)		 MB: 310860.png Variable Casting (Magical) Lv.3 (310860) or 310872.png Magical Lv.3 (310872) .
Glacier: Your choice on the enchants for the Glacier Guard.
With the TD Weapons, you will not be able to use a shield.
Garment +11 [A] 480233.png Death Rune Manteau [1] (480233)
+11 [A] 480284.png Dim Glacier Muffler [1] (480284)		 DRM: 310925.png Spell of Varmundt Lv3 (310925) 4714.png INT+5 (4714) Second Slot Enchant is your choice.
Dim: 312157.png Grace of the Snake God (312157) , 312156.png Malice of the Snake God(MATK) Lv10 (312156) , 312136.png Malice of the Snake God(DEF) Lv10 (312136)
Shoe +12 [A] 470204.png Moan of Corruption [1] (470204)
Accessory (Right) 490136.png Stellar Spell Seal [1] (490136)
490304.png Temple Rune Ring [1] (490304)		 SSS: 310711.png Star of Spell Lv.5 (310711) 310711.png Star of Spell Lv.5 (310711)
TRR: 311958.png Intelligence of Varmundt Lv5 (311958) 311998.png Fragment of Varmundt (SPL) Lv5 (311998) If you don't need the VCT Reduction from Stellar Spell Seal you can use a Temple Rune Ring instead.
Accessory (Left) 490307.png Temple Magic Ring [1] (490307) TMR: 311958.png Intelligence of Varmundt Lv5 (311958) 311998.png Fragment of Varmundt (SPL) Lv5 (311998) Second Slot Enchant is your choice. Best is 311943.png Brilliant Biosphere Gem (Boss Type) (311943)

For pure damage, 490304.png Temple Rune Ring [1] (490304) is better than 490136.png Stellar Spell Seal [1] (490136) due to the power of the Second Slot Enchant. However, the Second Slot Enchant is limited to two races (unless you get the normal/boss enchant). Additionally, the Stellar Seal gives 30% variable cast reduction from a single accessory which is very powerful.

490052.png Sinful Sapphire Ring [1] (490052) and 490053.png Sinful Sapphire Necklace [1] (490053) will still be useful to have due to its race modifiers against dragon which will be very strong against Betelgeuse and Jabberwocky.

Misc

Shadow Gear

For more information on Magic Shadow Gear, please check out the Shadow Gear section on the Guide to Magic.

Some great options for mixed Blue Shadow Gear are:

Costume Stones and Pets

Costume Stones:

Cute Pets: 9122.png Gloom Under Night Egg (9122) , 9134.png White Knight Egg (9134) , and Icewind Egg (9147) are good choices.

Cards

You can find a list of cards to use in my Guide to Magic.

Cards
Type Item Notes
Upper 4598.png Lichtern Green Card (4598) or 4366.png Katrinn Card (4366) Depends on how much VCT you need
Middle 4598.png Lichtern Green Card (4598) or 4169.png Dark Illusion Card (4169) Depends on how much VCT you need
Armor 4392.png Observation Card (4392) , 300376.png Two Eyes Dollocaris Card (300376) , or 300308.png Meyer Lugenburg Card (300308) 4392.png Observation Card (4392) Pairs with 300269.png Eldest Card (300269)
Weapon 27384.png Mutating White Knight Card (27384) or 300455.png Copo Card (300455) 300455.png Copo Card (300455) Pairs with 300458.png Icewind Card (300458)
Shield 27385.png Mutating Khalitzburg Card (27385) or 300379.png Modified Senior Rgan Card (300379) 300379.png Modified Senior Rgan Card (300379) should be used on a +12 shield
Garment 300269.png Eldest Card (300269) , 300375.png One Eye Dollocaris Card (300375) , or 300424.png Friedrich S. Heine Card (300424)
Shoe 4658.png Nightmare Verit Card (4658) or 300458.png Icewind Card (300458) 300455.png Copo Card (300455) Pairs with 300458.png Icewind Card (300458)
Accessory (Right) 300470.png Icebear Card (300470) , 4577.png Elvira Card (4577) , 4040.png Creamy Card (4040) 4040.png Creamy Card (4040) allows the use of teleport!
Accessory (Left) 300370.png Wasted Intermediate Rgan Card (300370)

For other classes or builds, Celery's guide has a great list of relevant cards.

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