Dual shields are new for ToME and interesting, especially the combined block allowing you to get a high block amount shield and combine it with a resistance shield for a specific zone allows a far more fluent gameplay than using a single, outdated shield just to block one or maybe 2 non physical damage types
While the -50% movespeed from Stone Vines makes you approach things differently, its lame that you can instantly turn it off and on, for example to run away. If the movespeed malus and vein power would build up and down when toggled, it could become a real core skill for the class to build around. If that is desireable is a different point.
They also become pretty good at pinning everything in view once leveled, something I didnt expect from trying them at skill level 1.
I dont like that they have so many trees with 1 base talent and 3 talents to improve it, Stone Spikes are probably the worst offender, as they just pile more effects and damage on top. I hope its at least incredible powerful for spending 20 points on a single 12 cooldown talent (what may cause probably with one shotting players when Guardians use it).
Elemental Split at least get real new mechanics from the passives: switching places, damage shield, healing and removing effects from you and more.
To me its really unclear if the shield skills use physical or spell crit: They say it is a spell, but it attacks with a shield, then deals arcane damage based on weapon damage. I think it didn't proc spellpower on crit from an item.
Eldritch Slam should use the icons from your shields for its particles instead of the generic shield.
