Ravenloft Gear Guide: Endgame BIS/Viable Pieces?

In this piece we’ll look at the gear choices of Module 14 and see what should, and what should not, make it into your loadouts. Ravenloft has brought new weapons, artifact sets, higher item levels, and new custom gear from Hunts. There’s certainly plenty of items to choose from, but with choices also comes insecurity. That’s why we’re here to guide you through Ravenloft’s collection (you still have to find your way through the mist yourself though).

[su_box title=”More on Ravenloft!” radius=”0″]Want all the latest on the new Ravenloft update? Click here for the full coverage![/su_box]

Artifact Weapons

The two Artifact Weapon sets serve completely different purposes. The Vistani one you get from simply doing the introductory quest is a classic catch-up mechanic that delivers new players, and alts, viable and cheap gear. If you’re new, great, otherwise you probably already have better weapons on your mains from Chult. It’s a different story with the Sunset Weapons, which can outperform existing choices in Barovia content. For endgame toons that run Castle Ravenloft a lot it might make sense, but be warned that the sun sets on the Sunset sets (tong-twister alert!) outside Barovia. If you have RPs to spare, and absolutely want “bis” in any possible area, go for it. But I’m personally not a fan of using such niche gear. Don’t forget you also either have to switch enchantments or have a second set ready to use.

[su_table]

Vistani Weapons

The Vistani set is obviously no endgame set, but since it’s super easy to obtain by simply completing the introductory story line, it’s hard to not at least grant one star here. You’ll most likely should use something else, but the convenience can’t be discounted.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Sunset Weapons

I’m not sure how much stars I should grant for “situational” bis. On the one hand it’s super easy to switch loadouts nowadays and level Artifacts (RPs being not as much of an issue currently). On the other hand you either have to get two individual sets of enchantments for the weapons or switch every time you switch your loadout. That’s not great and the one star for convenience I granted above gets subtracted here.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

[/su_table]

Artifact Gear

The Artifact Gear has been described and tested by Viral in this document, which I would definitely recommend going over. It looks like no set is super spectacular, but there are definitely interesting options for certain builds. The Ravenloft set and its instance wide debuff is a nice addition to any pure buff build and the Ravenloft set fits power sharing OPs well because the class has a flurry of Temp HP and Shield sources. On the contrary I’m not too fond of the Set of the Dead and Blood Raven. The first is too unpredictable and Blood Raven hard to utilize. The way groups are run it’s hard to cast a AoE heal on a single target. So the set makes most sense when healing yourself, but the generated Power isn’t shareable, making it less of a feat for the healing classes.

Aside from the set bonuses the new pieces however definitely add more options to mix/max your chars. It’s a great plus, especially since the M14 items are much easier to obtain than the Chult Masterwork / Hunt stuff.

[su_table]

Apocalypse Set

In case you’re looking for a DPS set in Ravenloft, the Apocalypse set will serve you well. It should be suitable for most builds, although STR and CHA as attribute bonuses don’t benefit all classes equally. But the 5% damage bonus is nothing to sneeze at.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Ravenloft Set

The Ravenloft set fits power sharing OPs and to a lesser extent DCs fairly well, but I don’t see who else would want the set.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Blood Raven Set

Theoretically the set bonus is a perfect fit to the support meta that only buffs one DPS in a group. But the proc is not easy to pull off. Combine it with a fairly short duration and you get a unpredictable bonus that’s not used by a whole lot of people.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Set of the Dead

Don’t know. This set bonus combined with the stats on the pieces might be worth looking into for PVP. You know, if PVP actually would be a thing. Since it has INT/CHA as attributes it could be used as viable second choice on a DPS build. But damage dealers will probably be bothered by HP or AC, which they can’t really utilize.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

[/su_table]

Hunt Gear

Going through the full list of Hunt gear here, but only adding context and info where it makes sense. Of course all gear can be used to min/max stats, that’s a given.

[su_table]

Boots of the Bandit

I don’t like bonuses for stats you want to reliably cap. You should be able to find better alternative for your feet slot.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Cowl of the Dead

Random fun fact: Why does the “Crown of the Dead” counterpart with offensive stats pull enemies while this one as more of a tank-viable piece pushes them away? Shouldn’t it be the other way round?

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Crown of Brambles

If you’re solely looking for Power maybe.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Crown of the Undead

Had its five minutes of glory when it multi-procced in PVP, making life in Domination a pain. Haven’t tested whether this could proc “Crushing Pin” of Tactician GFs.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Decaying Habit

Unreliable equip bonus is unreliable. And you’ll lose Power in long fights. This is not for me since I don’t like juggling with too many loadouts. But since most players seem to like it for short / trash mob fights, and is actually situational bis in that area, it gets a good rating.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Hag’s Rags

Stacks with Eyestalk Wrappers and is up there in the “bis” charts for ranged classes.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Heels of Fury

Stacks with Fured Kiuno of the Bear. Go get it!

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Knotted Garbs

Nice offensive stats for both DPS and Power sharing builds. Not quite “bis”, but very viable especially since it’s easier to acquire than some alternatives. As folks in the comments pointed out, this type of equip bonus is fully share-able as well.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Lazaric’s Hide Gloves

Not a bad item per se, but there are just too many other good arms pieces around.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Lycan Boots of the Pack

Better make sure your companion stays close with these boots! Kidding aside, those type of bonuses are not my cup of tea. If you’re telling me you’re getting 1,500 extra stats no matter what, all right. I’m not going to argue, it just doesn’t fit my play style or build theory.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Lycosa’s Barbed Gloves

Haven’t tested this, but I assume this applies the same stun as Ring of the Curse Bringer. Has no real competition in the arms slot on support toons (also great stats with Rec/Power for those), although its usefulness in endgame content is limited.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Puppet’s Plate

Basically the defensive variant of the Knotted Garbs. Not bad, but probably only a placeholder for most builds.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Ras Manca’s Spare Hat

Poison effects are as useful as a fridge in Alaska. In the very early stages of the game I sometimes experimented with them for spreading certain Weapon Enchantment debuffs and other stacks, but I don’t think it’s necessary nowadays.

[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Rusted Rider Greaves

Much defense, 3% reduction. Best item for pure tanks at the moment. If only “pure” tanks were a thing. Also that speed debuff will hurt while trying to stay in front of your group and get aggro.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Shoes of Superstition

Not tested, but I’m not running around mid-fight and try to pick up stuff from the ground.

[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Sister’s Clutches

Decent piece, but there’s just so much competition in the arms slot.

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Tattered Exorcist Robes

No thanks! Somebody should get an “Summoner” build up at some point though. Let’s see how many gear pieces that summon useless dinos, undead, and whatnot you can put on and then make a screenshot once everything procs at the same time!

[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Terrored Grips

Upgrade to Jawripper’s Gloves. Simple? Simple!

[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Warden’s Chestplate

Did I already mention the “Summoner” build?

[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]
[icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

[/su_table]

Barovian Lord Sets [icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

The rule of the thumb with the Barovian Lord sets is: If you’ve been using (Vivified) Primal in the same slot, it probably makes sense to switch. The one exception might be the arms slot because Primal gives that percentage Power bonus. Normally I’m not a big fan of conditional bonuses, but since endgame toons pretty much consistently operate over 50% Hit Points, the stuff from the Barovian Lords set should be pretty stable and can be used to min/max your toons.

Transmute Sets [icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””][icon name=”star-o” class=”” unprefixed_class=””]

Forgive me that I’m no going through all the random “transmute” sets that drop from various Ravenloft content. There are some interesting pieces from budget to endgame, but since the bonuses do only give more stats under various circumstances I’ll leave it to you guys to use our Ratings Simulator to find min/max opportunities for the gear. The Executioners Arms for example hand out 3,200 Power and are a great asset for power sharing builds. Have fun!


That’s my guide on the gear introduced in Ravenloft. Do you have favorite pieces? Share your thoughts and experience on our social channels, in the comments below, or visit our message board!

Neverwinter UN:Blogged is always looking for writers to contribute to the blog. If you are an active player and search for a way to spread your opinions, analysis, diaries or reviews to more than 75,000 regular visitors, then don’t hesitate and get in touch with us on our contact page or message board! We are currently especially looking for console and PVP content, but that’s not exclusive. There is no frequency requirement, you post how often you want.

j0Shi

j0Shi plays the Neverwinter MMORPG since the open BETA in 2013 and is a regular contributor to the blog and the whole UN:Project. Originally a Guardian Fighter, he has built up ALTs of all classes and plays on BIS/near-BIS level.

10 thoughts on “Ravenloft Gear Guide: Endgame BIS/Viable Pieces?

  • October 18, 2018 at 12:49 pm
    Permalink

    I think the executioners braces (arms) are worth mentioning. 3.2k power really make them bis for power sharers. Also, the Decaying Habit is Bis for power sharers for short fights (under 2 minutes I think?). Outside of those 2 pieces, I think this is a great guide!

    • October 18, 2018 at 5:06 pm
      Permalink

      Agreed for exe braces being noteworthy for power sharing builds. Exe hat might also be worth noting for the 3.2k crit.

      Agreed with Decaying Habit being BiS for end-game parties where fights are under 1.5min. For fights between 1.5 – 2 min rex corona is better. And for longer fights even you should switch back to Guise of the Wolf Clan. But for a high-end DC who mostly rolls with end-game parties, Decaying Habit stands out (especially that 2.7k base power for precasting on pink circle)

      Someone recently called into question whether Knotted Garbs actually share power, and I haven’t personally tested that yet. Barovian Faithlord set bonus does share. It’s also potentially worth noting The Artifact’s chestplate, since it has 3.4k power, which makes it situational BiS for power sharing builds (but features far less other stats / HP). And it’s dirt cheap on the AH.

  • October 18, 2018 at 11:03 pm
    Permalink

    I am not sure if my information is still accurate, but i testet a few things in the week after the launch:

    -The bonus power from the knottet garb was shareable (Most likely still is)

    -The decying habit works, that after a minute you start loosing power starting with the 2100 bonus power. Even after the full 2 minutes passed, it will still give you 1835.. So this qualifies as “good enough” for my op

  • October 19, 2018 at 12:23 am
    Permalink

    I would say decaying habit is more like 2.5-3 mins as the power shared by bondings will proc for 30s before being refreshed, so it usually procs the last bonding with maximum bonus or if its a little late with a slightly diminished value which is still higher than the rex.

    At something around 52k base power I think, vivified primal bracers become better than executioners for any fight longer than 30s as their power special is also shared (30s again with bonding proc unless you can get your stacks up before bondings proc).

  • October 19, 2018 at 1:05 am
    Permalink

    “Warden’s Chestplate” has 2552 critical stats –> that’s a lot for leveling build needing the reach the 100%critic

  • October 19, 2018 at 8:24 pm
    Permalink

    Whoa, Decaying Habit at 0/5? From what I’ve heard/seen it’s considered BiS for any DPS class, and can be BiS for ACDC in static groups. How many fights take 2-3 minutes+?

    • October 21, 2018 at 5:37 am
      Permalink

      Thanks for all the feedback regarding Decaying Habit. I just don’t like having tons of loadouts and situational gear around, but have tweaked the post reflecting the opinion of others. Cheers!

  • October 22, 2018 at 4:59 am
    Permalink

    How many fights last more than 15 seconds, other than 1st/last boss CR, with the latter being a non-dps issue anyways?

  • December 30, 2018 at 10:44 am
    Permalink

    Are u sure Heels of Fury stack with fured kiono? I thought it doesnt since its the same boon? How can I test it?

Comments are closed.