DRUID - One Ranger Build for Guild Wars 2 Open World PvE, WvW, PvP | Sylvan Skirmisher Guide

Druid allows the ranger specialization to play a very supportive role, but not always is that needed in every situation in Guild Wars 2. This build has a hybrid support and soloist playstyle so you can succeed in any situation in any game mode.
Equipment: Plaguedoctor Gear with Tempest Rune
Shortbow Celerity/Doom
Staff Energy/Cleansing or Transference
Black Pepper Cactus Salad/Delicous Rice Balls/Red-Lentil Sabosas
Find out how to get gear here: guildjen.com/category/guides/...
Solo PvE Traits: [&DQQeLyE7BR+hAHkAuwC7AL4AqwG6ALgAwADtADk9KhUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA=]
Pets: Iboga/Jacaranda
Group PvE Traits:
[&DQQZGh4fBRuhAHgAvQCWAbkAmgC8ALgAlwHtAA89KhUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA=]
Pets: Iboga/Pink Moa
WvW Traits:
[&DQQeLiEpBTV4AHgAuAC4AOYSuwC7AJYBwADtAD0uFQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA=]
Pets: Iboga/Smokescale
PvP Gear: Sage Amulet Dolyak Rune
Longbow Savagery/Agony
Staff Energy/Transference
PvP Traits: [&DQQeLyEpBTWhAHgAuAC4AL4AuwC7AJYBwADtADkuFQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA=]
Pets: Jacaranda/Smokescale
Other Game Mode Independent Builds
• Builds For All Game Modes
Music:
• Rivellon (Light Version)
• Borislav Slavov - Bald...
0:00 - Intro
0:58 - Druid Mechanics
3:20 - Equipment
5:40 - PvE Build
13:55 - Deimos Raid Encounter
22:03 - WvW Build
25:30 - PvP Build
28:03 - PvP Commentary
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[@PatrickMacielCampos]

Man.. I LOVE that series of builds. You are incredible. Keep going =)

[@planetshakr_ico2947]

Love seeing Druid game play and helpful videos :) Got great tips from the content. Thanks! Go Druids :)

[@JackoBlades]

oooh finally a Druid build I can enjoy, ty Vallun

[@eikosai3573]

ive been playing with this incredible build for about a month. I literally like it.

[@hagridsbeardguy1399]

Dude you make the best content for GW2 on the internet. Thanks.

[@CitizenSniiiips]

Hey man. I just have to say I've never really enjoyed my ranger that much over the last 9 years. I was always so annoyed with Anet that the most "meta" ranger builds didn't involve pets or bows and I hated playing squishy zerker builds running melee weapons. Soulbeast is cool but again, I play ranger because I like pets so it feels like a bit of a slap in the face. I've come back after a very very long hiatus and thought this would be like very other time where I get sick of it and stop playing. That was until I started using this build. This is THE MOST FUN I have ever had playing ranger hands down. I feel so engaged all the time with the constant dodging, pet involvement, flanking position and healing support. I love that I can solo almost anything in open world but also drop into metas and play support with respectable damage. This build alone has finally made gw2 "click" for me and I don't think I'm going to stop playing this time. So thank you! I know this is a hybrid build so DPS isn't important but I am curious in case anyone ever asks me. Do you have a rough idea of where this would sit in terms of DPS? I love that you have shown some raid gameplay and I'm nowhere near raiding or high end fractals yet but I do wonder if I was to start would people judge me seeing as it's not full heal/support or full DPS? How would this fare in my challenging end game content where I won't be playing with an experienced raid/fractal group?

[@Vallun]

you can join a normal raid and fulfill the role of druid in any raid easily. They expect spirits and some light heals, if your dps is low that won't be an issue. you're not a dps role. You're more of a healer, so if they want more heals you can always swap on more heals with transference sigils or rune of the monk

[@CitizenSniiiips]

@@Vallun awesome!

[@theheavyhat]

Solid intro song choice and solid build as always Vallun!

[@10David31]

Super appreciate you explaining everything!

[@shawnrelevo9534]

Thanks for the guide druids been my favorite profession

[@MrPlumloko]

I so far have all the armor weps and Sigels. Just need the amulet and rings not sure how to get them. I'm pretty new to gw2. Ty for all your guides! They have gave me tremendous knowledge that I didn't have thank you for everything you do for the community! Gw2 has the best community hands down.

[@Guirssane]

great guide as usual, druids don't get enough love in pvp :p

[@kinosuma]

As a newb player to GW2, I have always liked the support roles (prob cuz I suck at dps, but shh), I like this build.... gives me something to look forward to...thanks!

[@erinf430]

Cant wait for this video.

[@Fevered]

Man this looks very interesting

[@DemonXGames]

I appreciate the use of music from divinity. Fucking love the ost.

[@xemtubex]

A true master of gw2

[@Shadypumpit]

LOVE UR VIDS

[@SalmanRavoof]

Just realized that opening music is from "Divinity: Original Sin 2," another amazing RPG.

[@atouk3864]

now all classes i guess? :D im hyped tyvm

[@HeliusM112]

Tanks a lot for this build. I tried it already and love it. Finally Druid is playable for me with your fun build. I really like the idea of a non selfish build. Axe is so powerful but don’t like the playstyle

[@SeuRafinha]

same here! I dont like axe =/ But love staff and SB! Perfect for me =D

[@jonathanabgrall6075]

Really cool build, i've been struggling to enjoy my Ranger as most of their "meta" build feels clunky to me, this might work out.

[@nor2003]

Superb build time to have fun on druid by not being just pure healer!

[@QueueInAK]

How's the DPS compared to the Power or Condi Soulbeast builds? Since it came out I've wanted to find a way to make Druid an actual viable option over Core Ranger or later Soulbeast. I get that it has a lot of heals and support, but I'm curious if the DPS has been compared.

[@Nevaduck]

Maybe I am just not finding what I need, but I do not have the resources to purchase Plague doctor's stats on my ring, neck, and accessories For exotics what is the equivalent or should I just use Celestial stats till I get the ascended items?

[@fistandantilos]

I predict more rangers on wvw after this video, good rangers are terrible enemies for my thief. Thank you very much for this Vallun

[@bilaliqbal4012]

there will also be more rangers when EoD comes out because Untamed looks to be really suited for team-fights. so... WvW in general and mid-node conquest node. It might also be good for PvE but I think soulbeast will still have more dps than untamed for pve.. We'll see.

[@aidonis98]

@@bilaliqbal4012 There is no way Untamed will have better DPS numbers than sic em Soulbeast. It's already borderline op. If they let you out of having to play Hammer, and make giving the buff to the pet actually be beneficial, Untamed should do just fine.

[@ashtheimpaler2126]

Don’t worry thief beats condi Druid :) at least daredevil and deadeye do anyways.

[@Steelx17]

hey sir i boosted a ranger to make a druid but they gave me a long bow and not a short one is there a way to get it? cause every short bow i loot its so bad compared to the gear they gave me

[@Kallan007]

I currently have a Zehtuka's armor, how does that compare to Plaguedoctor's armor?

[@NefliteArts]

Is there a written guide? This seems so helpful and with loads of information in it :D As a newbie to WvW it is kinda overwhelming haha I keep watching the same parts over and over again :D

[@Vallun]

you can turn on subtitles and pause

[@TroyC8]

Hi sir I'm new to GW2 and look like your build is so good what is the runes of your items?

[@jamalmalik3617]

Hey, sorry for the noob question but where are the trait codes in your description meant to be entered?

[@Vallun]

in the actual game itself, will create a link there

[@wanshang4901]

But what relic do you use?

[@juleslawrence7437]

Would playing with axe/something (warhorn or torch) work here? Not a big fan of shortbow, but I am a big fan of axe

[@Vallun]

sure, axe warhorn is the meta for druids

[@actavisteq1282]

To anyone watching this after end of dragons this is still an excellent build. Pvp is a little unbalanced and the sustain and survive seems a little bit more challenging as a Druid against some of the new builds.

[@DrGashingtons]

I am pretty new to GW2. i love a druid style char in mmos. Would you recommend playing on in gw2?

[@actavisteq1282]

@@DrGashingtons I’d say probably yes, The thing about gw2 versions of mmo classes is they have so much flexibility in how you decide to play them. More so then any other game I’ve ever played. Druid has a bit of a learning curve in guild wars 2 but is well worth it and definitely has all of the “essence” you might find with the class based on other games. Buffs in this game just work differently then other mmos so that’s a big reason in my experience why it’s hard to apples:apples the gw2 Druid with a WoW, Diablo or EverQuest Druid. It’s my favorite class to play and I can switch between roles and functions very fluidly which is what has made it my main class to play since the first expansion. Definitely watch all of Valluns Druid/Ranger videos, he is extremely skilled player, and my game has improved immensely since watching and following this channel.

[@KhaiZure]

Hi, I'm quite new to the game too. For this particular build, what stats do I use for the Backpack and Jewelries? Is it full Plaguedoctor too? I did not get it in the video.

[@actavisteq1282]

@@KhaiZure I think vallun does say full set. you could run full plaguedoctors still sure. I went with 2 PD rings and the rest is celestial because it’s what I have. I also swap to a full celestial weapon/armor version of this build also. This is mostly because celestial is really good on untamed right now which is also so much fun and I switch between them a lot. And celestial Druid is good too. but if I need healing to be the biggest stat on Druid I’ll switch back to plaguedoctors.

[@KhaiZure]

@@actavisteq1282 Thank you for getting back to me! I appreciate the advice, I think I'll follow with 2 PD rings and celestial for the rest. My goal is to support while also be able to solo pve content by myself. I think now i can try to complete my equipment. Thanks again.

[@DucksInMayonnaise]

Just out of curiosity. Why did you choose Plaguedoctor over Celestial? I compared the two builds (Exact same runes and sigils, exact same traits). The higher condition evens out with higher condition duration, the high HP evens out with higher toughness, which could be seen as better healing investment. You have very slightly better healing power and concentration. You also have slightly better DPS having some power oriented stats. Is there something I'm missing?

[@Vallun]

you dont have better dps with celestial, thats the difference, 90% of the damage from shortbow is conditions so why invest in power stats

[@reedpotato]

New to the game, is this build still viable option to play ?

[@logik99]

This looks so interesting! New player that likes to play supporting roles, but also love playing with bows. I’m mainly going to focus on fractals (previous wow m+ player), does this build work well in fractals as the only healer or will it struggle to carry groups? It’s fine if it’s a skill thing, willing to practice while moving up the fractal levels

[@Vallun]

in fractals it will be fine, but once you get to the higher tiers, pug groups will expect a very specific meta build as their support, its a healing firebrand guardian. If you want to participate in the most challenging content you will probably need to play that unless you find a group who will accomodate a composition without it

[@logik99]

@@Vallun That's a shame, been trying not to force myself to play HFB. Thanks

[@nico5186]

Really nice build and guide! I did watch the stream a few times and it is incredible how much effort, planning and testing you put in there. Can this build compete or even replace a harrier druid in a raid, strike mission or fractal? Btw. what build would you use in fractals? Thank you !

[@Vallun]

druids are more for 10 man content, not so much for 5 man, and yes the build does well in 10 man content watch the raid encounter in this video

[@boringguyzz]

How does this build compare to the regular harrier's druid?

[@Vallun]

its a more selfish version, will sacrifice a bit of healing power but still be able to do a healers job but also be able to kill things alone

[@kardez89]

I thought you said no more build videos ?? But this is nice i like druid

[@Vallun]

that didnt age well

[@JoaoTakada]

@@Vallun we love `em build videos

[@SeuRafinha]

Vallun, I just want to use this build for WvW. Do you recommend other equipment to optimize in wvw? (runes, stats etc) I love the SB/Staff gameplay

[@Vallun]

trailblazer/shaman gear

[@knatte9]

Hi, which Utility Effect would you recommend? Great video btw. :)

[@Vallun]

anything condi related

[@djlancer88]

man I instantly recognized that intro song lol

[@kurojorm5301]

Man, yesterday was the first time I've logged in since 2013 and either I have forgotten EVERYTHING or gw2 has changed TONS! (or both) And since it was on sale I picked up the current expansions and am really REALLY confused. Thinking I might need to buy another character slot and start a new character to just re-learn everything. =/

[@alugartttt]

Is there a mod to change the sounds of first staff skill? Its too much if you keep fighting with it

[@Vallun]

in sound options it would be the effects slider, but all effects would be lowered then

[@denzel4189]

hey dude - tbh i really love this build, the skillcap is just way higher overall. If people hate on it they're probs playing it wrong. Now what I am wondering though if it's worth to craft ascended for this. Especially with the new exp coming out - well let's say, did you craft ascended for this?

[@Vallun]

i have ascended, but exotic isnt a big difference, if you lack resources just use exotic for now until youre sure about what you want to play

[@cynhanrahan4012]

Update - Druid pets no longer lose that 20% effective the October 2022 update.

[@Fullsterkur61911]

is this build still "One Ranger build to rule them all"? That is exactly what I am looking for - a build I can do everything with so I can completely MASTER it in every situation.

[@gangrel1234]

This must be even betzer now? Had a small pause and read somewhere pets where buffed or so? Always wanted tontry Druid ❤

[@SF_Savitar]

does this still work or / cuz i got a dragon hunter and a druid so far im '' new pplayer '' so i want to make the right deicision

[@Benz49421]

for far druid​can carry you team in raid w1-4

[@monchijote7080]

Questions Seraph or celestial work on this build as well?

[@Vallun]

i originally tested celestial, it doesnt fit the role as well, but its pretty close, seraph is fine but the precision doesnt do anything without power, so really you just lack vitality for nothing, just less optimal but they work

[@M4sl]

is this still viable after patch?

[@heismandd]

Awesome build, would celestial armor work too?

[@Vallun]

i tried celestial initially, and it felt fine but i just preferred the plaguedoctors for more damage whereas cele was tankier

[@Skyzer2412]

How valid is this build in June 2023?

[@KhaiZure]

Hi, I'm new to the game. What stats do I use for the Backpack and Jewelries?

[@st4rpt_603]

As he said, everything Plaguedoctor.

[@KhaiZure]

@@st4rpt_603 Thank you!

[@ofosho2907]

Not sure why I didn't go with Refined Toxins from the get-go. This is way better.

[@staydown93]

When you say "Full Plaguedoctor", you mean all types? I'm wondering cause you're not showing the right side with rings and stuff. I'm using your Soulbeast Build and you showed everything there and it is such an awesome build.

[@Vallun]

i wouldn't hide stats from you, its full plaguedoctors

[@staydown93]

@@Vallun thank you so much for your quick response! Love the work you put into your videos.

[@tysonpascoe7931]

@@Vallun can’t find plaguedoctor stats on rings, amulets, back items and such

[@st4rpt_603]

Can this build solo HoT Champion level-stuff? :P

[@Vallun]

yes

[@Arkael1110]

Is this build still viable? It looks almost exactly like how I want to play my Druid when I get to end game. But I don't want to waste time on something that got nerfed and I can't find it on meta build or other sites

[@Vallun]

do you want a meta build, or do you want a good build? This is almost always going to be a good build.

[@Arkael1110]

@@Vallun I'm a brand new player for about a week so I have no idea if I should care about meta for a while. I'm just really struggling to decide between firebrand guardian and Druid ranger

[@Arkael1110]

@@Vallun I just want to use a staff support my group and not be useless solo

[@Vallun]

@@Arkael1110 play this build then

[@Burcio]

What food do you use in wvw?

[@Vallun]

black pepper cactus salad

[@christopheranglin3282]

Can you go over what you did for accesories/rings/back etc?

[@christopheranglin3282]

I got all the armor and weapons set up how you stated. but curious what you did for the accesorie items

[@Vallun]

its the same stats all around

[@HouseOfVan]

What sort of amulet/accessories/rings does this build use?

[@Vallun]

plaguedoctor

[@HouseOfVan]

@@Vallun thanks, newer to the game and had to navigate the wiki to see that they existed. Now to finish the story and unlock the renown heart vendor... In the mean time for the story mode what affix would you recommend?

[@Vallun]

@@HouseOfVan not sure what affix is, but im sure you won't need to make any tough decisions at the start. Explore and figure things out, take your time

[@kaingates]

Wouldn't Seraph be a better choice in PVE since dudu overheals in most cases?

[@Vallun]

optimizing for PvE is one thing, a build that is versatile for everywhere is another

[@kaingates]

@@Vallun Thanks for the reply! I haven't tried the build but you don't find dudu overhealing with Plaguedoctor in WvW?

[@Vallun]

@@kaingates theres no such thing as overhealing, if you survive then you generally win

[@SalmanRavoof]

Woah, can Druid really be done in open world PvE as a solo? It'd be amazing if it can.

[@kahnjugaming]

Of course. Everything can solo PvE.

[@MrJueKa]

see "Paper Roll" here on YT and his effective Druid builds, most of them for doing solo stuff

[@gtlvr82]

The WvW build can be one of the most irritating cc builds I've ever used. It's also ok solo but I don't recommend it lol

[@kickbuttme]

I miss when drood was op in pvp hahaha XD man...thems were the days.

[@mikedivittorio3744]

why short bow over long bow??

[@Benz49421]

condi is good when you fight and solo boss, power build if you stop attack damage is drops not like condi.

[@ILoveGrilledCheese]

Druids are a real espec?

[@GhtPTR]

In 2022 Druids gain Celestial Force passively and pets don't lose stats.

[@elaxel1469]

I've made calculations and celestial gear is superior in everything to plaguedoctors for this build.

[@Vallun]

except for doing raids because you'll have too much toughness and get aggro when you need to not be the tank, but otherwise celestial is fine

[@CandysChannel]

Is this still good in 2023???

[@coldwind8327]

Yes. Its a very fun condi build with utilities for supportive healing. I enjoy it a lot. You can't kill mobs fast but you can endure!

[@MageSkeleton]

i love how basically EVERY guide assumes you've achieved FULL LEGENDARY so someone who's maybe playing Free2Play and looking forward to just preparing for having the expansion to get the special Elite Specialization will feel intimidated and like they can't even play the game until they've unlocked LEGENDARIES which should be an optional thing not a REQUIRED thing. Can't have Exotic grade gear nope nope either it's LEGENDARY or you CANNOT do the thing.

[@Vallun]

I don't think that is the case at all, maybe that's what you're interpreting it as. My account uses only legendary gear but you can easily do it with exotics

[@MageSkeleton]

@@Vallun i do apologize for my attitude of anger (if that feeling somehow managed to be conveyed through how i worded myself) but there are stats that you can only get seemingly through legendary gear versus the 7 available exotic stat options. For example, the legendary gear you show to make use of, i have no idea what the exotic version of that looks like or is called or where to get, meanwhile even ascended has stat distribution you can't do at exotic level.

[@Vallun]

@@MageSkeleton then stick to using settler's gear, or anything with both healing power and condition damage for now. extreme min maxing isnt important with exotic gear anyway

[@gearhead417]

@@MageSkeleton You can use things like bladed armor for armor and you would be getting ascended trinkets anyways since they are easier to get.

[@CandysChannel]

I also am weary of all KZbinrs I’ve seen so far only has legendary. Not one of them, says, “If you can’t get legendaries, then here is what you can use instead” assuming some of us don’t have a lot of gold or high crafting etc. I would love to see someone have ordinary gear on lol.