In Warhammer Online, Blackguards are Dark Elf tanks
DateTime:7/8/2009 5:21:12 PM

The Hatred mechanic is a pretty good representation of the seething hatred for all that each and every Blackguard holds. As a Blackguard assails his foes he builds his hatred for them, frustrated apparently by the fact they just won’t die. He also builds hatred from being struck in combat. Hatred is then spent on powerful attacks, and some of his other attacks perform differently depending on the amount of hatred built.

All of Warhammer Online’s tank classes possess similar focus in their mastery paths, typically, one for offense, one for defense, and one of miscellaneous buffs or debuffs. The Blackguard is unique in that it has an entire line devoted to Anti Magic attacks and tactics. It is also noteworthy that it is the only tank class in the game to possess “Mortal Strike” capability, or the ability to debuff the output of healers through an attack.The Blackguard is the mirror of the Ironbreaker, but their mechanics differ somewhat. The Ironbreaker does build Grudge while being attacked, but he does not build it from attacking, instead he has an Oath Friend ability that can be cast on an ally, and receives additional Grudge as they endure harm. The contrast in mechanics paints the Blackguard as a more offensive tank, and that he is.