Thinking of how to continue the column and still maintain at least a modicum of productivity to it, I was drawn to a few topics. Mostly how to interact with a group having 2 minstrels or any combination with the other traditionally supportive classes in LOTRO. So to kick things off we’ll start with the most basic scenario and work out some strategies that can be easily implemented. The first scenario is of course if you find yourself in a party with another Minstrel.

Offensive & Healing – The simplest thing is to decide which one of you should do DPS while the other covers healing for the party. Which certainly is the easiest route to go, during simple instances like Grand Stair or a basic fellowship. It can be slightly hectic for the Healing player, but it’s no different than if you were healing a group with any other class configuration.

Support & Healing – There are traits that can change certain ballads into group buffs. Having one of the minstrels handle buffs and light healing duties allows the Healing minstrel to focus completely on the task of keeping people alive. This is ideal for heavy hitting mobs and long boss fights. The idea is to split attention so that Minstrels can focus on their tasks fully and be sure to keep the other group members healed. Alternatively with this same sort of setup Support can heal the Main Tank while the healer can cover the rest of the group.

Double DPS – This works well if you’re in a small group(3-4) with another Minstrel. The amount of DPS when both of you go into War speech should be enough to wipe out most on level mobs quickly enough that occasional healing between fights can make the numbers work.

Communication is paramount in any MMO. Let your teammates know what strategy the Minstrels are working. Next time we’ll jump into the alternative combinations within the support classes. You can always find me on my own blog or shoot me an email Rubywing@mmoreporter.com.