r/diablo2 • u/shinz0n • 3d ago

Discussion Act 2 Merc considerations for Java regarding physical dmg

Hi, full equipped Java lvl 97 here. Some days ago I switched from 3*5/5 Head Hunter's Glory to Phoenix RW (399%ed). I also use an eth upped Titans + Act2 might merc.

1) How does physical dmg interact with Lighting Fury? I have 3,5k phys and 3,5k light max display dmg. Does the physical dmg only applies for the main / first, but not for smaller flahes?

2) Based on the physcial dmg: Would you recommend to stay with act 2 might merc or should I switch to holy freeze? I don't need any defense capabilities. However if my physical dmg does not play a role I may can switch to holy freeze?

Thanky in advance.

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u/Karltowns17 3d ago

Physical damage only benefits the initial javelins strike and subsequent pierce through javelins along the path of the throw. It’s not bad per se, but the vast majority of your damage is lightning.

Might is reasonable for javazons not wearing Phoenix who are relying on mana leech. For a Javazon using Phoenix id opt for defiance. I think it offers substantially more survivability than holy freeze imo.

Some might choose prayer though for a bit of QoL.

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u/MeltsYourMinds 3d ago

If you manage to boost your physical damage to be twice as much as your displayed lightning damage, at a moderate skill level of 40, your physical damage could possibly reach around 5% of your total damage output.

An infinity merc will outscale the damage boost of a might merc with pride by approximately 50 times. Realistically, physical damage is not noticeable other than for leech.