After reading Dmg templates on Pg. 175 and class templates I decided to try to find a way to put templates available to my players. I found that I could mix some templates with paragon paths and some other templates with epic destinies and get lots more options for new and interesting character...
from monster manual pg 128
from DMG pg55
So the idea of an arcane swordsman playing the defender role? Its not even close to a gish. Also the "free hand" issue?This guy is isvesting in Con and Int both defensive abilities. Im not amazed by the swordmage im actually disapointed.