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Message: <blockquote data-quote="tiornys" data-source="post: 4813830" data-attributes="member: 17633">The main argument I keep seeing from the pro-striker camp is damage output.  So, let's look at the roles and their contribution to damage output.StrikersStrikers have the highest average single target damage output.  They also have abilities that enhance their ability to direct that damage at any target.  That makes them the most efficient single character at bringing down a given target.  Striker proponents have argued that these facts make a party of strikers the most efficient party at bringing down an enemy party.DefendersDefenders have the second highest average single target damage output.  Some defenders are capable of damage output that rivals that of the best strikers (and clearly outclasses the lower damage strikers).  However, they lack the mobility options of the Striker.  Defenders also indirectly enhance the damage output of the party by making it less likely that a party member is disabled.LeadersLeaders have the second lowest average single target damage output.  However, they indirectly contribute to party damage output in two ways.  First, they have tools that help disabled party members recover.  More importantly, Leaders grant force multipliers in the form of attack bonuses, damage bonuses, and extra attacks, causing the other party members to deal extra damage.ControllersControllers have the lowest average single target damage output.  However, they are capable of the highest overall damage output through large area of effect attacks.  They compensate for the general weakness of multi-target damage as compared with focused damage through effects, which can both hinder the enemy's ability to deal damage and enhance the party's damage output.So, here's the thing.  Even though Strikers have the best individual single target damage, they don't necessarily contribute the most damage to a party.  Leaders and Controllers are easily capable of contributing more to overall damage output, and while Defenders will usually cause a slight drop in party damage per round, the extra resources they add to the party are more beneficial in adverse situations.t~</blockquote>

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