Most characters have Traits with specific Buffs, relating to a Damage Type or Tag.
Those Buffs could be considered as Synergies.
Here you find some Builds for every character, while using those Traits efficent.

HoT Wiki: https://hot.fandom.com/wiki/Halls_of_Torment_Wiki

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Potion of Memories (MP) = X + X
Reverberant Tinkture (RT) = x2

X >, < X = If you are lacking Potions of Memories, this can help you to decide what to pick.
> left Trait, < right Trait

Example:
Weapon Proficiency Tier I

• lock the first Trait you see with (MP)
  
• pick the other Trait, when it shows up
  
• pick the locked Trait afterwards

Weapon Proficiency Tier IV - pick Power with (RT)

Long Fingers (Pickup Range) is up to the individual, I personally prefer to pick it as early as possible.
Priorities will be categorized and follow a general rule, if not specificly named.
Traits listed under "Banish" are excluded from the "Priority Category".
As an example:
- "Speed" equals Attack + Movement Speed, so both Traits should have a high priority.
- "Movement Speed" alone will take priority over Attack Speed

• Character = listed Weapon Proficiency = Proficient Stance > Dedication Traits
  
• Ability = listed Ability Traits
  
• Speed = Movement Speed > Attack Speed
  
• Damage = Damage > Crit Chance > Crit Damage > Force
  
• Reach = Range > Area
  
• Defense = Bulwark > Max HP = Regen = Block = Defense

Advanced Traits should always have the highest priority after Character and Ability Traits,
since they have limited Tiers and are hard restricted with Hero Levels.

• Piercing Wind
  
• Multistrike
  
• Demonic Exchange (Damage, Force, Speed)
  
• Affinities (Fire, Frost, Lighting, False Blessing, Crippling Strikes)
  
• Elemental Surge (Fire, Ice, Lighting)
  
• Ethereal Shift (A+B)

Remaining Potions of Oblivion (Banish) can and should be used for unlisted Character and Ability Traits, to narrow down the Trait Pool as much as possible.

Since Traits are locked behind a fixed Minimum Hero Level, some Hero Levels can be quite crucial to gain a specific Trait.
This is also important for Potions of Oblivion, because if you clear out the Pool as early as possible from unwanted Trait Branches. you increase your Odds for wanted Traits to be offered.

As an example:
At Hero Level 24 you can be offered Ability Tier III Traits, which will allow to upgrade an Ability.
You want the Ability Trait at this Hero Level, before reaching Hero Level 25,
since at Hero Level 25 Character Traits Tier III become avaible as well, which can fill the Pool by up to 6 Traits at this point, without considering the use of Banish.

Key Levels are also Hero Level 48+49, since you can get Ability Tier VI Traits, before Basic Traits Tier V become avaible at Hero Level 50, which again increases your chance by a good margin.

Ability Upgrades should be picked as soon as possible.
Earliest possible at Hero Level 24, after picking the Ability Tier III Trait.

It can happen, that you get offered your 2nd wanted Ability while upgrading your 1st.
Choose carefully, if you can manage the RNG involved, since you fill your Pool with additional Ability Traits.

An almost perfect outcome for getting the 2nd Ability is probably after you have picked all Character Traits and after upgrading the 1st Ability at Tier VI. At this point, you can handle additional Traits in your pool pretty well, without RNG screwing you over too much.

In some situations Defense can be the difference about life and death,
so it is up to the individual, how much Level-Ups are spent into Defensive Traits.

But under most conditions Defense is useless in later minutes of the run,
since most enemies die before reaching you.
Along with that, there are always passive ways to gain Health Regen and Defense,
without wasting valueable Level-Ups for dead Stats.

IMO the best Defense is Movement Speed.
All enemies can be outmaneuvered and Movement Speed is very often another offensice Stat as well, because alot of Abilities scale with MS, which will increase their DPS.

Swordsman
+ 0.5 Base Damage (Zweihänder)
+ 0.015m Base Reach (Zweihänder)
+ 0.1° Base Area (Zweihänder)
+ 0.5% Health
+ 0.5% Damage
Defense Priority: Vitality > Thick Hide = Metabolism > Parry

Archer
+ 0.25 Base Damage (Bow)
+ 0.02 Piercing (Bow)
+ 0.2% Movement Speed
+ 0.5% Crit Chance
Defense Priority: Thick Hide = Metabolism > Vitality > Parry

Cleric
+ 5 Base Damage (Holy Scepter)
+ 0.002/s Attacks (Holy Scepter)
+ 0.5% Damage
+ 0.5% Regeneration
Defense Priority: Metabolism > Thick Hide > Vitality > Parry

Exterminator
+ 0.25 Base Damage (Flame Caster)
+ 0.1% Base Burn Chance (Flame Caster)
+ 0.5% Burn Damage
+ 0.5% Defense
Defense Priority: Thick Hide > Metabolism > Vitality > Parry

Warlock
+ 0.01 Base Summons (Ravaging Specters)
+ 0.5% Force
+ 0.5% Health
Defense Priority: Vitality > Metabolism = Thick Hide > Parry

Shield Maiden
+ 0.02 Base Crit Bonus (War Hammer)
+ 0.3% Area
+ 0.5% Block Strength
Defense Priority: Parry > Thick Hide > Metabolism > Vitality

Sorceress
+ 0.5 Base Damage (Chain Lightning)
+ 0.003 Base Crit Chance (Chain Lightning)
+ 0.5% Block Strength
+ 0.5% Spark Damage
Defense Priority: Parry > Metabolism > Thick Hide > Vitality

Beast Huntress
+ 0.5 Base Damage (Spear/Hound)
+ 0.01 Base Multistrike (Spear/Hound)
+ 0.5% Damage
+ 0.5% Movement Speed
Defense Priority: Thick Hide = Metabolism > Vitality > Parry

Norseman
+ 0.1 Base Damage (Dual Axes)
+ 0.1° Base Area (Dual Axes)
+ 0.01m Base Range (Dual Axes)
+ 0.5% Frost Damage
+ 0.5% Regeneration
Defense Priority: Metabolism > Thick Hide > Vitality > Parry

Landsknecht
+ 2 Base Damage (Arquebus)
+ 0.03 Piercing (Arquebus)
+ 0.5% Crit Bonus
+ 0.5% Defense
Defense Priority: Thick Hide > Metabolism > Vitality > Parry

Sage
+ 1% Pickup Range
+ 1% Damage
Defense Priority: Thick Hide = Metabolism > Vitality > Parry

All Builds are presented in basic variants, excluding all Uncommon Agony Drops.
All Builds have all possible Traits listed and include Potion Usage,
but those are NOT required in the Early Game to use the Build.
It is just for convenience, if someone wants to use a Build in late Game.

You will gain in Strength naturally over time with more Equipment, XP-Boni, Traits, Blessings and Abilities, so all Builds will advance over time and get stronger.
If you ever get stuck in early game, do something "out of order".
There is no given path you have to follow...


Here are some early steps to get early Builds going and to lay a foundation for fresh players,
with fully filled Equipment Slots, since Equipment has an important role, followed by Potions.

To retrieve found items for permanent use, the Wellkeeper has to be freed in the first place.
This can be done on Ember Grounds via a small quest.

With unlocking the Wellkeeper Equipment will become avaible, which gives a huge power-boost, allows collecting of more items and makes stronger builds possible.

Chapter I: Haunted Caverns
The Imp Chieftain - Defeat the Imp Chieftain.
First Boss in this adventure, spawning at 24:00.
His defeat will unlock Hall II: Ember Grounds.

Chapter II: Ember Grounds
The Wellkeeper - Enter Ember Grounds and rescue the Wellkeeper.

• enter Ember Grounds and follow the unique compass icon
  
• after a short talk, the Wellkeeper wants to be freed
  
• find they Cage Key marked with a new compass icon and open the Cage

Can be easy made with the Archer, due her faster movement speed,
which was already unlocked by surviving Haunted Caverns until 26:00 at this point.

After the rescue, the Wellkeeper will sit on the left side of the camp, right next to your Stash Chest.
Some good Starter Items can already be found inside.

To unlock Potions, the Cupbearer has to be rescued in the first place.
This can be done on Forgotten Viaducts via a small quest.

With unlocking the Cupbearer, Ingredients can be collected, to unlock various Potions.
Potions are a strong addition to the arsenal and boost the overall powerlevel by a huge margin,
since they can be used to manipulate and boost Traits or RNG.

Chapter II: Ember Grounds
Wraith Warlord - Defeat the Wraith Warlord.
Second Boss on Ember Grounds, spawning at 13:50.
His defeat will unlock Hall III: Forgotten Viaduct.

Chapter III: Forgotten Viaduct
The Cupbearer - Enter Forgotten Viaduct and rescue the Cupbearer.

• enter Forgotten Viaduct and follow the unique compass icon
  
• after a short talk, the Cupbearer wants his potion flask
  
• find the Potion Flask marked with a new compass icon and bring it back

Again, can be easy made with the Archer due her faster movement speed.

After the rescue, the Cupbearer will sit on the right side of the camp.
One Strong Wine is granted, which can be used to reroll a Trait Selection on level up.
Also, the Gatherer's Charm will be avaible as random drop, which boosts Movement Speed and works like a Compass for Ingredient Farming.

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344983014

• Hood
  
• Scars of Toil
  
• Iron Ring
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Chain Mail
  
• Runner Shoes
  
• Quickhand Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344983040
Scars of Toil
Path of the Sword - Novice Swordsman - (Swordsman)
- Reach level 30

Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Vitality > Speed > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish:
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Regeneration
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Pinpoint
- Ring Blades - Big, Fast, Reaching

Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Swordsman Dedication (Base Health) x2

1st - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
2nd - Ring Blades
- Upgrades: Cyclone > Crippling Blades
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344983063

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344392090

• Wind Crown
  
• Collar of Confidence
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Echoing Band
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Running Shoes
  
• Quickhand Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344392119
Wind Crown
Swift as an Arrow - Untouchable - (Archer)
- Do not get hit for 3 minutes.
Collar of Confidence
Swift as an Arrow - Confident - (Archer)
- Enter the Halls of Torment 5 times and survive at least 5 minutes.
Echoing Band
Path of the Sword - Power Hitter - (Swordsman)
- Hit 1 000 Enemies for 300 or more damage in one run. (Main Weapon)
Blood-Soaked Shirt
Path of the Sword - Blood's Taste - (Swordsman)
- Recover 2 000 HP in one run.

Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Crit Chance > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Elemental Surge
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Survival
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Power
- Astronomer's Orbs - Density, Mass, Material

Demonic Exchange I-III (Force)
Ethereal Shift A (Projectile) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Archer Proficient Stance (Crit Chance) x2

1st - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
2nd - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Electrified Orbs
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344392152

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344413669

• Wind Crown
  
• Collar of Confidence
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Guiding Star
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Running Shoes
  
• Thornfists

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344413705
Guiding Star
Swift as an Arrow - Forward Evermore - (Archer)
- Walk 100 000 meters.
Thornfists
Path of the Sword - Just a Flesh Wound - (Swordsman)
- Get hit a total of 500 times over all attempts.

Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Damage > Speed > Reach > Defense
Banish:
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Passible
- Arcane Splinters - Focus, Fading
- Transfixion - Effectiveness, Potency

Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Magic) x2
Tier V - Cleric Weapon Proficiency (Punishment) x2

1st - Arcane Splinters
- Upgrades: Arcane Shivers > Arcane Unrest
2nd - Transfixion
- Upgrades: Crippling Cuts > Amputation
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344413732

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344694153

• Ruby Circlet
  
• Elemental Resonator
  
• Ring of Fire
  
• Guiding Star
  
• Blazing Shell
  
• Firewalker Boots
  
• Sparking Tips

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344694177
Ruby Circlet
Scorched Earth - Burning Masses - (Exterminator)
- Apply 50 or more burn effects at the same time.
Elemental Resonator
Scorched Earth - Prolonged Suffering -(ANY)
- Kill 50 000 enemies with effects.
Ring of Fire
Scorched Earth - Novice Exterminator - (Exterminator)
- Reach level 30.
Blazing Shell
Chapter II: Ember Grounds - Scorched Slayer I - (ANY)
- Kill 50 000 Scorched.
Firewalker Boots
Scorched Earth - Firewalker - (Exterminator)
- Walk 8 000 meters in one run.
Sparking Tips
Scorched Earth - Flammable - (Exterminator)
- Destroy 200 objects.

Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Force > Reach > Damage > Defense
Banish:
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Steeled
- Dragon's Breath - Flammability, Recovery, Agony
- Flame Strike - Mighty, Fury, Flow

Ethereal Shift A (Melee)
Ethereal Shift B (Physical)
Tier V - Exterminator Weapon Proficiency (Flamestorm) x2

1st - Dragon's Breath
- Upgrades: Heat Blast > Stream of Fire
2nd - Flame Strike
- Upgrades: Blazing Emberfall > Scattered Sparks
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344694201

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344711583

• Mask of Madness
  
• Shepherd's Boon
  
• Necromancer's Clutch
  
• Demonic Bond
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Invocator's Grasp

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344711612
Mask of Madness
Demonic Pact - Mark of Madness - (Warlock)
- Take a total of 15 000 damage over all runs.
Shepherd's Boon
Demonic Pact - Horde Summoner - (Warlock)
- Have 20 Summons at the same active. (Attack Projectiles do not count)
Necromancer's Clutch
Chapter I: Haunted Caverns - The Skeleton Lord
- Defeat the Skeleton Lord.
Demonic Bond
Chapter II: Ember Grounds - Flamedancer
- Defeat the Flamedancer.
Pace Setter
Unholy Crusade - Fragile Stamina - (ANY)
- Survive 20 min without regenerating health. Other health sources (e.g. potions) are allowed.
Invocator's Grasp
Demonic Pact - Trained Warlock - (Warlock)
- Reach level 60.

Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Force > Speed > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish:
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Defensive
- Astronomer's Orbs - Density, Mass, Material
- Summon Golem - Inertia, Inexorable

Demonic Exchange I-III (Force) I-III x2
Elemental Surge (Fire)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium)
Ethereal Shift B (Equilibrium)
Tier V - Warlock Weapon Proficiency (Ghost Army)

1st - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Electrified Orbs
2nd - Summon Golem
- Upgrades: Double Trouble > Magma Fists
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344711640

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347064832

• Helmet
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Copper Ring
  
• Echoing Band
  
• Plate Armor
  
• Plated Boots
  
• Fencer Gauntlets

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347064855
Blood Catcher
Unholy Crusade - Fragile Body - (Cleric)
- Survive 28 minutes with your original max health. (Don't use items, blessings or traits)
Fencer Gauntlets
Steady Shield - Direct Hits - (Shield Maiden)
- Crit 2 000 enemies with your main attack in one run. Shield Bash doesn't count.

Trait Priority: Character > Defense > Ability > Speed > Damage > Reach
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Proficient Stance - Dexterous
- Ring Blades - Big, Fast, Reaching
- Flame Strike - Deadly, Heated Up, Flow, Overpowered

Ethereal Shift A (Melee) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Shield Maiden Dedication (Base Block Strength) x2

1st - Ring Blades
- Upgrades: Cyclone > Crippling Blades
2nd - Flame Strike
- Upgrades: Blazing Emberfall > Scattered Sparks
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347064874

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347092063

• Mask of Madness
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Copper Ring
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Quickhand Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347092089
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Crit Chance > Force > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Protection
- Kugelblitz - Voltage, Discharge, Peak, Resistance
- Lightning Strikes - Intensity, Charges, Repercussion

Ethereal Shift A (Projectile)
Ethereal Shift B (ANY)
Tier V - Sorceress Dedication (Damage) x2

1st - Kugelblitz
- Upgrades: High Voltage > Static Attraction
2nd - Lightning Strikes
- Upgrades: Explosive Strikes > Electrifying Strikes
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347092103

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347112397

• Mask of Madness
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Guiding Star
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Hunting Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347112414
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Vitality, Elemental Surge
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Fight
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Pinpoint
- Ring Blades - Big, Fast, Reaching

Demonic Exchange I-III (Damage)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Beast Huntress Proficient Stance (+%Dmg +Base Dmg Physical / - Base Dmg) x2

1st - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
2nd - Ring Blades
- Upgrades: Cyclone > Crippling Blades
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347112446

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344905197

• Frost Dragon Helmet
  
• Elemental Resonator
  
• Ring of Fire
  
• Ring of Frost
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Frost Thorns

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344905233
Frost Dragon Helmet
Cold Fury - Permafrost II - (Norseman)
- Deal 10 000 000 Frost damage in one run.
Ring of Frost
Cold Fury - Frost Wave - (Norseman)
- Hit 30 enemies with a single Frost Nova.
Frost Thorns
Swift as an Arrow - Untouchable II - (Norseman)
- Avoid being hit for 360 seconds.

Trait Priority: Ability > Character > Speed > Reach > Damage > Defense
Banish:
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Stamina
- Hailstorm - Ice, Snow, Eyes
- Forst Avalanche - Impact, Frequence, Attraction

Frost Affinity I-III I x2
Ethereal Shift A (Melee) x2
Ethereal Shift B (ANY)
Tier V - Norseman Weapon Proficiency (Drain Shockwave) x2

1st - Hail Storm
- Upgrades: Hailstorm Vortex > Hailstorm Spikes
2nd - Frost Avalanche
- Upgrades: Quick Freeze > Debris Avalanche
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3344905252

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347322863

• Mask of Madness
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Guiding Star
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Hunting Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347322881
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Crit Chance > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Arquebus
- Proficient Stance - Fortification, Treatment
- Dedication - Riflewoman
- Transfixion - Effectiveness, Potency
- Arcane Splinters - Focus, Fading

Ethereal Shift A (Projectile) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Magic) x2
Tier V - Landsknecht Dedication (Base Grenade) x2

1st - Transfixion
- Upgrades: Crippling Cuts > Amputation
2nd - Arcane Splinters
- Upgrades: Arcane Unrest > Arcane Shivers
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347322892

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347355568

• Ruby Circlet
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Holy Relic
  
• Guiding Star
  
• Blazing Shell
  
• Spike Boots
  
• Sparking Tips

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347355589
Holy Relic
Beast Tracker - Forward - (Beast Huntress)
- Walk 10 000 meters in one run.
Spike Boots
Unholy Crusade - Trained Cleric - (Cleric)
- Reach level 60.

Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Reach > Damage > Defense
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Proficient Stance - Concentration
- Dragon's Breath - Recovery, Incineration
- Astronomer's Orbs - Density, Mass, Material
- Meteor Strike - Impact, Heat, Fusion
- Flame Strike - Mighty, Fury, Flow

Demonic Exchange I-III (Force)
Elemental Surge (Fire)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium)
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Sage Weapon Proficiency (Knowledge I OR II for Ability Upgrade)

1st - Dragon's Breath
- Upgrades: Heat Blast > Stream of Fire
2nd - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Electrified Orbs
3d - Meteor Strike
- Upgrades: Fireball > Burning Craters
4th - Flame Strike
- Upgrades: Blazing Emberfall > Scattered Sparks
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347355606

The following Builds involve a foreign Class Mark and have three Abilities.
This section is meant for the Vault, so you should have all Items and all Potions in your possesion, as well finished all Ability related Quests and unlocked all possible Traits and all Blessings.

Endgame - Checklist

• all Items
  
• all Potions
  
• all Ability related Unlocks
  
• all Traits
  
• all Blessings

Due heavy RNG-Involvement, the Builds will be presented with basic Equipment.
Every Ability on top or Uncommen Equipment can always be seen as a Bonus,
but it will never be mandatory.

At this point it is important to understand the Use and Function for Potions of Oblivion.

Starting at Hero Level 5, you can be presented with 12 different Tier I Character Traits,
so make sure to use Banish early and wise.

Some Numbers

• 13 Basic Traits - 5 Tiers each = 65 Level Ups
  
• 12 Character Traits - 4 Ranks each - 3 Categories = 12 Level Ups (in most Cases)
  
• 8 Potions of Memories = 8 Level Ups
  
• 1 Ability - between 2 - 4 Traits per Tier - 10 Tiers = 10 Level Ups

Without banishing away anything, a foreign Class mark and 1 Ability you will already need 95 level Ups. Not included any Type of Advanced Traits.

At Hero Level 5 you can have 25 different Trait Offerings per Level Up.
At Hero Level 8 you can have 27 different Trait Offerings per Level Up.
At Hero Level 10 you can have 30+ different Trait Offerings per Level Up.
USE YOUR POTIONS OF OBLIVION AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE!

After clearing the Vault once to retrieve the Archeologist's Thread Artifact,
one may want to start retrieving Uncommon Items in Agony Runs.

For those Agony Runs I can recommend a simple Artifact Setup, which gives good benefits to the whole farming process.

Archeologist's Thread (Lord of Greed - Vault)
- allows to retrieve Uncommon Items under the same Rules like the Well
Hastening Sands (Lord of Pain - Haunted Caverns Agony)
- shortens the Run Duration to 20 Minutes, while keeping Enemy Spawn high
Malignant Mirror (random Drop)
- spawns 3 Lords at the end, which increases Torment Shard Drops and odds for new Artifacts
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347361820

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347489956

• Mark of the Beast
  
• Mask of Madness
  
• Scars of Toil
  
• Iron Ring
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Chain Mail
  
• Pace Setter
  
• HuntingGloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347490001
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Vitality > Speed > Damage > Reach
Banish: Metabolism, Parry, Thick Hide, Bulwark, Elemental Surge
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Coverage, Piercing, Power Bite
- Proficient Stance - Dexterity, Reach
- Dedication - Regeneration, Flight
- Morning Star - Weight, Spikes, Enchantment
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Pinpoint
- Ring Blades - Big, Fast, Reaching

Demonic Exchange I-III (Damage)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium)
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Swordsman Dedication (Base Health) x2
Tier V - Beast Huntress Proficient Stance (+%Dmg +Base Dmg Physical / - Base Dmg) x2

1st - Morning Star
- Upgrades: Butterfly Swing > Spiked Chain
2nd - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
3d - Ring Blades
- Upgrades: Cyclone > Crippling Blades
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347490063
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347490105

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347663433

• Mark of the Grenadier
  
• Mask of Madness
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Copper Ring
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• HuntingGloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347663473
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Pierce, Grenades
- Proficient Stance - Forced March, Fortification, Treatment
- Dedication - Agility, Survival, Grenadier
- Transfixion - Effectiveness, Potency
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Power
- Arcane Splinters - Focus, Fading

Ethereal Shift A (Projectile) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Equilibrium)
Tier V - Archer Proficient Stance (Crit Chance) x2
Tier V - Landsknecht Proficient Stance (Damage) x2

1st - Transfixion
- Upgrades: Crippling Cuts > Amputation
2nd - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
3d - Arcane Splinters
- Upgrades: Arcane Shivers > Arcane Unrest
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347663496
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3347663531

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3345805619

• Mark of Knowledge
  
• Gorgon Mask
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Copper Ring
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Hunting Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3345805642
Trait Priority: Ability > Character > Speed > Reach > Damage > Defense
Banish: Vitality, Elemental Surge
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Propagation, Spread
- Proficient Stance - Concentration, Elements
- Dedication - Passible, Penitent, Focus Mind
- Arcane Rift - Concentrate, Frequency, Scatter
- Radiant Aura - Focus, Might
- Spirit Warrior - Strength, Cunning, Dashing
- Spectral Fists - Power, Force, Conversion

Demonic Exchange I-III (Damage)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Magic) x2
Tier V - Cleric Proficient Stance (Damage) x2
Tier V - Sage Dedication (Ability Drop Chance)

1st - Arcane Rift
- Upgrades: Wandering Rifts > Rift Splinters
2nd - Radiant Aura
- Upgrades: Echoing Light > Punitive Light
3d - Spirit Warrior
- Upgrades: Spirit Needles > Dash Impact
4th - Spectral Fists
- Upgrades: Spectral Clutch > Ground Pound
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3345805666
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3345823476

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3346880165

• Mark of Knowledge
  
• Ruby Circlet
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Ring of Fire
  
• Iron Ring
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Sparking Tips

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3346880192
Trait Priority: Ability > Character > Speed > Reach > Damage > Defense
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Concentration (Exterminator), Stream, Spread
- Proficient Stance - Elements
- Dedication - Heat, Steeled, Focus Mind
- Astronomer's Orbs - Density, Mass, Material
- Dragon's Breath - Flammability, Recovery, Agony
- Meteor Strike - Impact, Heat, Fusion

Demonic Exchange I-III (Force)
Elemental Surge (Fire)
Ethereal Shift A (Projectile) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Exterminator Weapon Proficiency (Flamestorm) x2
Tier V - Sage Dedication (Ability Drop Chance)

1st - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Electrified Orbs
2nd - Dragon's Breath
- Upgrades: Heat Blast > Stream of Fire
3nd - Meteor Strike
- Upgrades: Fireball > Burning Craters
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3346880214
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3346880239

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348001996

• Mark of the Arrow
  
• Gorgon Mask
  
• Shepherd's Boon
  
• Demonic Bond
  
• Necromancer's Clutch
  
• Defiant Plate
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Invocator's Grasp

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348002030
Trait Priority: Ability > Character > Speed > Crit Chance > Damage > Defense > Reach
Banish:
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Channeling, Pierce
- Proficient Stance - Barrage, Quickdraw
- Dedication - Defensive, Agility, Survival
- Astronomer's Orbs - Density, Mass, Material
- Spirit Warrior - Strength, Cunning, Dashing
- Summon Golem - Inertia, Inexorable

Demonic Exchange I - III (Force) I-III x2
Elemental Surge (Ice)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium)
Ethereal Shift B (Equilibrium)
Tier V - Warlock Weapon Proficiency (Ghost Army)
Tier V - Archer Proficient Stance (Crit Chance)

1st - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Electrified Orbs
2nd - Spirit Warrior
- Upgrades: Spirit Needles > Dash Impact
3d - Summon Golem
- Upgrades: Double Trouble > Magma Fists
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348002049
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348002072

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348049748

• Mark of the Beast
  
• Helmet
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Copper Ring
  
• Echoing Band
  
• Plate Armor
  
• Plated Boots
  
• Fencer Gauntlets

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348049774
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Defense > Speed > Damage > Reach
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Mace, Piercing, Power Bite
- Proficient Stance - Dexterous
- Dedication - Stalwart, Fight, Flight
- Ring Blades - Big, Fast, Reaching
- Morning Star - Weight, Spikes, Enchantment
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Pinpoint

Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium)
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Shield Maiden Dedication (Base Block Strength) x2
Tier V - Beast Huntress Proficient Stance (+%Dmg +Base Dmg Physical / - Base Dmg) x2

1st - Ring Blades
- Upgrades: Crippling Blades > Cyclone
2nd - Morning Star
- Upgrades: Butterfly Swing > Spiked Chain
3d - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348049805
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348049835

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348262467

• Mark of the Shield
  
• Thunder Crown
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Copper Ring
  
• Plate Armor
  
• Plated Boots
  
• Fencing Gauntlets

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348262519
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Crit Chance > Force > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Vitality
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Strength, Strikes, Mace
- Proficient Stance - Stability, Dexterous
- Dedication - Nimble, Stalwart
- Transfixion - Effectiveness, Potency
- Astronomer's Orbs - Density, Mass, Material
- Arcane Splinters - Focus, Fading

Demonic Exchange I - III (Force)
Elemental Surge (Lightning)
Ethereal Shift A (Projectile) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Magic)
Tier V - Sorceress Dedication (Spark Damage) x2
Tier V - Shield Maiden Dedication (Base Block Strength) x2

1st - Transfixion
- Upgrades: Painful Incision > Amputation
2nd - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Electrified Orbs
3d - Arcane Splinters
- Upgrades: Arcane Shivers > Arcane Unrest
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348262557
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348262589

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348359407

• Mark of the Beast
  
• Mask of Madness
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Echoing Band
  
• Demonic Bond
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Hunting Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348359437
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Vitality, Elemental Surge
Banish Options:
- Dedication - Fight
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Pinpoint
- Summon Golem - Inertia, Inexorable
- Astronomer's Orbs - Density, Mass, Material

Demonic Exchange I-III (Force)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium)
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Beast Huntress Proficient Stance -
(+Base Dmg / -%Dmg Physical) x2
+ (+%Dmg +Base Dmg Physical / - Base Dmg) x2
+ Tier V - Beast Huntress Dedication (Hound)

1st - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
2nd - Summon Golem
- Upgrades: Double Trouble > Ferrite Infusion
3d - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Electrified Orbs
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348359486
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348359599

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348678458

• Mark of the Sword
  
• Frost Dragon Helmet
  
• Elemental Resonator
  
• Ring of Fire
  
• Ring of Thunder
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Frost Thorns

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348678496
Trait Priority: Ability > Character > Speed > Reach > Damage > Defense
Banish: Elemental Surge (ANY)
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Power
- Proficient Stance - Blizzard, Frostbite, Dexterity
- Dedication - Stamina, Health, Regeneration
- Spirit Warrior - Strength, Cunning, Dashing
- Spectral Fists - Power, Force, Conversion

Demonic Exchange I-III (Force)
Ethereal Shift A (Melee) x2
Ethereal Shift B (Magic) x2
Tier V - Norseman Weapon Proficiency (Drain Shockwave) x2
Tier V - Swordsman Proficient Stance (Range)

1st - Spirit Warrior
- Upgrades: Dash Impact > Spirit Needles
2nd - Spectral Fists
- Upgrades: Spectral Clutch > Ground Pound
3d - Radiant Aura
- Upgrades: Punitive Light > Sacred Flame
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348678516
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348678535

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348720278

• Mark of the Beast
  
• Mask of Madness
  
• Blood Catcher
  
• Wooden Ring
  
• Guiding Star
  
• Blood-Soaked Shirt
  
• Pace Setter
  
• Hunting Gloves

https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348720314
Trait Priority: Character > Ability > Speed > Damage > Reach > Defense
Banish: Vitality, Elemental Surge
Banish Options:
- Weapon Proficiency - Grenades, Piercing, Power Bite
- Proficient Stance - Forced, March, Fortification, Treatment
- Dedication - Grenadier, Technician, Fight, Flight
- Morning Star - Weight, Spikes, Enchantment
- Phantom Needles - Fire Rate, Sharpness, Power
- Astronomer's Orbs - Mass, Density, Bodies

Demonic Exchange I-III (Force)
Ethereal Shift A (Equilibrium)
Ethereal Shift B (Physical) x2
Tier V - Landsknecht Proficient Stance (Damage) x2
Tier V - Beast Huntress Proficient Stance (+%Dmg +Base Dmg Physical / - Base Dmg) x2

1st - Morning Star
- Upgrades: Butterfly Swing > Spiked Chain
2nd - Phantom Needles
- Upgrades: Phantom Split > Phantom Fetters
3d - Astronomer's Orbs
- Upgrades: Inner Orbit > Orbital Shift
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348720345
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3348720366

The old Sa(VA)ge deserves his own place...
https://steamproxy-script.pipiskins.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3172296902

Feel free to discuss and comment.

If you have any suggestions, feedback or questions, don't hestitate to post here.

Cheers!