[1.D9] Death - A Melee Necromancer

Original post by Hellwyrm on the old forums (forumer).
Most formatting is lost.
-WolfieeifloW

And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. - Revelation 6:8

The Death Necromancer is a melee necromancer who focuses on using 2 main skills, Parasite and Death Lord. He focuses almost solely on Strength as his main stat, because he uses Scythes. For a Dexterity-based Dagger/Shield version, please visit: The Lord Of Parasites (Melee Necro - Parasite based) guide by bastardodentro

Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Stat Placements
3. Skill Placements
4. Early/Mid-Game Equips
5. End-Game Equips
6. Mercenary
7. Main Game Walkthrough
8. Challenges
9. Uberquests
10. Screenshots/Credits


2. Stat Placement

510 Stat points in total, I split them up as follows:

Strength: Anything not going into Dexterity goes here. Since you will be using a scythe, this will increase your damage. This will also allow you to use the heaviest armors in the game, making you quite tough.

Dexterity: I suggest around 100 to 150 base points here so you can actually hit something in endgame.

Vitality: None, with the high amounts of defense you will have, and a little avoid, this is unneeded.

Energy: None, Death has no mana problems, even early on in the game.

Any extra points you happen to have from disenchanting set items can be put into Strength (or Dexterity)as well.

Note: Dark King will help nicely with your stats if you are using Wing of the Dragon God as your main weapon, or a crafted Scythe that has it as an oSkill.

3. Skill Placement

131 Skill points in total, I split them up as follows:

Summoning Tree:

Summon Void Archon: This guy is never bad to have around. His warp aura will be useful in high traffic areas like K3KBA or Tran Athuala. Put leftover points in here, so he doesn't die in one hit. He dies in two! Jk.

Battle Tree:

Buckshot: Fun skill, but we don't use crossbows, 1 point as a pre-req.

Angel of Death: Quite useful for taking out bosses. 10 points is more than enough.

Widowmaker: See Buckshot

Parasite: Our main skill. This little beauty releases a "blood eater" that bounces between targets dealing 5/4 weapon damage with a 50% Magic Conversion. Soft points add Magic Damage. Hard Points add to the number of targets. Supermax


Deathlord: Our other main skill. This skill is pretty much built on the "Rule of Cool". It morphs us into a Black Knight for a period of time, adding damage, flat Str/Dex, and defense (based on our Str/Dex). Soft points increase the defense gained per points in Str/Dex, the flat Str/Dex bonus, and the duration. Hard points increase damage. Supermax

Support Tree:

Unholy Armor: Useful as ever, but not worth the investment. Leave at 1 point as a pre-req.

Sacrifices: Summons corpses for reanimates. Yay, reanimates! Not that helpful. Leave at 1 point as a pre-req.

Famine: A VERY nice passive that adds Damage with soft points, and Life Leech with Hard points. More damage? Yes please. Supermax

Bend the shadows: No summons, no need. 1 point as pre-req.

Talon's Hold: Gives us target slow and Rathma Priests as reanimates. Both have their uses. 1 point should be enough, + skills will take care of the rest.

Totem Trees:

We don't have the patience, mana, or skill points to waste on totems, leave this tree empty.


Uberskill:

Death Ward: Gives us TCD per soft point. Also gives us some very, very sexy Avoid Damage per hard point. Can't beat this in melee. Supermax

Ennead/Black Road Challenge Skills:

There really isn't a use for either of these for us, leave them empty.

4. Early/Mid-Game Equips

Weapons:

Talon's Reach
Bonesplitter (6)
Two-Hand Damage: (152-170) to (634-718)
Durability: 96
(Necromancer Only)
Required Strength: 350
Required Level: 57
50% Chance to cast level 39 Hunting Banshee when you Kill an Enemy
+(231 to 270)% Enhanced damage
+(171 to 200) to Maximum Damage
-(46 to 50)% to Enemy Cold Resistance
(22 to 25)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(36 to 40)% Bonus to Summoned Minion Damage
(18 to 20)% Chance to Avoid Damage
Socketed: 6


Very nice weapon for us. Amazing proc, high damage, CB, and huge avoid chance. This is what you will want to keep an eye out for.
-------------------------------------
Chthon
Level 61

Sur Runeword for Necromancer Scythes

25% Chance to cast level 10 Crucify when you Kill an Enemy
25% Chance to cast level 5 Tremor when you Kill an Enemy
+(151 to 200)% Enhanced damage
+200 to Maximum Damage
(21 to 40)% Chance of Open Wounds
+100% Damage when using a Healing Potion

Great damage, open wounds and a couple of sexy procs. Damage on health potion is just icing.
-------------------------------------
Endor
Level 65

Jah Scythe runeword

50% Chance to cast level 17 Hunting Banshee on Attack
5% Chance to cast level 19 Doom on Attack
+(151 to 200)% Enhanced damage
+(101 to 200) to Maximum Damage
+(31 to 40)% to Cold Spell Damage
+(31 to 40)% to Poison Spell Damage
+(1 to 4) to Pagan Heart

Not as good as Talon's Reach, but when put in a good Superior Bonesplitter, it can make a decent alternative.
---------------------------------------

Helmets:

Topspin
Skull Cap (6)
Defense: (775-1044)
Durability: 33
Required Strength: 160
Required Level: 47
15% Chance to cast level 12 Starburst when Attacked
30% Increased Attack Speed
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(36 to 40)%
+(171 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
(18 to 20)% Bonus to Dexterity
(18 to 20)% Bonus to Energy
Socketed: 4

Really the only option for us in the TU department. A little EWD, some IAS, and a nice % Dex Bonus.
-------------------------------------------
Dreadlord
Level 75

Lah runeword for Helms

25% Chance to cast level 22 Mind Flay on Attack
(41 to 50)% Bonus to Summoned Minion Attack Rating
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(1 to 6) to Death Coil
+(2 to 4) to Maximum Necromancer Minions
+(41 to 50)% Bonus to Summoned Minion Damage
+(201 to 250)% Enhanced Defense
5% Bonus to All Attributes

Small Bonus % to all stats, small CB bonus. But there is a decent Mind Flay proc.
-----------------------------------

You will probably find a better rare helm lying around somewhere.
-----------------------------------

Body Armors:

The War Cloak
Quilted Armor (6)
Defense: (563-855)
Durability: 27
Required Strength: 83
Required Level: 44
(12 to 13)% Life stolen per Hit
(46 to 50)% Chance of Open Wounds
Enhanced Weapon Damage +(66 to 75)%
+(131 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
+(18 to 20)% Increased Healing Rate from Potions
Socketed: 6

Good EWD, Life leech, and open wounds make this a decent armor.
---------------------------------
Sharkbaiter
Ring Mail (6)
Defense: (1437-2700)
Durability: 51
Required Strength: 237
Required Level: 47
1% Chance to cast level 36 Bloodlust when you Take Damage
+(86 to 100)% Bonus Damage to Bloodlust
30% Increased Attack Speed
(14 to 15)% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(191 to 220)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 40) to Strength
+(18 to 20) Life on Striking in Melee
Socketed: 6

Bloodlust proc, IAS, CB, Life on striking in Melee. This armor was made for people like us. The flat Str bonus is just icing.
-----------------------------------
Werecat
Breast Plate (6)
Defense: (1984-3904)
Durability: 69
Required Strength: 353
Required Level: 50
10% Chance to cast level 16 Claw Tornado on Attack
30% Increased Attack Speed
(46 to 50)% Chance of Open Wounds
+(191 to 220)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 40) to Strength
+(36 to 40) to Dexterity
+(36 to 40) to Vitality
Socketed: 6

Nice Claw Tornado proc makes a great combo with Parasite. IAS, OW, and flat bonuses to useful stats make this even better than Sharkbaiter.
---------------------------------
Jitan's Kamon
Splint Mail (6)
Defense: (2170-4307)
Durability: 75
Required Strength: 391
Required Level: 49
100% Chance to cast level 42 Singularity when you Die
10% Chance to cast level 19 Guard Tower when you Kill an Enemy
Adds (241-480)-(481-960) fire damage
Adds (241-480)-(481-960) lightning damage
Adds (241-480)-(481-960) cold damage
+(191 to 220)% Enhanced Defense
Damage Reduced by 10%
Socketed: 6

Rainbow damage is always nice to have, but its the 10% DR that makes this armor stand out.
---------------------------------------
Steel Golem
Gothic Plate (6)
Defense: (3595-7392)
Durability: 134
Required Strength: (692-708)
Required Level: 52
75% Faster Hit Recovery
Stun Attack
10% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(261 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
(27 to 30)% Bonus to Strength
(27 to 30)% Bonus to Vitality
Increase Maximum Durability (36 to 40)%
Requirements +(27 to 30)%
Socketed: 6

THIS is the armor you want to get for early on. Everything on this armor is just fantastic. The Str req is kinda high, but throw some -req jewels in here to make your life easier.
-------------------------------------

Gloves:

Featherclaw
Chain Gloves (6)
Defense: (549-777)
Durability: 39
Required Strength: 244
Required Level: 48
40% Faster Run/Walk
30% Increased Attack Speed
(171 to 200)% Bonus to Attack Rating
(18 to 20)% Chance of Open Wounds
+(131 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 35) to Dexterity
+(351 to 400) Maximum Stamina
Socketed: 4

IAS, a large AR boost, OW, and flat Dex make these decent.
----------------------------------
Visegrip
Light Gauntlets (6)
Defense: (269-374)
Durability: 46
Required Strength: 333
Required Level: 50
10% Chance to cast level 11 Crucify on Attack
+(36 to 40) to Maximum Damage
(27 to 30)% Chance of Open Wounds
(-171 to -200) to Monster Defense per Hit
(14 to 15)% Bonus to Strength
Socketed: 4

Everything on these gloves is win for early game.
-----------------------------------------
Pollice Verso
Gauntlets (6)
Defense: (872-1398)
Durability: 53
Required Strength: 423
Required Level: 52
14% Chance to cast level 8 Time Strike when Attacked
20% Chance to cast level 19 Vanquish when you Kill an Enemy
(18 to 20) to Strength
+(191 to 220)% Enhanced Defense
+(86 to 100) Mana after each Kill
+(86 to 100) Life after each Kill
Socketed: 4

These are even better than Visegrips, thanks to the huge ctc Vanquish and the dual recovery after kill.
---------------------------------
Aiwass
Level 69

Zod runeword for Gloves

+2 to Necromancer Skill Levels
Shadows Spawn Corpses on Striking 5%
+(21 to 25)% Bonus to Summoned Minion Damage
(11 to 20)% Bonus to Strength
+93 Defense
Level 4 Rune of Mana (78 Charges)

Necro Skill levels and big % Str bonus make these worth mentioning.
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Boots:

Death Spur
Heavy Boots (6)
Defense: (248-306)
Durability: 42
Required Strength: 179
Required Level: 46
1% Chance to cast level 16 Spike Nova when you Take Damage
+(1 per level) to Maximum Damage (Based on Character Level)
(46 to 50)% Chance of Open Wounds
+(36 to 40) to Strength
+(36 to 40) to Dexterity
Socketed: 4

The Pollice Verso of the TU boot world for us. 'Nuff said.
-----------------------------------
Ginfaxi
Level 47

Um runeword for Boots
+(1 to 4) to Hamstring
+1% to Defense per Socketed Rune
+(51 to 100)% Enhanced Defense
+(16 to 20) to Strength
Slows Attacker by 5%

Ahh yes... the overused favorite for everyone... Runemaster-esque bonus and flat Str.
----------------------------
Craton
Level 67

Cham runeword for Boots

5% Chance to cast level 7 Shower of Rocks on Attack
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(21 to 25) to all Attributes
Damage Reduced by (16 to 20)
Total Character Defense Plus (31 to 40)%
(11 to 20)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack

In my opinion, these are better than Ginfaxi, SoR proc, CB, flat all stat bonus, and up to 40% TCD is much more useful for us.
------------------------------------------

Belts:

Wormtongue
Light Belt (6)
Defense: (757-970)
Durability: 34
Required Strength: 173
Required Level: 46
(131 to 150)% Bonus to Attack Rating
Adds (301-600)-(601-1200) poison damage over 6 seconds
(17 to 19)% Life stolen per Hit
+(131 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
+(36 to 40) to Dexterity
Socketed: 2

Another nice AR bonus, big life leech bonus, and decent flat Dex make this a good belt to have on.
-----------------------------------

Deadfall
Heavy Belt (6)
Defense: (1970-2751)
Durability: 52
Required Strength: 404
Required Level: 50
10% Chance to cast level 13 Shower of Rocks when you Kill an Enemy
10% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(241 to 280)% Enhanced Defense
+(66 to 75) to Strength
Lightning Resist +(36 to 40)%
(18 to 20)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed: 2

FIND IT, LOVE IT. Here we have another item where everything on it is just amazing. You may even be using this into end game.
-----------------------------------

Jewelry:

Empyrean Band
Ring
Required Level: 40
1% Chance to cast level 7 Singularity when you Kill an Enemy
(3 to 5)% Bonus to All Attributes
Increase Maximum Life and Mana (11 to 15)%
(51 to 100)% Extra Gold from Monsters

Two of these, everyone's favorite low-level rings. Stats speak for themselves.
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Angel Heart
Amulet
Required Level: 40
+1 to All Skills
Slows Target by 5%
(6 to 10)% Bonus to Strength
(6 to 10)% Bonus to Dexterity
Total Character Defense Plus (16 to 20)%
+(3 to 4) to Light Radius

Once again the stats speak for themselves.
------------------------------------

Note that you will may very well find a better rare ring or amulet lying around.
--------------------------------

5. End-Game Equips

Note: Nothing is stopping you from attempting to craft better gear. What I list here is, of course, only suggestions. If you are VERY dedicated to crafting, you can craft an entire set of gear that is far superior to any combination of SUs, TUs, Sets, or Rares.

Necromancer Melee Set
Rathma's Empire
Rathma's Tyranny
Rathma's Skeleton
Rathma's Death Gaze
Rathma's Trap
Rathma's Chase

Full Set Bonus:
With 2 or more set items:
20% Life stolen per Hit
+50 to Strength
With 3 or more set items:
+13 to Overpower
With 4 or more set items:
25% Chance of Crushing Blow
+4 to Hex
With Complete Set:
5% Chance to cast level 19 Crucify on Striking
150% Physical Damage Bonus to Hex
+150 to all Attributes
Increase Maximum Life 20%
All Resists +65%
Total Character Defense Plus 150%
50% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack

Rathma's Tyranny
Bonesplitter (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (671-730) to (936-1018)
Durability: 96
(Necromancer Only)
Required Strength: 512
Required Level: 100
50% Chance to cast level 9 Guard Tower when you Kill an Enemy
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced damage
40% Increased Attack Speed
Adds 250-350 damage
Slows Target by (21 to 25)%
+(51 to 70) to Strength
Socketed: 6

Rathma's Skeleton
Ancient Armor (Sacred)
Defense: (6203-8932)
Durability: 111
Required Strength: 532
Required Level: 100
+(1 to 2) to Necromancer Skill Levels
+(2 to 4) Extra Totems
20% Faster Run/Walk
40% Faster Hit Recovery
+(201 to 250)% Enhanced Defense
Lightning Resist +(31 to 50)%
Damage Reduced by 5%
Socketed: 6
Requirements -20%

Rathma's Death Gaze
Cap (Sacred)
Defense: (1351-1361)
Durability: 27
Required Strength: 456
Required Level: 100
+(1 to 2) to Necromancer Skill Levels
20% Faster Hit Recovery
+(31 to 50) to Maximum Damage
+500 Defense
+(31 to 50) to Strength
All Resists +(11 to 15)%
Socketed: 4

Rathma's Trap
Heavy Belt (Sacred)
Defense: (2751-3454)
Durability: 52
Required Strength: 568
Required Level: 100
(3 to 5)% Mana stolen per Hit
(3 to 5)% Life stolen per Hit
Slows Target by 5%
+(201 to 250)% Enhanced Defense
+(21 to 25) to all Attributes
Fire Resist +(31 to 50)%
150% Damage Reflected
Socketed: 2

Rathma's Chase
Chain Boots (Sacred)
Defense: (1595-2009)
Durability: 55
Required Strength: 527
Required Level: 100
30% Faster Run/Walk
5% Chance of Crushing Blow
+(201 to 250)% Enhanced Defense
+(151 to 200) Maximum Stamina
Cold Resist +(31 to 50)%
Total Character Defense Plus (11 to 15)%
Level 1 Blink (10 Charges)
Socketed: 4

The Necromancer Melee Set is ALWAYS an option. Certainly not a bad route to take, even if you choose not to use the full set.

Weapons:

Wing of the Dragon God
Bonesplitter (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (631-690) to (1169-1251)
Durability: 96
(Necromancer Only)
Required Strength: 409
Required Level: 100
+(301 to 350)% Enhanced damage
50% Faster Run/Walk
50% Faster Hit Recovery
Adds 150-500 damage
+(6 to 16) to Titan Strike
+(3 to 13) to Dark King
Slows Target by 20%
All Resists +75%
Damage Reduced by 100
1% Reanimate as: Dark Star Dragon
Requirements -20%
Socketed: 6

Everyone's favorite Bonesplitter is back, and just as useful for us as it was for Soulshatter necros. Do you see anything on this scythe that we won't use? Nope, didn't think so.
----------------------------------------
Seed of Conflict
Level 100

Lai runeword for Scythes

10% Chance to cast level 9 Charm on Attack
+(2 to 4) to Necromancer Skill Levels
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced damage
+(201 to 250) to Maximum Damage
Enhanced Weapon Damage +5%
Total Character Defense Plus 20%
+(101 to 150) Mana after each Kill
+(101 to 150) Life after each Kill

A useful alternative if you can't get your hands on the SU Bonesplitter.
------------------------------------
Leviathan
Level 100

Taha runeword for Necromancer Scythes

+(301 to 350)% Enhanced damage
+(401 to 500) to Maximum Damage
+(8 to 27) to Summon Overlord
Slows Target by (21 to 25)%
(31 to 50)% Bonus to Strength
(31 to 50)% Bonus to Dexterity
Damage Reduced by (11 to 15)%

An even more useful alternative if you can't get your hands on the SU Bonesplitter.
------------------------------------

If you are extremely lucky, you can craft a Sacred Bonesplitter that is even more powerful than the SU one.
----------------------------------

Helmets:

The Wanderer's Hood
Cap (Sacred)
Defense: (2561-3013)
Durability: 27
Required Strength: 456
Required Level: 100
+(2 to 3) to All Skills
+(201 to 250)% Enhanced Defense
Increase Maximum Life 10%
+(41 to 50) Life on Striking in Melee
(21 to 25)% Reanimate as: Soul Flayer
(101 to 150)% Extra Gold from Monsters
Socketed: 4

+ Skills, + Life on striking in Melee, % Max life boost. Worthy of mentioning.
--------------------------------
Eidolon
Level 100

Taha runeword for Helms

+(1 to 2) to All Skills
+100 to Maximum Damage
20% Bonus to All Attributes
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
All Resists +(31 to 40)%
Total Character Defense Plus (21 to 30)%
+4 to Light Radius

Ding! Ding! Ding! We have a winner! Yet another item where everything on it is tasty. Reroll it till you get + 2 skills and high res.
--------------------------------------

Body Armors:

Hratli's Craft
Ring Mail (Sacred)
Defense: (7005-8649)
Durability: 51
Required Strength: 307
Required Level: 100
+500 Crafting Points
+1 to All Skills
25% Faster Cast Rate
50% Faster Hit Recovery
+(41 to 50)% Bonus to Summoned Minion Life
+(301 to 350)% Enhanced Defense
+100 to Dexterity
Damage Reduced by 15%
125% Better Chance of Getting Magic Items
Repairs 1 Durability in 25 Seconds
Requirements -40%
Socketed: 6

Worth mentioning because it is such a useful armor for farming, and it doesn't have bad stats to boot.
--------------------------------------
Scales of the Serpent
Gothic Plate (Sacred)
Defense: (7012-9696)
Durability: 99
Required Strength: 614
Required Level: 100
15% Chance to cast level 40 Carpet of Spiders on Attack
25% Chance to cast level 12 Time Strike on Striking
+150% Damage to Undead
Adds 400-600 poison damage over 2 seconds
-50% to Enemy Poison Resistance
10% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +200%
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
+150 to Strength
+250 Life on Striking in Melee
(31 to 40)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed: 6

The King among SU Body Armors. So many good mods for Death.
--------------------------------
Erawan
Level 100

Nih runeword for Body Armors

-10% Slower Run/Walk
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
10% Chance of Crushing Blow
25% Bonus to Strength
25% Bonus to Vitality
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
Damage Reduced by (11 to 15)%
Total Character Defense Plus (11 to 20)%

Huge % bonuses to Str/Vit, DR, and CB make this a great runeword to stick in a Superior Sacred Ancient Armor.
----------------------------
Unity
Level 100


Ghal runeword for Body Armors

+25 Energy Factor to Spell Damage
+1 to All Skills
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
+125 to Strength
+50 to Energy
+50 to Dexterity
+125 to Vitality
All Resists +(51 to 60)%

High +flat stats (especially to our key one, Strength), High Res all, and + 1 skill make it also worth shoving in a Superior Sacred Ancient Armor
------------------------------

Gloves:

Hammerfist
Heavy Gloves (Sacred)
Defense: (709-935)
Durability: 32
Required Strength: 484
Required Level: 100
25% Chance to cast level 14 Banish when you Kill an Enemy
50% Chance of Open Wounds
+(3 to 7) to Overpower
+(101 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 40) to Strength
Magic Resist +10%
+(31 to 50) Life on Striking in Melee
Socketed: 4

Overpower oSkill if you are bored with Parasite , High ctc Banish, high OW, + flat Str, and the elusive +% Magic Resist. And, of course, Life on Striking in Melee.
----------------------------------
Drekavac
Level 100

Taha runeword for Gloves

+1 to All Skills
45% Increased Attack Speed
45% Faster Cast Rate
+(81 to 100) to Maximum Damage
Adds 100-200 cold damage
Maximum Skill Level Increased by 1
Attacker Takes Cold Damage of (101 to 150)
(21 to 40)% Better Chance of Getting Magic Items

Another classic favorite, good mods all around once again.
------------------------------

Boots:

Spirit Walker
Heavy Boots (Sacred)
Defense: (1102-1320)
Durability: 42
Required Strength: 295
Required Level: 100
+(31 to 40)% Bonus Elemental Damage to Mark of the Wild
+(121 to 150)% Enhanced Defense
+(301 to 400) Maximum Stamina
+5% to All Maximum Resistances
All Resists +(21 to 30)%
(11 to 15)% Curse Length Reduction
Socketed: 4
Requirements -40%

+ all res, + max res. Useful for survival.
------------------------------------------------
Akarat's Trek
Light Plated Boots (Sacred)
Defense: (1410-1866)
Durability: 68
Required Strength: 561
Required Level: 100
10% Chance to cast level 13 Thunder Wave when Struck
+(151 to 200)% Damage to Undead
Enhanced Weapon Damage +150%
10% Bonus to All Attributes
+(151 to 200)% Enhanced Defense
Replenish Life +100
+2 to Light Radius
Socketed: 4

Sexiness in boot form. MASSIVE EWD, +% to all stats, and a nice proc when struck.
-----------------------------
Nephilim
Level 100

Nih runeword for Boots

100% Chance to cast level 51 Fire Splash when you Die
10% Bonus to Buff/Debuff/Cold Skill Duration
(21 to 25)% Bonus to Strength
(21 to 25)% Bonus to Vitality
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
+150 Defense
+50 to Strength
+50 to Vitality

Huge bonuses to Str/Vit make this worth pointing out.
-------------------------
Hibagon
Level 100

Qor runeword for Boots

+1 to All Skills
+(301 to 350)% Enhanced Defense
All Resists +(31 to 40)%
5% Reanimate as: Bronze Titan
5% Reanimate as: Gold Titan
5% Reanimate as: Silver Titan
Requirements -15%

+1 skills, +res, reanimate Titans make it another good choice.
--------------------------------

Belts:

Ashaera's Armor
Belt (Sacred)
Defense: (1351-1403)
Durability: 43
Required Strength: 529
Required Level: 100
+(21 to 25) Energy Factor to Spell Damage
+(21 to 30)% to Spell Damage
(11 to 15)% Bonus to Energy
+500 Defense
All Resists +(21 to 30)%
Damage Reduced by 10%
Socketed: 2

Resists and DR make this a worthwhile choice until you find...
----------------------------
The Asteroid Belt
Plated Belt (Sacred)
Defense: (3429-4280)
Durability: 61
Required Strength: 606
Required Level: 100
1% Chance to cast level 12 Blast Wave when Attacked
Indestructible
1% Chance to cast level 12 Shower of Rocks when Struck
1% Chance to cast level 12 Meteor Shower when Attacked
+1 to All Skills
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% Bonus to Strength
Fire Resist +(36 to 40)%
(21 to 30)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
(21 to 30)% Better Chance of Getting Magic Items
Socketed: 2

+1 skill, +huge boost to Str, CUA, and MF make this the best SU available for this slot.
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Truce
Level 98

Vith runeword for Belts

-5% Decreased Attack Speed
-5% Slower Cast Rate
Stun Attack
+(301 to 350)% Enhanced Defense
Damage Reduced by 10%
Slows Attacker by 5%

A cheap alternative to Ashaera's Armor
--------------------------------------
Ahriman
Level 100

Ghal runeword for Belts

+1 to All Skills
Adds 200-600 fire damage
Adds 200-600 lightning damage
Adds 200-600 cold damage
+(301 to 350)% Enhanced Defense
+(31 to 50) to all Attributes
All Resists +(31 to 40)%
Requirements +10%

Large flat boost to all stats, and a nice res all boost.
-----------------------------------
Nero
Level 100

Auhe runeword for Belts

10% Chance to cast level 14 Fortress on Attack
Adds 25-100 damage
+150% Damage to Demons
Adds 500-1000 fire damage
+(31 to 40)% to Fire Spell Damage
+(15 to 19) to Path of Flames
+(201 to 250)% Enhanced Defense
Regenerate Mana +5%

Fortress. Proc. On. Attack.
------------------------------

Jewelry:

Seal of the Nephalem Kings
Ring
Required Level: 120
+2 to All Skills
(11 to 15)% Bonus to Strength
(11 to 15)% Bonus to Vitality
Total Character Defense Plus (11 to 15)%
(101 to 150)% Extra Gold from Monsters

Big surprise here. Best item you could probably find for this slot.
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Klaatu Barada Nikto
Amulet
Required Level: 120
25% Chance to cast level 20 Nova Bomb on Attack
+2 to All Skills
40% Increased Attack Speed
Adds 1-1500 lightning damage
+1800 poison damage over 6 seconds
Stun Attack
Lightning Resist +(41 to 60)%
Poison Resist +(41 to 60)%
50% Enhanced Damage vs. Necrobots
Level 16 Hive (5 Charges)

High ctc Nova Bomb, +2 all skills, IAS, and +ED% against pesky Necrobots.
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As with the Early game Jewelry, a rare could very well serve you better in these slots.
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6. Mercenary

I tested each of the mercenaries to find which fit this build best, and I have decided on the Act 1 Priestess merc.

Spore Shot is just too nice to pass up, and her Blood Tide Totem is always welcome for a little health boost.

Some suggestions for equips are:

Weapon:

Hand of Karcheus
Long Battle Bow (Sacred)
Two-Hand Damage: (432-546) to (433-547)
Required Dexterity: 514
Required Level: 100
50% Chance to cast level 24 Glacial Nova when you Kill an Enemy
25% Chance to cast level 13 Frozen Soul on Striking
+(151 to 200)% Enhanced damage
25% Faster Run/Walk
+(101 to 150) to Minimum Damage
Adds 1000-1500 cold damage
Cold Resist +(31 to 50)%
+(21 to 25) Cold Absorb
Cannot Be Frozen
Socketed: 6


Body Armor:

Scales of the Serpent
Gothic Plate (Sacred)
Defense: (7012-9696)
Durability: 99
Required Strength: 614
Required Level: 100
15% Chance to cast level 40 Carpet of Spiders on Attack
25% Chance to cast level 12 Time Strike on Striking
+150% Damage to Undead
Adds 400-600 poison damage over 2 seconds
-50% to Enemy Poison Resistance
10% Chance of Crushing Blow
Enhanced Weapon Damage +200%
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
+150 to Strength
+250 Life on Striking in Melee
(31 to 40)% Chance of Uninterruptable Attack
Socketed: 6


Helmet:

Royal Circlet
Tiara (Sacred)
Defense: (1825-2352)
Durability: 20
Required Dexterity: 392
Required Level: 100
+2 to All Skills
+150% Damage to Demons
+150% Damage to Undead
+(251 to 300)% Enhanced Defense
(21 to 25)% Bonus to All Attributes
All Resists +(31 to 40)%
Damage Reduced by 5%
(41 to 50)% Better Chance of Getting Magic Items
Socketed: 4


Feel free to equip her with whatever you like though.

7. Main Game Walkthrough

Act I. Pretty straightforward. Stick with Angel of Death as your attack to start. Using /players8 will get you to level 18 and Parasite very quickly. By the time you finish Tristram you should have it. Using Parasite makes every part of Act I a breeze. By the time you get to Andariel you should have hit level 24 and unlocked Deathlord. The huge IAS that you get from it will make the battle a cinch. Just spam Parasite on her minions and hit her with a few AoD, she will go down very fast.

Act II. Again really straightforward. The sewers are no match for your Parasite/Deathlord combo. Use the Horadric Staff shortcut recipe to bypass all that desert walking (2x Arcane Crystal + Heath Potion = Horadric Staff). The Arcane Sanctuary and Tombs are also a cinch. You may want to use Angel of Death on Duriel. Summon a Void Archon to keep him busy.


Act III. Once again your Parasite/Deathlord will rip right through this level. Use the Khalim's Will shortcut to save you some forest clearing (2x Arcane Crystal + Mana Potion = Khalim's Will). The Council and Mephisto will quickly fall. I suggest using Parasite on Mephisto instead of AoD, to keep the large amount of enemies he summons at bay.

Act IV. The Act itself isn't too bad, Izual and Hephasto are pushovers, just spam Parasite on them. Diablo on the other hand... He's on a whole separate level. Even on players 1 I died several times before I killed him. (Of course, that may just be because the "Leap Attack Bug" kicked in when I got hit, thus preventing me from using AoD against him.) Use AoD against Diablo, run away from his bloodstorms, and then AoD again. Repeat till he dies.

Act V. By this point in the game you should have several good Tiered Uniques. YOu should easily be ablt to breeze through the Ancients, Baal's Minions, and Baal himself with little effort, even on /p8.

Terror and Destruction difficulties. Really no need for strategy here, by the time you beat Baal in Hatred you will have no problems getting through Terror Act I. As you proceed you should find little difficulty all the way to the end of Destruction mode...

Although I do suggest picking up some gear with resists on it for Terror, and especially Destruction mode.

8. Challenges

Level Challenge: Best time to do this is at level 48, since it is the last skill breakpoint before level 50. I suggest farming around before hand to get a Tier 5 Talon's Reach (TU Bonesplitter) either through luck in K3KBA or uptiering lower tiered bonesplitters, then converting in to a unique. If you can get one, you WILL
breeze through this challenge with no problems at all. If you can't get one, it is still no problem, just play it safer.

Head towards the ice priestess first,then fire, and lightning last. as long as you don't get caught up by too many Amazons, your leech from Famine, and Parasite will keep you alive nicely. Cube the charms with 1 TP scroll and 1 ID scroll each, within 30 seconds, to get the bonuses.

Using Void Archon to prolong your survivability is a good idea, since he can take quite a few hits, and his Warp Aura weakens the Amazons.


Ennead Challenge: This one is easy for us (I started it at level 49, but due to an unfortunate string of bad luck, was 56 when i got my charm ) You can probably do this as soon as you hit level 50 and your sunstones become active. Make a run straight for the necro to the far east of the entrace and spam Parasite on him, this will keep the skellies at bay till he dies. Repeat till you get your charm.

Black Road Challenge:

Do this at level 120 just to be safe.

1. Trial of Fear: Summon minions. Summon Butcher. AoD. Next.

2. Trial of Greed: Get 666,666 gold in your inventory.

3. Trial of Contrition: Summon Koth, and slap his minions with Parasite. He will probably die before you even target him.

4. Trial of Knowledge: Not that difficult. A mercenary will dramatically increase your kill speed here. Run to each boss, kill, grab brain, cube. Next.

5. Trial of Blood: Get a source of Blink or use Jitan's Gate from "Moon of the Spider". Get a few Adrenaline Potions too. Kill the Cold Priestess and tele to the west to the narrow bridge. Use an Adren pot. Run as fast as you can (or tele) to the Light Priestess and kill her. Cube charm. Done.

9. Uberquests


Difficulty code:
Easy
Medium
Hard
Impossible
Not yet completed

Summoning Uberquests:

The Butcher: You should have little problems with taking him down, even if you attempt this as soon as you find it. Summon any minions you can for the Butcher to whack on. While he is distracted, hit him with an AoD. Finish him off with Parasite.

The Binding of Baal: Not too terribly difficult. Summon all of your minions, and make sure your resists are maxed. Summon him in a corner to reduce his minion count. Try to get him away from his min ions to make the battle go even faster. Parasite will kill him quickly.

Assault on Mount Arreat: Easy Peasy. Summon them then lock onto one shaman. Killing it should kill off at least 5 others. Finish the rest, kill Koth, done.

Akarat: Only marked Medium because of Hammertime. Kill one of his minions quick and he will die before you even target him.

Lord Aldric Jitan: He is unfortunately quite tricky because of Singularity on death. But if you move quickly enough you should have little trouble wiping out his minions and then him. With enough defense, the guard towers will be insignificant. A little FRW will help you get out of the singularities quicker.

Legacy of Blood: summon minions to distract him. Then summon him. As soon as he uses Wychwind, hit him. He'll die in less than 2 seconds.

Judgment Day: Summon as many minions and reanimates as possible for this. You may want to put a point into Unholy Prayer for this one, and use Mana Tide Totem from the Megalith runeword. If you get hit, its pretty much game over. Getting a lot of FHR will help you get back to casting if you do actually get hit, though.

Judgment Day Bonus: Much more difficult, but it is more luck based than anything else. Hope the avatars are summoned quickly, and close together.

Brother Laz: Yet to do

Inarius' Revenge: Lolwut? No challenge here at all. If you can do CoV, you can do this easy.

Uberlevels:

Kurast 3000 BA: Get a decent amount of defense and resist. Keep your Void Archon summoned at all times. AoD the totems, and use parasite to finish them off. Move slowly towards each Necromancer and you'll be fine.

Island of the Sunless Sea: Easiest uber ever. Our parasite will seek out the invisible enemies before they even attack us. AoD Malic, then Parasite him. Repeat with Lucion. Done.

Khalimgrad: As long as you do not get surrounded, you will have little difficulty here. Parasite will work wonders in the hallways at keeping enemies back. You should be able to kill the Ethereals quickly after one dies, as long as you keep a chain going.

Tran Athulua: The difficulty of this one really boils down to how much defense and DR% you have. The more you have, the better. Since you won't have to worry about elemental damage here, you may want to consider Gotterdamerung or Torn Flesh of Gods here. Try not to get surrounded, because even with a lot of defense, if you get targeted by more than 10 or so zons, you could easily die. Guided Chain is not nice to you. Use summons to take the heat off.

Fauztinville: The key to surviving here is to MOVE SLOWLY. Take your time working your way to the robot masters (Insert Mega Man joke here). Necrobots will be our biggest trouble, so using our merc with HoK will help kill them off.

Ghosts of Old Bremmtown: Honestly, I can't beat this yet in the time limit. You need huge amounts of defense, summons, and reanimates to even survive. The Spirits hit hard and fast, and we can't block. If you can target the outside of a pack that has focused on a minion, you should be able to take them down fairly quickly.

Kingdom of Shadow: Yet to do

Duncraig: Yet to do

Dungeon Uberquests:

Creature of Flame: You shouldn't even have to summon any minions to take hits for you. Run in, spam Parasite on Horazon's Familiar. He should die very quickly. Find the Creature, kill it. Easy.

Infernal Machine: AoD the machine, then parasite it to keep the spawns away.

Death Projector: Lure all but one mechanic away and this becomes easy. AoD the DP and it should die quickly.

Azmodan: The difficulty of this depends on what enemies are there. Restart if there is Trap Rats. The Quill Storm will steamroll us. Run in and lure Azmodan out. AoD should kill him quickly.

Rathma Square: Move as quickly as possible to Primus, AoD him, TP. Cast UA in town, go back in TP, and then parasite him to death. You need to move quickly here, Gore Crawlers are nasty little buggers who show no mercy to ANY build.

Cathedral of Vanity: Lure Inarius and the nuns into the entrance room, then blink through the wall. AoD the Crystal Ball. AoD the High Clerics. Parasite the nuns and Inarius. Only really made tricky by the Crystal Ball's Death Spiral.

Toraja: Summon your Edyrem and get to Lilith as fast as you can. But don't move so fast that you find yourself surrounded. Use Jitans gate to tele next to her and your Edyrems should keep her occupied long enough to AoD and Parasite her to death.

Vizjun: Yet to do

Heroic Bosses:

Belial: Yet to do

Bull Prince Rodeo: Yet to do

Quov Tsin: Yet to do

Astrogha: Yet to do

10. Screenshots/Credits

Here we have some shots of Death in action:

The screenshots that were here were outdated and rather bland. I will out some better ones here when I polish this up.

Credits:

Jaafarjomaa for suggesting Chthon

Khenra for pointing out a mistake in a skill desc