The path of the pugilist is one of incessant training aimed at mastering the traditional techniques of hand-to-hand combat. Though pugilists command formidable power when unarmed, they are wont to use metal, leather, and bone weaponry to maximize their destructive potential. Their preference for fighting at close quarters makes negotiating distances an absolute necessity. Many among them accomplish this by avoiding burdensome armor, allowing for maximum mobility while they move in for the kill.
Pugilists are Disciples of War who become Monks when they reach level 30. Relying on their fists, pugilists fight their opponents from very close range and often have to place themselves carefully in order to inflict the maximum amount of damage possible.
Starting City: Ul’dah
Guild Leader: Hamon
Primary Weapon: Fist weapon
Armor Type: Of Striking and Of Slaying
Monks are a very difficult class to play due to their reliance on positioning and the fact that most of the end-game encounters rely heavily on mobility or being able to attack the enemy from the front or the sides instead of the flanks or the rear. However, in the right hands, a monk can be a very formidable damage dealer. They can also bring to bear some useful abilities to boost healing and shielding.
Stat priorities for Monks tend to prioritize Critical Hit and then Direct Hit/Determination.