Vanguard Monks

Hello there. I will be picking this game up friday(well thats when it arrives here actually, i shoulda just bought it so i could be playing already). Im the hardcore gamer type(eq2-malice) although ive only done so in 2 games so far, EQ2 and semi in WoW) Other games ive played include L2, EQ1, DAoC and betas for many other MMOs and a few FPS online games(CS, CS:S, BF2, F.E.A.R.) In EQ2 I played the bruiser class which is somewhat similar to the general monk in games, thats what got me into this type of class, i was just obsessed with my bruiser.

Really though the reason im here is to question you, monks, who are already playing the game. I have heard lots of bad things about the class but without looking into the game it was my #1 choice. Are monks really as bad as I hear? If anyone was familiar with the bruiser class in EQ2 what would you recommend I play? Im looking for a class melee or ranged that can do good dps and avoid or drop agro when its gained(FD, invis, major threat reducer). Something that can solo real well but is also needed for raiding. Let me know your opinions! Ive been looking around and asking in different places but not really getting any answers, so hopefully this is the right place.

I've played scrappers and stalkers in CoH, so I know where you're coming from.

I'd definitely recommend a light tank for you based on what you've said.  I'd also probably a ranger (ranged, doh), rogue (sneak and backstab), or bard (utility) depending on your play style.  Currently, the monk shares the lowest damage with the bard, and shares the lowest utility with the rogue of all four classes.

The monk will eventually get some fixes (maybe this morning even) that bring our DPS up.  It is possible to solo currently, but you have to not look at what other character's your level are soloing or you're going to get very envious and wish you'd started with another toon.

Having said all that.. I'm still playing a monk.  I like the character, the concept, and am not too concerned about my overall usefulness... just the ability to play solo and to duo with my wife's disciple and have a good pair.

I would have to agree.. I am enjoying playing a monk.. but healers and partial healers as well as tanks/rangers are much more influential for groups...  a good drunken style monk should be able to move aggression around well, and can make amazing pullers for a group..  I am only 16th and just started the dragon style.. tho wish I might have gone drunken... but thats because it's unknown to me... not difficult to solo once you get mediation to replenish jin.. but buffs are essential to truly solo...  can use medium armour which is huge...  I also have a shammy irl friend that I play with and we are hard to beat..

ah well i gotta figure out soon, i get it tomorrow and exp weekend again woo! My friend was telling me about the necro and omg do they sound sick(hes lvl 40) but he mentioned they might be getting the nerf bat. They can do good dps, they can fd, heal, rez, buff, debuff... just wow.