I haven’t played SB… but it doesn’t strike me as having Druid-like combat. Animation & movement seem more Monk-like. Also the Quarterstaff motif is obviously mirroring Daibos. Also, spirits are obviously mirroring Monk’s summons such as bells & pillar - similar mythology, similar ‘rites of passage’ concept - with Monk’s mystic allies being the main distinction, b/c they are true minions that do sustained damage.
Of course. Obvious IMO. 3 reasons why this is obvious:
- They’ve said as much in interviews, without being explicit. In fact, they delayed whatever this class is, to push out SB, otherwise it would’ve released by now.
- Shields are currently useless. Big opportunity.
- Quarterstaves introduced block chance. Big easter egg.
Plus Nahantu, Akarat, unresolved church plot lines (including Inarius & Tyrael MIA), Khanduras/ Lut Golein are next door to Nahantu across the seas… etc.
(Man, wouldn’t it be interesting if they developed a “sea” zone/ encounter? A “sea” boss etc? What could be lurking under there? It’s part of the crust - demons are obviously infesting the waters. Wasted opportunity.)