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Overview Variations SNG

Swashbuckler is one of the twelve classes in Elder Tale, and one of the three Weapon Attack classes.

It has two localized versions: the Hussar on the Russian server and the Rajput on the Indian server.

Overview[]

The Swashbuckler is an offensive melee class that focuses on weapon damage. Unlike Assassins who inflict large burst damage on a single target, Swashbucklers can inflict area-of-effect damage and focus on whittling down enemies with debuffs. They excel at high-speed battles and fighting on the move.

Swashbucklers can equip one-handed weapons, some two-handed weapons, and throwing weapons. While they have less weapon variety than Assassins, their lightning-fast serial attacks and wide range lets them mow down groups of enemies.

End of Act is considered their signature skill due to its wide range, its Instant Death effect on lower-rank enemies, and its flashy special effects. The Swashbuckler-exclusive ability to set damage markers, inflicted by skills such as Opening Act and Early Thrust, allows them to deal explosive damage in a short amount of time. This damage can be further boosted by things like the Enchanter's Thorn Bind Hostage.

Among the Weapon Attack classes, Swashbucklers have the highest HP, Defense, and innate Evasion rate and are the most durable as vanguard attackers. As a result, Swashbucklers equipping small shields can be seen serving as off-tanks in smaller parties.

The developers put a lot of love into the class' special effects and some of their skills, such as Opening Gambit and Thrust Joker, are seen as the flashiest among all classes. There are a good number of people who are enchanted by battles involving high-leveled Swashbucklers.

Sample Builds[]

The Swashbuckler has four main builds, which revolve around their choice of weaponry: Dual Blade (dual-wielders), Fencer (single-blade), Gladiator (sword-and-buckler), and Juggler (throwing weapons).[1][2]

Dual Blade[]

The classic Swashbuckler who wields two lightweight weapons and unleashes a flurry of attacks to overwhelm the enemy. It is a build that easily draws out the class' strengths, but is difficult for players to truly master.

Battle styles among this build's users varies greatly; for example, Nyanta is a dual rapier wielder who emphasizes speed, while Shouryuu and Federico wield straight swords for greater attack power. Chika, meanwhile, is a rare dual tomahawk wielder.

Fencer[]

Single blade user. Able to increase damage from traditionally one-handed weapon by using them two-handed and spec in skills that gives % bonus damage. Popular among those who don't raid often, since they are less equipment intensive. It is noted that people have been arguing on the forums whether one-handed or dual-wielding is better since the game's launch.

Gladiator[]

Sword and Buckler. Allows Swashbuckler to act as off-tank, possible tank in low level dungeon. Not popular in raids since they can't tank as well as a tanker, nor can they DPS as well as the other builds. Nevertheless, HighlandSky of Silver Sword uses this build, and Shouryuu occasionally uses this build as well.

Juggler[]

Specializes in throwing weapons. Very rare build due to the ammunition cost, but becomes more viable from around level 50, when more weapons with the "returning" or "respawning" property start to drop. Juggler builds are often the survivor of a near wipe, since they are fighting ranged and still have the same survivability as a Dual-wielding and Fencer build. Occasionally called a cowardly build that doesn't contribute because of that.

Known Skills[]

Note: This section will be heavily revised in the future.
  • Sword Dance (Passive)
  • X-Cross
  • Quick Step
  • Shield Striker Style
  • Juggler Style
  • Stunt Action
  • Street Bets
  • Mountain Air
  • Cheap Trick
  • Take Over
  • Tourbillon
  • Tricky Edge
  • Blade Opera
  • Fingering
  • Helix Slicer (ヘリックススライサー)
  • Mulligan[A second chance; term most commonly used in golf]
Skill Name Effect
Fencer Style [Self-Enhancement] When there is no equipment in one hand, this self-enhancement skill boosts the attack power of the weapon in the equipped hand by +160% to +220%, depending on skill rank. At higher proficiency levels, it may also increase attack speed and improve critical hit rates. The skill is automatically activated once the condition of having one hand free is met, without needing manual activation.

With this skill properly trained, you can maintain significant attack power without relying on dual-wielding or two-handed weapons, and in some cases, it may even surpass the damage output of those setups. Similar skills are available to other classes such as Assassins, Bards, and Warriors.

The main advantage is that using a single one-handed weapon is less of an economic burden compared to managing a two-handed sword or dual-wielded weapons. However, leaving one hand unequipped means forgoing the stat boosts or magical effects that could be gained from a second weapon or item, so it's hard to definitively say which approach is superior.
Viper Slash [Abnormal Status Attack] An attack that damages the tendons in the arms, causing bleeding and reducing the attack accuracy for several tens of seconds. An icon showing the bleeding state is displayed on the enemy along with a hit effect that looks like a snake's fangs piercing the enemy. After the <Catastrophe>, a lot of bleeding can actually be seen, but it does not seem to result in death from blood loss.
Early Thrust [Support Attack Skill] A support attack skill that performs preemptive strikes with weapons. It is a quick skill that places an "additional damage marker" (commonly known as a marker) on the target's body. This marker highlights the opponent's weak spot. Before the <Catastrophe>, it was merely a type of status effect, but after the <Catastrophe>, it became an actual icon, similar to a card, that appears visibly on the target's body. The marker is activated by targeting it with a follow-up attack.

Although the marker disappears after activation, additional damage is dealt as a result. This "additional damage marker" is a signature mechanic of the Swashbuckler class. While the Swashbuckler's raw damage output is said to be lower than that of the Assassin, a skilled Swashbuckler can significantly amplify their final damage by using markers from various special skills, not just Early Thrust. However, there are times when a battle concludes with markers still unused, making the presence of these markers a gauge of the Swashbuckler's proficiency.
Break Trigger [Attack/Special Technique] A finishing technique that detonates all markers placed on the opponent at once. If this technique succeeds in detonating even one marker, it will cause a chain reaction explosion of other markers one after another, dealing great damage. The cooldown is long, so it cannot be used repeatedly, but the chance to place a large number of markers is not that common. It is a powerful technique that requires careful use of the timing. In battles with large HP such as raid bosses and long battles, the chances of placing and detonating markers naturally increase, so it is also a favorite of high-end players. The sight of a large number of placed damage markers detonating all at once is sometimes called a "bomb" or "fireworks," and many Swashbucklers are fascinated by that moment.
Whirlwind [Attack Technique] A ranged attack technique that sweeps around the user with the weapon. The cost and damage are well balanced, making it a great skill that can be used for a long time as the basis for the ranged attacks that are the characteristic of the Swashbuckler.
Quick Assault [Attack/Movement Techniques] Performs a quick charge attack. It has low power but is quick to activate and has an extremely short recovery time. If you use another attack skill after this one, you can skip the preparation time and attack quickly, like a combo or cancel in a fighting game. The basic way to use this skill is to close the distance with Quick Assault, launch a preemptive attack, and then immediately deliver the main blow when the enemy is stunned.
Round Windmill [Attack Technique] The user jumps on the spot and spins in the air to launch an attack. Although it takes a long time to stun an enemy after use, it has the effect of stunning the enemy when it hits, making it an easy attack technique to use as a starting point for cooperation with allies. It is easy to use in battles where there are more allies than enemies.

However, using this technique carelessly while surrounded by enemies when fighting solo can leave you open to concentrated attacks with no way to respond. There is a brief moment of invincibility during the jump, which skilled players can utilize for emergency evasion. But it's important not to rely on this too much, as it's significantly affected by connection lag. When executed, the weapon's trajectory shines in a circular motion, resembling the spinning blades of a windmill.

Occasionally, players using this skill can be seen soaring through areas with few monsters, jumping aimlessly through the air. This display often inspires others nearby to join in, leading to a humorous scene of multiple players bouncing around for no apparent reason.
End of Act [Attack/Special Technique] A signature move of the Swashbuckler, this technique delivers stylish, lightning-fast slashes that cut through enemies with precision. Its attack range is wide, and it has a built-in instant-death mechanic. The probability of instant death increases based on the level difference between the user and the target, making it highly effective for wiping out groups of weaker, minion-class enemies in a single strike. This skill is emblematic of the Swashbuckler's ability to excel at wide-area sweeping attacks.

When activated, a blur effect briefly surrounds the Swashbuckler. As the attack lands, only the afterimage of the weapon's swing is shown in a dramatic frame-drop style. Once the attack sequence is complete and the Swashbuckler returns to their starting position, the damage effects are displayed all at once, creating a visually elaborate spectacle. The skill has a cooldown of 320 seconds, which decreases with increased proficiency, though it's still challenging to use multiple times in a single battle.
Dance Macabre [Attack/Special Technique] By using this just before an attack, the damage dealt afterwards will increase dramatically once. Compared to the Assassin's, the damage output is about 20% lower, but this is a special move that can be considered the Thief Swordsman's version of Assassinate. Regardless of the type of weapon, when used, the same effect (different color) as Assassinate is displayed. The cooldown time is very long at 600 seconds, so there is almost no chance to use it twice during a battle.
Thrust Joker [Attack Techniques/Two-Handed Weapon] A powerful attack that can only be used when equipped with a two-handed weapon. It has a very low hit rate, but has the strong characteristic of ignoring defense and dealing damage when it hits critically. It can be used aggressively due to its short cooldown time and low hate generation (of course, there is a limit to how much MP is consumed each time it is used).

When it hits, a flashier than usual hit effect occurs, and when it lands a critical hit, a playing card appears overlapping the target, turning over to reveal a joker. Normally, even at high levels, the critical rate is around 5%, so it is not reassuring to incorporate it into your tactics. If you are building a build centered around Thrust Joker, you will want to collect accessories that increase your critical rate.
Bloody Piercing [Attack Techniques/Action Impediment] A special skill that cuts the lower body, mainly the legs, and robs the opponent of their ability to dodge. When it hits, an effect like a fang or ice pick is produced. It is a similar technique to Viper Slash, and since it does not cause bleeding, it may seem to be at a disadvantage in terms of damage, but by robbing the opponent of their ability to dodge, it becomes easier for attacks from not only yourself but all party members to hit, and the overall damage increases. Being able to use it appropriately depending on the situation is also a requirement for an expert. Nicknamed "Brad Pitt"
Dual Bet [Attack Techniques/Dual Swords] An attack skill that uses two swords in a row, unique to the Swashbuckler. The consecutive attacks break down the opponent's defense, so the hit correction is high. The large number of attacks makes it easy to hit the additional damage markers placed. This is also a standard Swashbuckler skill.
Tomahawk Boomerang [Heavy Weapon] Spins and throws an axe or hammer held in hand. The weapon returns to the wielder in an arc. In Elder Tale, thrown weapons were treated as special items such as throwing knives, darts, and shuriken, but this skill throws equipment that cannot be thrown, such as axes and spears. The attack judgment lasts for a relatively long time, and it is possible to deal damage to multiple enemies standing in a tightly packed position, but it is a very simple skill with no additional effects. It is often included in the shortcut list as a talisman for close-range build Swashbucklers when they are stopped in their tracks.
Multiple Deads [Attack Technique/Abnormal Status/Throwing Weapon] An attack skill that focuses on weak points and injuries (in other words) and extend the duration of bad status effects such as bleeding and reduced evasion. In fact, they can extend the duration of any bad status effect that is below the attacker's level, even if it is not a physical bad status effect.

It is a skill that is often used in PvP (especially PKs), and is not viewed favorably by regular players who have suffered such damage. It has given rise to the terms "Deads Ruin" and "Deads Hell" in PvP, and at one time, a Swashbuckler who engaged in PvP was referred to as "Deads-san."
Razor Edge [Attack Techniques/Abnormal Status/Movement] A special weapon attack that aims for the opponent's head (throat) after a short dash. It does almost no damage, but instead lowers the opponent's defense and has the additional effect of disrupting chanting. It is popular because it allows you to close the distance and attack smoothly. Also, after the Great Disaster, it is feared more than necessary due to the cruelty of the act of "aiming for the throat".
Flashing Draw [Attack Techniques/Throwing Techniques] A special skill that pulls out a hidden throwing weapon and attacks with lightning speed. A flash effect appears when activated. Since it allows you to instantly switch to a throwing attack even when holding a melee weapon or shield, it is a core skill for the build of a long-range, all-around type Swashbucklers who usually focuses on melee combat but also uses a throwing weapon as a sub-weapon. In addition, when used barehanded, it allows you to prepare a throwing weapon faster than if you were to normally pull out a weapon, so it is especially useful as a countermeasure against surprise attacks after the <Catastrophe>.
Opening Gambit [Attack Support Techniques/Special Techniques] When you pose as if you are stabbing an enemy with the weapon you are holding, a marker will be placed on the target. This is a combination technique that adds a damage bonus to subsequent attacks (you do not have to attack yourself). If you use this technique barehanded or with one hand free, a special motion is prepared in which you throw a glowing card instead of an attack motion. MP consumption increases as the level increases, but so does the number of markers placed and the number of targets affected. The motion is so pretentious that some players are so fascinated that they go out of their way to change equipment when using this skill.
Lightning Step [Support Attack/Movement] A unique movement style of the Swashbuckler that increases the damage of the attack immediately following with a lightning-like sharp step. After selecting the icon, a forced dash will be performed for about 1 to 3 seconds. It is possible to curve left or right by selecting with the mouse, but advanced players can also step left or right with keyboard operations. The graceful movement has been distributed in gameplay videos and the like. It is characterised by a very fast dash motion and an impact explosion-like effect.
Turkey Target [Hate Manipulation] A skill that provoke enemies and draw their attention to the user for a short time. Originally, it is the role of warriors to attract enemies, but it is used in situations where you want to quickly pull an enemy away from a rear guard with inferior defence and durability. The hate increase effect of provocation is sufficient, but the increased hate will be lost after a certain amount of time has passed, so it is necessary to quickly take care of the enemy while their attention is directed at the user.
Pinpoint [Attack Support] By accurately targeting the enemy's weak spots, the power of weapon attacks increases during the effect time. It is particularly compatible with the multi-striking Swashbuckler, but the effect is easy to understand and there is no harm in using it for any weapon attack job, so it is a favourite of many characters. When activated, the effect of "eyes glaring sharply at the enemy" appears above the head.
Wired Action [Movement/Whip Techniques] A technique exclusive to whips. A special technique that wraps the equipped whip around an enemy and moves to its side at high speed. This technique itself does not cause damage, but it is useful because it does not stiffen for a long time after the technique and allows you to immediately enter an attacking position. However, due to the limited condition of being equipped with a whip, it seems that not many people use it. After the <Catastrophe>, it was discovered that it can be used on things other than enemies, and it is recognised as a convenient means of transportation.
Sharp Blade [Attack Support/Toggle Type/Advanced Skills] A toggle type skill that increases hit rate and critical rate when activated. While activated, there is a disadvantage in that you will earn more hate from surrounding enemies, so if you do not secure firepower, there is a risk of being surrounded before you can defeat the first target. While activated, the posture of holding the weapon changes to a slightly relaxed and light one, and an effect of the weapon drawing a pale trajectory occurs.
Swell Buckler [Hate Manipulation/Defence/Shield Skill] By raising the shield and provoking, the user can increase their own hate while also increasing the defensive power of the shield for a certain period of time. The shield will take on a glossy shine during this time. By utilising these special skills, a defence-type Swashbuckler equipped with a shield can play a role similar to that of a warrior.
Discard [Hate Manipulation] A support skill that quickly gets into the enemy's field of vision and uses a feint-like action to distract the enemy from allies. It has the effect of reducing allies' hate. Since it is a quick movement, it can basically only be used on nearby allies.
Unicorn Jump [Movement] A special skill that allows you to move by making large leaps. During the game era, it was only used to jump over enemies and get over obstacles, but now, after the <Catastrophe>, it is used (and abused) for a wide range of purposes.

Average HP and MP Chart[]

The calculations for this table are based on level and the average gear for that level. However, this table does not account for racial and sometimes subclass abilities.[3]

For a more accurate representation of a character's values based on the quality of their equipment, the following multipliers are a good rule of thumb:

  • Solo player without good equipment: 96% of their level average
  • Average adventurer in an ordinary guild: 100%
  • Adventurer in a wealthy and decently-skilled guild: 106%
  • Adventurer in a raiding guild: 116%
  • Adventurer in a top guild: 125%
Approximate values for Slightly Above Average HP, Slightly Below Average MP
Level HP MP Level HP MP Level HP MP
1 160 140 40 3702 3239 80 8169 7148
5 486 425 45 4214 3687 85 8787 7688
10 906 793 50 4740 4147 90 9418 8241
15 1339 1171 55 5278 4618 95 10,062 8804
20 1785 1562 60 5830 5101 100 10,720 9380
25 2244 1964 65 6395 5595 105 11,390 9966
30 2717 2377 70 6973 6101 110 12,074 10,565
35 3203 2802 75 7564 6619 115 12,771 11,174

Known Swashbucklers[]

Navigation[]

Classes

Warrior Classes

Weapon Attack Classes

Healer Classes

Mage Classes

References[]

  1. Mamare Touno's Log Horizon References, Swashbuckler Characteristics and Builds https://ncode.syosetu.com/n5313bu/16/
  2. atwiki.jp, Swashbuckler http://w.atwiki.jp/loghorizon/pages/61.html
  3. Log Horizon HP/MP Chart, https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1cURlgfASO6ZH34vgid58zcuO1dqLghJ_RAExMPMAjug/edit?usp=sharing
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