PvP Job Series: Arithmetician

In today’s Tactics PvP Job Series, we discuss the competitive viability of the Arithmetician job in PvP as the main role.

PvP Performance Statcard

Though they are effective strictly because of their Arithmeticks ability which we will cover further, Arithmeticians don’t seem like they are a good option for PvP. We will explore why below.

For more information on this job, visit the job link: Arithmetician

Abilities

Arithmeticks are very efficient because they utilize various other skills from other jobs (White, Black, Time Magicks, and Mystic Arts) with zero cost, instant-cast, and no range requirement. Arithmeticks still factor MA and the Faith of the caster and target(s). They use “calculation” methods that either target the CT, Level, Exp, or Height of all units on the field and then factor these methods with a value of either prime numbers, multiples of 3, 4, or 5 to determine who is targeted by the magick being cast. Pro-tip, make sure to always pan the camera around the field to see who is targeted based on the calculated conditions. Now to further discuss the Arithmetician’s abilities:

Arithmeticks (action) – Since there are so many variables that can be applied here, instead I’ll go over some tips when using Arithmeticks:
● Absorb-element gear, such as Sage’s Ring, can heal from using certain types of magicks, such as Holy.
● Boost-element gear, such as Black Robe, can increase the damage of select elements.
● Magicks cast this way cannot be reflected, but can be evaded.

Cup of Life (reaction) – Being overhealed from another source other than yourself has a Bravery% chance to heal all other allies, rounded up, based on the excess value, regardless of distance. This can be used as a “battery” method to heal remotely from a distance.

Soulbind (reaction) – This Bravery% chance ability returns half the damage taken and heals HP from that same amount. This ability is very welcoming on high HP units, increasing their sustain further for longer fights.

Stats

Stats as a primary job: HP: 65% | MP: 80% | SP: 50% | PA: 50% | MA: 50%
C-EV: 5 | Move: 3 | Jump: 3

Can equip: Poles, Books, Hats, Clothing, Robes

Arithmeticians’ biggest downfall is their stats. With only 50% MA, 50% SP, and 65% HP, they are underperforming against all other casters. Their access to clothing and robes gives them some versatility, but their innate weapon choices and limited mobility leave very little to be desired.

Conclusion

Arithmeticians just cannot compete especially in formats where speed is important and require too much investment to try to catch up to others. They are too frail as well and don’t have any stat advantages that would give them consideration for picks. Though their skill set is one of the best due to its versatility, it is better as a secondary for any other caster job.