Raise Shield Mechanics: Suggestions for Improvement

Hello everyone,

I wanted to discuss a particular mechanic I love but feel could use some fleshing out and improvement: Raise Shield.

I've been having a blast with shield-based attacks and Raise Shield on my Warrior, but I’ve run into some frustrating issues. Specifically, the interactions with unblockable attacks (like Slams, AoEs, and spells) feel inconsistent and unfair at times. Some mechanics just don’t make sense—Balbala’s dagger attacks, for example, seem to technically get blocked (proccing my Magma Barrier), yet they still deal damage. This inconsistency takes away from the enjoyment of the build.

The biggest issue, though, is that Raise Shield feels incomplete because it lacks any way to deal with unblockable attacks. Losing out on damage and gameplay because one random caster mob’s projectile is unblockable while others aren’t just feels bad. And if you heavily invest in something like Magma Barrier, many bosses become exhausting chores to fight.

I believe a solution could come in the form of a keystone or mechanic that allows Raise Shield to block unblockable attacks, balanced by one or more downsides, such as:

- Requiring a "Perfect Block" (similar to a parry mechanic).
- Causing high stun or stagger buildup on the user.
- Temporarily reducing global defenses (armor/posture) for a few seconds.
- Lowering passive block chance overall.

This would give players who enjoy this slower, deliberate playstyle a viable path to feel more impactful. The Raise Shield build is already engaging—it requires timing, enemy knowledge, and doesn’t rely on passive, auto-kill triggers like in PoE 1. It’s not a screen-wipe playstyle; it’s methodical and rewarding for those who enjoy the challenge.

Why not let us have a lumbering, unstoppable Juggernaut-style build that feels consistent and fun?

What do you all think? Would these changes improve Raise Shield, or do you have other ideas?