In the exciting world of Old School RuneScape, players are always on the lookout for gear that enhances their skills and survival rates. One such piece of equipment that has sparked debate among players is the Neitiznot Faceguard. But is it truly worth the effort and resources to acquire? Let's delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Before we dive in, let's briefly recall that the Neitiznot Faceguard is a desert-themed faceguard that requires 70 Defence to wear. It's obtained by trading in 4,000 desert heat relics, which can be collected during various desert activities. Now, let's explore its benefits and drawbacks.
Understanding the Neitiznot Faceguard's Benefits
At first glance, the Neitiznot Faceguard seems like a decent defensive option. It offers a defence bonus nearly on par with the Rune platebody and has a unique desert-themed design that sets it apart. But is that enough to justify its cost and rarity?
To answer that, let's break down its advantages.
Desert Area Defence Bonus
One of the Neitiznot Faceguard's most notable features is its 6% defence bonus when worn in the desert. This bonus stacks with the defence bonuses from the other desert-themed gear, making it an attractive option for those focusing on desert activities or bossing.
For instance, if you pair it with the Neitiznot platebody and skirt, you gain a total defence bonus of 12%. Combine that with the defence bonuses from Wrestling and Piety auras, and you're looking at a significant boost to your defensive capabilities in the desert.
Appearance and Versatility
Visually, the Neitiznot Faceguard is a striking addition to your wardrobe. Its unique design makes it stand out, which can be appealing for those who enjoy mixing up their gear's aesthetics. Moreover, it's a versatile piece of equipment, as it doesn't lose its defence bonus when worn with other gear sets, unlike some other faceguards.
For example, you can wear it with your Barrows or just as a defensive supplement to your regular gear set. This versatility adds to its overall value, as you're not limited to using it only in the desert or with specific gear sets.
Weighing the Neitiznot Faceguard's Drawbacks
While the Neitiznot Faceguard has its appealing aspects, it's not without its drawbacks. Understanding these can help you decide if it's truly worth your time and resources.
Let's examine the arguments against acquiring the Neitiznot Faceguard.
The Cost of Entry
The most significant barrier to acquiring the Neitiznot Faceguard is the sheer number of desert heat relics required. Collecting 4,000 relics can be a time-consuming and RNG-dependent process, often involving hours of desert activities and banking runs. This high cost can discourage many players from pursuing the faceguard, making it a luxury item for many.
Moreover, the trend of desert heat relics becoming increasingly harder to obtain with each update means that the cost of the Neitiznot Faceguard might climb higher over time, devaluing any you might already own.
The Statistical Argument
Even with its defence bonus, the Neitiznot Faceguard might not be the best defensive option for all situations. When compared to other faceguards like the Barrows faceguard or the Sergeant's eye, the Neitiznot faceguard's defence bonus pales in comparison, and it lacks the additional perks that these alternatives offer.
For instance, the Sergeant's eye provides a +5 prayer bonus and the Barrows faceguard offers a bonus to specific defensive stats. This makes them more appealing for certain activities, and the defence bonus may not make up for the loss of these additional perks.
The Jagex's Statement: Past, Present, and Future
In a recent interview, a Jagex developer shed some light on the Neitiznot Faceguard's place in Old School RuneScape. They described it as a 'collector's item' rather than a 'metagame-defining piece of armour,' placing it firmly in the luxury category.
However, the developer also hinted at future updates that might affect the faceguard's value and utility, leaving the door open for potential changes that could alter its worth.
For instance, updates that make desert heat relics easier to obtain or that enhance the faceguard's defence bonus could increase its value. Conversely, updates that introduce new, more powerful faceguards or nerf the faceguard's current bonuses might decrease its worth.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue the Neitiznot Faceguard comes down to your personal playstyle and priorities. If you're deeply invested in desert activities or enjoy the thrill of collecting rare items, the faceguard might be a worthy addition to your wardrobe. However, if you're a more practical player who prefers statistically superior gear, you might find better value elsewhere.
The Neitiznot Faceguard represents a unique intersection of utility, aesthetics, and collectability in Old School RuneScape. While it's not the best defensive option for all situations, its desert defence bonus and striking design make it an attractive choice for those willing to invest the time and resources to obtain it.
So, is the Neitiznot Faceguard worth it? That's for you to decide. But one thing's for sure - whether you're a seasoned desert veteran or a curious explorer, there's always more to discover and achieve in this ever-evolving world of Old School RuneScape.