The Melee-Tank combines aggressive close-combat with exceptional defensive capabilities. Just by blocking enemy attacks, you return over 300 damage back to them while generating focus for devastating rune attacks. This build makes fights incredibly easy with no overcomplicated mechanics.

• Falstead's Barricade: Reflects 25% damage on block and generates focus, forming the core of this defensive strategy
• Snake Ring Synergy: Adds another 25% block damage, creating a powerful 50% total reflection combo
• Tongue Splitter: 20 poise attack rating excels at gap closing and breaking enemy poise faster than other weapons
• Blue Plate Armor: Stacks poise defense and stagger resistance to prevent interruptions while blocking

Block and Counter: Block enemy attacks to deal massive reflection damage while generating focus. Use accumulated focus to unleash devastating rune attacks that also provide life steal.

Combat Flow: Let enemies come to you, block their attacks for automatic damage, then close gaps with Tongue Splitter's excellent reach and poise-breaking capabilities.

Defensive Mastery: High strength (50) enables heavy equipment use, while stacked poise and stagger resistance keeps you immobile during blocks. Even ranged attacks that you block will deal damage back to enemies.