[Minaku]

Actually I thought SAM got it pretty good. Shikikoyo is a perfect move for Samurai, being both effective and true to the idea of samurai in this game. It's also very helpful on HNM where the point is to skillchain+MB and lots of LS's like to keep the melee to a minimum.

What no one seems to notice about Blade Bash is the Plague added effect. Ever fought buffalo that plague you? -10tp a tick. It would be extremely useful on HNM where tp gain is the bane of all melee.

Ikishoten looks pretty useless to me, but I don't usually merit on SAM. I suppose it could be nice in that context.

Overwhelm seems good in concept, but I don't think it can compete with SAM/THF on HNM. SA is used above all for the 100% hit rate, which Overwhelm can't compete with. In addition, since the upgrades only give +6 attack, I doubt the base bonus is really that great either. This could be a decent ability for meriting however, where things go fast and SAM/WAR is better IMO.

So like every job, a mixed bag. Some are better for meriting, some are better for HNM. My intent will be to merit Shiki and Blade Bash fully, but each category could be useful depending on what you're shooting for.