I started a katana build but once I got Johnny’s pistol I specced into that as well because the reload animation is cool, i know other revolvers are stronger but i dont care as long as i look good. No hacks as I use slow time, hipfire the pistol and bring out my katana for enemies that dodge bullets or use it defensively if I get overwhelmed with firepower. I think my spread is 20 reflex, 20 tech, 20 cool, 18 body and 3 intel. For me it’s very fun.
It’s funny you mention your first skills (basic skills) are just filler because this season some of the meta builds use basic skills as the main damage dealer so you don’t need to even think about resource regen as they don’t use it. Rogue and Sorcerer both have their best builds use the basic skills and work around them. There’s still a lot to be desired with balancing and endgame but I feel they are turning things around gradually.