Grim Ward

Grim Ward is a Skill in Diablo II.

Lore
''This skill allows the Barbarian to fashion a totem out of the carcass of his slain enemies. The resulting talisman serves as a grave warning to all of the minions of the Prime Evils. The mere sight of the Totem causes monsters to flee in terror. With additional training the warrior can increase the potency of the ward. ''

Synergies

 * Receives synergy from:
 * Find Potion: +5% Damage Taken per level

Using this ability on a corpse creates a ward that frightens away, slows and makes vulnerable most enemies when they move within its area of effect. The ward itself lasts 40 seconds; the frightening effect has a significantly shorter duration. Using this spell prevents that corpse from being used in any other way, including Find Item or Find Potion.

Grim ward is useful in some situations, but generally obeys same limitations as Howl: it also does not stack with other Fear effects and other Warcries. It doesn't affect other players, Bosses, Super Unique Monsters, and some monsters like s. As Grim Ward is long-lasting and is immobile, it effectively creates a safe zone to (for instance) kill Elites without them receiving reinforcements.

As the Grim Ward makes monsters flee, this effect is detrimental for melee builds. It is partially compensated by slowing the enemies. For ranged builds it is not an issue.

Skill Progression
Mana Cost: 4

Duration: 40 seconds

Enemy damage taken: +20%