The Atlantean

The Atlantean is an exceptional unique Ancient Sword in Diablo 2 Resurrected designed specifically for Paladins seeking a balanced melee weapon. This one-handed sword combines solid damage with Paladin skill bonuses and substantial stat increases, making it a straightforward option during Nightmare difficulty.

Paladin-Focused Stats

The sword provides +2 to Paladin Skill Levels, benefiting all Paladin builds equally rather than focusing on specific trees. Combined with +200-250% enhanced damage and 50% bonus to attack rating, it delivers reliable physical damage with consistent hits. The weapon also offers impressive attribute bonuses: +16 to strength, +12 to dexterity, and +8 to vitality, helping meet gear requirements and improving survivability. The +75 defense provides a minor defensive boost.

All-Around Simplicity

The Atlantean's strength lies in its straightforward utility. Unlike specialized weapons, it works equally well for Zealots, Hammerdin builds, or any Paladin focusing on physical combat. The lack of elemental damage or unique mechanics makes it less flashy than alternatives like Headstriker's Deadly Strike or Hexfire's fire bonuses, but the skill bonus and attribute increases provide consistent value.

Limited Endgame Presence

This weapon serves effectively from levels 42-55 for Paladins progressing through Nightmare, but faces stiff competition in Hell difficulty. The high requirements (127 strength, 88 dexterity) are significant for a level 42 weapon. Most Paladins transition to Spirit runeword for casters or superior unique/runeword weapons for melee builds once reaching Hell difficulty. While upgradeable to Mythical Sword, the improved damage rarely justifies using it over elite alternatives.