actually some non epic shifter shapes are fantasic...gargoyle for example..the DR i had from mine was great against giants with what looked like clubs..could just sit there and takes the hits without worry..just took awhile to kill em..kobold...well HiPS and poison damage..very nice...lizardman..my favorite ...two sorts of ele damage on whip..PLUS what u have on your weapon...plus a chance to stun..add a cleric/mage darkfire and your set...shifter shapes once used correctly for different senarios are awesome IMO