Hereis a mesmer build that I've been toying around with, its all theory, I haven't used it yet:).
Basically, this build is a sPvP build only, it would not do well in too large of groups, its main potential lies in 5v5 or 1v1 really. It is a mantra based build which is something that I at first was not attracted to, but after how disappointing clones and illusions were for me, I had to give it a swing! Now, let me jump into some explanations!
My weapons of choice were: Sword/Pistol and Staff
-Sword/Pistol is what i would in theory start off with, seeing as the phantasmal duelist has high damage potential.
-Staff is there in case the battle is not going my way, and i need to spread around some conditions/boons, or just get out of there.
What i like about this build:
1. My heal seems pretty OP with the Harmonious Mantras(Mantras can be activated twice before you must recharge) trait, as well as the Mantra Mastery trait(Mantra cooldown reduced by 20%). That puts my healing mantra on a 6.5sec CD, with the ability to get out13,040hp in two quick uses back to back. Nice :D
2. With Harmonious Mantras (mentioned above) Mantra of Pain has the potential to do a nice little burst of damage when my other abilities are on CD. Also, being able to use my other mantras twice is very helpful :) i.e, Mantra of Distraction will be able to daze my foe (or foes) and deal damage with my Halting Strike trait (it will also cause vulnerability thanks to Illusion of Vulnerability trait). Thats some more potential dmg burst.
3. Using Winds of Chaos is just plain ol' fun. period. No argument :D
4. I will most likely switch to the staff when I am in trouble, seeing as it provides a quick teleport back, as well as throw many conditions on my target. Now, i didn't focus too much on the Runes, but i did like the chill on the Sigil of Superior Hydromancy that might help me a bit getting out of sticky situations.
Things im not so sure about:
1. I had a hard time deciding b/w the traits Protective Mantras and Restorative Mantras. Its the choice between healing allies (does this include myself?) while mantras are charging, or gaining extra armor while they are recharging. I just went for restorative mantras..
2. I'm not sure how effective shatters will be due to my low clone output, and the fact that i would like to keep my Illusionary Duelist around as long as possible. (BTW, the fact that they die with your enemy drives me crazy. Sure, it is all in the enemy's head..but, why can other people damage them do much? >_