Board Thread:LOC General Discussion/@comment-5996067-20130115103207/@comment-5662906-20130115205034

The only raid rare that is worthwhile is Sraosha, if you can find it. It blocks the boss's attack, which gives you another "round" of attacking the boss. Some commons have the same effect, but Sraosha activates more.

Also, I agree with you that focusing on raid is a good way to start out. Lots of rewards from bosses. Try to get into a good guild, to help you get better/more bosses, and to get rewards from guild levels.

Finally, defense is worthless, especially if you are focusing on raid.