Most viable build?

[Ferix]

Between archer, light weapon + shield, and dual wield light weapon, what is the most viable build and any pointers for setup?

[Elendil / Redshift]

Archery can be a challenge if you only use the bow. The easiest is to have a weapon + shield combo and a bow and switch between them. (Shoot things until they get close enough, then switch to melee.) Put most of your points into dexterity and light weapon, some into block, no need to put anything into accuracy.

(If you enchant your weapon + armor, any build can become overpowered. )

[Ferix]

Archery can be a challenge if you only use the bow. The easiest is to have a weapon + shield combo and a bow and switch between them. (Shoot things until they get close enough, then switch to melee.) Put most of your points into dexterity and light weapon, some into block, no need to put anything into accuracy.

(If you enchant your weapon + armor, any build can become overpowered. )

Which race would you say is best for this sort of build and how would one go about getting more magic resistance?

[Prickett]

You can get magic resist by equipping enchanted gear that resists magic. I always found a good cloak that could take a large enchantment, and dump magic resist into it. You can also increase intelligence, but this can take a while.

[Elendil / Redshift]

Which race would you say is best for this sort of build and how would one go about getting more magic resistance?

Derth have the best magic resistance, but they are more suited to be mages. The Etherim (default race) are the best all-rounders for a sword and shield build.