On test, the deflection shields now have an additional requirement -> "Not: using distance weapons".
I'm not sure I agree with this change.
1. From a "immersion" point of view, it is a gizmo running in your utility slot, not a shield wielded in your hands. Both melee and ranged weapon users would be able to utilize such a device.
2. I understand it's meant as a boon to those professions already having high parry skill. However, the skill requirements in themselves (dark blue skill for "ranged" professions) and the limited usability today (the shields being the only reason to actually raise this skill) is enough of a drawback that very few ranged users actually invest in these shields. Actually making that choice for the player by forbidding the use of this item is, like many of the recent changes, limiting the players options in character development and diversity.
Some ranged users (I'm probably not alone) have raised this skill, being at the point in my "career" that I actually have some IP spare to explore other ways to strengthen my character. I've found these shields a nice buffer when being pounded on by the new outdoor mobs (secundus and primus mobs as an example) or high end mission NPCs. They only lasts for a short time, and are only usable every 5 minutes. It does provide me with a emergency tool, that might help me survive a tough opponent long enough to let a healer help me out.
so, my questions for the devs:
* Is this change really necessary? (why?)
* If this change will be enforced, will those ranged users who have invested in this skill be offered a reset point to reclaim the IP spent in parry?
Any players have thoughts on this change? Is it a justified change in terms of immersion/balance?
- schma
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