[dev1022] Auto-attack system questions and discussion

[Sorel]

Do you want fast or slow paced combat?

Does the presence of an "auto-action" option affect the actual pace of combat? No sarcasm. I'm asking an honest question. Does an auto-action allow you as a player to do MORE in combat or to do LESS in combat?

An argument can be made that since a player is not manually building TP with a keyed basic attack, that player can use his keystrokes for more complex attacks, maneuvering, changing camera angles, or coordinating with party members using chat.

On the other hand, and argument can be made that an auto-action feature would allow for players to "phone it in", put in minimal effort and still be able to defeat enemies. It can also make combat less engaging because a player is no longer required to take a physical action to make their character do something. That would also makes botting easier.

The issue is complex, there are pros and cons on both sides.

[Dyvid]

Auto-Attack can be define as: The ability to perform an action on a target based on a predetermined delay with no interaction from the player.

Does the presence of an "auto-action" option affect the actual pace of combat?

No, that would be based on the predetermined delay of said action.

Does an auto-action allow you as a player to do MORE in combat or to do LESS in combat?

Neither, it is simply an auto action.

The question that needs to be answered is do we want a fast pace battles like WoW (I hate using it too but it is the current MMO template) or slow paced like FFXI?

[AmyRae]

On the other hand, and argument can be made that an auto-action feature would allow for players to "phone it in", put in minimal effort and still be able to defeat enemies. It can also make combat less engaging because a player is no longer required to take a physical action to make their character do something. That would also makes botting easier.

It's nothing for a bot to perform keyboard presses. Auto-attack really doesn't affect that issue either way.