Quote Originally Posted by Eecka View Post
Giving versatility an exact value in balance discussion is problematic:

Class A = pure
Class B = hybrid

Situation 1: B can specialize into the role of A and perform equally

Problem: why have A at all? B is more versatile, and can adjust into any encounter with bringing the optimal set of skills for it.

Solution 2: B loses a bit of it\\\\\\'s specialized power, to pay for the extra versatility

Problem: B will always perform worse, because they\\'re a Jack of all trades. If B specced into DPS, their tank skills are completely useless, not bringing anything to their DPS.

WoW solved this by locking hybrids in their specialized role of choice. A druid can mdps, caster DPS, tank and heal. But you have to choose one, you can\\'t do it all at the same time. You\\'ll need a respec and a New set of gear to change the role. But then it makes no sense to even be a hybrid, the 4 different specs might as well be 4 different classes with a couple shared skills.
There's the third option of combat locked stances much as AST has (and to some extent I believe AST's stances are a trial for hyrbid jobs). There's no balancing problem to solve if they have to pick one role prior to entering a duty and are locked to it for the duration of that duty.