Future of the armory system

[rwyan]

I was thinking about this today. I would never think they would re-think the armory/job systems at this point, but I hope they consider it.

The system as it is now, is kind of awkward on both execution and concept. I understand they attempted to retain some aspects of the armory system from 1.0, but I think it's holding the game back. Cross-class abilities don't really add much flavor or interest - not nearly as much as FF11's subjob system.

For example, does Arcanist really need Physik and Rez? Wouldn't have made more sense to design the Scholar with the intent of it cross-classing Cure 1 and Rez from Conjury? I understand why it is the way it is now. But, the way it is now defeats the purpose of cross-class abilities.

When Yoshida started revealing info on the Job system in 1.0, I kind of hoped the job/class relationship would be reversed. I originally expected that players would equip a job stone. That job would then determine what weapons and armor he/she could use. For example, a Paladin may be able to equip sword/shield or lance. He would have access to special paladin abilities in addition to some cross-class/job abilities from conjury/white mage. With a sword and shield equipped, he comes a formidable tank. With lance equipped, he gains a substantial amount of dps capability at the cost of tanking. To me, this would feel more in line with the armory system. Your weapon would determine your role but your job would provide that Final Fantasy flavor.