[dev1033] Class name changes -> Specialization/Talent Trees Into Classic FF Classes

[Sorel]

My point is that right now today, in FFXIV, I can create a Spellarcher-type character. It's not impossible. It is possible right now. I am not proposing giving unlimited freedom. It is impossible to code that. But that SE did manage to code is the freedom we have right now in the game. I don't think that should be discarded, but instead built upon.

I personally do not believe it is progress or evolution to make the game not only more restrictive than it is currently, but more restrictive then the previous version (FFXI).

If I was only playing the game to build a walking, talking, fighting bag-of-roles called "Sorel" then the proposed system would be fine. I would lose nothing. But I'm not. I'm building a character ... a representative of me in Eorzea. My character needs to have a story, needs to grow, needs to be able to use his imagination ... my imagination ... to become better at whatever he chooses to do.

A character that aspires to start the first Spellarcher Guild in Eorzea has to deal with many limitations. He has to come up with a set of tactics that maximize his strengths (range) while minimizing weaknesses (spells can only be single target). He has to learn how to fit into a party and utilize his unique set of skills to bring them success. He has to figure out which of his tactics and skills are best used against certain enemies (Drown + Shell Arrow + Water vs. Firedrakes), and which enemies that he should avoid altogether. Figuring all this out for your character is part of the fun of any RPG ... including MMORPGs.

Now I understand the must be limits. But not all limits are of the same scope. Some are more restrictive than others. I believe that the proposed system, though well-intentioned and well-thought out, imposes just a little bit too much restriction. Limits are OK. Forcing a character into a box is what is disagree with philosophically. The proposed system takes away the player's freedom to make their own box for their character.

I think we will have to just agree to disagree on this. Anyway I do appreciate the OP, and the thread ... all 30 pages. Keep up the good work. And it is good work ... even if I don't agree with it. One should recognize and respect true talent and skill ... even if they have to oppose it in the end.