Two quotes from Letter XVI that give me hope...

[bigboo]

"We will make it so that enemies will call for reinforcements based on player strength."

"If it’s any consolation, the large-scale changes to battle algorithms planned for 1.19 will cause certain strategies to go out of fashion, and players will need to tap into their resourcefulness to discover new ways to overcome enemies."

Tactical gameplay FTW !!!

The current "Rambo" style of group grinding play heavily rewards you ( in sp ) for simply being in an 8 member group and being able to over power the enemy. There are no tactics, just everyone trying to cause the most damage as fast as possible. I personally dont enjoy group play atm (though dungeons are giving me a sense of whats to come ) and find no fulfillment in downing mobs. Im hopeful for the day's to return where each mob was a challenge if you wanted to attain maximum sp, and each and every sp gain gave you sense of accomplishment and joy.

I KNOW they are working on it and am excited for it, not complaining here.
i LOVE FFXIV Thank you yoshi-p and developers for all your hard work.

[Bigglesworth]

yes and no. I really have enjoyed the tactics demonstrated in the R50 dungeon. At the same time, I also enjoy some casual group grinding while we shoot the breeze while taking down mobs. The game should include both types of activities. hard core tactics and mindless grind. Just depends on your mood.

[bigboo]

hey biggles worth i completely get that, however i tend to find myself unable to shoot the breeze or even see or respond to my linkshell, for finding myself going so maniacally fast just to keep up with everyone else. i wish i could find a casual group like you mentioned but everyone seems to wanna be speedy gonzales every time im in one :P

[Bigglesworth]

hey biggles worth i completely get that, however i tend to find myself unable to shoot the breeze or even see or respond to my linkshell, for finding myself going so maniacally fast just to keep up with everyone else. i wish i could find a casual group like you mentioned but everyone seems to wanna be speedy gonzales every time im in one :P

idk man, I think you will find that when grinding mobs on battle classes, most players are going to want to be as efficient with their time grinding as possible and mow down as many mobs as possible as quick as possible. If it's too easy then maybe pick a tougher mob camp. Also looks like they are putting in experience chains for speed kills so this trend is likely to continue. Maybe for slower grinds pick crafting or gathering, that way you can chat on your LS at your convenience, or talk via Skype or Mumbles.

With that said I think auto-attack and other stuff like hate and MP have lead to more challenging battles so things are getting better.

[bigboo]

"If it’s any consolation, the large-scale changes to battle algorithms planned for 1.19 will cause certain strategies to go out of fashion, and players will need to tap into their resourcefulness to discover new ways to overcome enemies."

I disagree with you saying the strategy trend is going to continue based on this statement.

I want to be efficient just as anyone else...the efficiency should include things like abilities, HP and MP awareness (yours as well as your teammates) and enmity management as well as time. I find that grinding in the field is the best practice for learning how to manage dungeons and bosses.

In 11 there were speed chains yet you were able to find yourself time to rest because mages needed to after each and every(or every other) fight. I was able to gauge my teammates effectiveness and given roles (healer nuker tank) made sense and had to be stuck to. Just saying this is what I personally wish for the future.