Something I would like to see in this game, a reason NOT to wear a shield. Right now, far as I know, there is no benefit to going without a shield when using a one-handed weapon. I find it odd that magic users, that tend to wear unencumbered armor (cloth) all run around with shields. The description of a gladiator is "...there are practitioners who marry sword with shield, seeking to defend their fellow companions. Others opt for an empty off hand, choosing instead to focus entirely on their sword arm." But what gain is there NOT to carry a shield?
How about increased attack speed, improved accuracy, increased evasion, or increase TP gain for not using a shield? Just a thought.