[dev1033] Ideas for a Two-Tier Class System: Jobs on Top of Weapon Specializations

[northernsky]

I don't see how a system with subclasses can enhance a party.
This is true only if we think the only possibile way to play this game is the common triad. It's not.
It’s used in FF11, it’s used in a lot of MMO games, but it's not the only possible choice.
Moreover, there are important MMO games in development, where they are removing the idea of triad (=tank/DPS/healer) and the most valuable aspect is “they are fun”.
We can develop challenges even if everyone is able to cover a role, in a different style.
Remember, if you use this type of gameplay, every encounter (=boss) will need a tank, a dps and an healer. I don’t find this gameplay intriguing, even if I have played this sort of game for years.

Very interesting. I have not played many other MMORPGs, can you give some examples?

edit: nevermind I was just confused by the english formulation

Actually the parties in which I had the most fun in XI and XIV were not triad parties. I think the game already provides that flexibility, i-e I change the abilities on my bar depending on if I pt or not, or depending on the people playing with me. There is a fair amount of heals and buffs that even melee can use efficiently.

What I fail to see is why you think a character progression system like the OP describes would favor the triad over a more flexible system. The way I see it, it is purely a bonus that you get, which you could decide to use to improve different facets of your playing style.