In the lead up to 5.0 new Machinist was positioned as “the selfish dps” and this hasn’t exactly panned out as promised. At least to me, a serious (but rather mediocre) machinist player who is almost finishing an ultimate - there’s very little reason for a raid group to consider bringing us when all 3 phys range perform somewhat similar in terms of DPS output but bring way more party support to the mix. Now I know support is Dancer’s whole deal but hear me out.
Support Abilities
Support abilities lost by MCH:
- Old hyper charge (throwing wrench) 10% less DMG delt by target
- Pallesaid (role action) - additional single target mitigation often used on Tankbusters.
- Refresh / Old Tact - Made redundant with Lucid Dreaming and TP removal.

I’m not going to direct compare DNC and MCH because that’s not fair but MCH should at least be on par with support of BRD if our DPS isn’t going to match SAM/BLM.

BRD has:
- restored built in crit buff party wide
- Minne single target
- Tact/Samba equivalent.

Either boost MCH dmg to the levels of BLM or restore at least one of the two lost actions - Pallesaide or DMG down on target.

Movement Options

Dancer is the undisputed leader of phys range when it comes to mobility. Not only do they get to attack while moving but en avant- as well.

BRD has repelling shot which has no place in their rotation but it still provides some movement in a pinch.

Solution? Grappling hook!

Lack of self heal options

Right now MCH has one charge and that’s it.
Dancer has curing waltz which benefits the entire party and could be used in a pinch but isn’t optimal to do so.
Black mage gets mana wall.
Melee get the absurd amount of healing of bloodbath and eyes open.

Honestly MCH (and to a lesser extent bard) kinda get the short end of the stick here.

Solution? Second wind has charges OR MCH gets deplorable shield on self