___________________________________________
      /         -Combat Discussion Forum-         \
     /             -December 18, 2001-             \
    (   -Recorded & Edited by Aubrey McMichaels-    )
     \                                             /
      \____http://pages.prodigy.net/aubreymcm/____/


[The Portmanteau Club, Sitting Room]
The light scent of gardenias lingers in this room, pushing away the more mundane odors
 of the street outside.  A brace of wide, chintz covered couches face each other across
 the narrow bounds of a ring-marked coffee table, each showing signs of having recently
 been occupied.  A group of armchairs gather around a many-branched reading lamp, and
 offer a small haven of well-worn comfort for those inclined to sit with a good book or
 the daily newspaper.  You also see an archway, an ashcan and a swinging door.
Obvious exits: none.
Trevor Rage says, "All right, I supposee we'll get started."
Trevor Rage says, "As per tradition, I'm going to use the cone tonight.  Especially
 since we're working on a tight 2 hour limit.  So..."
Trevor Rage calls for silence and the room settles down.
Trevor Rage drops a pin.
Trevor Rage says, "All right.  This is mostly going to be your chance to give ideas and
 feedback on what you'd like to see in combat/perps.  I do want to bring up one issue
 for you all to think about."
Trevor Rage says, "But before I get into that, let me ask a favor tonight.  Since we're
 working on the two hour limit, let's avoid re-hashing the "dead horse" issues:
 Fumbles, payouts and how levels factor in combat.  Suggestions on those things are
 welcome and great, but let's avoid standing up, saying "Fumbles suck!" (or "Fumbles
 rule!") and sitting down, if we can."
Trevor Rage grins.
Trevor Rage says, "So as to give us a chance to get some new ideas and feedback done
 tonight.  As you think and listen, you may think of suggestions, feedback or whatever
 you'd like to present.  If so, use ASK followed by your question (or statement)."
Trevor Rage says, "Type HELP at any time on some info on the Cone of Silence, such as
 how to cancel your question after you've asked it, etc."
Trevor Rage says, "Now, onward ... one issue I'd like to bring up, is the current
 "pace" of combat.  Something that I've brought up on the message boards a few times
 now."
Trevor Rage says, "Currently, combat in Modus Operandi is very fast paced. This isn't
 new to us, it's been this way for as long as I can recall, from the combat system
 originally in place before I ever got into working on combat, to today.  However, the
 fast paced combat does bring a few problems along with it."
Trevor Rage says, "First of all, fights are over in a blink of the eye.  This makes for
 a nice, productive hunt but it also makes for players dying rather tragic and sudden
 deaths, abruptly ending the hunt in seconds too."
Trevor Rage says, "It also makes thing such as fumbles more serious.  One high-damage
 attack from fumbling a defense can lead to a quick, unexpected "death" or injury."
Trevor Rage says, "It also reduces the value of "strategy" in combat, uses certain
 attack combos, hiding, or other tools you have available to you."
Trevor Rage says, "Not that those aren't valuable now, but they are less useful than
 they could be."
Trevor Rage says, "Finally, it causes some issues due to perps generating very fast in
 certain rooms/areas.  Probably the largest reason high level hunters "die" is because
 of many perps in one room swinging at them.  Coupled with fumbles, it's a death recipe
 no matter how powerful you are."
Jess Whiterose raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Kid Dark raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Vincent Scales raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Verna Delancey raises her hand, noting she has a question.
Trevor Rage says, "So, one thing I'd like us to consider is the idea of slowing combat
 down so that fights are measured in a matter of a few minutes rather than seconds.  Of
 course perps would need to pay more each and the rate at which perps generate would
 need to be tweaked some perhaps, to make that work.  I'm not talking about making
 perps take longer yet paying the same, that's NOT what we need."
Trevor Rage says, "This is something I'm not going to just change on a whim without
 reasonable player input. I've recieved some, I'd like more."
Trevor Rage says, "Once I've determined what some of the hot issues are with combat,
 I'll likely release a survey on some of the ideas.  Obviously not ALL of the ideas,
 the most viable and popular ones, though, would be good."
Siri Macallan says, "The only thing I'd like to add is that I'd appreciate if you could
 couch problem issues as politely as possible, and if you have suggestions on how to
 improve, please add them."
Siri Macallan says, "I don't feel like getting yelled at tonight."
Siri Macallan ducks her head.
Trevor Rage chuckles.
Siri Macallan says, "That's all."
Trevor Rage says, "Say your peace please, that's why we're here.  But let's keep it
 civil.  All right, I'm going to start letting people talk one at a time now."
Trevor Rage grins.
Jess Whiterose now has the floor.

Trevor Rage asks, "Jess?"
Trevor Rage smiles.
Vincent Euiena raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Jess Whiterose raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Jess Whiterose now has the floor.

Jess Whiterose says, "oKay"
Trevor Rage grins.
Jess Whiterose recites:

    "I'd like a balance between the fast paced combat, perhaps areas that are more fast
 paced mixed in with levels that graduate up for those that like fast paced to grow and
 perhaps areas with slower pace equal payoff mix for those that want to work the more
 challenge in combat strategy with graduation or more of a group hunt incentive, but I
 don't want to have it one way or the other, more of a mix and the hunter chooses his
 sport to progress and a return of graduated namebles for those that enjoy that type of
 hunting as well, all balanced according to pace and all"

Jess Whiterose asks, "Does that make sense?"
Jess Whiterose asks, "Something for all types of hunters and we choose the path we
 choose to hunt?"
Jess Whiterose says, "I realize that is more work but it then becomes a hunter's choice
 path"
Trevor Rage says, "It does.  I'm sure some perps and situations will be more fast paced
 than others, no matter what we do, too.  Particularly when you consider FOCUS SELF and
 perps using that."
Trevor Rage says, "But in other regards too, the pace will always vary some."
Jess Whiterose says, "I choose now depending on whether I have a group or hunt solo but
 designed fast slow etc would help"
Trevor Rage says, "And the details of hunting areas will also factor in too, for
 example, it's easier to hunt quicker if you have less obstacles to cross and so on."
Trevor Rage nods to Jess Whiterose.
Jess Whiterose says, "Otherwise I don't have any problems with seeing what comes up,
 and I think para will be interesting with what you have hinted at"
Jess Whiterose says, "I don't have a preference, I am for variety for all"
Jess Whiterose sits down.
Trevor Rage says, "By the way, we are considering some group incentives.  That's all
 I'll say for now, but we do have some specific incentives on the table for
 discussion."
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Jess."
Jess Whiterose nods.
Having finished, Jess Whiterose takes a seat nearby.
Kid Dark now has the floor.

Kid Dark says, "My question:  Is there a quazi-realistic way of slowing down combat? 
 One bullet to the head would probably end a fight.  We're technically fighting other
 humans...and not beasts."
Kid Dark says, "At least in anti-para cases."
Jeff Van'Vranken raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Matt Browne raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Trevor Rage says, "To be honest?  Realism is the least of my worries.  In a situation
 where we have players incinerating things with a glance and all sorts of unnatural
 phenomenon going on, ditching some realism for a more fun game sounds good to me.  But
 that's my opinion only."
Kid Dark nods.
Trevor Rage says, "We -are- patterened after a real world and should make attempts to
 keep some level of realism, but there's a balance that needs to be made in there.  I
 guess I'm saying I'm more interested in a fun game than a realistic one, if I had to
 make a choice."
Trevor Rage says, "If I want a realistic game, I'll go play Flight Simulator or
 something."
Trevor Rage grins.
Kid Dark grins.
Kid Dark nods to Trevor Rage.
Kid Dark sits down.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Kid."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Having finished, Kid Dark takes a seat nearby.

Vincent Scales now has the floor.

Vincent Scales asks, "Is it feasible for there to be a "SPRAY" command, per se? Like
 VOLLEY, but with guns. I don't know if MO aims for a hint of realism, but just like in
 MO, in RL, as you know, to shoot a gun effectively, it takes a few seconds to aim. You
 can just squeeze a bunch of rounds off in RL with a penalty to accuracy, why can't ya
 do it in MO, with a negative modifier during combat, like in the powerbomb or a
 piledriver?"
Trevor Rage says, "By the way, the list is supposed to be "asking for you" but isn't. 
 Sorry about that."
Vincent Scales says, "And also, why are clips so small? The 9MM clip is 9 rounds, when
 9MM clips are usually 12-15 rounds, on the mainland."
Vincent Scales says, "I dunno if that sounds dorky or not."
Trevor Rage says, "Well it's possible yes.  Whether it would be unbalancing would need
 to be determined, but it's possible.  VOLLEY came about because I got the idea in my
 head, it sounded fun, and Archery needed to be thrown a bone."
Trevor Rage says, "I'm looking at the current ammunition capacities and considering the
 idea of offering other options, though not without appropriate cost, weight, etc."
Vincent Scales says, "Okay thanks."
Vincent Scales smiles.
Trevor Rage says, "There may be adjustments and new offerings available in the future,
 as far as ammo."
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage asks, "Thanks, Vincent.  Anything else?"
Trevor Rage smiles.
Vincent Scales asks, "Like the "special" bullets, there used to be?"
Trevor Rage says, "Perhaps."
Vincent Scales asks, "Are you saying different types, like FMJ, et cetera?"
Vincent Scales says, "Okay, cool, thanks. I'm done."
Trevor Rage says, "Both different capacities and different types are being considered."
Trevor Rage nods.
Having finished, Vincent Scales takes a seat nearby.

Verna Delancey now has the floor.

Verna Delancey says, "Hello"
Verna Delancey asks, "Question: Now that night/lack of light fighting has become more
 difficult for non-paras, are we able to use lamps/flashlights/lanterns to light an
 area, if not totally how about partially?"
Verna Delancey asks, "I understand that para's have infravision?"
Trevor Rage says, "You can use infravision to remove virtually all of the night penalty
 at high skill levels."
Verna Delancey asks, "But is that for both paras and nonparas?"
Trevor Rage says, "The combat penalty.  Not to light areas such as the Limestone
 Caverns, though it may have a similar effect in other new areas perhaps."
Verna Delancey nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Infravision is a PSI skill, based on ESP."
Verna Delancey says, "Yes but I'm not para"
Verna Delancey says, "That's why I asked."
Verna Delancey smiles.
Verna Delancey says, "and I use a two-hander"
Trevor Rage says, "For non-paras, there are other options on the drawing table."
Verna Delancey nods.
Verna Delancey says, "Also, when I use encumbrance I get a different result than when I
 use info combat. I did bug this in the game."
Verna Delancey says, "Just to let everyone know.."
Verna Delancey says, "I agree with Jess about the pace of combat. Let areas swarm and
 let areas be sparce but more difficult but with the same type of perp."
Verna Delancey says, "Sort of an uber perp"
Verna Delancey says, "I hope that helps."
Verna Delancey says, "I'm done."
Verna Delancey smiles.
Trevor Rage says, "I saw your bug report.  The messaging is conflicting and confusing,
 I'll be looking into that."
Verna Delancey nods.
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "I have some ideas in mind as far as "uber" perps as you mentioned. 
 I won't comment more yet though. "
Verna Delancey nods.
Trevor Rage says, "But more involved than say, the existing guerilla leaders."
Verna Delancey says, "Oooh"
Trevor Rage asks, "Anything else, Verna?"
Trevor Rage smiles.
Verna Delancey says, "No thanks"
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Having finished, Verna Delancey takes a seat nearby.

Vincent Euiena now has the floor.

Trevor Rage asks, "Vincent?"
Trevor Rage smiles.
Vincent Euiena says, "Alright, got two tiny questions here."
Vincent Euiena smiles.
Vincent Euiena says, "First was about how you wanted to deal with perps taking longer
 to fight."
Trevor Rage nods.
Vincent Euiena asks, "I can understand where you're going with that, but does that mean
 if i'm 300 in all my hand to hand skills, and I deal with a ruffian, it's going to
 take me an hour to beat the guy down?"
Siri Macallan shudders.
Vincent Euiena says, "I mean I like the idea of using a little stratgy here, but I
 don't want to have a long, drawn out fight with weakly perps."
Trevor Rage says, "No.  But, I do intend to remove the incentive to hunt ruffians. 
 How, I've not yet determined, but hunting stuff that takes two seconds to kill should
 be much less rewarding."
Vincent Euiena nods.
Trevor Rage says, "But, you should be able to mop the floor with them, that's your
 earned right."
Jess Whiterose raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Vincent Euiena says, "That's fine with me, I just don't want to take forever to knock
 something down when i'd enjoy socking it once and having it reel over."
Vincent Euiena grins.
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "It's fun to maul the living stuffing out of stuff, even if it
 doesn't pay off much other than fun."
Trevor Rage grins.
Vincent Euiena chuckles.
Vincent Euiena asks, "The other thing I wanted to ask was what you ment about "Group
 incentives"?"
Vincent Euiena asks, "Are you saying hunting solo is not going to have its own
 usefulness?"
Trevor Rage says, "Benefits for hunting in groups above what benefits you already
 enjoy.  But not making solo unviable.  You have no worry of that, I myself am much,
 much more of the solo hunter type and I've long been critical of games that force you
 to group."
Vincent Euiena grins at Trevor Rage.
Vincent Euiena says, "Same here."
Trevor Rage says, "But, the social aspect is an important one to many of our players. 
 So, some extra benefits for grouping is a plus."
Vincent Euiena nods to Trevor Rage.
Vincent Euiena says, "Of course. I just didn't want to suddenly find myself in a bad
 position because I like to go mano-e-mano."
Trevor Rage says, "I agree completely, I'd feel the same way."
Vincent Euiena nods.
Vincent Euiena says, "That's it I think. Thanks."
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Vincent."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Vincent Euiena nods.
Having finished, Vincent Euiena takes a seat nearby.

Jeff Van'Vranken now has the floor.

Jeff Van'Vranken says, "Ok, My question..."
Jeff Van'Vranken asks, "If the battles become slower-paced, will the fatal rate be
 lowered? If not, it should be lowered anyway. I was fighting a bandit, and he rolled a
 2 with a jab. Insignificant hit, yet it was a fatal blow. Don't you think that isn't
 reasonable, Trevor?"
Trevor Rage asks, "Before I address that, what do you mean he "rolled a 2" ?"
Jeff Van'Vranken says, "The ending roll total was a 2, after the defense roll was
 subtracted from the offensive."
Trevor Rage says, "Ah."
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Fatal rates probably do need some adjustment, at least on the issue
 of attack/defense differences as you mentioned there."
Jeff Van'Vranken nods.
Trevor Rage says, "I don't have any plans to mass drop (or raise) fatal rates in
 general though.  But with a change in combat pace they may need adjustment to fit."
Jeff Van'Vranken nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Some weapons and attacks have an inherent increase in fatal rates
 while some rarely land fatal.  I'd like to keep that intact, but I can see where a
 fatal on a difference of 2 is frustrating."
Jeff Van'Vranken says, "Very frustrating, considering I had full BPs."
Jeff Van'Vranken asks, "Another thing...how will the new paranormal/anti-paranormal
 abilities effect combat strategy if we switch to long-paced combat?"
Trevor Rage says, "Some folks have mentioned fatals on insig. hits, and that I do NOT
 have a problem with.  Mainly because if they weren't allowed, some hunters would
 never, ever get a fatal blow, which doesn't seem fair.  One of those fun vs. realism
 issues."
Jeff Van'Vranken nods to Trevor Rage.
Trevor Rage says, "How will it effect them?  Well, it would certainly make
 buffing/debuffing abilities and damage over time attacks like poison more useful."
Jeff Van'Vranken nods to Trevor Rage.
Jeff Van'Vranken asks, "However, some of the paranormal skills allow us to blow a perps
 head into smithereens in a matter of seconds. Won't this hinder your attempt (if you
 do, anyway) to make battles long-term?"
Trevor Rage says, "The specifics are hard to comment on, there are many facets that
 would need balancing and adjustment, but that's one big difference there, the
 increased benefit of some abilities."
Jeff Van'Vranken nods to Trevor Rage.
Jeff Van'Vranken says, "...I think that's all I have to say."
Jeff Van'Vranken bows to Trevor Rage.
Jeff Van'Vranken sits down.
Trevor Rage says, "Most abilities are not death or no death dice rolls.  Most are
 damaging, which is adjustable.  In the case of insta fatal attacks, perhaps either the
 ability wouldn't be usable as often, or would have a lower rate of success."
Jeff Van'Vranken nods to Trevor Rage.
Jeff Van'Vranken says, "Ok."
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Jeff."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Jeff Van'Vranken nods to Trevor Rage.
Having finished, Jeff Van'Vranken takes a seat nearby.

Matt Browne now has the floor.

Trevor Rage exclaims, "Don't be shy folks, we're almost out of questions!"
Matt Browne asks, "does the 'details of hunting areas' factor being included mean that
 perps in areas that take longer to move around in will be tweaked a little accordingly
 to those obstacles?  in other words.. slightly better payouts to take the extra time
 into account?"
Trevor Rage says, "If an area takes significantly longer to get around in than others,
 it seems reasonable to me that there be a reward for that.  Of course, it's also
 reasonable that hunting areas become more challenging as you climb in skill/level, so
 that's a counter-issue."
Matt Browne nods.
Trevor Rage says, "So, a level 100 area should be harder to fight in than a level 20
 one, but that doesn't mean there won't be perks added to the level 100 area on the
 basis that there are all these extra obstacles to deal with. "
Trevor Rage says, "And in fact, I'm already working on some specific area-based
 "bonuses".  But again, I won't say much on that, I'll let you see when it's in place."
Matt Browne says, "also just wanted to give my support for longer encounters.. i'd have
 no problem with perps taking 3 times as long to kill with 3 times the loot, if you
 were to make it simple like that.  i think in general, combat would be a lot more
 interesting if I knew everything i fought wouldn't die in 9 or 10 seconds.  it's been
 a while since i've ever gave any thought to moves like.. disarm, sweep, etc.."
Trevor Rage nods.
Matt Browne says, "another suggestion.."
Trevor Rage says, "Hunting, right now, is like working in a factory, smacking things as
 they come down the assembly line."
Matt Browne nods.
Siri Macallan nods.
Trevor Rage says, "It gets old quick.  And, it introduces a whole new set of problems
 for balance."
Trevor Rage nods to Matt Browne.
Matt Browne says, "exactly.  everything for me right now is a flying kick followed by a
 ddt or powerbomb and its almost never not dead after that"
Trevor Rage nods.
Matt Browne says, "anyways, my other suggestion, as far as "super" perps"
Trevor Rage says, "Of course, we need harder perps for guys like you, too."
Trevor Rage grins.
Trevor Rage nods.
Matt Browne nods to Trevor Rage.
Matt Browne nods to Trevor Rage.
Trevor Rage chuckles.
Matt Browne asks, "pretty please with rabbit stew on top?"
Xander Morales raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Trevor Rage laughs!
Trevor Rage says, "I have specific "super perp" encounters in mind already, and I don't
 anticipate changing my mind on it otherwise."
Matt Browne says, "going back to violent accuseable perps.. a lot of people, including
 me, would like them back.  i know its not high on the priority list now, but if they
 do come back.. they always took longer than other perps to kill, so maybe that could
 be reinstated along with them"
Matt Browne says, "having a ton of body points, tough as nails, and nice payouts"
Matt Browne says, "since its not exactly factory work looking up a name and hunting
 them down"
Matt Browne says, "and i always loved hunting them because they had much cooler, even
 if useless, treasure"
Trevor Rage says, "I've recently begun tinkering with a new accusable system.  I can't
 offer any timeline on them, but I've been messing with a completely new system.. When
 said system is done, whenever that is, it would make it easy for us to stick all kinds
 of accusables anywhere we want, with as much variety per perp as the current
 non-accusables have."
Matt Browne nods.
Matt Browne says, "those insults and taunts and the comm announcements of their
 warrants were classic, too"
Trevor Rage says, "I consider it to be a "hot issue" so, I wouldn't say it's low
 priority.  It seems like a lot of folks would like to have 'em back, good enough for
 me."
Trevor Rage grins.
Trevor Rage nods.
Bryan Hit raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Matt Browne says, "yeah i agree, lots of room for possibilities for that system.. i'd
 run all the way to the top of the mountain to hunt down a serial killer if a poster
 way back in French offered a 10k reward on his head, or something"
Trevor Rage nods.
Matt Browne says, "if the pace of non-accusable perp combat isn't changed, i suggest
 the violent accuseable system as a way to create slow and tough, and high returns,
 combat"
Matt Browne says, "that's all i had on my mind"
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Matt."
Having finished, Matt Browne takes a seat nearby.

Jess Whiterose now has the floor.

Trevor Rage says, "Welcome back, Jess."
Trevor Rage grins.
Jess Whiterose says, "Continuing in that vein, you wanted suggestions"
Trevor Rage nods.
Jess Whiterose says, "This is my way of suggesting a combo of mystery skill combo with
 combat"
Jess Whiterose recites:

    "I have often wondered about random mystery perps, that are announced much like
 revolving mysteries. I think it would be cool if we ever have cove areas to have
 revolving gangs of like smugglers or art thieves that require a find the location and
 would be pregenerated gangs that might require different combos of skills to take
 down. Just a weird idea but more variety at unexpected times."

Jess Whiterose says, "I would suggest a random variety of skill combos to get these
 dudes"
Trevor Rage nods.
Jess Whiterose says, "so someone would go I need an art prof to help etc on one gang"
Jess Whiterose says, "perhaps a skill combo of three randoms to really nail em"
Jess Whiterose says, "and you never know what a gang might encompass"
Trevor Rage says, "I don't want to say much, mainly because I don't know when I'll have
 the time to do it, but it would include elements like that."
Jess Whiterose says, "so you can go out in groups to get em but your skill mix in a
 group might not always be the right combo"
Jess Whiterose grins at Trevor Rage.
Trevor Rage nods.
Jess Whiterose says, "People love mysteries and most of us don't mind combat, this
 could possibly mix the two"
Trevor Rage nods to Jess Whiterose.
Trevor Rage says, "I would think a mix of the two would be popular."
Jess Whiterose says, "it's just an idea on down the line"
Jess Whiterose says, "That's really all, just another idea, to add to the existing"
Trevor Rage says, "As a matter of fact, I find it a little funny that we don't have at
 least one revolver than involves combat (Arnie getting attacked doesn't count)."
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Jess."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Jess Whiterose sits down.
Having finished, Jess Whiterose takes a seat nearby.

Xander Morales now has the floor.

Trevor Rage says, "Lo, Xander."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Xander Morales just left.
Trevor Rage says, "I have Xander's question, so I'll go ahead and ask it and hopefully
 someone can fill him in or he'll see a log of this forum:"
Trevor Rage asks, "Xander asked: Will there be special moves, for people with certain
 ranks in certain skills.. say an assassination move, if your good with prowling and a
 blade?"
Xander Morales just arrived.
Xander Morales asks, "is it my turn?"
Trevor Rage says, "Aha.  Welcome back."
Xander Morales nods to Trevor Rage.
Trevor Rage says, "Yes and I just read out your question to everyone."
Xander Morales says, "I have a couple of questions.. since were speaking of skill
 combinations, I was suggesting there possibly be a few special combat moves, besides
 the ones in place, say an assassination move, involing 2 or more skills on a roll..
 say having high prowling and high knife skill with an extended roundtime."
Xander Morales says, "Also I was suggesting, the people with the humanites, get
 abilities to reposit attacks, or guaranteed evasion."
Trevor Rage says, "And the answer is, very possibly.  As for a specific move like
 "assassination", I can't say a yes or no right now, but moves specifically requiring
 high skill(s) would be possible and even likely, at some point."
Xander Morales says, "I was thinking you could say.. focus reposite, and for say.. the
 next 20 seconds you would counter every melee attack against the perp."
Trevor Rage says, "Riposte, you mean?  Riposte is an ability I've been considering for
 some time and I imagine you very well may see that in the future, but not necessarily
 for humanities users, though that's always a possibility."
Matt Browne raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Xander Morales nods to Trevor Rage.
Trevor Rage asks, "Anything else, Xander?"
Trevor Rage smiles.
Xander Morales says, "And say, if your good with both evasion, and acrobatics, you get
 say a focus dodge, and you dont get hit for say another half minute or so."
Xander Morales nods to Trevor Rage.
Xander Morales says, "im done."
Xander Morales sits down.
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks for the ideas."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Having finished, Xander Morales takes a seat nearby.

Bryan Hit now has the floor.

Trevor Rage asks, "Bryan?"
Trevor Rage smiles.
Bryan Hit grins.
Bryan Hit asks, "hey ya. got my question?"
Bryan Hit grins.
Bryan Hit says, "ah..someone just told me it isn't working"
Trevor Rage nods.
Bryan Hit says, "i came in on this late, so i don't know if anything was said about CvC
 at all"
Trevor Rage recites:

    "Since i wasn't here for the beginning, i don't know if anything about CvC was ever
 covered. are there any plans at all to make some changes to it so that it takes more
 time to complete a sparring session? so that there is some challenge there instead of
 being a slaughter like it seem to be most of the time?"

Bryan Hit says, "there we go"
Bryan Hit grins.
Trevor Rage says, "There are several things on the table for discussion for CvC.  Any
 change to the current combat pace would affect CvC also."
Bryan Hit asks, "so when the time difference for the perp combat is implemented, it
 will also be implemented for CvC?"
Trevor Rage says, "If it is implemented."
Trevor Rage nods.
Bryan Hit gets a distant look on his face as he ponders.
Trevor Rage says, "The pace change would be done through changes to damage rates,
 perhaps even body point levels if needed, so it would affect all combat."
Trevor Rage says, "But obviously a high skilled person will still smear a low skilled
 one."
Bryan Hit says, "i know as it stands, with there being no differences with levels and
 all in respect to CvC combat, it's really a slaughter, and not exactly fun for me,
 anyway"
Bryan Hit asks, "still smear?"
Bryan Hit says, "i see cases where the shoe is very much on the other foot"
Trevor Rage says, "Two evenly skilled fighters, under a slower paced system, would end
 up fighting for a few minutes before a victor came out, short of a lucky fatal."
Bryan Hit says, "it's younger not as skilled players slaughtering more experienced
 ones"
Vincent Euiena raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Bryan Hit says, "i know i've missed a lot of this forum, so i think i have too many
 questions that will end up being real redundant in here for everyone"
Trevor Rage says, "If a lower skilled player uses good tactics, hiding where
 appropriate, knowing when to use what type of weapon, etc., they will always make up
 for *some* amount of skill difference against a higher skilled adversary who fights
 blindly.  But, it's not intended for lower skilled players to generally wipeout
 veterans with ease."
Trevor Rage chuckles.
Bryan Hit asks, "but, things still do not make sense. how can a lower level player,
 with no maxed skills, but decent combat skills, totally kill off a player of
 considerable level with maxed skills in evasion or other combat skills with one shot?"
A master assassin fires a chromed semi-auto 9mm pistol at Jason Ramsey!
A master assassin lands a serious hit to Jason Ramsey's chest, as he fails to dodge the
 attack!
A master assassin fires a chromed semi-auto 9mm pistol at Jason Ramsey!
A master assassin lands a critical hit to Jason Ramsey's back, as he fails to dodge the
 attack!
Jason Ramsey falls unconscious!
A master assassin throws an object to the ground, which shatters into a billowing cloud
 of smoke!  When it clears, the assassin is gone!
Siri Macallan winces expressively.
Bryan Hit says, "ouch, jas"
Trevor Rage coughs.
Siri Macallan says, "That must have hurt."
Trevor Rage says, "Ok, this room is now assassin-proof, sorry."
Trevor Rage grins at Jason Ramsey.
Bryan Hit pats Jason on the back.
Bryan Hit grins.
Trevor Rage says, "As for your question, Bryan ... I don't know.  I'd have to see the
 raw numbers.  Superior equipment?  Stacking bonuses like hiding/paired etc?  Hard to
 say without seeing an example."
Bryan Hit says, "it's never made sense to me at all how that could even happen even
 with maxed armor"
Bryan Hit says, "i don't think should even be possible, personally"
Trevor Rage says, "Well, the only way for it NOT to happen would be to make
 weapons/armor less effective, and I can already hear the grumbling over that idea."
Trevor Rage grins.
Siri Macallan shrugs.
Siri Macallan says, "I think that everyone should have a chance to get in a Hail Mary
 shot."
Trevor Rage says, "Not to say you don't have a point or that that stuff will never be
 adjusted, just saying."
Trevor Rage grins.
Bryan Hit asks, "well, does maxed armor take level into account?"
Siri Macallan asks, "Level or skills?"
Bryan Hit says, "a level 20 player should not be able to take out a level 80 player
 with a hail mary anything"
Trevor Rage says, "No, combat doesn't take level into account at all, short of body
 points.  Will we change that?  Not sure yet."
Siri Macallan smiles.
Bryan Hit says, "i think maxed armor should be more or less effective depending upon
 skill"
Trevor Rage says, "I mean, I know like in GS3, you can't even pick up stuff with a
 bonus higher than half your level, so I see what you're saying."
Trevor Rage says, "We don't have an armor skill, though it could be used against
 evasion or something, sure."
Bryan Hit says, "it's been said before there is no such thing as being totally bullet
 proof, but some folks essentially are with the maxed armor, and it's almost unfair"
Bryan Hit says, "if yu put it in the perspective of CvC"
Trevor Rage says, "Or an armor skill added.  I can hear some groans there too."
Trevor Rage snickers.
Bryan Hit chuckles.
Bryan Hit says, "i can hear mind groans"
Bryan Hit chuckles.
Siri Macallan says, "I don't happen to agree with that one, but that's okay."
Bryan Hit says, "the point is that when you have a more senior payer faced with a
 player who is more of a beginner, the higher level player should have much more of an
 advantage"
Trevor Rage says, "Well, in effect, an equally powerful weapon negates equally powerful
 armor in terms of to-hit levels."
Siri Macallan nods to Bryan Hit.
Trevor Rage says, "So, there are counter measures.  And as Matt has pointed out to me
 before, there are more attack MOD bonuses than defense ones.  That's intentional, so
 as to avoid hitless encounters."
Bryan Hit says, "not exactly. my dagger is maxed. it doesn't do too much good against
 someone with maxed armor in CvC...but with a perp i can slay in one slash"
Siri Macallan asks, "You want us to make perps as hard as maxed out players?"
Bryan Hit says, "there are so many factors that go into this topic that i admit it's
 confusing, really"
Trevor Rage says, "I don't understand what you mean.  If you have a maxed weapon,
 that's +60% attack, and the opponent's armor is +60% defense."
Siri Macallan scratches her head, looking a bit confused.
Trevor Rage says, "Now, taking into account you having, we'll say, 500 skill in knives
 or whatever, and him having 200 in evasion, you receive +300 attack from your knife,
 while he only gets +120 defense with his armor."
Bryan Hit says, "i'm saying that in an attack against a player that was wearing totally
 maxed armor, and me with a totally maxed weapon and a couple maxed compabt skills, i
 didn;t even touch him. and he was about 30 levels behind me, and not as skilled in
 knife or evasion"
Trevor Rage says, "So I don't see the advantage the younger guy has."
Bryan Hit says, "he shouldn't have had an advantage in the situation i was in, but
 somehow he did. that is what i'm trying to figure out"
Trevor Rage says, "I don't see how that's possible, though there may be other bonuses
 we're missing here.  If his skill was not at yours but close, I could see it.  Level
 doesn't matter so we can ignore that as part of the equation."
Bryan Hit nods.
Siri Macallan asks, "Bryan, so is your stance that you don't want any lower level
 players being able to attack higher level players, irrespective of skills?"
Trevor Rage asks, "Maybe his stancing skill is better?"
Bryan Hit says, "i don't know how it was possible either, but it happened"
Siri Macallan says, "I just want to keep this general and not specific instances."
Bryan Hit says, "stancing was not a factor at the time. it was being implemented"
Trevor Rage says, "Did he stance more intelligently/appropriately?  It's hard for me to
 comment, not having seen the fight(s)."
Bryan Hit says, "ah...which makes me think of a new question concerning how the fitness
 skill may aid in combat"
Bryan Hit grins.
Trevor Rage nods.
Bryan Hit says, "i don't know where he was stanced, but i was on retreat"
Siri Macallan says, "Okay, we have more people in line and only 30 minutes."
Siri Macallan pokes Bryan Hit in the ribs.
Bryan Hit says, "i took that into account, and then stanced up"
Bryan Hit nods to Sami Market.
Bryan Hit grins.
Bryan Hit just tickled Sami Market.
Trevor Rage says, "Let's go past the other issue and go on to fitness.  I think the
 other issue is probably something I can't answer right now."
Bryan Hit says, "i know we have 30 minutes left. so quit yelling at me people..."
Trevor Rage says, "Mathematically you have the advantage, situationally you may not.  I
 guess that's the best answer."
Bryan Hit says, "i can e-mail you with other concerns later, Trevor."
Trevor Rage nods to Bryan Hit.
Mariko Shinobu raises her hand, noting she has a question.
Bryan Hit says, "how does fitness effect combat. does it at all"
Trevor Rage says, "It reduces damage done to you. Actually that's a lie, it WILL, it's
 not in yet.  Bad Trevor.  It currently does reduce encumbrance though, which is a big
 issue in combat."
Bryan Hit grins.
Trevor Rage says, "The difference in your encumbrance can be drastic at high levels of
 fitness."
Bryan Hit says, "yeah, that's a cool thing to not be as burdened"
Trevor Rage says, "It also effects your rate of BP regeneration, which is also already
 in."
Trevor Rage nods.
Bryan Hit says, "i already have noticed differences since training in it"
Trevor Rage nods.
Bryan Hit says, "cool. that's all. i'll stop before i get thumped by everyone else"
Trevor Rage chuckles.
Bryan Hit grins.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Bryan."
Bryan Hit says, "thanks, Trevor"
Bryan Hit grins.
Trevor Rage nods.
Having finished, Bryan Hit takes a seat nearby.

Matt Browne now has the floor.

Matt Browne asks, "a quick suggestion.. from Xander's.. how about prowling being taken
 into account when calculating the bonus from attacking from hiding?"
Trevor Rage says, "Go me, I can host a forum and fix bugs at the same time."
Trevor Rage chuckles.
Trevor Rage says, "That's a good idea, Matt.  I like it."
Simone Russell grins at Trevor Rage.
Trevor Rage says, "I don't see the hiding bonus becoming higher tho, it's already high
 as is, maybe too high."
Matt Browne nods.
Matt Browne says, "maybe spectrum it from a bonus of 5 to 25, or something"
Trevor Rage says, "A graduated effect from +5 to +20 or whatever, might be cool tho."
Trevor Rage nods.
Matt Browne says, "little things like that for skills in general makes things a little
 more interesting, i think.  kinda like stancing skill affecting how high you can
 stance"
Trevor Rage says, "I'd like to see other benefits for prowling too, but I'm still
 thinking on that."
Trevor Rage nods to Matt Browne.
Matt Browne says, "hm.. can't think of another example i had, so i'll just let that one
 sit"
Trevor Rage says, "It's nice to be able to see constant benefit in training a skill,
 especially when we have the luxury of doing it every 20 or 30 skill points instead of
 the traditional 76/151/275 etc breaks."
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Matt."
Having finished, Matt Browne takes a seat nearby.

Vincent Euiena now has the floor.

Vincent Euiena asks, "Got a few more questions and comments. Quick ones."
Trevor Rage nods.
Vincent Euiena blinks.
Vincent Euiena exclaims, "First, before I start I need to say "No like GS3"!"
Vincent Euiena chuckles.
Trevor Rage laughs!
Trevor Rage says, "I wasn't promoting."
Trevor Rage grins.
Vincent Euiena says, "I don't need to be unable to pick up a magic rifle."
Vincent Euiena grins.
Vincent Euiena says, "First, and I bring this up because I feel it's important to
 combat, is the recent Tracking change."
Trevor Rage asks, "The one wherein you can't learn from appraising perps over 150?"
Vincent Euiena says, "I'm really, REALLY concerned with it."
Vincent Euiena nods to Trevor Rage.
Vincent Euiena says, "Exactly."
Trevor Rage asks, "All right.  Why?"
Vincent Euiena says, "For me, that's been the only fairly decent way for me to learn
 it. Besides that, anything else is ungodly slow."
Vincent Euiena says, "And I wasn't growing that fast on it."
Siri Macallan says, "The speed of learning is part of the problem, which is why it was
 changed."
Siri Macallan asks, "How fast do you think you should be able to learn it?"
Trevor Rage says, "There are a lot of options.  Searching for shells, walking around in
 the "maze" in NC Jungle, etc."
Sky Larson raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Vincent Euiena says, "My idea? It's not exactly based on "How fast" exactly."
Vincent Euiena says, "I don't mind how fast I was already learning, which was at a
 moderate level."
Vincent Euiena asks, "But, I was thinking maybe if you did it with perps the same way
 you do combat skills?"
Siri Macallan asks, "Okay, so how do you guage what is moderate and what is not?"
Vincent Euiena says, "By the fact i'm gaining one or two points and not even to 200
 yet."
Vincent Euiena nods to Siri Macallan.
Trevor Rage says, "One possibility, would be for it to teach according to the skill
 level of the perp, much alike how combat does.  That I would consider.  But it just
 didn't seem to make sense to me that you can become a tracking master by sitting
 downtown and appraising a NPC all day."
Vincent Euiena nods to Trevor Rage.
Vincent Euiena says, "Of course. That was the idea, to make it just like that."
Vincent Euiena nods to Trevor Rage.
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "That's possible."
Siri Macallan nods.
Vincent Euiena says, "Like I can only learn to 122 with a Lawbreaker, like with combat
 skills."
Vincent Euiena smiles.
Trevor Rage says, "I might even be nice enough to let you learn to 150 still from
 downtown NPC's.  Maybe."
Trevor Rage winks.
Vincent Euiena smiles.
Vincent Euiena says, "Alright, thanks. At least you're considering that idea. Next
 question...."
Vincent Euiena says, "I'm asking this for someone who can't be here, so it's simple."
Trevor Rage nods.
Vincent Euiena says, "They wondered if there was anyway that once you retreat there
 could be some kind of buffer that allows you to not get engaged so you can leave the
 room."
Vincent Euiena says, "And I have a comment on this."
Vincent Euiena says, "I've seen something like this done."
Trevor Rage says, "There is.  Until you are fully engaged again you can walk away. 
 That being 10-15 seconds or so."
Vincent Euiena says, "Not exactly."
Trevor Rage asks, "What's your idea?"
Vincent Euiena says, "If they're all coming at you at once, then yes. But if they're
 second appart it's not."
Trevor Rage asks, "So, you'd like to see just an all out "unengagable for X time"
 buffer?"
Vincent Euiena says, "Well, if anyone's ever seen "DragonRealms"...."
Vincent Euiena ducks his head.
Vincent Euiena says, "More a way to avoid being engaged. A "Hangback" verb if you
 will."
Vincent Euiena says, "So you don't have to keep putting in "Retreat"."
Trevor Rage says, "I'm familiar with DR's engagement system."
Trevor Rage nods.
Vincent Euiena says, "Well, I know brining up another simu game in a different simu
 game is a sin, so...."
Vincent Euiena chuckles.
Trevor Rage says, "What about CvC for those players who have no ranged attacks
 available?  What's to stop someone from keeping at missile all the time?  There is the
 current agility check, but as most of us seem to have similar agility nowadays..."
Vincent Euiena says, "There's a RT for retreating you know, and with so many coming at
 you at once it's impossible to get away."
Trevor Rage says, "No not really, I don't feel the need to reinvent ALL the wheels..."
Trevor Rage grins.
Vincent Euiena asks, "You could have it stat and skill based on ability to succeed
 maybe?"
Trevor Rage asks, "What skill?"
Vincent Euiena says, "Evasion and/or acrobatics."
Vincent Euiena says, "The advioding skills."
Trevor Rage asks, "What's to stop you from hiding to retreat easier?"
Trevor Rage says, "That was one of the benefits of the skill when we introduced it."
Vincent Euiena asks, "What good is it if you can't hide well enough from the perp?"
Vincent Euiena nods.
Vincent Euiena says, "True."
Trevor Rage says, "Well, that's a bit like saying "What if I don't -want- to train
 Evasion?""
Vincent Euiena says, "Well, if you've seen the DR system you know what it's like. MUCH
 easier to keep typing, but it helps a little."
Trevor Rage says, "Prowling shouldn't be necessary, but very useful would be good."
Vincent Euiena asks, "Couldn't you base it on the other?"
Trevor Rage says, "And I don't think it's currently necessary, but it is useful to
 allieve some headaches like this."
Vincent Euiena says, "Or both I mean."
Vincent Euiena nods.
Trevor Rage says, "I'm not opposed to making a verb to allieve carpal tunnel from
 retreating over and over."
Vincent Euiena says, "Well like I said, it's not exactly my question, but I think it's
 just they want to be able to get away if they're not the best in hiding."
Vincent Euiena nods.
Trevor Rage says, "I'm not even sure if I'm opposed to making one just to make the
 retreating issue easier, I'd have to give it thought."
Vincent Euiena says, "Didn't seem that big a deal."
Vincent Euiena nods.
Vincent Euiena says, "Alright, that's good."
Trevor Rage says, "But, it's not a cut and dry "Yes we definitely need that" kind of
 thing, either."
Trevor Rage says, "So, I'll give it thought."
Vincent Euiena says, "That's all we can ask."
Vincent Euiena nods.
Trevor Rage chuckles.
Vincent Euiena says, "My last question I don't even need to ask, just say."
Trevor Rage nods.
Vincent Euiena says, "There was talk about "Dueling" earlier."
Vincent Euiena says, "You could just have something similuar to DR in that issue."
Vincent Euiena shrugs.
Trevor Rage asks, "CHALLENGE you mean?"
Vincent Euiena says, "Anywhere you can get a good idea is worth looking at at least."
Vincent Euiena nods to Trevor Rage.
Vincent Euiena says, "Not EXACTLY alike, of course."
Trevor Rage says, "Sparring is something we have already given thought to and still
 are.  I've said before that we'll have something in place for it (aside from the
 current CvC arrangement) and I anticipate we still will, it would be fun and useful."
Vincent Euiena nods.
Vincent Euiena asks, "Would that include being about to "Train" someone?"
Trevor Rage says, "How it would work is a completely different issue, and while I think
 I know a lot of the details already, I'm going to keep that Ace in my sleeve a while
 longer."
Trevor Rage grins.
Vincent Euiena says, "Able to."
Vincent Euiena chuckles.
Vincent Euiena nods.
Trevor Rage says, "I don't know if you could train others or not yet."
Vincent Euiena says, "Well if you do get sparring in, that's half the reason you'd want
 to. So think about it."
Vincent Euiena grins.
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Vincent."
Vincent Euiena says, "I think that's it."
Vincent Euiena smiles.
Vincent Euiena says, "Sure thing."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Trevor Rage nods.
Having finished, Vincent Euiena takes a seat nearby.

Mariko Shinobu now has the floor.

Mariko Shinobu asks, "OK, I can see what people are saying about lower-leveled players
 being able to hurt veterans. But if they spend the $6 million and buy the armor, and
 stance practice or hunt all day, they should get credit for it. I don't know how
 possible it is to max out a weapon skill without levelling a lot, but if someone
 managed 500 skill with level 20, they DARN well better get credit for it. I'm not
 level 20, and I'm not level 80. But I maxed out my evasion and I did so when I was
 level 38. I know other people who did it faster. There needs to be a bonus for
 higher-leveled players while keeping the emphasis on skill. Maybe that'll be an extra
 combat bonus, or more money, I don't know. But I think skill should matter most,
 because if someone attains really high skills, even if they do it 30 levels faster
 than you, they need to get credit for it. If we're talking about level 20 people with
 200 skill hurting level 80s with 500 skill, that doesn't make sense unless the 20 has
 perfect armor and weapons, (continued)"
Mariko Shinobu says, ".. (continued) and the 80 has nothing. But what about level 20
 with 500 skill vs level 80 with 500 skill and both having great armor and weapons? I
 don't see how they have any less right to be a match. Like I said, I'd like to see a
 combat bonus or extra money or some other incentive to be higher-leveled. But in a CVC
 fight, 500 skill vs 500 skill should matter most to me, not 20 vs 80 levels."
Mariko Shinobu whistles a cheerful tune.
Trevor Rage exclaims, "Wow, breathe!"
Trevor Rage chuckles.
Mariko Shinobu exclaims, "Sorry!"
Simone Russell chuckles.
Trevor Rage says, "Well, we are first and foremost a skill-based game vs. a level-based
 game.  So to that end, the skill "counts for more"."
Mariko Shinobu nods.
Trevor Rage says, "And, armor and weapons are very expensive and should carry benefits
 fitting to that cost."
Trevor Rage says, "So we agree there.  Now, all that said, level bonuses in some form
 would be nice, though defining what form is the tricky part."
Mariko Shinobu nods.
Trevor Rage says, "But, as long as MO is a skill-based game, skills will count for more
 than levels."
Trevor Rage says, "In the grand scheme of things."
Mariko Shinobu says, "I guess it just seems like a lot of people are upset that people
 who have been here a lot less are as powerful as them."
Xander Morales raises his hand, noting he has a question.
Mariko Shinobu says, "And, I admittedly am not sure what kind of bonus for levels we
 could have."
Trevor Rage says, "I think a lot of people are upset because their level has less value
 than they feel it should.  And, I'm inclined to agree.  We went from levels defining
 your character totally to levels being a little accent on your skill-based character. 
 Big change.  Some changes to slightly elevate the level end of it would be nice, but
 we ARE a different kind of game now."
Trevor Rage is no longer taking new questions.  If you already have a question, it is
 still in queue and you may still change your question at any time.  If you LEAVE the
 list, you will not be able to ask a new question.
Mariko Shinobu nods.
Mariko Shinobu says, "I like it better this way, but that's just me."
Mariko Shinobu says, "It's so much more interesting."
Trevor Rage says, "I do too, but I do look forward to some new level based benefits. 
 And we already have one, the locker change.  More would be nice."
Trevor Rage says, "I look at it as one of the few times we can make a totally win-win
 change if we do it right."
Mariko Shinobu says, "Yes, I thought that was really good, because I already hit 50 and
 was slacking off on leveling. But I need space."
Trevor Rage says, "BTW guys I'm finishing the questions that are in, but the list is
 closed to new ones now."
Mariko Shinobu says, "It gives me, personally, incentive to keep levelling."
Trevor Rage nods.
Mariko Shinobu says, "OK, that's all."
Mariko Shinobu smiles.
Mariko Shinobu sits down.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Mariko."
Trevor Rage smiles.
Having finished, Mariko Shinobu takes a seat nearby.

Sky Larson now has the floor.

Sky Larson asks, "I think hunting is kind of repetitve and boring and this is a game
 and hunting shouldnt really seem like work but it does is there any kind of implements
 the you and the other Gm's are thinking about to help with that or has it really been
 brought to your attention"
Siri Macallan says, "Something I'd like to address on that point is that not everyone
 wants complex combat."
Sky Larson says, "And also hunting is a large portion of the "Meat" of the game next to
 role playing"
Siri Macallan says, "Some people don't want to have to deal with a million different
 moves."
Siri Macallan says, "It's not always going to be the main focus."
Trevor Rage says, "Well, slowing the pace of combat would help, I think.  Instead of
 combat being a faceless blur of screen scroll, it could involve some actual thought in
 the process, for one.  But you've touched on a bigger issue, combat is a huge part of
 MO, and we need to have available more non-combat things to do, and my fellow cohorts
 in the shadows have added a lot of that and will add a lot more I'm sure.  But that's
 a subject for a completely different forum."
Siri Macallan says, "Hopefully it will just be one of many foci."
Sky Larson says, "But with me when i hunt i just ATT 1  like 3 or 4 times then search
 whatever"
Siri Macallan says, "You don't have to though."
Siri Macallan grins.
Siri Macallan says, "If you want more variety, you can use one of the gobs of moves
 that are available."
Sky Larson says, "Maybe possibly more psi attacks that are availible for lower skils as
 well as higher"
Sky Larson says, "I couldnt tell you one move that i can do with a blunt weapon"
Trevor Rage says, "I'd think a more involved fight with one or two perps would be fun. 
 More focus on the interaction between you and the perp, and less on just standing
 there hitting a key over and over until you see a yellow "the perp is dead" message."
Sky Larson says, "Beside attack"
Sky Larson says, "Exactly"
Sky Larson says, "Its not fun"
Siri Macallan scratches her head, looking a bit confused.
Trevor Rage says, "And that's something we're working to achieve.  But you know Sky,
 you should have seen combat say two years ago."
Sky Larson says, "Ive only been here one year i wish i would have found out about this
 earlier and not wasted time on gemstone and dragon realms"
Trevor Rage says, "Then it literally was nothing but ATTACK, THROW and SHOOT.  Over and
 over and over.  No engagement, no unarmed verbs, not even DISARM or AIM, no para
 powers, nothing.  We've added a lot to flavor combat since then."
Trevor Rage says, "We have had the unfortunate casualty of accusables, but they'll be
 back."
Sky Larson asks, "And arent all the other attacks unarmed?"
Trevor Rage says, "Yes, but that's also temporary.  New armed attacks are on my "list
 o' stuff"."
Sky Larson says, "Yeah becuase i have like 36 hours in anything unarmes"
Trevor Rage nods.
Sky Larson says, "And 100 hours in blunt"
Trevor Rage nods.
Trevor Rage says, "Hey, we already have more moves than any other game I've ever
 played.  Imagine when we have more armed ones.  The nice thing is, you can use all
 billion and Siri can use attack over and over if she wants to."
Trevor Rage grins.
Trevor Rage says, "Patience, grasshopper."
Trevor Rage grins at Sky Larson.
Sky Larson says, "Ok thats about it except for the fact run by shooting arent fair"
Trevor Rage asks, "Anyting else, Sky?"
Trevor Rage says, "Keeps you on your toes tho."
Trevor Rage winks.
Trevor Rage says, "Thanks, Sky."
Having finished, Sky Larson takes a seat nearby.

Trevor Rage says, "Wow, empty list.  I'd like to thank everyone for their ideas,
 questions, and comments.  I'm going to shuffle through everything later and ponder
 them all."
Trevor Rage says, "The "next big change" will likely be pace of combat one, but I'm
 going to ponder it more."
Siri Macallan says, "Thanks for all your thoughts."
Trevor Rage says, "From there, we'll see what develops.  I'd like to incorporate all
 your ideas as much as possible.  As always, my mailbox is always open:
 MO-TREVOR@PLAY.NET, or email me from www.role-players.com."
Trevor Rage says, "And, well, if you get on a wild train of thought and have pages of
 suggestions to send on, you would not be the first person to do so."
Trevor Rage grins.
Trevor Rage opens the floor for discussion.