My thoughts on Reaper mode

[Smokewolf]

First off I'd like to thank the Developers for at least trying to release new content during their transition to Standing Stone Games. I realize that this must of been a very difficult and Chaotic time for all parties involved.

Now with that being said...

I've the following concerns with Reaper mode of play:

• Reaper abilities are in and of themselves only for use within Reaper instances. This "Self" justification falls short of providing a legitimate reason for players to "Want" to play thru Reaper mode. Now while Reaper mode is a relatively new experience to the game, there is sure to be great enthusiasm for it. However I suspect that this will be short lived without some form of tangible goal be added and soon. I suggest that, if some of the abilities could be applied to the game as a whole, then maybe it would be worth-wild.

• Items that have Reaper bonuses can only be used to their full effect within a Reaper instance. Here again, this is self justification, providing nothing that applies to the game as a whole. I suggest adding unique properties or unique items that can be used elsewhere in the game. Effectively creating a "Need" for players to want to run Reaper content beyond it's initial release.

• Reaper Vendors are locked until sufficient Reaper experience has been earned. This effectively blocks players from knowing what goal they're working towards, killing a large part of the incentive / motivation to play Reaper. While I can totally understand it if the Developers have yet to make it that far in the development process...at the very least, please let us know.

• Current server populations don't really support Reaper game mode. Lets not dodge the issue here and say that Reaper mode has a direct and significant impact on the quality of non-Reaper play. Often, while I'm able to find a Reaper group or start my own, the interest in non-Reaper play is basically dead. For seasoned players this isn't so much of an issue but for new players, this often leaves the server feeling very empty and elitist.

• Far too many mobs are either immune to damage or recover from it's debilitating effects so quickly as to make those mechanics pointless. Everything from stat-damage to debuffing mobs has been nerfed to the point where it's no longer a functional part of the game. In and of itself this is wrong and it clearly limits the usefulness of Classes which are dependant on them. (Wizards / Bards / Clerics come to mind right off) Now while this is an accepted condition of Reaper mode, it's really not much better when playing a normal instance. Pointblank, mobs have been over-buffed and abilities over-nerfed, throughout all game modes. This situation greatly restricts which tactics and builds are viable within DDO. Thus hurting the overall integrity and longevity of the game as a whole.

Constructive thoughts and comments on this thread are welcome, Trolls are not. If your not going to add something significant to this thread, then please PM me directly.

Resin