Guild Wars 2

Short version: I’d like to suggest that, as weapons are added to the classes, some of the weapons can only be equipped if you have a specific trait for it on that character.

Long version: Given that ANet will be bringing more of the available weapons to each class, I think it would be a good idea to have some weapons locked off of each class, and then add traits that can be taken to unlock said weapons. Why? Three reasons:

1. Some weapons simply don’t seem to fit the role of the class. If you want, for example, an engineer to use a great sword, it’s natural that they’d have to spend some extra time training with a weapon that’s so unusual for the class.

2. By requiring traits, you gain an extra way to balance the weapons. For example, let’s create the trait of “Druidic” for Rangers. Having this trait allows them to equip a staff, and do some more nature magic-style skills. If that’s an adept trait, they give up a little to get it. But if it’s a grandmaster trait, then they have to give up far more to get it, justifying more powerful skills with the staff.

3. By using weapon access traits, you can restrict or prevent certain weapon combinations. Going back to point #2, let’s say “Druidic” is a master level trait. Now, let’s also make a scepter access trait, “Summoner”. If this is also a master trait in the same line, then having both traits on one character will use up a master and a grand master trait in that line. Create a grand master trait in that same line that boosts staff and scepter use, and you have an even harder choice. Putting Druidic and Summoner into separate trait lines can still make people reluctant to go after both, especially if they’re moved to grand master level.

ANet has said that they’re going to bring more (all?) weapons to all classes, and add traits as well. I think this would be a way to do both that will allow more flexible characters, but provide some balancing tools as well. You’ll be able to have your great sword wielding engineer, or your rat swarm summoning ranger, but you’ll have to give up something to do it.