Guild Wars 2

Had a great time with the beta. Rather than change the players, here’s a few thoughts on tweaking the NPCs (and their role in comebacks).

• Lord. Slightly faster auto attack speed. Do NOT add self-healing – leave that duty to players.

• Guards. One of the first pair and both of the last pair should be replaced with Elites. Add a third guard to the third pair. It is far too easy to crack the first gate solo in seconds. The last gate should really require you to either dig in or flood the area with archers.

• Archers. Need their attack speed increased by 50% so they are less trivial to dodge. Their basic attack should apply a 2 second slow. Their special shots should include a 1 second root. Make ignoring these guys while running down skritt agonizing. +25% damage against the guards so they can meaningfully assist against the elites added above.

• Gatebusters. These need to be 5-10% slower and reduce their HP by 10%-15%. Crossing lanes to kill these should be more appealing. And that in turn makes shepherding them more rewarding. Consider giving them ‘+50% buff duration’ so applying Regeneration, Protection, Swiftness & Retaliation to gatebusters is more of a thing. Finally, when they get to a gate they need to spread out slightly. No standing together to get cleaved into oblivion once they are on task. Smashing gates is where they should shine. Getting creamed en route is where players should shine.

• Summoning Doors. When your side is behind, gain a chance while spawning NPCs to not consume supply. This chance can start at 10% and maybe get as high as 30% if you are really deep in kitten vs. the other team. This adds a stronger comeback mechanics while still requiring players to be active in their own salvation.