Caps and uh...caps...

I thought I'd start off by addressing a fundamental problem with the new LOTRO combat system. I realize this might not be the most interesting topic, so I will follow with some screenshots. (Screencaps.)

I believe in being straightforward. The problem is caps. The rest of the changes are more or less fine, despite the general uproar about being switched from plain percentages to 'ratings'. Let me tell you what I like about the new rating system: it enables much more scalability, flexibility, and fluidity throughout the entire level range, with itemization. However, this is a powerful tool that Turbine must learn to use properly. It is clear that they are being VERY cautious, however, particularly with the introduction of the hard mitigation and avoidance caps. This is an informal blog, and I'll be honest: this feature alone nearly killed my excitement for the expansion.

I understand where they're coming from, though. A better solution would be to implement harsher non-linear diminishing returns past the previous 'cap'. I'll give an example: say my Guardian had 16% block (no stance) pre-expansion. Now he has something like 11% + 3.5% partial. Stanced, it's 16%, but if I wasn't stanced, it'd be capped at 15%. Even stanced, if I do something, such as activate 'Guardian's Ward', my block percentage hits the cap at 20%. There is nothing I can do, no way to get it past this point. It no longer says 'MAX', but the knowledge is there. If instead, it let me push it to 20.05%, or 20.07%, that would be much preferable. It would have a negligible effect on gameplay, yet such a major effect on the player's attitude towards the change.

That said, I strongly urge Turbine to rethink the restriction of 'Builds' for Guardians and other classes who would like to tank to morale and vitality alone. If a player wants to stack as much block or parry as he wants, at the expense of other stats, then he should be able to. It's up to the team that itemizes the world to ensure that there are no game-breaking combinations out there.
...and thus ends my first rant on this blog. More later. Now as promised, here are some screenshots showcasing the incredible art and world design that Turbine has become rightly famous for: