VFX Flashy vs usefull?
Hello everyone,
I find myself increasingly frustrated by the visual effects (VFX) in AoC combat when watching videos and class previews. Specifically, I'm bothered by the flashiness and brightness of the skills, and
I sincerely hope for an option that provides simpler skill effects. My concerns extend beyond just performance issues; I believe reducing visual clutter is crucial for better conveying buffs, debuffs, AoEs, and preventing discomfort, seizures, or fatigue induced by intense flashes.
Allow me to elaborate on my two main concerns:
Visual Irritation and Opacity Overload:
The rapid, bright flashes, are not only annoying but can be visually overwhelming and take focus away from immersive and important parts of the combat. The accumulation of multiple skill effects results in opacity saturation on the target, hindering visibility. I propose a system where all skill effects combined are limited to a fixed percentage of opacity, preventing an overlap that obstructs the view and reduces bright flashes. Additionally, important effects such as buffs/debuffs and AoEs can have a higher minimum and maximum opacity for better visibility.
Brightness Hindering Enemy Observation:
The excessive brightness of skill effects can obscure the view of enemies, making it challenging to react and strategize effectively. What is the enemy doing? When do I need to block? Do I need to cleanse a debuff? Does the enemy have a buff or a shield up? All hidden behind huge hammers, bright weapon trails, explosions etc. To address this, a solution is needed to allow players to maintain focus on enemies amidst the visual spectacle without relying on the HUD alone. Simplifying combat VFX would involve minimizing flashiness, maintaining low opacity, and ensuring minimalistic visuals. This way, even in scenarios where multiple players unleash the same skill simultaneously, the screen remains clear, and essential effects stand out.
In considering solutions, I propose the following:
1. Standard MMO Approach:
Emphasize reliance on the HUD/UI for critical information. However, this often leads to players fixating solely on health, buff, and debuff bars, neglecting the immersive combat experience. Not recommended but looks like this is the road AoC is heading at the moment.
2. Simplified Combat VFX Option:
Introduce an option for simplified combat VFX. This setting would prioritize utility over flashiness, ensuring minimal visual disruption and aiding performance, especially in larger battles or raids. The simplicity could be integrated into customizable UI profiles for different scenarios, allowing players to toggle between full VFX for solo and 1v1 encounters and simplified VFX for sieges, raids, and pushing difficult content.
I understand the appeal of visually impactful combat, especially in one-on-one scenarios, but I advocate for the inclusion of an option that allows players to experience combat in a more streamlined and practical manner, particularly in group settings or large-scale battles.
Best regards
