Upon researching the different classes, combos, skills, etc I've noticed what I think might be one of the more glaring oversights (unless I've missed something, please correct me). That of course as the title reads is the availability or viability of playing or at least creating a build that fills the roles in other MMOs of offensive/defensive support. In Lotro this is the
loremaster which is similar to what I imagine the Summoner will be, we shall see. In Everquest, this is the
Enchanter.
TLDR, for those that don't know this is essentially a class that on its own isn't DPS, tank, or healing heavy, but instead serves to cc, daze, stun, root, disable, mobs on mass, debuff enemies, and buff allies making it easier for the rest of the party to live up to their roles. This kind of build or role has always allowed others to reach their peak performance they couldn't otherwise reach with their chosen class. Spells in DnD like hold person, hold monster, fear, spike growth, and dispel magic are spells in the wheelhouse for this role.
Now theory craft here with me for a moment. The best I could come up with in terms of something like this is perhaps a Bard, Cleric, or Summoner. The only issue with Cleric is that you've fallen into primary healer territory instead of offensive/defensive support. Some of the class combos at least by name imply something like this for example:
Summoner/Bard aka the Enchanter
Summoner/Cleric aka the Necromancer
Bard/Summoner aka the Songcaller
Bard/Cleric aka the Soulweaver
Cleric/Bard aka the Scryer
Cleric/Summoner aka the Shaman
https://ashesofcreation.wiki/Classes#Classes_by_archetype_combination
What I fear will happen and perhaps is already happening is that Ashes will end up just like ESO where the meta for raids, PVP, etc will end in the trinity roles and others won't be viable enough to waste a spot in the group comp. Essentially making it rather difficult to find or create a group without opening yourself up to some toxic behavior from other players. I hope this isn't the case as it left combat in ESO wanting. If you don't want to DPS you're left with tanking or healing in modern MMOS. It's truly a travesty for the industry IMO. Younger MMO players out there may not even be aware that non-trinity roles exist.
Perhaps I'm in the minority for wanting something in this direction or perhaps it is intended, but I've missed it. Please let me know. It is also possible that with the unveiling of Alpha 2 later this year and new updates, my concerns will be proven unfounded.
