The recent class changes to the Sith Marauder and Jedi Guardian have caused noticeable discontent among some players, ultimately resulting in the insult and threat to a developer.
Additionally, there was a relatively thoughtless comment in the forums by John Jarynowski, one of the systems designers of SWTOR, who only wanted to give tips to players but ended up causing even more issues.
What is so terrible about the changes?
With the recent expansion of Star Wars: The Old Republic, Shadow of Revan, Marauders/Guardians are struggling to show reasonable DPS numbers. Some are dealing damage even lower than what they previously had at level 55. So far, DOTs are the primary DPS source for the Carnage/Watchman specialization, and finding a proper rhythm to renew these damage-over-time effects is one of the most essential elements to mastering the class.
The core ability Rending Slash/Cauterize now lasts only 6 seconds instead of 12 on the target, forcing players to renew this debuff twice as often. Given that the class already struggles with rage/focus issues, there are concerns about further drops in damage charts.
An unwanted, sarcastic tip
Jarynowski tried to smooth the waves in the forums by giving tips, like this one: “Don’t underestimate the double lightsaber throw,” which effectively means: “Don’t use it too often in your damage rotation.”
It’s only awkward when the same man asks a few hours later whether the “double lightsaber throw,” which you shouldn’t use, should also benefit from one of the new set bonuses. Some players felt offended, although perhaps he was just trying to find compromises.
Whether the changes will have such a significant impact will be shown in the coming days in the raids. One can only hope that this unfortunate issue will be put to rest soon. More about the Star Wars MMO can be found on our thematic page for SWTOR.
