Pendaelose
12-15-2011, 05:48 PM
I've been forum digging and found a few similar ideas, but didn't want to raise any zombie threads. I would link those topics, but new members aren't allowed to post links...
The "Shapeless" is inspired by Lycanthrop and Shape-Shifter styled masteries. I chose the name to be a little darker, focusing on lacking a set form.
Some of the other threads discussed the problem with the D2 Druid class always looking the same from lvl1 to lvl99. I don't think always showing armor is the way to go because it means the models need a more humanoid shape. Instead rather I would suggest that raising the points in a form should make the charter model larger and more intimidating. Perhaps skills can add spikes, shadows, and other nuances to create a bad ass monster-man at high level. If these are a separate model attached to the base skeleton they could potentially be used on any model.
I would avoid a wolf and bear just to stay unique. Instead I'd use monster forms.
DoppleGanger - Steal an enemy form
- Based on enemy stats modifies your stats to DPS, Tank, or Caster roles*
- If the monster uses weapons/armor the player can use his own.
- Uses enemy base model, raise the scale x%, apply a player skin.
- Skills down the tree would be buffs for your stolen form.
- Add visuals for level and skill based modifiers ie: larger model, spikes, shroud of darkness etc.
-Players would still have access to other class skills.
-Uses the monsters movement code/behavior (flight, jump, etc)
added perks with this idea...
-The player appearance will constantly change, scale with level, and be customized based on skill points.
- When appropriate the model can use the player's armor and weapons.
Ethereal - Caster/Support form
-Ranged magic attack, maybe life leach or chain lightning?
-unique buff/debuff and attack skills
-I have a mental image of a WH:40K Lord of Change, but that's just me.
Deamon Prince - Limited Time "super form"
-Similar to Colossus in TQ. The player becomes a towering monster with excessive damage and health for a short while.
- I play too much 40K, a Blood Thirster comes to mind.
For a couple non-form skills that still follow the class theme..
Regenerate - Passive healing skill. Follow up skills can add %chance of ignoring damage.
Shifting Mass - Active skill. The player "melts" into a liquid and reforms at the target location.
Horrible Visage - the player takes a terrifying shape. Scares away enemies.
If a pet is needed an idea similar to the "imp" or "changeling" suggested in other threads would fit extremely well. It would posses random enemies around you. A simple visual cue, like a custom shadow or aura, would let you know when an enemy is possessed. More points and follow on skills would make stronger possessed enemies and perhaps allow more pets at once.
*A simple solution for predicting new stats:
Keep a table of "average" stats for each level. Compare the monster's stats to the average for his level. Get the % of that value. Now multiply your stats by that same %.
The "Shapeless" is inspired by Lycanthrop and Shape-Shifter styled masteries. I chose the name to be a little darker, focusing on lacking a set form.
Some of the other threads discussed the problem with the D2 Druid class always looking the same from lvl1 to lvl99. I don't think always showing armor is the way to go because it means the models need a more humanoid shape. Instead rather I would suggest that raising the points in a form should make the charter model larger and more intimidating. Perhaps skills can add spikes, shadows, and other nuances to create a bad ass monster-man at high level. If these are a separate model attached to the base skeleton they could potentially be used on any model.
I would avoid a wolf and bear just to stay unique. Instead I'd use monster forms.
DoppleGanger - Steal an enemy form
- Based on enemy stats modifies your stats to DPS, Tank, or Caster roles*
- If the monster uses weapons/armor the player can use his own.
- Uses enemy base model, raise the scale x%, apply a player skin.
- Skills down the tree would be buffs for your stolen form.
- Add visuals for level and skill based modifiers ie: larger model, spikes, shroud of darkness etc.
-Players would still have access to other class skills.
-Uses the monsters movement code/behavior (flight, jump, etc)
added perks with this idea...
-The player appearance will constantly change, scale with level, and be customized based on skill points.
- When appropriate the model can use the player's armor and weapons.
Ethereal - Caster/Support form
-Ranged magic attack, maybe life leach or chain lightning?
-unique buff/debuff and attack skills
-I have a mental image of a WH:40K Lord of Change, but that's just me.
Deamon Prince - Limited Time "super form"
-Similar to Colossus in TQ. The player becomes a towering monster with excessive damage and health for a short while.
- I play too much 40K, a Blood Thirster comes to mind.
For a couple non-form skills that still follow the class theme..
Regenerate - Passive healing skill. Follow up skills can add %chance of ignoring damage.
Shifting Mass - Active skill. The player "melts" into a liquid and reforms at the target location.
Horrible Visage - the player takes a terrifying shape. Scares away enemies.
If a pet is needed an idea similar to the "imp" or "changeling" suggested in other threads would fit extremely well. It would posses random enemies around you. A simple visual cue, like a custom shadow or aura, would let you know when an enemy is possessed. More points and follow on skills would make stronger possessed enemies and perhaps allow more pets at once.
*A simple solution for predicting new stats:
Keep a table of "average" stats for each level. Compare the monster's stats to the average for his level. Get the % of that value. Now multiply your stats by that same %.