[D4 Feedback] Solving the Item Tier Problem

[Skelos-2150]

Let me try to explain the magic items topic from the very beginning and see where this leads us to.

So, as I wrote in a previous feedback thread:

@Skelos-2150

For the metagame however the optimal number of item slots depends mainly on the itemization (and its balancing) in the game. The more (after certain value X) we increase the number of item slots (X → X + 1 → X + 2 → X + 100 = Y) the bigger the character identity and unique builds. The more we shrink their numbers the more meta builds per meta-tier we’ll witness.

Let’s say tier 1 meta composition for 4s is only one. A potential Y scenario will pretty much render tier 2/3/4 composition again a single one, while a small X would serve for much diversity in tier 2/3/4.

So, the real problem for them is to find that optimal X serving best for what they want to achieve. And this is done through Math depending on the itemization, its balancing and their goals (meta tiers vs character identity).

Let’s say they go with 15 item slots and they want to push a lot of tier 2 meta diversity. This would mean they can make 5-6 from these 15 item slots not bound to legendary effects (aka reserved for magic/blue items).

Now, the problem with magic items is that once the player finds the optimal (or satisfying enough) stats on a magic he is after, the item gets CEMENTED on that item slot, no matter how much we tweak the skill tree after a certain point.

@Shadout-2849

fix it with a blue item until you get better rares/legs

While this is good for mid game and would create item shuffling, it alone won’t change the fact that late game magics would still be CEMENTED on the item slots. For that to change they need to include stats manipulation nodes (like PoE’s majority of passive choices) in the skill tree. This would guarantee the player will still be looking for replacements of the magics in the very late game too.

So, basically there are these scenarios how to construct the itemization and skill tree regarding magic items:
1] Current small skill tree without stat nodes and magics being purely lower tier; Current number of item slots
2] A lot bigger skill tree with stat nodes and magics being useful in late game; More item slots from now

@Snowstorm-11248

they’re not rewards until they’re fully upgraded

They are still potential rewards (that’s why you’d keep them in stash).

What you suggested heavily pushes the game towards crafting and stashing items. While this might be fun at a certain degree, I doubt anyone here wants to spend half his day upgrading items instead of fighting mobs and collecting the same items.