Two major changes that Blizz announced in interviews that aren’t getting enough attention because of the LFD change are:
- Removal of the disenchant option from the group-loot popup window; and
- Restriction (of some kind) on the ability to swap specs with dual spec.
Let’s discuss.
Do not remove the disenchant button
Blizzard has said the reason for this change is because “using someone else’s profession without asking is at odds with classic values.” While we can certainly understand your thinking that you want to create more discussions about professions and community interactions, this is not the hill to die on. The disenchant button, while being a function of the LFD can’t trade loot across realms issue, also serves two other functions. First, it allows all members of the group access to the disenchanter especially in normal dungeons where the BoP loot is not tradeable. While yes, it is true that in guild & friend groups we often coordinate everyone passing unwanted items for the enchanter to take and DE. However, this is not a very common practice among pug groups. Even when it is the practice in pug groups, there always seems to be that one dude that keeps ‘forgetting’ to pass and ends up with a nice blue item or two to vendor instead of the group DE’ing. Second, the DE button really emphasized and brought to light the value of bringing an enchanter to a dungeon run, and this is where the the DE button may actually stimulate community interactions. With everyone wanting to be able to press that little purple button, groups on private servers will actually seek out enchanters to fill their group. Seeing “LF1M DPS H HoL – need enchanter” will be a common sight with the DE button in the game. Again, of course you can still trade items, but the button really makes it known that it’s a fair playing field for mats and it will emphasize the value of bringing an enchanter to a run.
DO NOT RESTRICT DUAL SPEC
Second, and arguably more importantly, please do not restrict dual spec in any way. There is not an argument here of “this is better for the community” or “this will cause more/better community interactions.” There is no community aspect whatsoever for this change. Instead, this change is much more of a “You should play the game we tell you to play it, rather than the way you want to play it” situation. This is the exact logic that classic was created to avoid. Players want agency, want options, and want to play the original game they loved before it became littered with restrictions on what you can and can’t do in game. Restricting dual spec will only create a nuisance. Restrictions on dual spec are a solution to a problem that simply does not exist. If someone leaves your dungeon group or goes afk, that plate DPS should be able to swap specs on the spot and tank for a few trash pulls until the tank gets back. In raids, your frost DK should be able to swap into blood for fights that require two main tanks. This is the type of utility and engagement dual spec brings to the game and it should be promoted not regulated or restricted. Please, if you don’t do anything else, please, DO NOT RESTRICT DUAL SPEC.