Elementyle

The 0.3.0 update is taking longer than expected due to some issues with the asynchronous matches and rejoin / leave logic changes. There is an intention for there to be more flexibility in non-priority matches (vs computer and async) with rigid blockers around doubling up on priority (real-time PvP) matches.

While that work continues to be tested and iterated on in the development environment, I thought I’d shed light on a previously unmentioned change that occurred late in the cycle regarding balance for the Water set. Water has continued to suffer from a number of issues largely stemming from the design space it attempts to fill. The set feels clunky or even unplayable with certain piece configurations and the computer match simulations have agreed with that despite other tweaks to the engine.

As a result, a number of piece changes are coming to Water with patch 0.3.0, though not as many as the last major rework. The overall goal of this change set is to reduce the friction for using the Signature piece while not allowing Water to scale out of control with the new mana changes. There is one additional change for Undertow which is being held back at this time and may or may not be released in a sub-patch. The below changes do not include the general changes to mana which were previously discussed but will be included in the full patch notes.

Water Set Changes

• Swelling Current
  • Awaken: If this piece was dormant, claim 3 nearby tiles randomly. This piece does not cost mana to move this turn.
• Undertow
  • Awaken: If this piece was dormant, claim one two nearby tiles randomly. This piece does not cost mana to move this turn.
• Wrath of the Drowned
  • *New* Aura: Whenever any piece is captured or destroyed, trigger this piece’s capture effect.
• Tidesage Oseptes
  • Fortify: Expend 2 effect counters total and 10 mana per piece affected to grant random friendly pieces in range 2 a free action status for 2 turns. Requires two counters, at least one friendly piece in range 2, and at least 10 mana.

While the goal is to minimize the changes made to base pieces, I believe these changes will bring Water more in line with expectations and make the usage and significance of the signature piece more relevant for play. While some of the modeling still needs to be done with updated parameters, I will be keeping a close eye on Water’s performance this update. If it’s too much, problematic piece effects may be brought down slightly. If it’s not enough, there is one pending change and a few changes coming in 0.4.0 that may bring overall balance.