I like the variable LRM flight path change and would like to see it added to a future patch. The direct flight paths for shots made with LOS give the weapon more flexibility and LRM use should no longer be restricted to dedicated indirect fire builds. Unfortunately, I was only able to log one match. I was very fond of the new behavior in that match, but on 4 separate occasions I waited over an hour without finding another, so my opinion is mostly based on the testing grounds. I have one suggestion for future tuning:
Keep missile spread at the live settings for LOS shots:
- LRMs already struggle to down mechs on the live version. The increased spread noticeably worsens this weakness, despite the shorter time to target and lower angle of attack (please see test results below).
- If separate spread values for direct and indirect fire is not feasible, consider adjusting Artemis, Tag, and NARC bonuses to promote direct LRM use.
LIVE
lrm40 - 10 salvos (400 missles)
lrm40tag - 9
lrm40artemis - 7
lrm40atemis+tag - 7*
*the CT after the 6th salvo was deep red
PTS
lrm40 - 14
lrm40tag - 11
lrm40artemis - 11
lrm40artemis+tag - 9