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[Strelitzia]

A relatively simple solution that hasn't been raised for balancing ECM is Heat. To be precise, constant heat generation for a Mech with ECM active. This type of cost allows the balancing of a powerful ability without outright nerfs.

Currently the ECM has two modes, jamming and counter which imo is a needlessly complicated mechanic. Instead this proposal suggests an On/Off toggle for ECM.

While ECM is On the user will generate 2-3% (subject to change, maybe also 10% on activation cost) heat per second but it's function remains the same as the current ECM. So an ECM equip mech has about 30-40 seconds of ECM uptime before they have to shut ECM off to cool down. This also limits their action during this time so we don't see ECM equipped mechs just completely outclassing other lights but instead have to manage their heat carefully. Also, this changes the static gameplay of having a constant passive stealth bubble to a more dynamic mechanic where tactical decisions about ECM use is made on the fly.

To rebalance the CounterECM mechanic any two mech with ECM active will automatically cancel each other's ECM field. This allows for a fun play mechanic between two/multiple ECM players to tactically counter each other while watching their heat and ECM uptime.

ECM is a powerful tool and powerful abilities are very fun to use, but can also be balanced without nerfs as long as there are reasonable limits their usage.

Edited by Strelitzia, 05 December 2012 - 09:43 PM.