Smite’s Damage Item Dilemma: Are Non-Scaling Builds Ruining the Game?

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In recent discussions, there’s been quite a buzz surrounding Smite, the intense multiplayer online battle arena game developed by Hi-Rez. However, not all the talk has been positive. A growing issue among players revolves around the new designs of damage items in the game, specifically those that don’t increase with a character’s abilities or player level. This concern stems from the creation of fixed-damage builds which some players feel are unfair and could potentially disrupt the balance of power within the game. As players hone their skills on their preferred deities in preparation for competitive play, there’s an undercurrent of worry that these non-scaling builds might undermine skill and strategic decision-making, leading to debates about the game’s underlying design principles.

Summary

  • The rise of non-scaling damage items is frustrating many players who find it reduces the importance of character stats.
  • There’s a consensus that these items make the game less intuitive for newcomers and nightmare for the balance team.
  • Some players appreciate the potential of set damage items, while others see them as detrimental to the game’s complexity.
  • Players are demanding more item designs that scale with character stats to enhance strategic depth and gameplay enjoyment.

The Non-Scaling Conundrum

The core issue at hand is that players find repetition in Smite’s build strategies due to certain items, such as Bragi’s and Tyrfing, dominating the game. These items seem to function equally effectively across different roles like tanks, bruisers, and ADCs. This lack of distinction has sparked concerns from players like TheJumboman, who feel that builds have lost their strategic depth. Essentially, it feels as though every character in the game can equip an item irrespective of their role, which diminishes the tactical variety that Smite enthusiasts appreciate. It’s akin to going to a buffet expecting a variety of dishes, but instead finding only mashed potatoes on offer.

Community Reactions: Laughs and Frustrations

Many gamers find themselves oscillating between amusement and irritation when it comes to non-scaling items in games like Smite. For example, Eluned_ jokingly referred to these items as “yellow numbies” that whizz across the screen without a second thought for the characters they emerge from, humorously expressing their seeming disregard for game logic. SpecEye also found humor in the creative names given to some items (“bracer of the abyss,” perhaps?), which likely brought a smile to some faces. However, beneath the laughter lies genuine concern about how non-scaling items can negatively impact the learning curve of the game. Worried-L pointed out that these items can be confusing for new players and challenging to balance, potentially hindering them from understanding Smite’s intricate mechanics. No one wants to be a novice who believes they’ve discovered the perfect build only to realize they’re dealing no actual damage – it’s a painful lesson indeed.

Balancing Chaos: Dev Decisions

The way these items are designed is currently being questioned, as numerous players find it difficult to comprehend the approach. Dank_summers voiced his concerns, focusing on the developers’ apparent preference for scaling damage items based on player level. He didn’t hesitate to voice his dislike for this balancing method, stating that “the damage scaling with player level just seems like an odd way to balance things.” Players are left pondering whether the developers aim to even out the playing field but end up hindering the creativity players have traditionally exercised when crafting their gods. Some propose that items should embody the unique traits of characters instead of merely being effective for any player who picks them up. Doesn’t that sound reasonable, doesn’t it?

Longing for Scaling Solutions

In the present gaming environment, numerous gamers are yearning for a comeback of items that align with character abilities. NugNugJuice has noted that games such as League of Legends have effectively implemented on-hit builds, which incorporate scaling, enabling players to maximize their strengths. Why should Smite be an exception? This query is thought-provoking: Why not create more items that adapt to diverse character attributes? If items like Bragi’s and Tyrfing had some aspect of scaling with strength or intelligence, it could encourage a more strategic playstyle that promotes both personal and team development. Given Smite’s foundation in strategy, players desire the flexibility to customize their builds according to their unique playing style rather than solely relying on fixed damage stat items.

Will the persistent use of non-scaling items compromise the array of strategic options that keep players hooked? As Smite’s gameplay environment undergoes continuous change, the community watches with bated breath, unsure if the developers will respond to their requests for adjustments or stick to a path of simplicity that could lead to dwindling rewards over time. The aim is clear: to maintain a game that is fun, balanced, and challenging for everyone. Some may appreciate assembling random item builds from mystery boxes, but many crave the impactful choices of yesteryears within Smite’s competitive arena. Who will ultimately win this ongoing debate? Only future updates can provide the answer!

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2025-04-24 09:45