Consider gently nerfing Defense Matrices

[drspendlove]

I use DMs, a lot. They're my main component. That said, it seems like the wrong theme for them to add to Ship Combat initiative. It would make sense for an offensive component increasing your first-shot chance.

I propose moving the +Initiative off of DMs entirely and onto a less used component, perhaps a targeting matrix. That would open up another avenue of defense in the meta -- damage their ship before you need to rely on your (otherwise weaker) defense dice.

[fallen]

Thanks for the suggestion, will take a look at this one. The logic makes sense.

[drspendlove]

Considering that DM1's only disadvantage to DM2 is currently initiative, dropping DM1s defense bonus to 4% or electronics bonus down to 2 (from 3) might be required.

[resistor]

I do think it would be good for Targeting Matrix to get +Init. Right now, it feels like it doesn't have a clear role, being an awkward cross between Interlocking Sensor Matrix and Sensor Array.

[darion]

Yeah, the ini bonus is a bit off . But honestly i would consider reworking it entirely to remove the +5% modifier.

By virtue of a % mod the DefM's are the only components that *directly* scale off other comps, basically outclassing every other component when build in large numbers. I don't think that the ini loss will change much about it.

I would suggest removing both the % mod and the pilot and elec ratings, while giving the DefM a flat bonus to ranged defense (about 1.5-2 times the dice that would be generated out of the ship ratings). Essentially giving the Matrix a unique identity as a component that allows you to trade your flexible pools for a strong boost in specialised dice.