New Opcode: Ability Drain
Raduziel
Member Posts: 4,714
Hi.
Right now, abilities drain is handled using the same Opcode that increases the attributes.
The problem: by PnP, there should exist several ways to prevent ability score draining from, let's say a shadow. And many creatures should be immune to it. None of those can be properly translated to IE because blocking the ability drain also blocks the ability buff. So the same effect that protects against the shadow attack also blocks Champion's Strength.
The solution:
Opcode X
P1: Ability (0 - All, 1 - Str, 2 - Dex, 3 - Con, 4 - Int, 5 - Wis, 6 - Cha)
P2: Value (this Opcode accepts positives values only)
Special: (0 - Only Drain, 1 - Drain to Caster).
---
Now a shadow attack can be blocked through Opcode 101 using parameter X.
Undead may have their scores preserved through Opcode 324.
Everyone is happier.
Right now, abilities drain is handled using the same Opcode that increases the attributes.
The problem: by PnP, there should exist several ways to prevent ability score draining from, let's say a shadow. And many creatures should be immune to it. None of those can be properly translated to IE because blocking the ability drain also blocks the ability buff. So the same effect that protects against the shadow attack also blocks Champion's Strength.
The solution:
Opcode X
P1: Ability (0 - All, 1 - Str, 2 - Dex, 3 - Con, 4 - Int, 5 - Wis, 6 - Cha)
P2: Value (this Opcode accepts positives values only)
Special: (0 - Only Drain, 1 - Drain to Caster).
---
Now a shadow attack can be blocked through Opcode 101 using parameter X.
Undead may have their scores preserved through Opcode 324.
Everyone is happier.
2
Comments
This just shifts the problem from one place to another: a Paladin is immune to Disease, but shouldn't be immune to ability score drain.
Use opcode 206/318 to provide immunity to that resref "ABDRAIN".
That is a solution, but demands a modded game.
I'm talking about using this new feature as vanilla in things like Negative Plan Protection or Enrage etc.
And also I think that the plain Opcode would make life easier for modders. Checking IESDP I saw several opcodes labeled as "Unused" (like #322, #364 and everything between #347 and #359) that's why I had this idea.
Is there something I'm not considering?
Thanks!
And I also believe that it would open new horizons for modding spells and kits in a simpler and less invasive way (modding compatibility, I mean).
I don't know a better place to leave suggestions for Beamdog, unfortunately.
Edit: Feature 40172 created.
https://support.baldursgate.com/issues/40172
Stop crushing my dreams. What did I do to you?
Kidding.
I don't have any hope that Beamdog will implement this (or any of this TBH), my bet is on Bubb's new alien tech.