As with the previous post, I have read though a smattering of the posts to get a general gist of what is going on here and why people feel so darned passionate about this particlar thread. OK, now on to my two cents....
Having played several types of Blasters get a feel for them, I personally zero'd in on AR/Dev as the power set I wanted, since it not only fit the Origin I wanted (Natural: a Military Vet who wanted to give more, perhaps not unlike myself...) but also had the powers I wanted to use. Now, that being said, Yes, there are others who want to be able to throw the occasional punch. Sure, go right ahead, I'll wait for you while you run back from the hospital! While having a "Blapper" might sound like fun, I have to admit that I am pretty happy with my setup. Let me outline my typical fight for you as a solo, then in a group....
Solo:
Walk up with Cloaking and SuperSpeed on, Smoke, hit Hasten, Smoke again to hit the misses if needed, Caltrop, Grenade, back up a couple of steps, Flamethrower, Buckshot, back up again, Full Auto, Slug, Burst, rinse and repeat. I have alot of knockdowns, the 'trops keep them grouped and away from me while I pound on them from a distance. Only time I run into trouble is when there is a Boss in the group or they are orange minions with Lieuts. Then I make a judgement call based on numbers, available inspirations and how much solid brass my shorts feel filled with. A boss usually leaves me feeling cold and alone in the Hospital when soloing, however.
Group:
Let the agro magnet (Tank or Super-Scrapper, depending on group makeup) gather up the victims, Smoke, Caltrop, and then AoE till minions are so much paste on the floor, letting the others snipe and pick off the runners. Now, alot of you are saying that I am gonna get pounded, because I am generating so much agro with all this AoE damage. You are absolutely right! Smoke comes in handy here. Reduces my agro range a bit, so I can stay out at maximum range and do my job. Also reduces their ability (primary reason I use it) to hit me (6 SO debuffs, I know there is a law of diminishing returns, but every little percentage point that reduces their ability to hit me, I'll take it!) and everyone else in the group. If the bad guys are higher level or lower level, I adjust accordingly, including to backing off and taking timed potshots to make sure I don't become the stain on the sidewalk.
I don't think they should remove the melee options, but I do think there should be a ranged alternative to it. To fit the concept of your character. You get either/or, not both.
For those that want to play a "Blapper", have a nice trip to the hospital!!
Scott Breakenar Natural 32 AR/Dev Blaster (and proud of it!!!)
Shocksman Magic 15 Elec/Elec Blaster
others various and low level LOL
