There’s been a lot of discussion about job homogenization and how many roles have lost their unique identity. I completely agree with that sentiment. Today, I want to focus specifically on Monk (MNK) and share ideas to make it fun and distinctive again.
What MNK Used to Be:
What MNK Has Become
My Idea for MNK Identity
Why This Matters
I have other ideas, but if I could only change one major thing it's what I've described and do not want this to get to wordie.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas on how MNK’s identity could be restored. What would make MNK exciting for you again?
Thank you,
Continue reading...
What MNK Used to Be:
- Fast-paced gameplay with heavy emphasis on movement and positionals.
- Damage came from maintaining a smooth combo flow, not just building up for one big hit.
- Unique compared to jobs like SAM: SAM excelled at huge single strikes, while MNK rewarded skillful play with strong sustained damage.
What MNK Has Become
- Slower, with far less movement.
- Feels like a SAM/NIN hybrid, focused on building up for a big hit instead of flowing combos.
- Positionals were stripped and handed to Viper, leaving MNK bland and cookie-cutter.
My Idea for MNK Identity
- Bring back positionals, but modernize them:
- Successful positionals grant stacks or buffs.
- These unlock special strikes, party buffs, or target debuffs.
- This reduces button bloat—combos and movement create effects instead of adding extra buttons.
- Adds challenge and fun: harder fights = more rewarding execution.
Why This Matters
- MNK feels gutted and boring now.
- Its unique mechanics were taken and given to other jobs (Viper has more positionals than MNK does, now).
- Identity > cookie-cutter design, always.
I have other ideas, but if I could only change one major thing it's what I've described and do not want this to get to wordie.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas on how MNK’s identity could be restored. What would make MNK exciting for you again?
Thank you,
Continue reading...