Scar progression and the Battle Mage tank

The recording discusses two progression-related subjects: the role of the Scar system in character advancement and the design of the Battle Mage specialization.

Scar system design direction

Skill modification is described as fitting better inside the talent tree than inside the Scar system. Talents are treated as the place for altering specific existing abilities, while Scars are framed as a better vehicle for granting something new, such as a new active skill or a new passive effect.

The exact acquisition model for Scars remains under discussion. One proposal is that Scars should not be awarded simply for leveling up, but instead for more significant accomplishments. Defeating a boss is given as an example of an achievement that may be more appropriate for earning a Scar than gaining a level.

The specific Scars shown at this stage are not presented as final release content.

Battle Mage role and mechanics

The Battle Mage is identified as a tank-oriented mage. Its core mechanic is an additional resource called barrier, displayed separately from the health bar.

Barrier is generated through combat, with abilities building up the resource during fighting. It functions as a protective layer that absorbs incoming damage. When the barrier is depleted, damage begins to affect health directly.

The Battle Mage is also described as using weapons associated more with melee combat, including swords, rather than functioning only as a traditional ranged caster.

Source

• Recording: We Reworked the Gronthar Race… (And Built a New Duel System)
• YouTube: Watch on YouTube
• Published: Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 2:32 PM UTC