[request] Ashes Function Like Spells and Incantations.

[mysticdragonmage]

this is a gameplay overhaul request.

the goal of this mod would be to make Elden Ring melee combat more seamless and appealing through overhauling how players can use multiple melee skills during combat all without giving the player a huge advantage.

simply, rebalance infusible ashes of war skills to function like spells and incantations. Specifically interchangeable/infusible ashes exclusively, because I do think its fair when weapon switching and carry weight is a balancing factor for using powerful legendary weapon skills.

why:

casting/mage builds are able to use multiple skills seamlessly without the need to switch their weapon in a single combat encounter. however, if melee builds want to use more than one skill in a single combat encounter, they have the disadvantage using fromsoft's clunky direction pad weapon switching mechanics or hard swap via navigating equipment menus to bypass weight limits.

here are the fundamentals of the concept:

• Using the “memorize skill” function at a grace, players can equip an ash of war into spell slots and switch between them using the "switch sorcery/incantation" action.
• players can still execute weapon skills by using the “skill” action like normally.
• players can only use the skill if the weapon on either hand is compatible with that skill. the player's character will perform the default "head scratching"  animation when attempting to use an incompatible skill.
• Legendary weapon skills override all other skills when equipped and using the "skill" action. Legendary shield skills take priority if equipped on either hand.
• Whetstones can still be used to simply alter weapon stats, but are no longer tied to ashes.
• Skills that provide buffs will be canceled the moment the player uses another skill, ultimately preventing unbalanced skill stacking.
• a maximum of two buff-related skills can be used only when the player is carrying two compatible weapons. if the player only has one weapon equipped, only one buff can be applied at a time.
  • if the player switches their weapon in either hand, the first buff applied will be canceled out.

Estimated Conclusion:

• Using multiple ashes of war in a single combat encounter is now far more seamless.
• no need to switch weapons to double stack buffs. just use the the skill twice (though two is the limit and you must have one weapon in each hand).
• players who Build for strength and dexterity can now value having more spell slots.
• Improved combat in general. Way more flexible and visually appealing.