The State of Dredge: A Call for Change in Age of Empires IV

As a seasoned player with over 64 levels of experience playing as Dredge, I've come to realize that this beloved character is stuck in a rut. His current state is not only frustrating but also detrimental to the overall gameplay experience. In this article, I'll explore the problems plaguing Dredge and propose potential solutions.

First and foremost, it's essential to acknowledge that Dredge has become easily spamable, rewarding players who rely on their enemies' mistakes rather than developing their own skills. This crutch-like behavior is not only unengaging but also unfair to those who put in the effort to improve their gameplay.

One of the primary issues with Dredge is his kit's low skill floor and ceiling. His abilities are straightforward, making it challenging for players to execute complex strategies or develop nuanced gameplay. To address this, I suggest reworking his kit to include more varied and challenging abilities that reward players who invest time in mastering them.

Another significant problem is the community's reliance on scuttle, which has become a crutch for many Dredge players. While some may argue that it's a necessary evil, I firmly believe that it's not the solution to Dredge's problems. Instead, I propose exploring alternative solutions that promote more dynamic and engaging gameplay.

In my conversation with JayFlare, an Age of Empires IV representative, they revealed that the team is unwilling to make significant changes to scuttle due to its widespread use. While this may be a valid concern, it's crucial to acknowledge that the community's desire for change is genuine. By ignoring these concerns, the developers risk alienating their most loyal fans.

As a Dredge main, I've had the opportunity to test him extensively against other blasters and damage dealers in the game. Unfortunately, he consistently falls short due to his limited abilities and lack of adaptability. It's disheartening to see players struggling with his performance, which only exacerbates the problem.

In conclusion, Dredge is in dire need of a shake-up. By addressing his kit's limitations, promoting more challenging gameplay, and acknowledging the community's concerns, Age of Empires IV can breathe new life into this beloved character. As a dedicated player, I urge the developers to take these issues seriously and work towards creating a more balanced and enjoyable experience for all players.

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