The combat system in No Rest for the Wicked is one of the best I’ve experienced in any ARPG, especially in terms of weight, timing, and overall feel.
However, I believe there is an opportunity to expand the rune system by introducing more co-op focused abilities — true support-oriented runes that encourage teamwork and creative playstyles.
Suggestion: “Swap” Rune (Support Ability)
Concept:
A rune that allows the player to swap positions with either an enemy or an ally.
At first glance this might seem simple, but it opens up a lot of high-skill and creative gameplay possibilities, especially in co-op.
Examples of use:
- Saving an ally from a lethal hit by swapping positions with the enemy targeting them
- Swapping positions with an ally to take damage in their place
- Repositioning enemies into better combat situations or traps
Balance / Activation Conditions:
To avoid being overpowered, the ability could require setup:
-
Enemy Swap:
The enemy must first be “marked” (for example, via a counter attack or specific interaction)
Once marked, the player can swap positions with that enemy -
Ally Swap:
The player can mark one ally at a time
While an ally is marked, enemy marking is disabled
This prevents abuse and forces decision-making
Why this would improve the game:
- Encourages cooperative gameplay and teamwork
- Introduces true support-style builds (currently limited)
- Adds a high skill ceiling mechanic with strong creative potential
- Rewards awareness, timing, and positioning — which are already core strengths of the combat system
This kind of ability is rare in ARPGs, and I believe it would fit extremely well within the design philosophy of the game.
This suggestion comes from a place of appreciation — the combat is already incredible, and adding more support-oriented runes like this could take co-op gameplay to another level.