Between the respec arguments and keeping all skills useful arguments I think I may have come up with a possible solution.
I think it would have been better if all the skills had a numerical skill value that increased with use with new skills opened up when you reach a minimum skill level in others. (Which could also be tied to your clvl) Also leaving open the option of maxing all skills if you spend the time.
Basically, you shouldn't have to read a build guide to create a successful character into higher difficulties. The way it was in D2 made it painfully boring to be a low level because you'd always be saving your skill points for higher levels. Character building strategy is important no doubt, but I think that strategy is better saved for attribute points and (even more so) equipment selection.
I think that allowing you to respec would take the challenge out of creating a character. If you're a barbarian that uses axes you shouldn't be able to simply change your mind and start using polearms just because you found one that's better than your current axes.
I believe a system similar to this would be less punishing as well as providing a proper amount of difficulty.
I think it would have been better if all the skills had a numerical skill value that increased with use with new skills opened up when you reach a minimum skill level in others. (Which could also be tied to your clvl) Also leaving open the option of maxing all skills if you spend the time.
Basically, you shouldn't have to read a build guide to create a successful character into higher difficulties. The way it was in D2 made it painfully boring to be a low level because you'd always be saving your skill points for higher levels. Character building strategy is important no doubt, but I think that strategy is better saved for attribute points and (even more so) equipment selection.
I think that allowing you to respec would take the challenge out of creating a character. If you're a barbarian that uses axes you shouldn't be able to simply change your mind and start using polearms just because you found one that's better than your current axes.
I believe a system similar to this would be less punishing as well as providing a proper amount of difficulty.
It's the decisions you make when you have no time to make them that define who you are.