Hookshot Ability As Upgrade?

[azure laurel]

I really like the new hookshot/yank feature, it adds a really awesome new layer of depth to movement in the game, but it's also quite a powerful mobility tool that I think could be better suited as an upgrade. New players might not use swinging to the fullest if they are immediately given an option as powerful as zipping to exactly where they want to go. It shouldn't be a super late-game upgrade or anything, but having it down the research tree a bit as an upgrade to your first grappling hook could be nice. Not only would it encourage new players to engage more with swinging in the beginning, but it would also act as a really exciting new tool to help the game's progression feel more impactful.

Combat yank should be available off the bat btw, i'm specifically referring to the hookshot ability. Combat yanking is borderline necessary against mantas LOL

[coral prawn]

I disagree, it allows for so much more skill expression than just the normal grapple when you mix it in to normal swings. It's so incredibly fun and immediately feels natural. About to hit the ground and reeling in isn't fast enough? Pulse hook shot and shorten your swing arc, keep swinging. Its so much fun

[azure laurel]

Right, I'm not disagreeing with that, it's awesome, I'm just saying it's so awesome that it might be better regulated as an upgrade. It would be an exciting thing to get after playing with the regular swinging for a bit.

[coral prawn]

Honestly I think it's also a great starter tool. I know my wife won't be able to swing around like spiderman like me with 100 hours in WA, but I still want her to be able to get on the boat easily! I do understand what you are saying, but it's basically swinging with training wheels. I feel like it's best suited to new players, especially since there is a high stamina cost.

I get where you are coming from but also knowing what tools the player has at a baseline also helps with island design and puzzle design

[azure laurel]

That's fair!