The rumor is that this will indeed make it in to 0.9.9.4 but there isn't much talk about what it's supposed to be. So I'm just going to pull this post out of thin air to generate discussion (AND motivation for Kornel). The only other thread I've seen on it is the list of build names created back in February, located here:
http://forum.chaosforge.org/index.php/topic,3970.msg32847.html#msg32847Some assumptions going in to this are:
1) Classes won't affect actual gameplay, but will be an information layer on top of existing system
2) Not at classes are viable (which means painful RNG fun in trying anyway!)
Brief Description:
As noted in the post linked above, your trait selection determines your class. Gameplay proceeds are normal
Player files will track your ultimate Class AND difficulty level victories
For example: If you beat the game with Army of the Dead (MAD), your class will be Stormtrooper.
Difficult level determines degree:
ITYTD/HNTR MAD = Novice Stormtrooper
HMP MAD = Journeyman Stormtrooper
UV MAD = Master Stormtrooper
N! MAD = Elite Stormtrooper
This will add a new screen to the player files that will read like a list of 'discovered' class combos and the difficulty level you managed to win using that class. Right now we have ideas for 50 classes based on either Master Traits or two two advanced trait combos. Can you beat even ITYTD with ALL of them???
Pros of the system:
1) Enhances Standard game replayability
2) A new system of 'discovery' of classes, much like assemblies
3) Probably at least one new badge series
In a nutshell: I see this system can add great value, especially to replayability to Standard games. Obviously 'Challenge' games will dictate one or two dominant classes anyway.
Ideas for expansion:
*Somehow buffing a player in N! gameplay for achieving Master in a specific class and USING it in N! :P
*New Badge series for being a <Novice,Journeyman,Master,Elite> in 10,20,30,40,ALL classes
Please everyone throw in ideas to steer us in a good direction!