Exploiting AI & Combat Quirks
Morrowind's artificial intelligence, while functional, presents several exploitable quirks that can sificantly ease combat encounters. Understanding these mechanics allows players to gain a tactical advantage, even against formidable foes. One common exploit involves enemy pathfinding. Many NPCs, when pursuing a player, will attempt to navigate around obstacles. This can be used to your advantage by positioning yourself behind a corner or a doorway, forcing the enemy to repeatedly attempt to pathfind around the obstruction, often leaving them vulnerable to repeated attacks. This is particularly effective against melee-focused enemies who cannot easily attack around corners.
Another sificant AI quirk relates to ranged combat and line of sight. Enemies with ranged attacks, such as archers or mages, will often lose track of a player if line of sight is broken. This can be exploited by ducking behind cover, such as pillars or large rocks, and emerging only to fire a shot before retreating. Many enemies will then reset their target acquisition, allowing for a series of hit-and-run attacks. This strategy is especially useful against powerful mages who might otherwise unleash devastating spells like the 'Drain Health' spell. By carefully managing your position and line of sight, you can effectively whittle down their health without taking sificant damage in return.
Furthermore, certain environmental features can be used to manipulate enemy behavior. For example, placing yourself on elevated terrain, such as a high ledge or a small hill, can sometimes prevent melee enemies from reaching you, effectively rendering them harmless while you attack from safety. This is not always foolproof, as some enemies possess ranged attacks or jumping abilities, but it is a reliable tactic against many common foes. Additionally, some enemies have predictable patrol patterns or will aggro from a sificant distance. Learning these patterns allows players to ambush enemies or avoid unnecessary confrontations altogether. For instance, a group of three Hollow Soldiers guarding a passage might be lured out one by one by carefully timed movements, preventing a full-group engagement.