I want this too. Adding abilities to the game is all well and good, but if we wanted that we'd be better off playing Pokemon. Elemental, even in the upcoming iteration (judging from everything we've heard of it) needs a hell of a lot more before it can be said to have tactical battles in the literal sense. Which is a bit of a slap in the face really, since better tactical battles were allegedly one of Derek's goals for FE.
Good idea. That thread was misleading since the title was 'tactical combat' or whatever not just 'tactical combat AI' or something. They are both very important topics. Honestly though, I think we are well past the point of adding in major new features such as big changes in the way tactical combat works.
Big changes are the reason the beta's been delayed. At least in theory.
Depending on how FE turns out, I'd like to see the next expansion / sequel / whatever add things like LOS, ZOC, Sieges / Assaults, etc.
Then which expansion will give us dynasties, turn champions and sovereigns into proper characters, bring back naval gameplay, and finally give us espionage? You can only say "it'll be in the next expansion" for so much stuff before it loses credibility.
For now, lets just see how FE turns out and then we will have a better idea of whether the system is fun and works, or if it would benefit from some additions.
Of course it will benefit from additions. Being able to have situations that require (or benefit from) thought can only add to the game. The only question is whether Brad and Derek will think they ought to give it to us or whether they'll think they've done enough other stuff to make FE good without tactics.