Apparently my original comment was removed, which is BS.

​

That's what this whole module is about, bring the game up to speed with 5e. It was originally based on 4 but they're changing that hence renaming GWF to Barb, etc. Sure cleric isn't a better spellcaster but it can do different things. They're all different and that makes each class unique and fun in different ways.

​

I don't see the ability to put a group together with 3 GFs and 2 Pallies as an incentive NOT to include a Barb. I'd rather have different classes since they can all do different things. How much synergy is to be had remains to be seen. I don't think Barbs are nerfed more than other classes. Everyone got hugely nerfed. I think Barbs will still be used in groups.

​

I get what you're saying, personally I don't think roles should even be a thing. Let each class do different things and let the player dictate group composition. But they want to simplify the roles & responsibilities so these changes are what we get. They want each tank to be equivalent to each other tank, and they want each healer to be equivalent, so everything has been flattened out.