Let me start by saying I am a long time gamer and a sophisticated macro user.
Macros in the past have been designed to give users a way to automate tasks they could accomplish without them but took much greater skill to consistently pull off. The macro systems have dumb down play to the point that some players actually cannot compete without them due to the mental strain of competition and perfect timing that is achieved through the use of macros.
One such task is Target Focus or managing multiple targets at the same time. This is actually very difficult unless the targets and yourself stand still and do not move. With focus macros you can target whomever you want then with a press of a key retarget a different friend or foe then regain your original target with the press of a key. The idea that this increases skill as the OP has suggested is ridiculous. This does nothing to enhance your skill it automates the targeting process. Granted you will play better with automation but that does not give you a skill increase it allows you to focus your attention on other things thereby making the game easier.
NOTE: multiple target management can be setup without the use of macros, if this feature must be included then my thought is to avoid the user configurable multi target macro functions and instead implement multiple targets with key binds to switch between them.
How do macros decrease skill:
1. Helps eliminate incorrect key press. This helps eliminate mistakes not by skill but by design.
2. Gives users a false sense of accomplishment by making the game easier to play. Many examples can been seen in this thread where people claim to play better instead of stating the obvious that their game play has been automated.
3. Eliminates mouse clickers from the competition, I know one who is so good it would make you drool but he still cannot compete vs a skilled macro user.
4. In total macro control games it makes it almost impossible to distinguish between skilled players and skilled macro managers.
How are macros beneficial to the game.
1. They help automate tedious or repetitive tasks such as crafting.
2. They help people with handicaps enjoy the game.
3. It levels the playing field by allowing people with slower reflexes compete at an artificially higher level of skill as long as there is a limit to the use of macros.
My general feeling is that macros detract from game play and lower the bar on skill requirements to compete at high levels. I vote no macros.
