>Why would making something that is an illusion harm you the
>same as if it were real make any sense in a world striving for
>realism.

I'll point you to the entire bard class...

>We want people to RP well and act like the game is
>real, and then we put in equipment that can harm you but isnt?
> That just seems very odd to me.

And yet we have illusions that already can destroy you that really only exist in your head (Mmmm...phantasmal killers)

>Nothing gainst you Z, but I
>don't agree with your thinking on this one and I'm willing to
>voice that opinion.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, thanks for sharing yours.

>It is cool to know what gear comes from where, but I don't
>think the drawbacks outweigh the positives in this one. IMHO.

I think you might be in the minority on this one. This is a change that is not really catering to the veterans of the game, but making things a bit easier for those just joining the game.