One of the reasons for this dubious decision may invlove the often neglected rogue class. Other MMO's have simplified the function of the rogue into a sneaking, back-stabbing, damage dealer with the ability to open the occasional locked or trapped chest. In D&DO, the rogue plays an integral role for any successful group. All mission maps are laid out with the rogue in mind and have traps scattered throughout, locked doors, and enemies placed so as to ambush the unsuspecting party of adventurers that may happen by. Would it be possible to traverse these dangers without a rogue in your party? Sure, but I wouldn't recommend it. With casters having a limited number of spell points available and no regenerative hit points unless you find a designated place to rest, using your heavily armored fighter as a trap detector would be a fast way to certain death. With the added features D&DO is introducing, will rogues still have the ability to sneak and backstab? Certainly! D&DO isn't removing anything from this wily dungeon crawler, instead they are using the much debated instancing format to make it ALL possible.