since the beginning of new world, when something is a bit overused and/or too strong, you decide to get totally nerfed.
and sometimes you empower something that didn’t need it so much.
you should every time you nerf something, up something else on the weapon to balance.
for example on the GreatAxe nerf the gravity if you find it too strong, but increase the HP regeneration, or even another competense that is not played?
If you nerf the CC skills of the hammer (shockwaves), reduce their animation time? increase the effectiveness of other skills that are not played (Mighty gavel?)?
defy death invulnerability nerf, replace with 100% lifesteal for 3 seconds. to encourage players not to flee but to fight.
by doing so, rather than destroying weapons and sending a message to their player “we don’t want you anymore” you will generate interest among players, and build diversity.
we can also imagine that rather than nerf shirking fortification, you would improve dislikes or shirking heal.
add variety to your game.
don’t punish the players
THOR