Personally, and I know this might come across as moralistic or even getting too wrapped up in a gaming world, but getting older (old at 33!) I've started feeling a little unhappy in games where I'm supposed to go out and, for some thin reason, slaughter anything. Perhaps it started with Shadow of the Colossus, actually.
"Go kill a bunch of these majestic eagles so I can make a headdress!" or "Let's show them not to mess with us!" Since when has that been a noble solution that ever worked in the real world? I *know* this is a fantasy world, yes, but my suspension of disbelief only goes so far. Maybe I just expect more realistic, deeper, or believable stories as I see more of them. Anyway...
It makes me think less of a game, that it is NOT well written, or simply disregards a player's time and/or emotional investment in their character/game choices.
Why can't there be additional options for accomplishing many of these tasks (one could be subdual damage)? Of course sometimes the only way is to duke it out (which can be a TON of fun!) but having the ability to avoid killing, by hook, crook, or subdual damage (even if that causes more problems for your character later) would be a great option, IMHO.
Note: I cannot believe I am airing this opinion out here. I'm sure most people will say,"It's just a game!" but in a culture that seems to glorify violence it's sometimes a relief to minimize needless exposure to it, especially in games where story and character development are involved.
Just my 2 cents.
