As opposed to having the game speed setting apply globally has it been considered to have the option to only apply to combat?  Simply put, the game runs @ normal speed until combat then it switches to half speed as an example.

I've preordered the game (GMG), but I only get to watch beta videos so I can't be sure if there is something already in place.

 

 

 

 

 

The options are already there you simply choose which one you want as combat starts (press S or D).

D (fast) is very useful for exploring rapidly while in scouting mode outside of combat.