Are archers underpowered, even considering their overpowered alternative? I'm curious how. List the creatures that perform better.
It just seems that way; in reality, ranged damage plays a primary role.
According to my data, direct hit is approximately equivalent to +50% total damage (or +60% ranged damage).
Do you have different estimates?
8.5 * 1.6 = 13.6
6.5 * 2 = 13
These are quite comparable numbers, aren't they? The first one is slightly higher.