They did that to test out the reduced (or in this case non-existent) enemy aggression. This major change, IMO, will make the game way too easy now. I sent in bug report. This isn't right at all.

On the revive thing... which is nice... I'm already seeing an abuse of it by baby pirates who feel like they can just charge after bigger enemies and have others foot the bill by dishing out tonic after tonic.

Had two of my guildies go into the Catacombs (both under Level 10) and keep begging for help. The officers kept telling them to go some place they could handle. Finally, after spending a lot of our gold to keep healing them - they were cut off to serve their jail time.

I agree completely. This is an abuse of your guildies when used improperly. Personally, I have often told newer players that they should NOT expect any help from the guild if they consistantly go after enemies who are more than 3 or 4 levels above them in Noto. Once in awhile it's ok, or even necessary, but to do it all the time and expect others to bail you out is asking to much from the guildies.

Besides, you can only get 100 rep ( plus crew bonus) from each enemy. Doesn't matter if they are 2 levels or 20 levels above you. Proved this by sinking a Behemoth with my light sloop. 189 broadsides, but still only 100 rep. Why bother, when you can get 100 rep from a Sentinel?

I was September of 2008 when they raised the aggression level to the level most of us are used to. I remember thinking that it made the game that much more difficult, that much more challenging. I thought I hated it but I grew used to it and, as I leveled up, appreciated it.

Now, as I walk through the Caribbean and almost nothing triggers a battle, it just feels a little empty.

And I also like the revive system but after dropping three heals on a level 2 crew mate who was playing on Isla Cangrejos (!?!) I just let her wake up in jail...The potential for abuse exists but a few gentle nudges and it will be a fine addition.

The aggression has definately been toned down, but not always consistent.
I noticed that once I defeat an enemy when it respawns its aggression towards me is considerably toned down if not non-existent. A couple battles later and its attacking me if I take a step. Seems some 'variable' has been implemented, and any one enemies 'aggression' seems to vary.

I will say though, having the recover for ship boarding - IS SWEET!

Had a crew seige a Spanish Blood Scourge and two of our boys went down... once the fighting was over, we tended to them. As soon as the potions hit them, we all swung back.

No more leaving mates behind!

I just posted a thread on the bugs section of what I think is bug linked to the revive feature.

Yeah Revive is nice! And man are those level 45 Seabeards tough!, nice rep though, lol...