Like going head first into a crowd may trigger a Freezetrode to use it charge and and freeze you, allowing the crowd to assault you.

Atrocities are happening all over the world, and the lack of defence in a game sickens you?

I understand you're pretty passionate about this, but to the point of being sick is a bit.... unbalanced, don't you think? =)

Btw: I say this partly in jest. I just found your choice of words to show emphasis was slightly amusing. So I'll add a happy face at the end above.

I see where you're coming from, Tsu, but like most suggestions in this vein I think it boils down to a question of concept/content: first, bringing SK closer to the mainstream MMO class system would be at odds with it's more retro style of game play. Second, what content do we currently have in-game where players would actually benefit from that kind of specialization? Adding new crafting lines to balance game play (bomber gear with more than just els defense, etc.), yes, but a proper tank class?
That having been said, we already have the stalkers using recon cloaks in OCH, so I suppose the door is open to seeing elements like striker boost/guardian shield in-game at some point as well, but I personally don't see the need, or the benefit, atm.

Since the game is made so you can dodge or block everything, you don't need any defense at all unless you don't want to get better. Adding a "tank" option would most probably result in having T3 looks like T1 (just bash everything without dodging/blocking) and make it even more boring for experienced player.

And just because they would add real defensive gear don't mean people would choose it. Perhaps beginners would, and then just don't get skilled at dodging/blocking (which would be a shame because SK revolves around this). But experienced players would just get normal offensive gear, because they don't need that extra defense.

A more realistic solution would be to rework the stats of those unused sets to have more desirable stats (for example, there is no armor with CTR to all weapons, there are probably some other niches like that). Or add new stats and put them on unused sets, for example additional knockback, improved knockdown.

Edit : @Narfle surely there are some niches that don't have proper armor ? Seems like each time I am too lazy to check on the wiki I got it wrong.

Trinkets break the scheme. And UVs do so even more.
There will be a tactical or strategical difference for F2Ps since they'll have to chose defense or power (or be extemely lucky while crafting).
But rich guys will be overpowered and combine both worlds -->As if there isnt enough difference already in LD.

F2P will have to sacrifice trinket slots or wear a weak vog coat for sword ASI, while P2P will make a strong defensive Volcanic Plate and own with ASI VH UVs and hearth trinkets.