This game is limited by it being MMO and single server. In a perfect world we could have a more complex combat system.
1v1's are important to balance but in no way should be the end all be all balancing point for melee combat.
Imo this would only make the game even more of a numbers game. Also fights without parries in this game are poopoo, the speed differences dont allow for that kind of gameplay at all.
Aight, so lemme get this straight. You want how many block directions? 9? And how would that remove manipulating animations? It would just make it even stronger and buff your dreaded light weapons even more.
Add a considerable cooldown when you kill a blue so you cannot farm them at the priest. I have MC's out the ass and most of them havent been helpless noobs.