The patch modifies some things in single player, and practically alters this
in multiplayer : Shield no longer gets damaged when the attack is chamber blocked.
Hits are checked on serverside. So yes, I would test this case!
Yeah but according to the forum the patch made lots of little script changes all over the place. Seems to be damaging single player significantly. Like I said, it might not be such an issue if you only play crpg. But if you like to play campaign, or any other mods. It's worth switching back rather than risk losing something in your campaign.
And if any one is getting crashes following the patch. Then definitely revert back. Lots of crash reports atm.
Your solution is a very good one for, I'm sure, 90% of crpg players. But I'm just saying it's not full proof because the patch is still there.