As those with poor computers may know, the unit particle effects, which are always on and usually have lots of particles, can really lag up low-end computers. Dark magic, for example, is considering implimenting unit particle effects, though that would mean some users would be lagged up, leaving them to consider releasing two separate versions. My alternative is to have an option, found in the options menu, ini, and configurator, to choose whether or not these extra particles will be rendered.
All unit particle effects are really just optional, made so it looks good, so there's no real penalty (other than the eye candy) for not using these. Thus, I think the community can benefit from this option. It would make it easier for modders (no need to release a low-graphic version) and players (can choose as they like), making it a win-win. This only applies to unit particle effects, and NOT to particle proj's or particle splashes.
