Capital Games TeamWhy not add relic delta as a new, separate ability at r10 that THEN kicks in as you describe it? When relics were released you said they would eventually come with new abilities anyway. Just like GLs have the Galactic Legend unique ability to increase stats and mitigate large damage, Relic delta could be applied as a skill to any character that would only apply to THAT character after they invest to r10. It incentivises the NEW investmest, while saving what people have already invested in. If they don't invest, they will have a harder time competing at the highest levels due to relic delta. It could come with it's own materials (Delta materials) that would need to be farmed, could be added to packs, etc. This option keeps strategy in tact, gives players a CHOICE about who to invest in, and still offers vertical progression as you suggest because as people start unlocking it more and more, it will allow higher relics to come with the safeguards you are claiming to want.
A LOT of us do NOT want this, but at least this way, it gives the players a choice as to who they can/want to invest in... it doesn't just trash their progression at this point (because that's exactly how it feels). It also offers another revenue possibility with the new Delta materials (just like omicrons did).