well, i found an ace mod (aloft) that modifies the nameplates that appear over mobs heads. unless i just don't get how it works, it doesn't solve my problem. i do like the mod though, i thought the default nameplates didnt mesh well with my ui anyway.
it appears to be all or nothing with NPC names. i want merchants, etc. i want mobs when outside cites. i do NOT want to have my field of view obstructed with 2-3 lock pets, 3 hunter pets, 8 totems and however many vanity pets are out at the time. i'm a dwarf, we're short.
why can't these be included in the player names category instead of the more general NPC category?