Generic Bonus Actions and Reactions

[Charlaquin]

The problem was, and I get that this is not a problem for everyone, is that too many people would feel the need to --do something-- to maximize their output, and that if they didn't they'd be underutilizing their turn. This is where they can bog down play.

For sure. Personally, I don't see anything wrong with players looking to optimize their action economy, but I do appreciate that for some this can be undesirable. I do think 5e's execution is a good compromise. The action type exists, and there are a few specific features that use it, so players who like that sort of thing can build their characters to take advantage of the bonus action by taking Feats and other features that allow them to use it, while players who don't care about that don't have to worry about it. And there are some optional rules in the DMG for universal bonus actions for groups who want them.