I agree to the idea:
- targeting enemy = single target damage
- targeting ground = AoE
This is the ideal solution, and the only acceptable one, if they want to retain the AoE and surface-spawning effects.
An attack roll spell targeted on a creature or object should strike only that target, and hit nothing else. If it misses, it should have no effect unless it is a spell like Acid Arrow which still only affects the specified target for half on a miss.
Having the spell able to target a ground spot instead of a creature, and having it function differently if you do so is a more or less perfect solution that allows both parties to have what they want. A ground targeted attack makes no attack roll, and simply creates the small AoE surface puddle where you place it.
An external but related rule that needs to be fixed: Any surface that would inflict a debilitating or debuffing status effect MUST offer a save against its negative effects before applying. ONE unavoidable tap of minor damage is acceptable (Either on application OR at start of turn if starting in area, OR at end of turn if ending in area) - TWO is not, THREE is right out.
