One thing is the performance issues, do all instances have to follow player every step, or can they update their direction on an out-of-phase delay of maybe 5 frames or more
It's so funny I'm surprised I haven't thought of that myself. I've implemented this feature before in previous games. Great catch! I'm definitely interested in pitches on helping performance out, this is a good one. I currently need to learn how to measure performance, so I can determine the value of good ideas like this one. All of your suggestions are good ones here.