Even Shooter didn’t operate under what you’re calling Shooter’s Rules, at least if this example is any indication. But of course, we don’t want our books to be dull–that said, there are all sorts of different kinds of excitement. A character conflict that you can really feel and empathize with can be as powerful (or even more powerful) than a slugfest. And jamming in meaningless fighting just for the sake of fighting is pretty pointless as well. So you look to find a good balance.