My casual observation of trends in MW:
A. Playability takes a backseat to gold advantages
1. Increased wall tax: 75% reduction in points when still up (the stick)
2. Increased NPCs spammed in the maps for LTQs
3. Curious reports about match ups nearing the WD faction goal streaks
4. Big ticket items for completing two simultaneous normal and prestige events (the carrot)
B. Communication anomalies
1. Delayed winners list for WD
2. Friday night is when the forum gets special attention
C. More retirement threads than accusations of hacking, which is pretty remarkable
D. 25-crate events are not leaderboard driven anymore, and 10-crate events are long gone
And what is the common theme?
This is not a PvP game...this is a customer v. provider game: it is trying to get as much consumer advantage for as little out of pocket cost. The PvP is merely the vehicle for stimulating the demand. Throwing in an element of chance similarly appeals to a distinct segment of the population, and draws a parallel to other businesses found in Monte Carlo, Las Vegas, and Atlantic City. Nothing wrong with casinos, I just like to know when I'm sitting down at the table.
It took me a while to get this...and some people wonder why people are so apt to complain on this forum: the competition is between Gree and the player, which is the casino model of business. So why would anyone be surprised when high-rollin' pirates get comp'd?
What trends are you noticing or expect in the near future?