I simply don't jive with those complaining that they are being "nickled and dimed" by SOE. Station Cash is in no way needed to enjoy the game. If you don't care for that aspect of the world's greatest MMO then simply do not launch it...I think that's pretty damn obvious.
Sure, there will be those who have purchased XP potions and out-leveling you, but there will always be people who out-level you, as there always has been. So what if someone wants to buy a snake familiar that does nothing for his character. I just really wish people would stop whining. I'm not referring to the original article, but to those who post 1 or 2 lines of "snippy" commentary.
Personally, I think SOE is great. They have given us a wonderful venue in which to play as little or as much as we want. Someone commented on SOE's creativity level in a negative light. I think they've been pretty damn creative over the years. Sadly, there seem to be few actual role-players left. We are a dying breed. I'm saying here that SOE has catered to both the role-player as well as the hardcore hack-n-slash level monkey. There's room for both types of gamer in what I see as a fantastic virtual world. Is it flawed in some ways? Of course! What game isn't?
I bothers me to "hear" so many people complaining about SOE's level of customer service. Each of my many petitions has been answered in a timely manner and by a friendly/helpful GM ((Thanks GM Zekil!!!)) each time. Is SOE (Sony) a money-making machine? Yes, of course it is. What do you think they're in business for...fun?...friends? No, money fuels Sony's engine, just like it does the company you work for, your local grocery store, and your dentist.
Bottom line is SOE will never be able to please everyone, 100% of the time. To think otherwise is foolish. So, stop focusing on the those aspects of the game that you needn't come in contact with...LoN, Station Cash...and enjoy the game. Send /feedback about what you like as well as what you don't like. I'm certain the GMs/devs tire of receiving negative comment after negative comment.
I would also like to point out that the GMs/devs answer to higher powers within the corp. Keep in mind that those at the top are pulling the strings in order to maximize profit. Has anyone considered what it's like being a GM with some shiny, bright ideas to take to the table only to have them trashed by, I dunno, someone higher in the food chain? Must suck. Then, to be bombarded with /feedback and /petitions over which the GM has little or no control. Must suck worse.
Lastly, to those of you who enjoy the game as much as I do: Send in your positive /feedback. If I complete a quest that I really liked I let them know. If I like something about the latest expansion I let them know. And sometimes, I simply thank them for a job well done. I encourage you guys to do that same. ((The old saying is "You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar")). 'Nuff said.
Peace.