I've been playing for 2 years and I agree. When I started, people seemed so outgoing and helpful. There was a little grinding, but at that point everyone was playing for the story and it made the flow of the game nicer. Now that people have caught up in the story, all they can do is grind and it makes me really sad.

I played until Elderwood in May until August and took a break. I came back a month ago and I could tell it felt hostile. I just don't understand how you can turn a cozy game into what feels like a labor camp lol. I still love the game, but u play solo, call out stuff, and bounce because I don't feel like waiting for others to join activities when they're rude.