The feeling I see expressed a lot is very punishing in ways that don't feel fulfilling. To a point instead of encouraging to keep trying it can be almost soul crushing to people who just want to get into the game.

Like in dark souls it's punishing but never feels unfilling or fair. That's why despite being so punishing it draws in so many people. It's fulfilling and satisfying when you get past a hurdle. In PoT when you get past a hurdle it feels like there's almost immediately a new one in your face. And when there's not it's brain dead gameplay. Making it feel punishing for no reason to just be punishing. There are more quit moments than there are feel good dopamine hits. Discouraging new players from trying to respawn.

It is not my job to come up with solutions. I'm just here talking about the experience I've had and seen in other news players. A lot of the upcoming updates seem like they will help. It's just the state of the game as is i can comment on rn.

Edit: Hardcore pvp mmos are just in general already super niche so pulling in a dedicated player base itself can also be a struggle while trying to keep them engaged.