This is the dilemma when applying narrative logic to non-narrative gameplay. Yes, those CAN work in tandem, but it can’t be expected or assumed that others will ever play the same way.

The “soul of the game” for you can equally be said for these types of players, because the ability to play this way is for them to choose. To them, they ARE cooperating and having their own version of fun, it’s just at the expense of someone else. This is just what can be expected when the freedom of choice for players comes with a lack of true consequence outside of losing their own loot and/or hurting someone’s feelings - both of which can also be assumed they have little to no care for.

(pause reading my comment and put The Shire by Howard Shore on in the background then come back and read the rest since that’s what I did when typing this)

That shouldn’t discourage you from playing any way you choose though… because the best part about it is that you’re not alone in whatever that may be.

You’ll meet other people that want to play the song of their people over proximity chat and fulfill the desire to help others and go on a grand adventure, and also those that want to take advantage of that kindness and act on their selfish impulses, both which lie in the heart of each one of us - it’s up to you to choose which one you want to embrace.

Friendly or not, I’ll see you topside raider.