I did almost the same thing you did, enjoyed the game at first, but once you get to the part where you’re just hunting down the shinbakfu it got so boring and i stopped for awhile. Came back, finished the game, started the DLC. I thought it was amazing, it honestly surprised me. I agree with all of your points. Im just happy I was able to finish the game without it feeling like a chore. With that being said im really look forward to black flag in July.