A number of semi-interconnected statements, regarding all this...
I have no idea where -- i.e., in what camp or solution -- my below-stated opinions end up in. That's for
others logic/causality (which I can't yet see) to decide. I just wanted to chime in, as relatively new player.
I like having a rating; but much more, I like earning achievements, and while I think those two are tied ATM, I'd not like to see achievements go out the window for me (as a low-level player).
So that may entail encountering big shots. And that's where I have to manage my expectations, as Lore said.
I would've like to have seen a more diverse player base, with fun (not "shark"?) decks, participate in low-level events.
Right now, it
is easy to get the "play same player five times" achv; but I think I already have it, so now I'd like to get on and play more
different people.
I would hate to see low-level play become "shark"-infested waters. I appreciate high-level (veteran) players who sometimes bring out fun and risky decks, so that I may experience and learn from that, instead getting wiped off the table.
Also, I'll admit, I
don't hate the notion that a veteran could -- in theory -- play their deck super offensively against another veteran in a tourney (so that they both have a good match), but then can tone their strategy (with the same deck) down a few notches to at least give me some semblance of hope (and LATER wipe me off the table). (So that I can have a good match and get to really try out my deck, and the veteran can chalk up "a good deed" of teaching me a bit more than otherwise possible; and also chalk up their win.)
I don't care if that can be seen as patronizing. It gives me more play time in a match, and more opportunities to learn and cards to experience. And I like doing it in a tourney / rated environment because... well, that has a more realistic, and exciting, and definitive feel to it. And because I like to be a part of the community, not just watch from the sidelines (like I did 2016-2020).
(Which is not to say I don't also play casual -- no secret I'm a big fan of that, too.)
I'm not even sure if people are doing this "opponent-adaptive strength play" thing, or not -- and that's okay! Usually I lose anyway, but at least I get to play and practice.
All the better, of course, if there were an official forum (i.e.: achievements!
) where veterans and n00bs could interact with each other with more risky, and fun, and playful decks.
Without the fear of being wiped off the table in the first turn (which, yes, I do still fear) OR losing a hard-earned rating. Perhaps cut the ties between those 2? Or do so partially -- for a certain type of 'playful' OP environment? But I don't know what the repercussions are of that.
Having absolutely no chance, or options, at all would spoil the game for me; just losing the game after 90 or 105 minutes of Trekking, doesn't. (Obviously.)