My hand is up also. I play a ranked round everyday, unless I forget. (one of those age related things) Very seldom read a forum entry that requires me to answer or comment on.
It's getting to be more of a chore, and a drain on my time. Yes, perhaps it is just me or is it just less enjoyable all around.
I do not suffer a bad meter, nor do i often feel the effects of the VEM Dragon, but one thing I have noticed is the overall quality of the younger persons who are now playing the game. Yes, there have always been those players who made the playing experience less than it should have been and there was little that could be done about it. Those players became known through out and you were able to avoid them. Now however it seems as tho in every group of 3 - 4 players there is one young, inexperienced, obnoxious player whose comments about the ongoing play makes remaining in the group an unpleasant experience. I do try to control the other players comments and or give back no less than what I am receiving. This works well with the average younger player ( have had 10 year olds playing at night.), but it is unnecessary. Considering that credit wagering is allowed, a return to the 18 year age minimum would be welcome.
I have always thought that WGT as a business should make a profit and in return should do what they could to eliminate some of the more popular difficulties, wants, desires, hopes and dreams. Much to many to itemize. However, it does not seem to be in the best interest of WGT ownership to do so. Instead we get insipid, uninspired, and laughable THINGS to buy.
The road ahead looks rocky indeed for those of us old timer players from before 2010.
My thoughts on why people play less including myself. My Nickle.