Jan 29th 2014, 2:08:08
As still a fairly new player, I can tell you that if this was the policy in May when I began, I would have probably stopped playing by now. I have allied with almost everyone on this thread at one time or another and PM them from time to time with questions about the game or for just general conversation. Had we not allied, I, as a new player, would not have had the opportunity to create these relationships with these veteran players. In addition, I would not know what little I know about the game nor feel like I have an opportunity to be a top 10 player or reach some personal netting goals for those who have been my allies have also been my mentors.
So, a new player who begins next week will not get the opportunities to develop these relationships, at least through Express, and there is only so much one can learn by posting on the forums. Allies provide more value than just an extra percentage of military. Being fortunate enough to ally with veteran players who answer questions and provide enough advice to make one want to "try it again next week" keeps the new player interested and, in the long run, adds value to the game as more players are developed.
So we are going to make express as boring, or as wild, depending on your perspective, as tourney in an effort to make the game better? Relationships make this game (EE) not only fun, but one that we play, and when we stop building relationships, we stop building the community.