As someone who is heavily invested in this game, I want it to do very well and be around for years to come. However, I am concerned about this:
I know this chart takes into account only Steam users, and not the users that play using your game client(which I use). But, my SG and my friends list usually have 5 or less people on them at any given time, usually less. Usually about 2-3. They used to roll about 20 deep online at any given time.
I think it is time you take a hard look at some of the decisions you have made over the last 6 months that have split this community and/or angered the whole community, while also looking at the user numbers before and after these changes. But don't just look at the negative things, also look at what changes the community has universally applauded, and the effect those things have had on you numbers as well.
It is not too late to reverse course on some of the main things that people have been complaining about recently, or in the last 6 months.
I feel we have enough characters to play. Yea, I said it. The focus needs to be on fixing and optimizing the EXISTING game and characters for maximum enjoyment and functionality. Right now, it is like you keep adding on to a huge building, but are neglecting the fact that the bathrooms are clogged, and there are roaches in the kitchen. Fix you existing problems first before adding on another room.
With Fallout 4 on the horizon, plus a host of other holiday games, your daily users will likely drop even further. You have GOT to give them a reason to play, or they will go elsewhere. Don't be too proud to steal ideas from other games, just take them and make them your own.
Look, I know nobody likes to be told how to do their job by an outsider. Nor do I think there is an easy fix to retain/recruit new users. But what you are doing now isn't working. From loot, to all game modes, to character balance, it all needs looked at before more is added to this game. Otherwise you are just putting a new coat of paint on a rusted out car.
You have a great community here that has given you tons of leeway so far. You really are lucky in that sense. If this game attracted a different type of gamer, you guys would be taking SO much more heat for this games shortcomings. The good will won't last forever though.
To put this bluntly Gaz, your game is dying, and you need to correct this ship before it sinks completely. Or you can do nothing, and eventually posts like this will stop. Because there will be no one left playing. They will haved moved to greener pastures.
I would love to hear(and so would the whole user base) from community managers/devs about what they are doing to address these issues and more.
Sincerely,
Someone who cares.