Quote Originally Posted by Gormogon View Post

What people want is meaning to the hidden content between Point A and Point B.

That doesn't mean a pointless treasure coffer either. That means actual progressive content that can be done on the side if you need it. Myth, Soldiery, Gear, Vanity, Weakens a boss (removes a mechanic), Strengthens a boss (boosts a mechanic), Skips you ahead 50% into the dungeon, etc, etc, etc. As long as that portion has progressive meaning and it's designed with it in mind it will add to the dungeon design outside of just travel this path and see you next time.
This is a MMO. Any hidden content mean nothing. People share information and those hidden stuffs become "a must". They will ask you to do the fastest way possible to win. If you not follow the way community like to do, then they will just simply abort or leave party. Plus, if you have no idea of those hidden contain, you may lucky to find someone in PT to tell you, or some bad one may simply leave and do it with those who understand. "Hidden" become "A must", it always happen in online game.

By having alternative route. If they are equal useful, then it only divide community into two, and harder to get party. By having alternative route that is better, then it become only route of choice that party asked. (the another route which is worse in comparison become non-existed)