I will agree that an simple vertical progression system, especially during catch up time is great for new players. I will also state that it is not so good for people who want more for their efforts.

Since this is a "I just went there" thread...

The system sucks for people who want to have something to show for playing more than a few hours a day a few days a week. They want to be able to have something that rewards them for actually playing the combat part of the game instead of playing Barbie with their avatars or treating the game like a pretty chat room.

Yes, I just went there.