I'm a mid-core player. I choose to not play end game. (What's the incentive?)

[CrystalRainbow]

This is absolutely true. Since equipment in horizontal progression is designed to have much greater longevity, the rate of acquisition is frequently significantly lower, meaning that players with less time to play (or who take longer breaks) fall behind much easier.

I disagree.

You can leave the game for a year. spend 1 month pre patch getting up to speed and be fully ready for the next patch. That's what the leader of my FC just did. came back after being away for almost a year. Got back with a 58 PLD. Had enough time to do yokia get to 60 and get his mch to 56.. Pre patch and was doing a9 @ 231