Quote Originally Posted by Mutemutt View Post
New tiers have been a constant in the game for a while now and have had the same downward trend; it should be obvious why I would write it off. The monster hunter collab is the only other unusual thing here though I certainly wouldn't point to it as being the major reason for the jump in numbers.
Looking at precious censuses, the dates aren't a fair comparison. For example, 3.4 is not represented at all. We go from 3.38 to 3.45, thus the biggest potential boon for player activity—a new tier—has long passed. You also have to consider additional factors. 3.1 is widely considered the worst patch in this game's history outside 1.x due to the delay of its release and what came with it. Likewise, Gordias and Midas did not exactly inspire confidence in the endgame; with the former nearly killing the raid scene entirely. Of course, we can't rule out Eureka having an impact, but it's not anywhere near as cut and dry as you're making it out to be.