So we all know what's rolling down the pipeline. Patch 1.23 will usher in the beginnings of some cataclysmic event that will pave the way for 2.0's map changes.

Though this plan also brings up one of the biggest immersion-breaking features of gaming history: the deflation of suspense by the knowledge that -- no matter what happens -- our character will survive.

What are the real world chances of survival?

That's why I propose a 50% wipe. SE randomly selects 50% of the current population and deletes those characters as victims of the 2.0 cataclysm. SE can honor the fallen of each world with graveyard with tombstones for each person from that world.

Pros:
- Immersion boost. The story will matter more if it may be the end for your character.

- All those people releveling will mean there's more potential fellow teammates for new players.

- Gil sink. Think of all the Gil that will suddenly be out of circulation!

- Potential elimination of RMT, botters and exploiters. I'm not saying SE should "target" anyone, but SE can't help it where the magic spaceship happens to fall.

- Population redistribution. With half the current player base plus new players starting fresh, it's the best way to move people out of Ul'dah in a natural way.

- Economic restructuring. There will be a greater demand for mid level gear and fewer people competing to sell it meaning an actual product-based economy can form.

- The gift of challenge! Logging on after the 2.0 servers go online will be like Chistmas morning. Those lucky player not only get a unique one-time tombstone but also get to experience the challenge of leveling all over again in 2.0's slower pace. Also, they receive the additional boon of experiencing the new storyline as it was meant to be. Think of how boring it will be for those who can just blow through it with capped characters.

Cons:

- A few whiners might QQ over SE giving them a chance to experience the journey from start to endgame again. After all, MMOs are all about the journey and not about the end whatsoever.

It's obvious that nothing but good can come from this. Let's let SE know we want to ride the immersion train to 2.0!!!