I recently unsubscribed from FFXIV.

After completing the process, a "survey" pops up. It contains one question with eight possible answers, of which you can choose one and only one to explain why you are unsubscribing.

None of these questions make any reference to game content. You can indicate you are taking a break, or have financial issues, or are leaving because your friends are leaving.

I could have chosen that last option, but I felt the more accurate response was

"I am no longer interested in the game."

How much useful information does that give to SQEX? My data point is, of course, irrelevant, but data from tens of thousands of departing players would be incredibly valuable in helping direct the game in a direction players actually want.

But I don't think SQEX really cares about the players. They have their templates and their schedule, and that is just the way it is going to be.

Anyone who has played the game for years, investing financially, emotionally and socially, does not unsubscribe without considerable reflection and sometimes pain. I am going to miss my WoL and the world she inhabits dreadfully.

Abandoning those investments and connections indicates a massive dislocation between the unsubscribing player and the game. Why doesn't SQEX have any interest in the reasons for that dislocation?

I recently reactivated my EVE Online accounts. I was sent a 20-minute survey containing over 30 questions that asked me how I interacted with the game. What content did I enjoy? What content would I like to see more of? Am I more interested in X or Y or Z rewards?

I've had a sour taste in my mouth for some time, produced by the apparent indifference SQEX, the director, and the devs show towards the players. Sure feedback occasionally has an effect. It took the 14-related internet to catch fire to compel SQEX to correct issues with FT, which would have never occurred in the first place if they understood their players and, arguably, their own game.

The funny thing is, had this so-called exit survey indicated the slightest interest in why I was leaving, I would have probably resubscribed for 8.0. Now? Never say never, I guess, but if I do come back it will be to see my WoL again, not because of this callous company.