. . . . changing a gamewide function mid lifespan is always gonna be a populace affecting menace, regardless of how much better it would work at some levels.
This has never stopped HCS in the past. Name an aspect of the game and lets review the changes over time.... Would need a thread itself.
Anything to stimulate activity is a good idea in my opinion. Although this may not be the best approach, PvP, the bounty board and the ladder could use more INCENTIVE to participate. There will always be those who choose not to play, and they may choose to buy protection or just suffer a bit of XP loss.
INCENTIVE... this is what is needed. Not just on the topics in this thread, but in all different ways to play the game . . not just a few select.
HCS does a great job, and by listening to helpful topics and player feedback, they have they keys to keep a fantastic game growing strong!