Well I hope this does not cause to much consternation amongst the whiners, those to lazy to actually learn the game and the "I must have now" brigade. I am not apologizing for what I am about to say. So sit down and have your trauma meds on hand. All the real FoE gamers can go get a coffee, you have heard, or thought all this before.
First INNO GAMES is a profit making company. Just because it can be free to play does not mean it is a charity. It purpose is to create a product that people do want to buy. And their efforts do just that.
The company has to contend with a customer base that is becoming all the more fluid. Face the challenges of constant innovation in order to try to keep up with ever changing technology. Whilst at the same time incorporating ways to allow and take on board player input. All in ways that drive the game forward so it keeps the best of the old along whilst incorporating new aspects. This has to take a great deal of behind the scenes, work, discussions and constant trials to sift through a constant barrage of complaints and often stupid ideas demanded by customers who cannot even use the product in a meaningful way. OK there are times when I think "What the heck are they doing now!!" But those changes produce new challenges for me to master. And that retains my interest.
I think INNO Games is doing a great job. I have been playing FoE for about 6 years for very very little monetary input. Yet they still allow me to get as much out of it as those who do spend enough to drive profit. Yes it does take me longer but that is to be expected. It is like driving a car. The guy who pays to put more gas in the tank gets to go further. So my thanks and respect goes to the Game designers and developers and all who are part of making this game what it is.