I really am impressed with all the changes, and I like the direction we are headed. Many of the things I used to need addons for are now provided as well or better by the game without them.

I know some people just can't seem to leave a "positive" thread alone without talking about how it is "ok to be negative" or derailing the topic with their "should have been that way from the start" angry attention seeking, and I wholly expect them to quickly attack this thread until it becomes yet another trolling flame war (though I humbly request you save the "constructive criticism" and cynicism for another thread).

Still, it doesn't change the fact that it IS there now and it IS an improvement.

For example, I no longer need Batman's Store Filter; the new category options cover that. Also the Crafting Level Display addon was uninstalled today as well. If you hadn't noticed, they added even more information than what the addon provided to the tooltip of all crafting materials.

The ability to increase my 1st person FOV is just as awesome as I'd imagined, and allows for some excellent screenshot opportunities.

However, the most spectacular addition by far has been the new lighting engine. They weren't kidding, words really can't describe how incredible this thing is. It isn't just windows casting rays either; you see new sources of light shining from things like runestones as well, and generally the whole look of the game is improved.

Check out these shots from my arrival in Glenumbra today:





Truly breathtaking work. Bravo!