The inital loss of players from the transition between 1.0 and 1.1 was due to the very different weapon balance (no where near as good as previously imo) and negative effect that this upgrade had on higher ping players (400ping turned from playable to unplayable).
More importantly is the lack of competitive culture in AC now days (which has also been on the decline since 1.0) has had a far bigger impact on the player base. The competitive side of AC is generally what kept players hooked on the game and if we want more players, I think we should find a way to formalize and centralize the competitive scene.
The other thing to keep in mind about AC is the market place. In 2007 it was a lot harder to find a free FPS, there were a whole lot less options, and the graphics were no where near as dated as them seem today. I think we can still grow the player base but we can't expect as much exposure as previously.
idk, just my thoughts
More importantly is the lack of competitive culture in AC now days (which has also been on the decline since 1.0) has had a far bigger impact on the player base. The competitive side of AC is generally what kept players hooked on the game and if we want more players, I think we should find a way to formalize and centralize the competitive scene.
The other thing to keep in mind about AC is the market place. In 2007 it was a lot harder to find a free FPS, there were a whole lot less options, and the graphics were no where near as dated as them seem today. I think we can still grow the player base but we can't expect as much exposure as previously.
idk, just my thoughts