Why would anybody choose to play open when there is no reward for it?
In all MP games PVP brings more rewards, so players know why are they risking more.
I simply can't think of why would anyone play Open if they get the same reward in Private.
MechWarrior, All Wargaming games, LOL... in every game you have PVP and PVE. In PVP you get twice the reward, and missions exclusive to that mod.
If PVP missions would give twice the reward, and be high level exclusive, you would get a lot more players and the game would be much better.
To play with real CMDRs in Open, meeting new friends, a helpful and kind community, eventually being challenged by CMDRs in opposition, is indeed a reward no AI and PvE mechanic will bring you.
Note, Open play regular, especially by players
not taking this mode serious and or
who never play it anyway, indeed more in fear of being shot at then anything, are curiously of the opinion the mode to be unbearable.
While, as those things turn out often enough, a majority very likely just enjoys Open and its challenges, a vocal group particular those not playing the mode unable to face the consequences, for what every reason,
wants to know, that the very special part of what makes Open such a win for the game - direct player interactions,
in our case here particular "non consensual" player interactions, to become its demise&foul its fault and lastly its downfall! Listen to them, they want to know, Open is dying!
Funny what?
While Elite is not one of those all around PvP games you mentioned, Elite indeed focus the environment, with its special
all together Open mode to be the exception. Here Commanders have the only chance for direct face to face competition. Modes in Elite, its demise&curse or its benefit&blessing, is much debated here. I am very curios indeed, why people not playing Open are so adamant into turning it into a cesspit and hell, here on the forum?!
o7
CU in Open, which is a friendly place, come and join us.