Simply put, let’s make more use of karma. It’s the universally acquired resource in the game and yet it’s uses are so limited! I’m made a similar suggestion elsewhere to use karma for the purchase of crafting materials (excluding natural resources, i.e. ore, scraps). It seems to me that the karma system is the thing that allowed Anet to pursue the “play your way” campaign, because no matter where you went in the world or what you did (for the most part), you earned karma, and it scales quite well with level as you progress lvl 1-80, but then also when you venture back to lower level content after achieving 80. As more currencies have been introduced and karma uses have remained limited, it seems like the players are being forced into specific content to earn appropriate currency to achieve a particular goal, rather than continuing to engage in the game world more generally, according to what they find most enjoyable.
After a few months on one my toons I was able to spend 600k+ that I had earned throughout the world during that time, on onyx shards, and I was happy to do it. On the other hand, if I want ascended gear, or certain tier mats (just two examples) and want to make the most of my time towards achieving those goals, I need to spend my time playing specific content, which feels more like a chore (after enough time). Then my options become 1. suck it up and push on until you’ve accomplished your original goal even if you don’t enjoy it. 2. give up on your goal. 3. spend your time alternating between working towards your goal and….not working towards my goal, just because I’m tired of the same content.
The bottom line, as far as I’m concerned, is that the karma system is a robust one, and an effective one that allows for the freedom of gameplay that I think Anet intended from the start. With recent updates that freedom has dwindled away and been replaced by content specific currency and rewards. I’d love to see the game get back to utilizing one of the most revolutionary and innovative elements of the game, Karma!
Admittedly, my “suggestions” for further use of karma are limited, but I’d like to hear from the community how they would like to see it used. And possibly issues I’m overlooking with a more versatile karma system?
Mine are currently, Ascended gear and materials (minus natural resources that are “gathered” via tools) similar to how you can purchase food items (individually or in bulk).