Have to unlock traits now? Seriously?
It’s been like this since April or is it only recently you’ve tried to level a new character?
Its been like that since April. While you might not care for it you do always have the option of buying the particular trait that you want, just takes a little coin and skill points.
Welcome back from your long vacation. Please see the following developer post on this matter. Yes they are looking for feedback.
https://forum-en.gw2archive.eu/forum/game/gw2/Game-Updates-Traits/page/41#post4358626
In Game: Storm Bluff Isle — Anzz, Anzenketh Kyoto