Great observations, capsuleer! I used to be into EVE myself, but, even though the little corp I was in rarely got out of highsec, it was just a huge time sink. But I had some real friends there (some of whom I also knew in other "metaverses," like Second Life), and there were real relationships. I mind me of the time I advised a young corpmate on how best to approach intimacy with her boyfriend. It seemed to work out for them, which made me happy.

CCP didn't dictate how their "metaverse" grew (and still doesn't), which has resulted in some of the greatest gaming stories you'll find anywhere. But the "little" stories matter, too.

Fly safe!