I'm just going to drop my 2 cents.
I'm new here and I can tell you, one of the biggest issues here is the graphics. I can be considered a "Graphics Freak". Because I am. I love Hyper-Realistic graphics. But I also like Gameplay.
If you asked me, what do I prefer? Graphics or Gameplay? I say both. An ugly game doesn't attract me. Doesn't matter how good those features or gameplay is. Still looks terrible. And I don't want to touch it, because it looks gross. But a game with bad gameplay and excellent graphics can atleast be an art gallery. Hey, the game is terrible, but it sure does look amazing. And I can stay to look at the amazing Landscapes and scenery, but after I've seen it all I'll probably just leave as well.
Istaria already needs improved Graphics, otherwise, no one will ever bother to try it. I for example am trying to play it again, because last time went pretty bad. Actually I would even say, it requires better combat, as last time I played it, I remember cringing my teeth saying: "Oooohhhh, this doesn't feel very good...."