I’m kind of poor in game too so I use lv5 gems mostly. The compelling part comes from the event being a limited and timed event. The abrasives aren’t timed so it makes more sense to stock up for future upgrades since getting them now via the event considerably saves more time next time.
Can’t really comment on the “abusing” part though, since we don’t have previous events of the same caliber as reference. But one thing I’m sure of is, we often underestimate what players can do. If something is found to be beneficial and exploitable, people will still do it. Dina Bees, DP are great examples of this.
Not much problems with the tomes. I would rather IMC increase the drop rate of them via events. They are things which is beneficial to the community yet not affect the economy and game too much. Levelling players can get them by joining event. Players who are max level can forgo the harvest and continue do what they usually do.
Edit:
For R8 content wise, what is missing is the bridging items like white weapons and gears. It has been 3weeks+ and my archer hasn’t received her practonium from her box, so she is kind of stuck in between facing high level/hp mobs with a 220 bow. IMC does address it in their Q&A a couple of weeks ago though, so hope the implementation will come soon.
Btw @muitenphale1995 want to come back to our guild discord? We miss you :3