During Vanilla, the story was criticized for being non-existent, getting exotics was dependant on RNG, and getting into the raid was dependant on having those exotics. The strikes had bullet sponges for enemies, and no mechanics, and every story mission was go to X and survive 3 waves. All the end game content locked out most players, and there were only activities for groups of 3s or 6s. Now we have proper cut scenes, in game dialogue and story/quest guides. Many exotics are based on a quest, and not just RNG. The raid is dependant on light level (which anyone can get to max) rather than a single exotic. The strikes have mechanical aspects, and now have an interesting arcade style scoring system. Story missions are somewhat varied, and more platforming/puzzle elements have been introduced. They also added racing, for those who like that kinda thing - it was requested in year 1. There is now a variety of end game content, for everything from solo players to raid teams, for both PvP and PvE. They also added new PvP game modes. But sure, let's say that everything went to shit. Honestly, other than PvP meta balance (HoW era), I prefer everything in years 2 and 3. Raiding is better. Strikes are better. The Nightfall is better. Story is better. Patrol is better. Weapon quests are better. Subclasses are better (except for Sunsinger which remains crippled). So while I will always look back fondly on year 1. I am glad that we have progressed.