Don't know how long it's been since you played, but there are a LOT more people playing now than even around the new year. The biggest difference to me is that

Don't know how long it's been since you played, but there are a LOT more people playing now than even around the new year. The biggest difference to me is that L7 and 8 aren't that hard to achieve any more. I've seen people go from first login to L8 in a week, or so. Back when I hit 8 it took months of regular, dedicated work.