Jita Park Speakers Corner

I have a question, and am looking for discussion that addresses the very core of EVE rebalancing: Ship/Module Nerfing. Does a nerf have a depressing effect on the EVE community?

The reason I present this question goes to recent speculation and plans to nerf several popular ships or modules. Examples would be the changes to missiles, which will effectively nerf the Drake and to a lesser extent the Tengu, or the removal of the Orca's unscannable Corp Bay. The purpose of this thread is not to debate whether these changes are necessary, but rather if Nerfing causes a, perhaps subtle, depression among players and our community.

The opposing perspective obviously does not have an argument. Buffing a ship or a module would seem to, under normal circumstances, excite players. Anticipation of having a previously unpleasant or garbage ship resurrected, usually brings more fans onto the bandwagon. Evidence of this can be seen in recent mining barge changes, specifically the Retriever/Mackinaw as their value and interest has skyrocketed.

Also, look at Incursions. When released, Incursions were hugely popular. Resulting Nerfs seemed to kill that niche community, which prompted CCP to un-Nerf/re-Buff the system.

Based what we have seen in the past, does extensive Nerfing cause undue duress on the community in general? I ask you..

~ Omen