To start with the fact that no one is here doesn't help.
A conundrum for sure :)
They look here and see serious blogs, often about the platform itself or crypto. It's a daunting thing for them.
Yes and even though the other does exist, it doesn't usually get rewarded. They are here for rewards.
And then, as you state, the money thing. They see it, they want it, they don't get it, they rage quit.
Because once they do try and eventually see shit being rewarded... :D
But in the main, I think the lack of focus is a biggie. What are we?
I think this is where application gateways have to help. User swill know the application and sign up under that premise. They don't need to know the entire ecosystem, or Hive at all. "Powered by Hive" might be the only reference. They will still have a Hive account and earn HIVE/SMT - but don't need to be in the firing line of the entire ecosystem.
I really do see the gateways as being crucial. Splinterlands doesn't require knowledge of the platform. Gets hoping dapplr is all that we have been hoping for and more!
Would be nice if Dapplr makes it at least easier to engage :)