I have also thought about this. Overall I have to agree with the general verdict of "not enough material at the moment". But I think the vital thing Avatar is missing is the magic element. Its hard to make character interesting when they can only increase on base skills (hunting, bow, swords, stealth). There needs to be a more "abra-ke-dabra! I have teh fire p0wz0rx!" to an MMORPG imo.
But, what about a whole new style of MMO game alltogether?
Maybe have the same set up, in a free open world, but have it much more like a single player game (i.e. smart a.i/animals, talking characters, missions/challenged) in which the A.I's are smart and challenging in themselves, but also introduce the multiplayer element?
Then, instead of a a heavily focuses lvling system where the higher lvl/better geared player allways wins, try to create more of a skill-based combat system (but one where character stats still have a minor influence, and gear gives extra advantages but requires skill to use effectively.)
Basically, a game that, like a single player game, is fun and challenging without the need of other players, but then can have other players introduced anyway, using a skill system rather than a heavy lvl/stats system.
Not entirely sure if it would work, but I would certainly like to see a new take on MMORPG games, and I would certainly check something like that out. Provided it was done properly, and in an emersive enough world, i think it could at least make a fun game. Even its not a world-renowned title.
But no monthly subscriptions, since without the lvl/addiction element people would likely not want to pay monthly. Subscription fee wouldn't work IMO.
Just my ideas being put onto paper
