The factions system, albeit buggy, was way better than vvv for creating multiplayer pvp and cunning with non conventional skill. I think it was converted due to the bugs present in the system...Matrix style...although I think many of us loved those bugs....
Most people that still pvp prefer factions to vvv. Unfortunately, it does not matter what we think as Mesanna is anti factions.
I think you have different types of pvpers, this is why it is hard to suit all.
It has potential.
As far as rewards go, yew gate has been the place to pvp for 20+ years. I don't believe there needs to be any rewards.
Has it been that long? I remember when the 'hot spot' was skara/brit cross roads and when it was Bucc's den with it's 'server hopping' complaints.