[Kylotan]

On Abattoir at least, I'm surprised at how many people who log on are apparently new to MUDs (or at least to Diku-derivatives). You can tell them apart by the way they use (or fail to use) the commands.

Indeed. I stick by my assessment that practically, you need both. More people is great, but don't underestimate the pain that a poor interface causes among the wider population. (And as you broaden appeal beyond the existing hardcore of mud players, that problem will be exacerbated.)