I feel like you have not played many games from other companies, who respond to critiques from their customers (us). Venting or grumping is a socially accepted outlet for frustration, and if you truly have read the Forum "for years" I am surprised that you seem to think it is inappropriate people are "complaining" about issues that affect gameplay. If we were "bashing" the devs, there would be foul language & name calling. And statements about how awful the game is, without offering any solutions for improvement. We don't do that; we address things that we think are important. Pointing out things that occur repeatedly that frustrate/upset us is the only way the devs will know what is important to us, their customers. So if we didn't "complain" the company wouldn't know why some customers leave.
And I for one feel validated when I can see that others also think certain game changes should occur.
Please read the "WooHoo!!" thread more, if you feel that the event threads are such a downer.