I played Survival a lot, and I think the hardest part was breaking in to the game, and getting to an okay, but not great standard. The game has a steep learning curve, and I spent a lot of time just trying to get in to a team to play survival, as I was constantly kicked when I was a low level. Free battle was really helpful as there are a lot of servers which people make that have level restrictions to only allow lower level play, also I found there were a lot of clans willing to accept lower level guys to play with them.

Konami really didn't give a shit about NA and EU servers, and you're right, people could be reported for months and still actively cheat. Also Japan got SO many exclusives it was unreal.

As for box-popping, it's a legit tactic which I thought added to the combat; in situations where it's 1v1 with no cover, you have to move around otherwise you'll get shot, that's why crouching and boxing gave you an advanttage over someone who would only remain at standing level. MGO I think will always remain my favourite online game ever, I had so many good times on that game and met a lot of great people.