Bungie knows what it's doing.
Claude mentioned it below, and it's on the front page, but I highly recommend Matt Soell's article.
There are so many things Matt touches on that help to explain what makes Bungie unique, but it boils down to respect for their fans and respect for themselves. They're not desperate to make us love them (are you listening 343i?). I believe that they're doing what they've always done--they're making a game they want to play. They are confident that there are other people who will also want to play it, but some won't, and that's fine. No harm, no foul. I would hope those who won't don't belabor the point, especially prematurely.
Bungie.org has historically been a happy, optimistic place. Sure, there have been dips [looks askance at the Bungie acquisition], but in general we've been eager to accept what Matt calls "the invitation to let your own imagination and emotions become part of the experience," and that experience includes the dance leading up to the release of a new game.
So what if Destiny's a year or more away. I appreciate the benefits of a long courtship. Sometimes a highlight ends up being that smile you got the day you met her, you know? Savor all of it. To those who seem able to describe their anticipation only in terms of levels of sexual excitement, take a cold shower, and expand your effing vocabulary (and imagination) already.
I like to think of this relationship we have as a collaboration between people who have a mutual respect for each other and what each brings to the table, and who also are in it for the long haul. It's been that before now, but it seems to me that with this game, Bungie is trusting us more than ever to help make this something special. Do we want merely to be entertained and entertained right now? I think not. I sure as heck don't. Is Bungie up to the task they've set for themselves? Are we up for our role in this?
I have hope.
Kermit