Because you're expected to write 2-3 paragraphs for every line you say, and you have to wait for the other to post, and after awhile it gets tedious, and it's hard to just jump into the middle of one.
Many people prefer ingame RP over forumlancing, it's much more intense and therefore a lot more exciting.
Personally, I really like the watering hole section and am as much concerned about its deadness as you I guess. Just contact me if you feel the urge to RP with someone in a bar or alike. :3
Well, with player controlled bases now, all that is needed is a 'bar module' and viola! In-game watering hole.
I think I remember one of these watering holes is half of a destroyer buried in an icesteroid... Too bad player bases can't be that elaborate.
Wonder if it's possible to add in-game watering holes to a later mod? Maybe with a visual of your table and avatars that can sit down or leave... (dreamy) all of them stuck with the face of Edison Trent (horror)