Speed and aggression.

Maybe it sounds silly, but I tried to take everyone's wishes into account.
It would be MUCH easier for me to run a Swiss-system tournament or a double-elimination bracket, where everything is simple and clear, and the program does everything for you, than to bother with groups, fearing that I'll get lost in them.

I could draw the pairings right now and wish everyone good luck.
Because no matter what, there will be dissatisfied people.
Selavi :)

So, where did the groups and playoffs come from in the first place? Initially, there was a double-elimination bracket, and everything was fine, but a few more people joined, and a Swiss-system tournament was suggested. You created a poll. The majority voted and made their choice in favor of the Swiss-system. The result: a group stage and playoffs. *there should be an emoji here that combines complete incomprehension of what is happening and a facepalm*