Which Might and Magic universe are you referring to?

+1, but in my case, I'll clarify that the problem isn't so much the standard fantasy setting of Ashan itself, but the fact that it was presented as a replacement for the original universe.

I've been telling everyone for a week now that they don't like the uniqueness of the old universe, but rather its mass appeal, global scope, and interwoven complexity.

You know, people know best what they like and where, and no one needs you to "push" anything on them. For example, many people, including myself, primarily appreciate the non-standard elements of the Might and Magic universe.