I'd consider the new look a bold move. It's appropriate, too. It emphasiszes the game's focus as a competitive platform, which I think suggests that overall design will be focused.
After all, all the lens flare, smoke, dof, bump mapping -everything- gets turned off by serious players. All those special effects are to enhance realism and suspension of disbelief. The serious fps'r trades them for clarity, resolution and fps 8 days a week.
In my opinion, the hi-contrast cartoony style is a very smart design choice and signals that the team really understands how (and by whom) the game will be appreciated.
After all, all the lens flare, smoke, dof, bump mapping -everything- gets turned off by serious players. All those special effects are to enhance realism and suspension of disbelief. The serious fps'r trades them for clarity, resolution and fps 8 days a week.
In my opinion, the hi-contrast cartoony style is a very smart design choice and signals that the team really understands how (and by whom) the game will be appreciated.