If it's "required" how is it not P2W if it costs money?

Well I look at it more as a one-time investment, like buying an expansion in gw2 (which is basically also required if you want to participate in endgame pvp) Though bdo being obviously the more expensive entry.

Yea you can waste all your money on artisan memories but it doesn't really make you stronger, just gives you slightly better rng at upgrading your gear.

The other thing is just if you prefer rng shitfest + hard getting gear vs free endgame stuff. I prefer the former as I see no real goal in playing the later. Gear acquisition is my endgame.

I just think it's unfair when people say BDO is the worst p2w game ever when in reality it's just expensive on entry and after that you sub and can pay for non-required convenience. You can't directly buy power in the game.