I've read a bunch of posts of people complaining about the new format and core set, but I disagree. I'm not a long time player, in fact, I never could find a partner even though I bought a few starter decks and about a dozen boosters. I'm hoping with this start-over set that it will bring in a bunch of new players. My local FLGSs said that quite a few people are awaiting the core set, and one is planning on hosting tournaments. As it is, I've seen the Asylum packs displayed on the shelf, instead of collecting dust in the storage room, which gives me a little hope.
I've played CCGs before and the fixed card format doesn't bother me. Neither does the 3 card rule. I could never keep up with Magic or Heroclix and I'm hoping the LCG format will make things a tad cheaper.
I think it's great that FFG is producing a nice boardgame/card game combo that will hopefully appeal to more people. I'm sure this decision was based on poor sales of the CCG and FFG liked the game enough to want to try something new instead of discontinuing it altogether.
A nice side benefit to this card game is that it has produced the best Lovecraftian art I've ever seen. Which is why FFG mooches it for Arkham Horror.
Good luck to FFG on the new game, and thanks for not giving up.