Got my Guardian into the Iron Banner before work this morning. It was nice to see all that flashy fire in The Tower again- felt like the beta days.
I got to play three matches, and I have to say, it was a lot of fun.
I CAN feel the difference in the Iron Banner- a lot of enemies are harder to kill- and I myself got quite a beating in the beginning. Luckily, every match we started on bottom, but overcame our obstacles and made it on top.
Iron Banner does a good job when it comes to getting you angry. When I first jumped in I knew I had to put myself into that competitive mindset, and so when you get close to losing it really gets you amped up, so thats a bittersweet part of it all.
I saw on the forums that a lot of people don't care for the weaps and armor though- and I don't get that. I loved the Queen's missions.
Even if they have the same stats (or lower) than what I already have- I still strive to obtaining the event armors. I know that they'll be back someday- but maybe with different gear! I want to complete special event sets. I like seeing the Queen's helmet and chest in my bank- and I look forward to seeing the Iron Banner armor in there too- it's all about participating in the events, guys.
TL;DR- Iron Banner is fun and challenging, and I look forward to playing more with my friends after work.