This is a legitimate argument, from a loot/gear perspective... but content-wise, by definition you're not getting maximum value out of the game, if you leave certain content unplayed. Since you don't seem like the type to be overly-curious (not a judgement, merely a hunch), maybe you'll find that argument more compelling. But to be perfectly honest, if you haven't killed Atheon AT THE VERY LEAST, you're missing out on one of the most memorable, and truly unique, elements of the game. And having a 31 lock myself, I know you've been playing long enough at this point to appreciate that moments of that caliber are few and far between enough that you probably want to take whatever value you can squeeze out of the game. And raids hold a lot of value, only it's not in the form of crucial, game-altering gear or loot... it's enjoyment and a sense of achievement. If nothing else, you should give VoG a try.