there are already numbers larger

there are already numbers larger than the 32-bit int limit floating around in this game. you could argue their database is 64-bit but their combat code is still 32-bit, but that'd be insanity on their part - to go through all this ridiculousness just to preserve some kind of mixed programming environment because it's somehow easier that way? even the transcript linked and transcribed above gives away the real reason behind the squish. they don't like big numbers. that's it. all that http://www.euwowgold.com/ nonsense that floated around about the game not being able to handle them came from one comment by tom chilton and if you read what he actually said, it's pretty clear he's either making it up or very very confused. every blue poster and dev (including GC) who has ever responded to people asking about the limit issue has either waived it away or said they're not in a position to comment on it.