I think that most of the negative comments were in the details. There were some positive comments as well. As someone pointed out people are comparing a message system that has been honed for years and includes many fancy details with a brand new system that will need a little love. Though my first impression inclined me to prefer the old system, I would prefer to not give up on the new system yet. Here is what I recall being key issues presented:
1. Past messages to a groups (ruler channel for example) should not be visible to new members of that group except for basic groups like Realm and Army.
2. The interface could be enhanced a bit, both in useability and look/feel.
3. Message searching options, like those present today, would be great.
The big one was #1. I think that if if it were fixed and if the message system would continue to be improved after implementation, many would be fine with moving forward with the new system. I would love to hear what others think!