Massive missions are one step from taking undefended bases to me.
Chances are that even if you fail in your particular aspect of the mission someone else will take care of it due to redundancy.
Eventually, due to the lack of challenge, most people grow bored and look towards other challenges. I think the natural progression is to air combat and ACM in particular.
They become aware of it, curious about it, think about it, read some of the trainer materials, talk to others and discuss aspects of it and when they are appropriate, visit the TA with a knowledge person or trainer, start applying it in the MA and finally discover how much challenge and joy there is in winning in a one-on-one. Especially when outnumbered or at a disadvantage.
Of course some take it too far and actually attribute real-life worthiness at shooting down pixels, but it does give a sense of accomplishment that certainly cannot be diminished because others are there to make sure you don't fail.
Oh well. Take that for what it may or may not be worth. I'm through with this thread.