I have been a long time critic of infinity mode probably since day 1. I dont really think about it nowadays (never play it) and rarely comment on infinity mode threads because I cant really see PopCap doing anything about it. They seem to love it. The premise of this game's design is to keep people playing as long as possible - whatever the cost. The coins, stars, party characters, legendary characters, levelling system, even the fish - you name it, its all been designed to suck up your time up and keep you playing. There is nothing inherently wrong with that, providing the game play is engaging. Unfortunately in infinity mode case, its anyhting but engaging. Personally I think they should scrap the mode entirely, but they wont because that would be admitting defeat. Progressing and acquiring characters and items in this game could be done a million ways better, it could all be inter connected and contributing to your all over game progression (not to mention enjoymment). But it never will be. I like the game but there are just some elements where the design is just incredibly lazy and short sighted. Here endith the lesson.
