I can't believe I am doing this, going so far as to create an account just so I can comment it, but I feel it is needed. While I absolutely love the game so far, I cannot express enough how irritating the programmed losses at the factory and the beginning of Mt. Mesmer are, not because I lost, but because I won! I was willing to just accept it and move on with the first one, hoping it was a one time thing, but now that it has happened again, I find myself unable to restrain myself again. At the time of posting this, I have just finished the Mt. Mesmer programmed loss and, again, I won. When I encounter such programmed, non-scripted losses (the kind where you can technically win if you try), I make it a point to challenge myself to be able to win one way or another (anyone familiar with Pixelmon [minecraft] legendary bosses is familiar with 'cheese' tactics for taking on stronger opponents... and a ton of healing), and after getting strong enough to defeat the programmed factory loss only for no recognition to be made, I then had to put up with another programmed loss... that I was already strong enough to beat due to what I had done for the prior loss. I am not for massive changes to the story or anything of the like, just recognition of the achievement of victory. For instance, with the factory battle, maybe have the guy be shocked by the player besting him, but ultimately uses high level Pokekata to subdue and wipe your memories or even just activates some surprise security measure within the factory. No story change, just player recognition. And with the Mt. Mesmer battle, Willie still runs away but the time-traveler at least recognizes you best him despite him being from the future, perhaps even saying some bit of additional dialogue to clue the character (not the player as we already know) in on his potential identity, such as 'even after all these years I can't beat her...' or whatever would fit his backstory.
Sorry for the rant, I really enjoy the game, I just wish the programmed losses, even if they don't change the story in any real way, at least recognize your victory, maybe even get some ribbon or trophy item (although that would be pushing it). Like with Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, where if you succeed in the programmed loss encounter during the intro of the game, a different cut scene plays out, where he recognizes the player's ability but ultimately sneak attacks you, cuts off your arm, and kidnaps your liege.
Ultimately though, thanks for the game and I do appreciate all you do for it, just was my own little gripe with the programmed losses is all.