Tbh it was a bit of both for me. The API access was one thing, but the response to the backlash was revealing towards his views. The protest against the API access was focused on business, the backlash to Spez's actions in response was focused on him.

I'd love to see what they could do with a Wind Waker-style game nowadays. With how successful they've been at crafting an open world, opening that up to the high seas could be a lot of fun.