The Wired Hub Is it just the theme people are really impressed by?

[The Jason]

Some don't like free forum software, but then again, a lot of the themes are very vintage. In that case, what are people really upset about?

 

[Gizmo]

I have respect for free forums like Proboards if the theme is interesting. If it stands out to me I will definitely want to keep visiting.

Mobile responsive is the main thing I look for with a forum. Due to my eye sight I don't use my laptop a lot so really rely on my phone for forums.

 

[Ravenfreak]

I don't think it's just the theme. But responsive themes should be a thing on most platforms, it isn't on all right out of the box though. For example MyBB doesn't have a responsive theme out of the box, you have to install one! Another software that just got an update last month, XMB is still not responsive either. (I suppose that one gets more of a pass since it's older than MyBB and has less devs but still it should be a thing IMO.) Anyways some people don't like phpBB and will avoid joining forums powered by the software.