You could only have a level pact with 1 other person at a time. To my recollection, it was far, far less efficient a method to power level someone as well. You are much better off doing it the "old fashioned" way.
Same for me as well. I recently finished my main (Street Justice/Nin scrapper) and she can handle anything the game has at +4x8. However, as @Olly says, I do not run it all the time as it takes too long and becomes a chore after a while.
It also rings true that an experienced, hardcode PvPer without a Meta build can defeat others with using a Meta build. Since that is true, it negates your point entirely.
No it would not. I will absolutely guarantee you an experienced, hardcore PvP player will outshine and dominate any new player regardless of what AT and power set combo they are playing at the time. You are also neglecting that building "meta builds" is something only a select few can do. Everyone is able to make them if they want to.
Here you go.
"You can clearly get a good idea that fire blasters would easily dominate in PvP based on the DPAs alone. "
You are quite clearly alluding to one set being superior to the other based on DPS alone.
Saying the game is imbalanced because one set does more damage than another without taking into account other factors such as mitigation and secondary effects does not make it true.
And what is the DPS for them when they are mezzed and/or completely drained of END? I grant you I am a novice at PvP, but I do know for sure there is more to it than straight damage - especially in a team setting.
If this were true and following your logic, we would only ever see Fire blasters. This simply is not the case and people are indeed choosing what they want to play based on theme.
I have no idea what server you are on, but I can say with confidence there is a great variety in ATs and power set combinations running about in RV here on Torchbearer. I do not see this great imbalance you are referring to.
The game should never be balanced around the needs of PvP in my opinion. Each set has its own utility and some combos will work better together than others.
It seems to me you are neglecting to take into account different forms of mitigation. Fire is going to be more DoT whereas Electric is more END drain. Making everything the same makes everything less unique and bland in my opinion.