Originally Posted by
Xenosan
Some sandbox mechanics for the open-world would be appreciated. Something to emulate from XI possibly could be Grand Company regional influence for Heavensward zones. The top ranked GC of each HW zone gets some bonus like bonus Gil from Fates in that zone, versus the 2nd and 3rd place GCs that get bonus GC Seals instead (3rd more than 2nd).
Whichever GC has top rank in that zone has access to an outpost vendor that is otherwise inaccessible (a Flames/Adder/Maelstrom Caravan Trader) that sells some GC-specific glamour items (need more !_! ), barding, or fireworks. GC ranking updates weekly.
I think a feature such as that does far more to keep Fate/Leve/Hunt alive 1,000x more than peppering different relic stages or Seasonal Events (wtf) with ATMA grinds.
The factions are getting expanded soon, maybe that'll add some spice.