Because it doesn't follow SE's design philosophy. Thus the game is what it is.
But noooooo, according to another poster if it's not something that fosters competition so that you have to fight against them to claim it or do the most damage or w/e, it may as well just be an instance.
As if there was any choice in FFXI? Anything less than perfect in that game and you were considered a bad, meaning you get to keep farming sky for three years after it's been out so you have that best in slot gear for that one weapon skill.
