Ferry/Airship Rides, Larger, Free open environment, Return of social atompsheres

(Final Fantasy XI) When a player was to take a boat (Ferry) from one location to the next (Provided the only transport was across a body of water) The player had to board a ship along side other players who accompanied them on their journey. Every player had a different destination, but they all had to board the ship to get (at least) partway there. Not only was this an adventure in itself, but it was a way players were forced to interact. This resulted in friendships, stories and adventures. This was a beautiful way to portray the environment and activate battles only possible on the deck of the ship. While I understand in todays time, MMORPG players are demanding convenience. I am saddened to see an element of adventure leave the genre. When you had to take time to travel, it became an adventure. You made friends, (Sometimes enemies) but you always had a story to tell whether large or small. It made the world feel that much bigger and accomplishments that much more fulfilling.

This is for all of the players who would like to see this type of event re-enter. Whether it be an optional boat ride or airship ride- it would be perhaps, events only accessable aboard them. Aboard a ship in the middle of the ocean, (instance like environment) with random events occurring, drops only obtainable here-- Or perhaps, when a new continent emerges or island, you must ride this vehicle spanning over a few minutes- with other players. I'd like the developers to take another chance to show off their environment when sometimes it is overlooked. An inspired player can be a loyal player and the detail and beauty within ARR is incredible and my suggestion is to utilize this method to showcase it. Perhaps fireworks, or primals could pass by the boats/ships. Depending on the current event. Events could effectively showcase here.

I'd also love to feel more free while adventuring. We are often encased in mountains/walls/rocks in small areas that feel very much like boxes in comparison to the previous MMO. The world feels a little smaller and I'd love very much to feel immersed in a larger Eorzea. I understand this will come with the expansion as we will have access to personal airships etc. I understand that swimming will come in time too. I realize these things, but feel perhaps they can be added to, with something like this. I miss the bigger feeling of the open world, and the things you could do with your companions in it.

I always feel like a pebble next to an ocean wherever I am, but that's discipline talking.

I agree with you, and hope to cross your path unadulterated by life's hardships and nuances in my fantasy game of forgetting real life cuz it suks.

May you always walk in the light of the crystal....