Patch 2.XX stories gives me hope for Heavensward stories
I recently completed the 2.0 story and I'm currently on the "Through the Maelstrom" plotline (so, I'm a bit late). But I noticed a few differences with how the story was being handled. The characters don't seem to rely as much on emotes as they did before and, so far, more scenes have voice overs. Plus, the character's voices don't feel exaggerated or forced and they seem "relaxed," especially with Thancred and Merlwyb. I was also pretty "shocked" to hear more voices from characters that weren't from the main cast (that weren't laughably bad). Hell, even the Sahagin Priest sounded convincing. The lighting in the scenes are also better. If they improve on this, I'll have a lot to look forward when Heavenward's story rolls out.
One thing that still bothers me, though, is how characters move/turn to a set-point and walk away. They seem unnatural and incredibly stiff whenever they do this. I hope they fix this in Heavensward and just make characters turn and leave like regular people.