I left FFXI for a reason.. I don't want to go back to it! FFXIV can be unique without having to resort to FFXI's tired methods, the foremost of which is the party grind. The inability to do anything efficiently by oneself (especially leveling up) is a big turn off for a lot of people, including myself.

I'm all for group content, but not when it is the only viable way to progress your character.