Interesting, I am not sure if we are thinking the same thing in regards to 'fluid combat', but the biggest reason I do not play wow is how horrible combat feels. I pre-ordered Draenor, resubbed and logged in with my jump to 90. I went out and started my way through the story. 30 minutes later I logged out and unsubbed. The only reason? Combat was way too clunky and it just felt very dated.

That said, when I did play WoW (years ago now), I loved the little things. The world felt alive and massive, much more than FFXIV. I loved customizing my traits to build my character. I loved the quest design system, especially how it made it easier to quest in groups (with the ability to track in your log who has the same quests etc) in addition to quest designed for groups. I definitely felt that WoW did a better job with gathering/crafting than FFXIV.

Ultimately, outside of story, combat and end-game, I felt WoW is superior in every other way. I play here, because the story and combat are deal breakers or makers for me.