This is the reason I stay. I'm not sure whether it was Tanaka's idea both times, but an early MMO release is one of the best decisions the developers can make on behalf of the players. It gets the product into the players' hands before everything is set in stone. Feedback is given at the most crucial period, and they are able to make the first long term plan concerning content and design.

The same situation is unfolding for FFXIV. Whether you like the state of the game or not, NOONE can argue that the game would be better if it had stayed within SE.

And that is all that can be concluded with certainty. My personal opinion, upon reflecting on FFXI's history and progress, I have no doubt FFXIV will be a great game.