Wow, lots of ponderous thoughts in this topic. I have 3 thoughts to offer.

1) Exactly where are these half naked women? I don't recollect topless female bosses and certainly none of them forgot to wear something on their bottom half. So, where are all these half naked females?
2) Many have mentioned fan service. I'll go one better the genre of fantasy art has always been pretty heavily influenced bu the curvy and expertly drawn female form, generally a lot curvier than those in FFXIV and with a lot less clothing.
3) It's a video game, an entertainment product. Such products always pay attention to their key demographic, and cater to it.

Next time I am at a beach or for that matter a public swimming pool, should I shield my eyes from the half naked girls and women there? Is it time for the puritans to return? time for females to be covered head to toe lest it corrupt a man's soul?