Did anyone stop to think that maybe the 2.0 client is done and a world server merge is a easier way for them to port all the data to the new client and servers? Maybe just maybe these are going to be the 2.0 server worlds with different more traditional names?

I do feel the pain of possibly losing friends however, didnt we all lose friends when we decided to play ffxiv while all our ps3 only friends decided to stay with ffxi?

I suggest getting with all your friends and ls and asking what server they will choose and do your best to keep everyone together.