Thank you for returning to "original stories" for Raids in Endwalker

[Cilia]

I completely agree.

There are too many heavy-handed references to other titles, particularly the Ivalice setting games, and relying so heavily on fanservice for worldbuilding reduces the setting's integrity.

(Yes, I am aware the devs have stated Ivalice is an inspiration, but there is taking inspiration from something and then there is importing carbon copies of characters, concepts, and locations.)

Further explanation would require rambling I've no energy for at the moment and would rather spend grinding for my relic weapon.

I'm aware this is an unpopular stance, but I'd rather see more of this world, this setting I fell in love with, than be forcibly reminded of how great some other game / setting is, particularly when I don't care about the referenced game / setting.

Stoked to see more original content in side stories.

Gonna go visit the hardware store to grab a flame shield; I'mma need it for pissing on the sacred cow (again). Catch ya on the flipside!

[KageTokage]

I'm aware this is an unpopular stance, but I'd rather see more of this world, this setting I fell in love with, than be forcibly reminded of how great some other game / setting is, particularly when I don't care about the referenced game / setting.

I'm of the same mind.

I don't mind stuff like the Crystal Tower raids that are heavily influenced/shaped to fit the existing XIV lore as opposed to basically just ripping characters and locales from another FF and dumping them into the game like they did with the Ivalice raids.