Regarding the removal of HQ items from gathering...

[Jojoya]

They aren't just removing HQ items, they are removing an incentive to gather.

I don't see it as removing an incentive to gather. The incentive is still there - the materials are needed to craft. Retainers will never bring back the quantities we need for end game crafting.

But it is removing some of complexity that helps make gathering interesting. Diadem shows how boring gathering is when it's reduced to a straight grind for yield.

I also have to wonder what will happen with hidden items. Will they be straight RNG now we'll no longer be able to use Luck of the Pioneer/Mountaineer or will those be changed?

The real question is what will Crafting be like in EW, now that only crafted mats and gear are going to be HQ-able. Is it going to be more difficult for getting HQ on standard crafts, or will they make it easier for quality abilities to make up for the lack of HQ mats?

I doubt SE would see a need to adjust the standard recipes considering most players seems to be using the Restoration to level. Other than the rough spot that is the 50-54 HW recipes, it's also not needed. It's not that difficult to get HQ from all NQ as long as gear is up to date.

Doesn't this also affect what little monopoly FC money you gain by gathering and synthesizing HQ items?

I'm confused where you think FCs come into this.