I really like Papalymo and Kan-E-Senna. Oh and her little sister is also funny, if not a bit bossy. Merlwyb is also awesome, and I'm Gridanian. lol

I think it just needs more time (and a bit more dedication combined with awesome CSs!).
Also, I so get the OP's point. Does anyone else remember all the names of the ministers of Windurst? lol

I think XI was really good at combining seemingly unimportant NPCs with (main) missions so you really had the feel they were more than just bland persons. There is a reason why Shantotto (<3) is a character in Dissidia (though, I wouldn't call her a minor character *hides in fear*).