Separate Servers

[Enkidoh]

PC and PS3/PS4 versions were never 'merged' - cross-platform servers have been that way since the beginning. And FFXI was the same (in fact, FFXI was the very first cross-platform MMO).

And before you pass judgement a creative coder/hacker can create hacks and tools for consoles as well, although it's very fiddly, it's definitely possible. Really, no one will ever be able to fully stamp out RMT/botting 100% - they can make it harder to use/implement via game design, but the RMT and botters will just find more creative ways to get around it. It's a vicious cycle.