For those that think the current system requires skill, I'd like to present another viewpoint. Youtube was out during FFXI, and there was still an extremely high number of linkshells (80% fair game?) who couldn't clear content. The HNM community still had to learn how to adapt to the random mechanics throughout the fight.
  • In the case of FFXIV, your kill videos are the exact how to.
  • The community has done a great job at simplifying these concepts in pictures (Titan picture guide comes to mind.)
  • The community in general expects you to take off work for each new patch (Which isn't reasonable for many adults).
  • If not you better stalk Reddit until you find a kill video, and memorize your role.
  • Sit through 6-8hr sessions attempting to clear new content with a new party setup every 2 - 3 runs.
  • You must player almost every day of the week the new patch comes out. Finding learning parties afterwards will be twice as hard.

Posting 1/2.