Why can't we have jobs with this level of depth and customization in FFXIV?

[Fated]

Like someone else said, you're talking about things that came out in FFXI after many years. The automaton in particular is from the third expansion, which means we're talking something in the neighborhood of 5 years? after release. Even then, it was still something that they had to optimize over time.

FFXIV's big problem right now is that everything is so mind numbingly straightforward. The original FFXIV ability system was highly convoluted, but it was very diverse and interesting. The change to what we have now was a major step backwards IMO. However, SE has acknowledged that there will be some changes to the ability system once the first expansion is released. Whether or not they deliver is another story, but they are at least aware.

[Sandpark]

XI lots of redundancy-ARR has lots of simplicity
XI most jobs use same interface but play differently mechanics wise-ARR most classes/jobs use same interface but play similarly mechanics wise
XI is unbalanced due to varied job mechanics-ARR is balanced due to similar job mechanics.
XI skill use mostly governed by tp/mp-ARR mostly governed by cooldown.

3 or 8 tier cures?Who cares. In one game combat is slower I have spurts of spam with more buttons/tiers & in the other combat so fast I spam all the time with less buttons/tiers. ARR feels more like playing GodOfWar than a Final Fantasy pace wise.

I'd like to see the cooldowns removed from all but each classes most powerful skills. The tp/mp cost raised to use skills & the damage raised. And some form of synergy system through whole fights. Skillchains, combos, regiment, Chrono Trigger's combos, anything. The goal should be less gauge watching, more player watching, support and beef each other up.