There are only a few things that are a step back from FFXI, content being the obvious one. I don't think the current system is a step back at all. I am all in favor of the dev's making the system as new as they like with any unique features they intend to add or tweak.

Change is good, Change in the reverse direction tho is bad. I am not for preventing the invention of new ideas. New ideas is how the world keeps turning. Real and fantasy.