Quote Originally Posted by davysez View Post
I guess I can't really speak for everyone, only myself. I'm really pinning a lot of my hopes for this game on the impending zone redesign (mega-bonus points if they tie it into the lore of the world) and the eventual release of completely new zones. I think strategic gameplay is the key. I have no problem with having alternate gameplay methods designed for casual players, like leves and anima or an aggro indicator, for example. Although, if SE goes too far and puts in too many shortcuts around parts of the game requiring strategy and cooperation, or an investment of time and effort, then why should I play FFXIV when I can go play Angry Birds on my phone?

And I think we're just going to have to agree to disagree about the maps thing. Not having a map and not knowing where to go is what makes visiting new areas difficult. It also promotes cooperation between high-level mentors and new players. The difficulty of getting the map should mirror the difficulty of the zone, maybe with maps of the starter zones being given to new players. It gives players something to do, something to achieve, and a sense of character progression, other than ranking up, day after day. Same thing goes for a chocobo license or airship license. Fortunately for you, and unfortunately for me, Yoshi P. seems to be on your side.
I just look up the maps online. That ultimately negates the point of acquiring maps. I think the development team knew this and decided to forgo it altogether. I'd rather they introduce content that encourages me to tread the less beaten path.