The MSQ also requires new players doing much more content outside of the MSQ in order to reach Ishgard, which still isn't that bad since the Crystal Tower trio does come with a good storyline, but it does create more of a hindrance when RNG becomes indirectly involved in how soon a new player can get into the newer content because they can't get the drops they need to reach the required ilvl for the next trial/dungeon part of the MSQ.

That being said, I do agree with most of the posts in here in that the MSQ should be a prerequisite for heavensward content for many of the aforementioned reasons. The story is worth looking more into than any other major MMORPGs out there, and understanding the mechanics from trials in content now may go to helping us in figuring out mechanics in heavensward content. I also feel that the lockouts on zones and new jobs also make sense as minor(ish) rewards for going so far in the game.....after all, what normal person enjoys dessert before dinner?