Don't think I've commented here lately, due to the overwhelming "you know what's" driving behind the wheel as of late. However, I can imagine where you are coming from. Rather, as a player of Final Fantasy XI, I can see how Hydaelyn could benefit from Vana'diel's experience. Granted, we're seeing a different lore here, but when has that ever changed significantly between Final Fantasy to the sixth entry, before the move to 3D, then what significance from Final Fantasy VII through IX. We've seen a major switch to X, and XI-2 and so on.

Square Enix understands what it requires to bring a game into a successful market, but implementation isn't always easy. Taking small steps at times works, and sometimes they shoot for something unsuspectingly different that may not turn out well at all. If a community that knows from their own experience what is takes to enjoy a game of any genre, then who has the right to provoke the cease of their opinions? After all, the voice of one may be the voice of many.

The history of Final Fantasy XI should be seen as a stepping stone rather than a predecessor to Final Fantasy XIV. I for one agree with the OP's post, as it touches greatly unto the ideals of considerable future content. I would imagine no one wants to continue partaking in Dzemael-like runs, caravan-like quests, and the so-on so-forth for the next five to ten years or so.