Multiplayer - a mode of play involving more than one player at one time in a computer or video game

This does not, in any way mean you should have to party with others, this term simply means you're not the only player around. Just because there are more people around, does not mean you should be forced to play with others when we are talking about an mmo. The basic fundamental of an mmo is having your own customized character that fits your play style and leveling it as you see fit, whether it be with others or by yourself. While I'm not agreeing with the OP completely, they honestly did go overboard with the new linking feature, but that is about it everything else is fine. Bottom line is this, not everyone plays the same way another does so arguing about another persons play style is pretty pointless.

On a side note to the OP: Try the Grand Company leves when you get there, very good exp solo if that's your aim.