I really would like having an option to have certain NPCs as party members for when you're not in a dungeon/instance. Particularly since a lot of the NPCs from across the different job and class quests tell you to ask them for help anytime you need it. It would be nice if we unlocked at least 1 NPC ally when we finish our level 30 class quest, and then another after our level 60 job quest. Make them take the slot of your chocobo when called upon, and to summon them we'd use a linkpearl to bring up an "ally" list. While I wouldn't mind if they didn't have any form of leveling system, it would be nice if they grew stronger the more often you used a particular one....