I've been playing FFXI recently, for just a couple weeks on my bf's account. All I wanted to do was raise my own chocobo (which is fun and epic!!) But I was also allowed to level up whatever job I wanted and get into parties, explore, etc.

I chose DRG mostly, but as I fought, I thought it was kinda dull and slow, even with a lovely dragon by my side. Every time I tried leveling up (whether it be solo or with a party), I would get bored quickly and would want to play FFXIV. I really appreciate it's fast paced fighting and leveling. Though I didn't realize how MUCH I appreciated it until I tried FFXI.

When I explored, the last thing I thought about was Eorzea. The terrain and areas felt so different, the music was different, the fighting was different..

So the point of all this babble, is that FFXIV DOES NOT feel like FFXI at all. Of course I didn't play for years like most FFXI players, and didn't experience as much content. But going between the two games nearly every day really showed my how different they were.

It's all IMO of course, but if you want to continue thinking FFXIV is morphing into FFXI, then have at it