Is this really FUN in 2012 ?! A reassuring Dev's answer if possible?

[Rousseau]

Well go back and play WoW

While I will sometimes say this as a joke, it really isn't a valid response. A lot of people play this game because they love Final Fantasy. They want to support the game and they'd like to see it succeed. They would like to see it become more respectable and for it to be as enjoyable as possible. It's because they love the brand and the game that they stick around, and it's their support that contributes to keeping the game going.

Also, the game doesn't have to be exactly like other MMOs in order to provide us with fun and variety. However, in order to make money, yes, it will need to become more like WoW in certain ways. It's pretty much unavoidable, and I bet my bottom dollar that is what will end up happening with a lot of the game's systems.

e.g. we will have content finder, bags for inventory, various mounts, more quests and other leveling options, streamlined crafting, an even more WoW inspired UI (the current one is similar to WoW as it is); we have rested exp bonuses already, instanced raids, and even a "cataclysm" on its way

The game is already like WoW to some extent, and it will only become more like it as 2.0 approaches.