As we continue to plug onwards to 2.0, I can't help but feel like the story aspect of FFXIV is taking a back seat. That isn't to say quality wise, but on how engaging it is. For example, I absolutely love the Umbral Era storyline they have going right now, however I do not enjoy how simplistic it all is. Sure, some of it is meant to be lower level so that everyone can participate, but come 2.0 will we see story content with real challenges?

Some of my fondest memories from FFXI came from pushing through the challenging missions and unlocking the next part of the story. My actions in-game felt like they carried weight through the story, and the entire experience was incredibly rewarding because of it.

Now, don't get me wrong. This isn't a "FFXIV should be an FFXI clone" rant, rather something I feel is fundamental to Final Fantasy as a whole. A friend pointed out to me earlier today that we have Yoshida at the helm. He's making great changes, but he's never worked on a Final Fantasy title as far as I know. He's played them, and he's played MMORPGs before, but that worries me because a Final Fantasy MMORPG shouldn't be just another MMO.

It's story and world should be as big a selling point as it's content. Engaging characters, challenging boss fights and missions related to them. Long and "epic" quests taking you across all of Eorzea. Content beyond slapping a few raid instances in and calling it a day. It took time and effort to unlock the endgame areas, and you got the backstory behind the area you unlocked and why you're there. It all felt wholesome.

I really hope endgame content doesn't become focused solely around raid instances and nothing more. I'd love to see more open world "endgame" areas, like XI had. They were unique, and in most cases a fun experience. Areas unlocked through difficult story missions, instead of simple pre-quests. Content that took time and effort to be able to participate in, instead of raids that you can unlock and do on a whim.

I'm not saying they should stop with the raids, but I do think they should add something else on top.

And while we can't be certain what 2.0 has in store, part of me feels the need to bring the discussion up.