A tank asks: How does maining a melee DPS class in MSQ feel?

[Jeeqbit]

How does solo content feel, leading as samurai?

Traditionally speaking how do melee DPS handle any and all solo duties or potential wave battle scenarios in the MSQ? Does FFXIV take into account that some people will lead with the especially squishy jobs?

All roles are taken into account, so if you can die, there is usually an ally that tanks or heals for you, or both. When you wipe enough you get The Echo and you can increase your gear to make it easier, so it's not much to worry about. The story and anything required for it is meant to be easy, with challenging content being optional.

My “in between chapters experience grind” is covered by trusts, I can safely learn trials as a DPS, but how do melee DPS jobs handle the inevitable “you’re going to get hit now” MSQ moments that my tank jobs laugh off?

You have a defensive ability called Third Eye, if it blocks before expiring you can use a heal called Merciful Eyes. You can also heal with the role actions Second Wind and Bloodbath. You could buy some high quality super potions to heal yourself. Kiting works a lot of the time. Of course, you have your chocobo outside of solo duties.