Having played FFXI since early 2005 I can agree whole heartily with what people want and what they are looking for. I think its apparent that this game just lacks on the 90% of the levels when compared to not just FFXI but majority of other MMOs.

I think the biggest problem is what people got out of FFXI they simply wont ever get that back again, its something i think iv come to realize. It was my first MMO so it had that effect on me, i was amazed, loved connecting with people from all around the world. Prior to that all my online play was from FPS games so that was very linear in itself. Im talking early days too like the MSN Gaming zone etc. FFXI didn't give me that linear feeling i could do what i wanted when i wanted. This isnt me big upping FFXI btw because it certainly had its flaws. I honestly dont think its possible for the majority of us to capture that again, we might get close and hopefully SE can deliver but that true feeling of accomplishment, friendship, exploration and overall joy is just bound to the first dedicated experience to the genre. Thats why i think so much of the community still hang on to WoW, many just dont want to let go.

Thats just my 2c... Maybe its because im older but i dont think i will get that feeling back no matter what they do.