Aside from 4.x and 5.x historical rollout precedents (or possibly because of them), I expect this release of Pact gear is to set us up for 6.2x and beyond. Logistically, for both players and Square, it is nice to have the turmoil of full scale gearset replacement complete and settled before the bulk of forthcoming crafting recipes (that require Pact power) appear. Also, having that gear done gets a lot of macro-engineering out of the way, and is kinda handy in the Materia sense because the appearance of it, about now, suggests that now is a nifty time to do much of the dreaded penta-melding with IX and X Materia. Post 6.2x, IX and X prices, presently ghastly, will skyrocket. So... do eet now... and avoid the agony latah. Btw, if you need help with this stuff, find da Shootah on Sarg.. let's see if we can get you set up.

From da supply sergeant - Shootah!