While i agree that FFXI was a mess at the start, the difference to FFXIV is in focus and attachment. In FFXI i identified with my world and city. I was part of it and could actively change it.

1. I would do missions to get RANK for MY CITY which introduced me to many colorfull and funny characters.
2. I would collect crystals for crafting and to increase RANK points for MY CITY to get new Quests.
3. I would take over zones to get the Outpost Teleport for MY CITY to make traveling easier and win the weekly Conquest.
4. I would almost automatically roleplay my character feeling pride for MY CITY.

These are just some examples that made FFXI what it is now, a great game. FFXIV has nothing even remote that makes me feel attached to any of the cities, NPC's or areas. It is just soulless content with no purpose at all.

Get back to the roots, tell stories and make me feel like i am part of something bigger. Give us back that feeling of achievment we had when we did Zilart missions or worked on our Limit breaks and AF.