As far as producers/directors go, Yoshi-p seems to see value in finding a common thread across the various Final Fantasy universes rather than leaving them as largely disconnected entries. I wouldn't be surprised if Valisthea turns out to have some relation to the likes of Second Astral Eorzea, with faith-driven warfare culminating in the Calamity of Fire.

I don't mind seeing more Tactics-styled political intrigue with noble houses and such. I also wouldn't mind seeing some more modern/futuristic elements in the same vein as Midgar and Esthar. My own preference is for steampunk. Variety keeps things interesting. But I don't think you need to burn everything to the ground to achieve that. The world's a big place, and there's room enough for all these concepts to coexist.