Can we get an idea on what to expect from the open world in version 2? (A bit long)

[Nabiri]

I will say I would like to see a much more dynamic HNM pop system in this game than existed in XI and by dynamic I suppose I mean unpredictable. I can say I had a lot of fun times in Dragon's Aery but I can also say I sat there bored out of my skull for many hours, as well. My understanding of the randomness of the Primal pops is a step in the right direction as far as i'm concerned and would like to see many HNMs follow this formula. I don't think it would be a terrible idea to make every mob in the game a potential place holder for some of them so that even level 2's outside Uldah may find themselves more motivated to play after being eaten by a level 90 dragon shortly after killing a squirrel.
Tiamat in the distant corner of the world one week, ten feet outside Gridania another.

I just have to say, this all sounds very exciting. I would love for HNMs to be unpredictable, unlike in XI where people knew the spawn times. (Perhaps have a few that are predictable...) but it would be very exciting to suddenly have a giant dragon or something appear nearby you.. Shock, fear, danger, excitement. That's what Eorzea needs so badly. It all feels so safe, peaceful... tame.

I am not one to complain about not being instantly rewarded. In XI I was eager to get the HNM drops I wanted but never got emo if they didn't drop. I enjoyed the kill, I enjoyed the claim, I enjoyed the fight. A drop is just an added bonus.
That's because you fight HNMs, you don't grind them. That's the difference.

I'm the same. I love the thrill of the hunt. Forget the items.. that's just a bonus if you get lucky.
I'm all about the competition, the hunt, the epic battle, trying not to get smashed. lol And when I do fall in battle... it just makes me more determined for next time. >:3

How are you on the idea of a 'hunting club' sort of NPC guild that gives rewards for successful NM and HNM hunts, offers tips, posts leader-boards (How long it took to kill, what location, etc.)? Something in the vein of what it was implied in FFXII. I found it odd that FFXI never had some sort of accompaniment for that.

Just wanted to throw in that I like this idea as well. Something similar to FF12 would be interesting. "Save the realm from (random giant monster)!~"
I don't know if it'd work for everything, but it would be cool to see what SE could do with it.