Yeah gear mattered especially in term of sets, but I think it's more the idea of that being the only thing that matters is actually incorrect. I tanked better as PLD/NIN than others with the best gear. There's still a skill requirement because as seen in XIV people with relics and garuda weapons can still suck donkey dick meanwhile the poor little noobie with only their GC weapon is whopping asses and pillaging booty like no tomorrow.

Gear supplements a good player.

Gear does not make a good player.