Seems like they're taking on an old school approach to magic. (no surprise considering all the FF3 references)

BLM traditionally only had access to Fire, Ice and Lightning, whereas later WHM got Aero. WHM needs the ability to solo, so that's why they have to have some damage dealing spells. I'd just really like to see BLM get some more variety in their spells. in FF4, Rydia had the three elements plus a lot of other spells, such as Bio, Quake and Flare. It'd be nice to see some of those spells come back.