I think it makes sense in a way.

Not all wolves are going to be the same strength; not all grizzly bears. Yet in FF, we have extensive stats showing that each monster of each type is exactly the same.

This is sorta a hack to achieve that effect, while also eliminating the boring 'ugh, another level 1 malboro *smites*' that would otherwise occur.

I think it's pretty cool, especially the way they implemented the drops and magic with it.