One of the best things about FFXI that you don't get in other FF games is the ability to create your own storylines, if you can fall in with roleplayers. Right now, I'm in an awesome RP linkshell on Quetzalcoatl that has a story arc involving possession by the essence of the Shadow Lord, and Chosen Summoners who are destined to save Vana'Diel as they have countless times in the past. (See: Vana'Diel Tribune Vol.22, "And His Name Was Fenrir!", re: Karaha-Baruha, Hero of Windurst) Talk about awesome! I mean, seriously... How many times in an FF game have you wanted to have your character say what you'd really like them to say?