I am in the same boat OP, except swap FF14 with GW2. Both games focus on story and enjoyment of the game on your journey to the end instead of just end game and current content. There is so much more repeatable content that aren’t just grinds.
This in turn actually creates a more friendly helpful community as well which makes you feel welcome in the game, devs in both those MMOs seem passionate and actually THANKFUL to the players for spending their hard earned $$$.
I still prefer the anti-grindy GW2, WoW has jaded me so much the past couple xpac towards vertical progression but it’s good that FF14 exists for those that still enjoy it.
Blizz is the only company right now that is completely disconnected from its user base. More disgruntled players should reach out to other games and realize there are still great devs out there that aren’t toxic against their community.
I know it’s hard to leave your characters behind but Blizz doesn’t deserve us anymore.