Man, people are gonna think I only made a forum account for THIS game...
Anyways, as a level 75 player on the best server, Siren (Not to be an arrogant comment, just we placed 1st in both English and Japanese Ballista Royale, and we're 1 of only 2 servers left undefeated in Besieged), I believe that people often give FFXI a bad rap just because of how much partying it does take. Truth be told, things have improved for those who just want to solo or do things in smaller groups. There are at least 3 jobs now that can be soloed to 75, and many duos and trios can do it as well. Experience points bonuses can now be gained by leveling in the new areas (Level 50+) or by using a charge out of the experience bands that doubles gains for a short period of time. Signet now gains you a bonus in any of the areas it kicks in at for groups of two to five people.
One of the other main complaints that people had is that Square Enix did not listen to their player base. This has changed drastically - many efforts have been placed to stop the gilsellers, they are nearly completely out of business at this point.
I think sometimes people like to give FFXI a bad rap, is my main point, despite only giving it a few months.
Jericho of Siren
Edit: Someone PLEASE make some remixes for this game that can pass the judging community ^_~