FFXIV I think is a different animal because S-E has never been known for their MMO's. Its predecessor FFXI wasn't a huge hit either. The main flagship single-player FF's however, has had a long history of success. So the typical fanboy still holds on to past glory and with every new...
Because despite all the hate from fans, most still went out and bought the game. S-E doesn't care whether you like the game or not as long as they get your $60 for the game.
Actually, I've bought 2 games already this year without the discount. Both occasions were because they ran out of codes and the games were gifts for people. So I couldn't wait for the codes to replenish.