general pattern I am gathering is people want an old school RPG as far as the presentation goes. That would include a classic style overworld(which would mean a classic way to traverse the overworld), many cities, some with little purpose(Kalm in FFVII, it was awsome but was only used IMO to contrast Midgar), some with dark secrets, some are intregral plot cities. More charaters, each of them being more defined.
However, I think most of us enjoy the more modern combat systems... (Imagine FF 7, fused with 13... alot of fun)
IMO 12 had the best combat system, and also one of the best Leveling systems.
End of 2009 Predictions (Set, January 1st 2009)
Wii- 72 million 3rd Year Peak, better slate of releases
360- 37 million Should trend down slightly after 3rd year peak
PS3- 29 million Sales should pick up next year, 3rd year peak and price cut
