I guess it is a matter of breadth vs. depth for me. Sure, FFV felt like a broader game, but at the same time the places didn't feel like they had the same amount of depth and detail (like you said though it is unfair to compare the NES/SNES FF games to a 3DS game) as in Bravely Default. Each Bravely Default location felt unique and had a breath of life to it. The socio-politics of the story, while cliched at this point, were also much more interesting than anything in FF3/FF5. There was a lot to do that felt rewarding as well. I had a lot of fun collecting optional jobs and summons through bosses. I didn't really mind the second half too much either, because it was fun to use different job combinations that weren't available before on the same bosses. Sure it would've been better if the world were larger, but I felt like there was more to do in Bravely Default than in old school FF's. The battle system was a huge upgrade over FFIII and a moderate upgrade over FFV. The music was equally as good. And I mean in Bravely Default you always have options to end earlier at certain points in time, so the second half is avoidable to an extent. It's not like the true ending is that great and you can always watch it online. 

"Agnes' voice = super ugh"

Agreed. I searched the voice actress, and aparently she does a lot of anime dubs and is well liked. I don't know how that is the case though. I read a comment, "her voice sounds like a man trying to imitate a woman." And I agree 100% lol. 

BD battle system >>>>>>>> FF1-FF9 battle system (NOTHING changed lol)

Yeah, the brave/default system was fun because it was simple while at the same time allowing for many different strategies (definitely a good alternative to the ATB system which became a staple since FFIV.) The Job System was much more rewarding/punishing in Bravely Default than it was in FFV as well. I don't know, I think I just like the battle system so much that I can forgive some of the pacing issues the game had. :D