Vanilla is the best iteration of the world and the game's concept. It has the most to explore, the best cohesion between zones, the most interesting locations and dungeons...
Subsequent versions were smaller in scope, more limited in their worldbuilding, and more streamlined in terms of exploration and progression. Vanilla truly felt like you were entering a world for the very first time as a fresh adventurer and everything that happened from there was up to you and where you chose to go next.
(He/Him)
I write Naruto Fanfiction. But I am
definitely
not a furry.