I actually like the idea of having some items soft retire. The main issue I think for this set is probably how expensive each piece is. I grinded a lot for a few hours two days straight before I could get all 4 event exclusive companions, so I do worry about collecting everything that will soft retire.
However, I really enjoy the reward of actively participating in an event and having the companion/apparel to show for it when it won't be readily available later. I missed the Light Sprite on FR, but got all the others and I hated it for years. If it soft retired I wouldn't have been so frustrated or eventually quit from their economy. I could understand if these items were permanently retiring, but soft retiring makes it still achievable to get later with some effort/time/patience.
I personally enjoy the challenge when I've missed an event because it gives me motivation to play the game more to achieve a goal, and it's not just handed to me. I get bored of games when I can get whatever I want when I want, and when something is difficult, within reason, it gives me a reason to log back in the next day and strive for it.
