Final Fantasy XI
News, coverage and analysis tracking Final Fantasy XI across the outlets.
Latest coverage
We're getting our first HD-2D Final Fantasy game, and it's based on the now-shuttered mobile title Brave Exvius
Square Enix announced Final Fantasy Resonance, the first HD-2D Final Fantasy game, set to release on October 22nd for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch. The game adapts the story of the now-shuttered mobile title Final Fantasy: Brave Exvius, rebuilding and reimagining its narrative with new elements, a new turn-based combat system, and classic Final Fantasy features like chocobos and airships.
Guild Wars 1 and 2 will continue to get updates even after Guild Wars 3 is out: 'We are not replacing your favorite…
ArenaNet has announced that Guild Wars 3 will not lead to the discontinuation of Guild Wars 2 or Guild Wars. Both existing titles will continue to receive updates for the foreseeable future, with Guild Wars 2 seeing a slowdown in new content as Guild Wars 3 approaches release. This approach mirrors successful strategies seen in other long-running MMORPGs like Final Fantasy XIV and RuneScape.
As someone with over 1,000 hours in Guild Wars 2, I hope ArenaNet has a better plan this time around
ArenaNet has announced Guild Wars 3, a follow-up to their long-running MMO Guild Wars 2. The announcement comes after a period of inconsistent content updates and narrative conclusions for Guild Wars 2, leading to player concerns about the developer's planning. The new title aims to be a fresh start for the series, with hopes of attracting new and returning players.
Vague Patch Notes: Let’s talk about MMORPG balance
This analysis delves into the critical concept of game balance, particularly within MMORPGs, emphasizing its necessity for a healthy and engaging player experience. It uses examples from games like chess, World of Warcraft, and Final Fantasy XI to illustrate how imbalances can negatively impact gameplay and player enjoyment, arguing that while achieving perfect balance is complex, its pursuit is essential for game design.
Wisdom of Nym: What will Final Fantasy XIV’s next ranged DPS job be?
This article speculates on the potential next ranged DPS job for Final Fantasy XIV, analyzing hints from developer statements and imagery. Potential weapon concepts discussed include dual pistols, throwing axes, crossbows, whips, and gun-and-sword combinations, with arguments for and against each based on existing jobs and franchise history.
There's one game Don't Nod narrative designer Nina Freeman won't ever uninstall from her PC, because it's banned on Steam: 'It's tragic, because everyone should play this game'
Narrative designer Nina Freeman discusses her PC gaming habits, highlighting Devotion as a game she will never uninstall due to its quality and controversial Steam ban. She also shares her most played game, Dota 2, and her appreciation for complex branching narratives in titles like Scarlet Hollow.
The Daily Grind: Which MMORPG has the worst bug enemies?
This article discusses which MMORPG features the most unsettling "bug" enemies, distinguishing between in-game creatures and technical glitches. The author shares a personal aversion to the spider enemies in Final Fantasy XI as an example of a particularly disturbing in-game bug creature.
Vana’Bout starts for Final Fantasy XI’s anniversary and almost immediately ends in victory
The Vana'Bout in-game event for Final Fantasy XI has concluded with 100% completion achieved almost immediately by dedicated players. While the collective race for rewards is over, players can still earn individual plaudits until June 2nd to unlock in-game items.
Final Fantasy 11 Team Explores Adding New Areas as Player Count Explodes
Following a significant surge in player count for Final Fantasy XI, attributed to a Final Fantasy XIV crossover event, director Yoji Fujito is exploring the possibility of adding new areas and story content to the 24-year-old MMORPG. This renewed popularity has prompted discussions about future expansions for the game.
Final Fantasy XI is expanding its free trial without time limits after realizing new players stick around
Final Fantasy XI producer and director Yoji Fujito has confirmed that the game's free trial will be expanded to remove the time limit and allow players to reach level 75. This change comes as the development team has observed sustained player interest beyond initial expectations, particularly following a crossover event with Final Fantasy XIV. An exact release date for the update has not yet been announced.
Vague Patch Notes: Do you guys not make friends?
This opinion piece discusses the historical practice of account sharing in older MMORPGs like Final Fantasy XI and EverQuest, arguing that it stemmed from a need for community and friendship. The author contends that while online interactions can be challenging, MMORPGs provide unique opportunities for players to form meaningful connections and shared experiences, even if it requires effort.
Perfect Ten: The best jobs in Final Fantasy XI
This article discusses the ten most unique and memorable jobs in the MMORPG Final Fantasy XI, celebrating its 24th anniversary. It highlights how each job, from Red Mage to Dragoon, found a distinct niche within the game's mechanics, even if not always the most powerful.
Final Fantasy 11 is still kicking, despite the MMO's boss expecting a "sharp decline" in interest once its Final Fantasy 14 crossover and welcome back campaigns wrapped up
Despite expectations of a sharp decline after crossover and welcome back campaigns, Final Fantasy XI has maintained a stable and high player count, exceeding the expectations of director and producer Yoji Fujito. While major developments like new story expansions are challenging due to technical limitations and a short-staffed team, Fujito views the current period as a preparatory phase for future growth.
Final Fantasy 11 expected a 'sharp player decline' once the hype from the FF14 crossover and welcome back campaigns ended, but that never came
Despite expectations of a player decline after crossover events and welcome back campaigns, Final Fantasy XI has maintained a steady player base. Director and producer Yoji Fujito expressed surprise at this retention, noting that the game, originally released on PlayStation 2 and PC, continues to perform well. The discussion also touched upon the potential for new content and the importance of MMO conservation.
Final Fantasy XI updates its website and prepares for the future as it celebrates 24 years
Final Fantasy XI has celebrated its 24th anniversary with a revamped website and outlined future plans for the MMORPG. Producer and director Yoji Fujito announced upcoming updates including strengthening alter egos, an easier gear pipeline, replaying old stories, and adding new notorious monsters. The game continues to evolve as it approaches its 25th year.
Final Fantasy XI Server Replacements, Story Teased
In an interview regarding Final Fantasy XI's 24th anniversary, Director and Producer Yoji Fujito discussed ongoing server replacements and hinted at future content additions. While current staff are busy with other projects, Fujito expressed a desire to introduce new story elements once resources become available, with groundwork being laid for potential new cutscenes and content.
Ancient MMO Final Fantasy 11 still has new things on the horizon 24 years after launch
Despite launching in 2002, the MMORPG Final Fantasy XI is still receiving updates, including a recent website overhaul. Game director Yoji Fujito expressed gratitude for the player community and stated the team's goal is to solidify the game's foundation to reach its 30th anniversary.
For its 24th anniversary, Final Fantasy 11 is getting a free trial upgrade that lets you play it for as long as you like
Square Enix is significantly expanding the free trial for its 24-year-old MMORPG, Final Fantasy XI. The updated trial will remove the 14-day time limit, allowing players to experience the base game indefinitely, though with a level cap of 75 and other restrictions on trading and communication. This move aims to make the long-running title more accessible amidst the current live service landscape.
Final Fantasy 11 takes cues from FF14 as Square Enix plans a dramatic free trial expansion
Square Enix is expanding the free trial for Final Fantasy XI, drawing inspiration from Final Fantasy XIV's successful model. The upcoming changes will remove the current two-week playtime limit and raise the level cap from 50 to 75, though some restrictions like auction house access and party invites will remain. Director Yoji Fujito stated these changes are being discussed for implementation before the game's 25th anniversary in May 2027.
Final Fantasy XI Is Expanding Its Free Trial
Square Enix has significantly expanded the free trial for its pioneering MMORPG, Final Fantasy XI. The new trial removes the time limit and raises the level cap to 75, allowing players to explore the base game's world indefinitely. The announcement was made during a livestream celebrating the game's 24th anniversary.