Joystiq

Explore Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn in its latest trailer

Mike Suszek — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST

This trailer, using real-time footage for Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, weaves through the game's many battle-ridden environments. Players can sign up for the game's beta program for PC and PS3 on Square Enix's official site.

Explore Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn in its latest trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Feb 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV shut down, reborn in this 'end of an era' trailer

Mike Suszek — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST

The era ending in this lengthy cinematic trailer is that of Final Fantasy XIV, as Square Enix pulled the plug today on the game's servers in preparation for Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn. The MMO relaunch was said to be "rebuilt from the ground-up" when the not-exactly-new game was announced in July.

The Eorzean Alliance battled the Garlean Empire before further chaos engulfed the "end of an era" trailer, seen above. Like it or not, Final Fantasy XIV certainly went out in style. Both the PS3 and PC versions of A Realm Reborn are expected to launch in 2013.

Final Fantasy XIV shut down, reborn in this 'end of an era' trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy 14 for PS3 exists, and here are the screens to prove it

JC Fletcher — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 10:15:00 EST

Square Enix rebooted version of Final Fantasy XIV, "A Realm Reborn," is still coming to PS3 as well as PC. The company released the first screenshots of the PS3 version today, revealing the new UI for the console version.

The new UI allows players to set up their own button configurations, of course. Square says it's been "designed with the traditional Final Fantasy controls in mind to give the game a classic RPG feel, familiar to any PlayStation 3 RPG gamers." So that means you press X to confirm menu items? And use the d-pad to move between them? We've never put that much thought into "traditional Final Fantasy controls."

Square Enix plans to release both the PS3 and PC versions of A Realm Reborn in 2013.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV - A Realm Reborn (10/11/12)

Continue reading Final Fantasy 14 for PS3 exists, and here are the screens to prove it

Final Fantasy 14 for PS3 exists, and here are the screens to prove it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Enix requests retailers remove current Final Fantasy 14 [update]

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST

Square Enix won't acknowledge a retail "field destroy" has been ordered for Final Fantasy XIV. Yesterday, a NeoGaf user posted a document alleging the publisher had requested retailers to destroy all remaining inventory of the MMO. Square Enix is currently preparing a full reboot of the game entitled A Realm Reborn.

"We haven't announced pricing and launch time for the title yet," a Square Enix rep told us when asked about the company clearing inventory. "However, we have publicly stated that beta will begin at the end of this year."

Sooo, no comment? Final Fantasy XIV's A Realm Reborn is expected later this year for PC and PlayStation 3, and is said to be scalable for next-gen platforms.

Update: Square Enix has clarified its previous statement: "In anticipation of the upcoming Alpha and Beta tests for Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, Square Enix, in coordination with our retail partners, has decided to discontinue sales of the current version of Final Fantasy XIV. This move was done to help ensure that new customers who register their copy of Final Fantasy XIV will have full access to the 30-day free trial period prior the servers shutting down to prepare for the Alpha and Beta tests of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn."

Square Enix requests retailers remove current Final Fantasy 14 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Aug 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Witness Final Fantasy XIV's reborn realm in new trailer

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST

There is kind of a lot going on in Final Fantasy XIV's reborn realm. Like, some sort of an angry mounted swordsman, and fireworks, and lots of other things that make pretty lights. Square Enix's CG department sure didn't pull any punches this time.

Witness Final Fantasy XIV's reborn realm in new trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Enix bringing FFXIV, Lara, Agent 47, Sleeping Dogs guy to Gamescom

Richard Mitchell — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 14:30:00 EST

Square Enix has announced its Gamescom 2012 lineup, and all of its big names look to be attending. Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn seems to be headlining the event, with on-stage gameplay promised alongside signing sessions by producer and director Naoki Yoshida (will every autograph come with an apology?). Gamescom will also play host to the first European hands-on sessions with Tomb Raider, Hitman: Absolution and Sleeping Dogs.

Also on display will be the upcoming PC re-release of Final Fantasy 7 and the retro-styled mobile title Final Fantasy Dimensions.

Continue reading Square Enix bringing FFXIV, Lara, Agent 47, Sleeping Dogs guy to Gamescom

Square Enix bringing FFXIV, Lara, Agent 47, Sleeping Dogs guy to Gamescom originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV Version 2.0 now 'A Realm Reborn'

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:30:00 EST

Don't call it Final Fantasy XIV-2. Square Enix's second Final Fantasy MMO, Final Fantasy XIV, is getting re-released after its tumultuous launch, and that means it's also getting a new name: "Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn."

Square Enix says the game is "rebuilt from the ground up," and features "a new world to explore and storyline to experience." A CGI-heavy trailer for the new content can be found above.

Version 2.0, now "A Realm Reborn," is heading to PlayStation 3 later this year. No date is given on the relaunch for PC.

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV Version 2.0 now 'A Realm Reborn'

Final Fantasy XIV Version 2.0 now 'A Realm Reborn' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Subscription fees return to Final Fantasy XIV on January 6

JC Fletcher — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:03:00 EST

Square Enix has announced a small delay related to Final Fantasy XIV, but we don't think it's one you'll be upset about. Back in October, as part of the ambitious plan to revamp the MMO, Square Enix said it would begin charging a subscription fee in late November or early December. That date has been pushed to January 6, allowing you another whole month of ... playing Final Fantasy XIV in its current form. Hmm.

If you want to set up a subscription for your current account, you'll be able to do so starting December 16. Between January 6 and the release of "version 2.0," subscription fees will be discounted to $6.99 per 30 days (with extra savings for longer periods). The "real" subscription fee when version 2 launches will be $9.99 for 30 days.

Subscription fees return to Final Fantasy XIV on January 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yoshida: Final Fantasy XIV to get Vita, smartphone support, and later, Xbox 360

Jessica Conditt — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EST

Final Fantasy XIV wasn't ever going to win Game of the Year, but that isn't stopping producer and director Naoki Yohsida from supporting the revamped version. Square Enix is considering Vita and smartphone support for Final Fantasy XIV, with access to inventory and in-game item purchases, Yoshida said.

"Not just the Vita, but also smartphones, so that kind of access will be allowed," Yoshida said. "That will open the door to things like applications that people can used to check their inventory, or check the market and purchase things from the auctions."

Yoshida said Square is also still speaking with Microsoft about an Xbox 360 version, but its focus now is mostly on releasing it on PS3.

"The one thing to regain that damaged player trust is to keep those promises, and one of the promises was to release a PlayStation 3 version," Yoshida said. "We made that promise long, long ago, and we still haven't kept it."

Yoshida: Final Fantasy XIV to get Vita, smartphone support, and later, Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy 14 'Version 2.0' begins charging this year, PS3 version in late 2012

Alexander Sliwinski — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:03:00 EST

Square Enix has laid out the plans for Final Fantasy 14 "Version 2.0," with the implementation of subscription fees and an announced launch window for the PS3 version in late 2012 being the most surprising bits.

Final Fantasy 14 Producer/Director Naoki Yoshida said the game's unintended year-long free trial will end between "late November and early December." After that, the publisher is going to rock the MMO space old-school with a subscription-based billing system. Further details about pricing will be sent by email to current registered players at a future date.

Also planning to finally stumble in next holiday is the PS3 version, which is scheduled for release "between October and December of 2012." At the time of the PS3 launch, the publisher plans to begin a "second free trial period."

Following the PS3 launch, the development team plans to rework in-game maps, switch over to a new client and new servers, and provide PC players new software that will be distributed online "free of charge." For those looking to get deep into the changes, Square Enix has provided a full explanation and several PDFs of future plans on its site.

Final Fantasy 14 'Version 2.0' begins charging this year, PS3 version in late 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Enix CEO feels Final Fantasy 14 'greatly damaged' brand

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:40:00 EST

Square Enix CEO Yoichi Wada stated at a recent press conference that the Final Fantasy brand had been "greatly damaged" by the launch of Final Fantasy 14.

"We'll continue with our reform work, which basically amounts to fully redoing the game, and hope to revive the FF14 that should have been released," said Wada, according to Andriasang (translating a report on Sponichi).

The launch of Final Fantasy 14 for PC last year, even by a conservative measure, was an unmitigated disaster. A PS3 version never saw the light of day, as the publisher restructured the staff to fix, er, almost everything. Wada apologized for the game at that time and the title still hasn't implemented its intended subscription fee to this day -- and given the freemium trend in MMOs, likely never will.

Square Enix CEO feels Final Fantasy 14 'greatly damaged' brand originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chocobos, airships, and materia somehow weren't in Final Fantasy 14 yet

JC Fletcher — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:25:00 EST

A series staple is being added to Final Fantasy XIV: Chocobos. A year after release, players can now purchase and rent the birds for the purpose of traveling across Eorzea. Three Chocobo stables have opened up in-world, in which you can get your very own Chocobo whistle.

If that's not efficient enough, or Final Fantasy-y enough, you can also now take an airship ride between any of three ports. "Departure and arrival cutscenes will accompany each flight," Square Enix said. "The voyage itself, however, will be over in a matter of seconds." Now that's Final Fantasy. A later update will allow players to roam the decks and view the scenery.

Even materia is returning to the series in the latest update, as a resource crafted from old, well-used equipment. It's as if Square is desperately trading on nostalgia to attract FF7 players to its MMO.

Chocobos, airships, and materia somehow weren't in Final Fantasy 14 yet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Big changes (and one bighorn beast) afoot in Final Fantasy XIV

James Ransom-Wiley — Tue, 24 May 2011 00:05:00 EST

In his tenth letter to the community since assuming the Final Fantasy XIV producer role in December, Naoki Yoshida posted a staggering list of changes in process and planned for the troubled MMO. The exhaustive and meticulously charted notes suggest that Yoshida's team at least has its "concrete" plan in place -- the first goal of the leadership shakeup -- to right the game following its disastrous launch eight months ago. Better yet, some updates have already been implemented through the two most recent patches, 1.16 and 1.17.

While it's sort of impossible to concisely sum up the changes coming in the upcoming 1.18 patch -- expected before this summer -- some of the highlights include a revamped battle system and a new job system, in addition to the "long-awaited" Ifrit battle (early concept pictured).

Of course, these improvements and add-ons might be met with mixed reaction from players. Should they succeed in bringing about a better Final Fantasy XIV, it would be an undeniably good thing -- but perhaps a good enough thing for which Square Enix could finally start charging a subscription fee.

Big changes (and one bighorn beast) afoot in Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 May 2011 00:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV still playable for free, monthly fee 'still out in the open'

JC Fletcher — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 03:10:00 EST

When Square Enix restarted the Final Fantasy XI and XIV servers after the Tohoku earthquake, it offered free play through the month of April. However, Square Enix has actually been offering Final Fantasy XIV play for free since launch -- its free trial period kept being extended and has never stopped. It was extended indefinitely when Square Enix restructured the team and announced plans to overhaul the game.

New producer Naoki Yoshida told Gamasutra that the end of the free trial is "still out in the open," and that the team will only begin accepting payments once a solid plan for improving the game is in place. "Without that, me, personally, as a player wouldn't feel good about asking the player to pay money," he said. The prolonged free trial is "one of the ways that we can show players that we are serious and we are taking it seriously."

It's a bit of a Catch-22 -- as soon as the game stops being free, it'll start being worth the time.

Final Fantasy XIV still playable for free, monthly fee 'still out in the open' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Apr 2011 03:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XI and XIV servers back online this Friday

JC Fletcher — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 23:00:00 EST

Though the real Japan's recovery efforts are ongoing following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, the virtual worlds of Vana'diel and Eorzea will be back in pristine, explorable condition on Friday, March 25.

After taking the servers down for both Final Fantasy XI and XIV as a power conservation measure on March 13, Square Enix announced today that it'll reopen the MMO worlds this Friday. To keep power use down even with the servers running (the servers account for about 11 percent of the power use in the company's Tokyo office), Square Enix has "shut down our air conditioning system (8.8%) and enacted other power conservation measures, such as reducing lighting in our offices, to achieve over 10% in energy usage reductions."

You can think of those poor staffers stuck in an air-conditioning-less office with giant, heat-spewing computers while you play the games for free. Yes, Square still plans not to collect any monthly fees for April.

Final Fantasy XI and XIV servers back online this Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FFXI and FFXIV servers temporarily closed in wake of Japanese quake

Ben Gilbert — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 16:20:00 EST

Given the enormity of the events in Japan right now, it feels kind of ridiculous to be writing about the massive earthquake's effect on video game servers, but here we are. Both Final Fantasy XI and XIV have had their servers temporarily closed in an effort by Square Enix to help conserve energy in the ailing country. The publisher's web portal services will also be temporarily closed.

Square directly attributes the temporary closures to "continuous earthquakes occurring in the eastern regions of Japan," and says that servers will be down for "at least a week starting on Mar. 13, 2011 3:00 (PDT) [7:00 EST]." It is currently unknown when the servers will go back up, but Square promises regular updates as they come in. Neither game will charge subscription fees through April as a result.

If you'd like to help out, head over to the Red Cross site and donate what you can.

FFXI and FFXIV servers temporarily closed in wake of Japanese quake originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Mar 2011 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV team restructuring, PS3 version delayed

JC Fletcher — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:35:00 EST

We've got bad news and we've got worse news. First, the bad news: The PS3 version of Final Fantasy XIV, originally due March of next year, has been delayed indefinitely.

The worse news is that it's been delayed because the PC game is such a disaster. In an announcement released to the FFXIV community, Square Enix CEO Yoichi Wada apologized for the fact that the game isn't very enjoyable ... and then said that the FFXIV team is restructuring, with new leadership stepping in. Producer Hiromichi Tanaka is out, with Naoki Yoshida taking over as producer/director, and many other positions are also being restaffed. The new team is now working on "a concrete plan outlining Final Fantasy XIV's new direction." Until that new plan is implemented, the game's free trial period will continue.

And so, with the PC version currently a directionless mess, Square Enix wisely decided not to base the PS3 version on that, but instead on whatever the post-restructuring game will be. There's good news, then: Square Enix stopped making what would have been a terrible PS3 game.

Final Fantasy XIV team restructuring, PS3 version delayed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy 14 extends free trial for another 30 days

David Hinkle — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST

Don't want to let go of your Miq'ote Conjurer in Final Fantasy XIV just yet? Well now you don't have to: Square Enix has extended the free trial period by thirty days. In the press release for the announcement -- which is available just past the break -- Square Enix says it's not only in part to thank players, but to also give those who have yet to commit or ditch the title a chance to tinker around with an update set to drop on November 25.

As such, there will now be a running thread detailing changes coming in the November update, as well as an additional update planned for December. And relax: if you took advantage of the previous trial extension, you're still eligible here along with any user who registers a Final Fantasy XIV account and purchases a character by November 19.

Continue reading Final Fantasy 14 extends free trial for another 30 days

Final Fantasy 14 extends free trial for another 30 days originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Enix profits down, but not out as familiar franchises keep sales alive

James Ransom-Wiley — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:15:00 EST

If you think we're going to explain that mess of scribbles above -- fuggedaboutit! What we have parsed from Square Enix's six-month financial report (April-September 2010) is a rather slight net income: ¥1.723 billion ($21.4 million). While any company would take pocket change over a loss, Square Enix profits are indeed down 36 percent from the same period last year, and software sales for the first half of this fiscal year have relied heavily on "contribution from highly profitable carryover sales of major titles released in March" -- in other words: Final Fantasy XIII picked up the slack.

And who were the slackers? Square Enix highlighted five "major titles" released during the period:

Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker 2 (DS) - 1.28 million units sold (Japan-only)
Final Fantasy XIV (PC) - 630K units sold (worldwide)
Just Cause 2 (multiplatform) - 560K units sold (worldwide)*
Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days (multiplatform) - 1.12 million units sold (worldwide)
Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep (PSP) - 510K units sold (worldwide)*

*Title released in some regions prior to April 2010; sales only reflect those recorded in the six months ending September 30, 2010.

Finally, Square Enix heralded its recent partnership with Chinese online games publisher Shanda Games; a deal indicative of two of the company's three proclaimed growth strategies: globalization and becoming "network centric." As for the third? Square Enix's three-pronged attack also stresses "strengthening our own-IPs." So when's that next Final Fantasy coming out again?

[Image: Year-over-year comparison of monthly revenues from existing outlets; source: Square Enix]

Square Enix profits down, but not out as familiar franchises keep sales alive originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV free trial period extended

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Good news, Final Fantasy XIV fans, more free gaming is on the way. Square Enix has announced that the free trial period for Final Fantasy XIV is to be extended by an additional thirty days. The FFXIV website notes that extension is being made in light of "the nature of much of the feedback" and "the current state of the game," which we're assuming translates to "bugz." The extension will be available to all users with a registered service account who have purchased a character prior to October 25.

The site adds that the extension does apply to those with multiple accounts and that all extensions will be made automatically. Furthermore, those who have already been emailed about the end of their trial will still receive the extension.

Final Fantasy XIV free trial period extended originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Control Final Fantasy XIV officially with this PC controller

JC Fletcher — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 04:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Sure, you could play Final Fantasy XIV on PS3, if you like waiting. Or you could play it on PC with a (third-party PC controller based on a) PlayStation controller as soon as September 30. Sunflex, a third-party peripherals company, is releasing an officially licensed Final Fantasy XIV controller on that date, in Europe and the US, under its Snakebyte brand.

It bears a striking resemblance to the company's PS3 accessories, but in white -- and, more importantly, with the Final Fantasy XIV logo on it, so you know you're officially playing Final Fantasy XIV. Whether or not that officialness is an attractive enough quality to justify one of these is your call.

Control Final Fantasy XIV officially with this PC controller originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Metal Gear Solid Rising to cut through the third dimension

Andrew Yoon — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:34:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

While Metal Gear Solid Rising may be coming to both platforms, it'll be available in 3D on the PlayStation 3. Imagine: the gore, the body parts and the watermelons that could be flying out of your fancy 3DTV screen!

In addition to Rising, a number of other games were shown in 3D at Sony's Tokyo Game Show press conference, including Final Fantasy 14 and Hot Shots Golf 5.

Metal Gear Solid Rising to cut through the third dimension originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 00:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV open beta starts tonight

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:45:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Final Fantasy fans may have been dismayed by the delay of the Final Fantasy XIV beta yesterday, but be dismayed no more! Square Enix has announced that the "critical bugs" have been exterminated and the North American beta will actually begin today at 7:00pm Pacific Time (10:00pm Eastern / Joystiq Time).

Meanwhile, the European beta (available in the UK, France and Germany) will begin September 2 at 2:00 GMT and the Japanese beta is set to start on September 2 at 11:00 JST. Once the beta begins, just head over to the beta portal to start the registration process.

Final Fantasy XIV open beta starts tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV open beta postponed due to 'critical bugs'

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:15:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

No arrow, blade or strongest Firaga seems to be capable of ridding the online world of Final Fantasy XIV from its most daunting foes -- the dreaded "critical bugs." Square Enix announced earlier today that the game's open beta testing, which was scheduled to start later today, will be postponed in all regions due to the discovery of these vexing critters.

No new timetable was placed on the open beta testing -- we suppose that depends on how long it takes Square to vanquish the errors that are apparently plaguing the client. We'll let you know as soon as there's more information.

[Thanks, Nick]

Final Fantasy XIV open beta postponed due to 'critical bugs' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV open beta begins August 31

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

If you weren't one of the chosen few who managed to weasel their way into the game's closed beta test, your first chance to log a few hours into Final Fantasy XIV will come next week. Square Enix announced through the game's official forums that open beta servers will go live next Tuesday, August 31 at 7 p.m. PDT.

Though the forum post explains that servers will be live 24 hours a day, only a set number of players will be able to log on at one time. This number will gradually increase as Square Enix tests out its server loads, but in the mean time, players who get turned away will be placed on a waiting list. Just think of it like you're waiting in line to gain access to a hip, happening night club, only ... um, it's the exact polar opposite.

Final Fantasy XIV open beta begins August 31 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV 'Answers' trailer asks some truly bizarre questions

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:20:00 EST

Regardless of whether or not you're looking forward to Final Fantasy XIV, you really owe it to yourself to watch the new trailer posted after the jump. Not because it reveals the game's theme song ("Answers," as performed by pretty-voiced vocalist Susan Calloway), and not because it contains a few relatively rad cutscenes from the game, but because it features some of the most mind-blowingly insane writing to ever come out of the franchise. And that's saying something.

"These tears," the trailer posits. "Mankind's fated burden? A gods-decreed sacrifice?" Whoa, there, trailer! "Radiant glory? Or heinous oblivion?" We don't know how to answer that, trailer. The second one, we guess? We're not entirely sure what you're asking.

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV 'Answers' trailer asks some truly bizarre questions

Final Fantasy XIV 'Answers' trailer asks some truly bizarre questions originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV delay on PS3 chalked up to 'memory'

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

While discussing the fate of Square Enix's upcoming crystal-centric MMO Final Fantasy XIV with VG247, producer Hiromichi Tanaka revealed the reason for the game's late arrival on the PS3: "The main reason was the memory," Tanaka explained via his translator. He added, "They are adjusting the memory size and customizing it; it took longer then we were expecting. But we're really working hard to bring it out as soon as possible."

When asked if the size restriction in question was due to the Blu-ray or the HDD, Tanaka simply repeated the word "memory." While he's likely referring to the RAM issues that continue to plague MMO developers on the console, we can't help but wonder -- what if it doesn't have anything to do with the PS3's actual hardware? What if the game got delayed on the PS3 because Square Enix just ... forgot about it? Someone get them some extra-strength ginkgo, stat!

Final Fantasy XIV delay on PS3 chalked up to 'memory' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV development for Xbox 360 currently paused

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Once again, an MMORPG has been cut down by Xbox Live's online policies. Considering Final Fantasy XI was one of the few massively multiplayer games to arrive on the system, we had high hopes for its spiritual successor, Final Fantasy XIV. Unfortunately, Square Enix's talks with Microsoft apparently weren't too fruitful, as producer Hiromichi Tanaka explained to VG247 that Microsoft's strict policies for the online platform are blocking the developer from proceeding with FFXIV's 360 port.

However, Tanaka did note that development on the 360 version wasn't completely canceled, but rather, on pause. Of course, the PC version of Final Fantasy XIV is due out on September 30, and the PS3 version's slated for next March -- if Square Enix and Microsoft can't come to an agreement soon, we're not sure how much of a demand there's going to be to get this bad boy back on track.

Final Fantasy XIV development for Xbox 360 currently paused originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV's XVIII different classes revealed

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 03:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

The full list of Final Fantasy XIV's peculiar, discipline-based classes was recently outed by Famitsu (as translated by fansite FFXIV Core). If your idea of an MMO class roster boils down to Wizards, Warriors, Rogues, etc., you're probably going to be perplexed by the game's profession-centric composition. Don't get too bogged down in thought, though -- you'll be able to switch between these jobs at will once the game drops for the PC in September.

For a full breakdown of class distribution between the combat-focused Disciples of War, the wizardly Disciples of Magic, the gathering-adept Disciples of the Land and the crafty Disciples of Hand, just click past the jump.

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV's XVIII different classes revealed

Final Fantasy XIV's XVIII different classes revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Jul 2010 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Closed Final Fantasy 14 beta starts this weekend

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

The closed beta for Final Fantasy XIV begins this Saturday, July 10. If you've been invited to test drive the MMORPG, there should be an email waiting in your inbox. It'll point you to the official forums, where you'll have to log in and find a link to download the client. Think of it as a multi-tiered quest.

The final version of Final Fantasy 14 will hit retail on September 30 in regular and more expensive "early access" versions.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV (5/20/10)

Closed Final Fantasy 14 beta starts this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy 14 launches Sept. 30 on PC, March 2011 on PS3

Ludwig Kietzmann — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:57:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Square Enix has announced that Final Fantasy XIV will be launched on Windows PCs worldwide on September 30 -- well, provided you've obtained the game, installed it and then clicked on the launch shortcut. This step comes after you've made a choice between two different versions of the anticipated MMORPG: a standard edition, which will retail for $49.99, and a $74.99 Collector's Edition.

The latter edition will enable early access to the game on September 22nd ("subject to initial server capacity," Square Enix warns) and will include a making-of DVD, a Final Fantasy XIV-branded security token, an art book, special cover art by Yoshitaka Amano, a "fully-personalized Right of Passage Certificate" and a stat-boosting Onion Helm item for pre-orders (Standard Edition pre-orders get ze "Garlond Goggles," they do nothing in real life). Both versions offer 30 days of gameplay upon purchase, with one playable character and one non-playable character playing the undignified role of item retainer. Should you choose to continue exploring the world of Eorzea, Eorfee will be $12.99 per month.

Oh, and just a reminder that PS3 is one of several consoles that won't be able to play Final Fantasy XIV in 2010 -- since Square Enix confirmed that Final Fantasy XIV will only arrive on Sony's system in "early" March 2011. Pricing for that version will be announced at a later time.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy 14 launches Sept. 30 on PC, March 2011 on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy returns to the San Francisco Symphony July 15 and 16

Randy Nelson — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Following sold-out performances last year, the San Francisco Symphony will be performing two concerts next month featuring music from the Final Fantasy series. What's more, series maestro Nobuo Uematsu will be in attendance and appear at meet & greet events following the July 15 and 16 performances.

Continue reading Final Fantasy returns to the San Francisco Symphony July 15 and 16

Final Fantasy returns to the San Francisco Symphony July 15 and 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jun 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Enix in talks with Microsoft for FFXIV on Xbox 360

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

If the Microsoft fanboys among you were hoping for another Final Fantasy coup at this year's Microsoft E3 press conference, don't be too disappointed by the presentation's lack of spiky-haired, effeminate heroes. In an interview with RPGsite, Final Fantasy XIV producer Hiromichi Tanaka explained that while the MMO is currently only slated for release on PS3 and PC, the company is "still talking with Microsoft about an Xbox 360 version."

We've built a thick, calloused hide around our hearts when it comes to getting MMOs on the 360, but seeing as Square Enix was one of the few companies that was actually able to pull it off, we won't balk at Tanaka's intentions. We may look at them incredulously, but we will not balk.

Square Enix in talks with Microsoft for FFXIV on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A massive controller for massively multiplayer PS3 games

JC Fletcher — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Peripherals maker Hori is getting ready for Final Fantasy XIV on PS3, and getting ready to upsize your PS3 controlling experience. The company had this "PS3 MMO Controller" on display at its E3 booth, featuring a rather insane-looking tabletop left-hand thing, and a keyboard with PS3 analog stick and face buttons attached.

We say Hori is getting ready for FFXIV, but it's not ready yet. This controller was a "concept model" only, with no information about a release date or price.

A massive controller for massively multiplayer PS3 games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Preview: Final Fantasy XIV

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 10:15:00 EST

You probably already know whether you fall into the audience Square Enix is targeting with its next entry into the MMORPG market, Final Fantasy XIV. You've likely been able to tell from the trailers, assets and previews from the past year that it resembles Final Fantasy XI in a number of integral ways, from its slow, methodical gameplay to its archaic, super-pretty environments.

The brief guided demo I was shown at E3 didn't give me much of a chance to explore how this game sets itself apart from the previous online Fantasy title. It was absolutely, jaw-droppingly gorgeous (especially in 3D, a feature which may or may not make it to final release), and seemed to capture the "feel" of the core series, but both of those are accolades that can be applied to the franchise's eleventh outing.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV

Continue reading Preview: Final Fantasy XIV

Preview: Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New Final Fantasy XIV screens explore Eorzea's metropolitan side

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 20 May 2010 19:00:00 EST

Click to metro-size

The latest batch of screenshots for Square Enix's second stab at MMO-ifying its flagship brand, Final Fantasy XIV, doesn't really focus on the diverse ecology of the world of Eorzea. Rather, it shows off a few of the noteworthy locales in the whimsically named City-State of Limsa Lominsa, one of the three main territories players will take residence in.

If you're one of those MMO players who likes to stick to the safety of trading and crafting within a massive metropolitan stronghold, you can get an early glimpse at some of your future surroundings in the gallery below. For even more details about the alliterative municipality, check out the game's official site.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV (5/20/10)

New Final Fantasy XIV screens explore Eorzea's metropolitan side originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 May 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Square Enix reveals all of Final Fantasy XIV's races and clans

Mike Schramm — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 23:40:00 EST

Square Enix has revealed detailed information about the five new "clans" found within the races of Eorzea, the realm in which upcoming MMO Final Fantasy XIV will take place. Clans offer up two slightly different character options within the five overall race choices -- for example, if you want to play as a burly Roegadyn, you can go with the paler and more subdued "Sea Wolf" fisherman clan, or heat things up with the rock-and-fire influenced "Hellsguard" clan. Information on all of the races and clans is now available on Square Enix's website.

Unfortunately for Final Fantasy fans, we looked through the whole list of clans, and not a single one of the races lets you become a Sith Warrior. Sure, the Miqo'te Seekers of the Sun look cute and all, but is their one stated goal to kill Jedi? No? Pass, then, sorry.

[via Massively]

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV (clans and races)

Square Enix reveals all of Final Fantasy XIV's races and clans originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 23:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV trailer shows off mundane aspects of Eorzean life

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:20:00 EST

Hey, life in Final Fantasy XIV's lush, dangerous world of Eorzea isn't all boss battles and summons, you know? Sometimes, folks need to slow their roll, and go for a stroll in the city. Maybe slice up a few onions. Hit up the bakery for some fresh-baked goods. Is it terribly exciting stuff? Not particularly -- but it's the subject of the game's latest trailer, which we've posted after the jump.

The non-combat world still looks pretty interesting, but a little action would have gone a long way. For instance, you know who could have helped slice up those onions? Odin. Just get yourself a pile of Sweet Vidalias, pull a quick Zantetsuken, and then boom -- you got yourself a delicious Awesome Blossom[TM].

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIV trailer shows off mundane aspects of Eorzean life

Final Fantasy XIV trailer shows off mundane aspects of Eorzean life originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 Final Fantasy XIII includes 'XIV' bonus item, chance for beta access

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:28:00 EST

Last night, during the -- super awkward -- Final Fantasy XIII launch party in San Fransisco, Sony's Rob Dyer took a big shot across the bow of any Microsoft representatives in the audience by promising a pending announcement of exclusive content for the PS3 version of the game.

Today, on PlayStation Blog, Dyer revealed that the PS3 version includes a "secret in-game item" for Final Fantasy XIV -- a similar, or perhaps the same promotion offered in Japan. Additionally, PS3 players can enter for a chance to beta test Final Fantasy XIV, which has only been announced for PS3 and PC.

The in-game item might be interesting (baby chocobo vanity pet, please), but we're not really enthralled by a "potential opportunity" to get in on the beta. A potential opportunity? So there's a chance that there's a chance we'll be able to get into the beta? Well that's slightly better than no chance of a chance, we suppose.

PS3 Final Fantasy XIII includes 'XIV' bonus item, chance for beta access originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Final Fantasy XIV closed beta goes live March 11

Ben Gilbert — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST

If you're anything like us (or our partners over at Massively), you were hurriedly clicking refresh on the official VanaFest 2010 website for news about the now eight-year-old Final Fantasy XI MMO last night. If you were, then you might've caught the momentary mention that the first wave of (closed) beta testing for the next Final Fantasy MMO (that's number 14, for those of you playing along at home) will be going live on March 11.

Square also assuaged fears of missing out on the closed beta by saying that "Those who were not selected in this drawing, fear not, for there will be other opportunities to come," adding that interested parties should "Be sure to stay tuned!" We figure if we're not invited, you know, all the more time to play that other Final Fantasy release, right?

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV

[Via Massively]

Final Fantasy XIV closed beta goes live March 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Feb 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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