Famitsu Magazine has released some more information regarding FFXIV and the Alpha test. Currently for this exact information I cannot find a translation so I'll simply link you to the google translation. Keep in mind that "Girudorivu" refers to Guildleve, " β " refers to Beta and " α " refers to Alpha. They more or less go over the different points about how you start your character out in the Alpha test. They explain about the opening movie and how right after it there's a tutorial type of fight to let you get accumulated to the battle system. They also mention that Limsa Lominsa and it's surrounding areas will be the only starting area during the Alpha and possibly Beta tests. They also explain how while you can recover HP for resting or being in passive mode, recovering MP is done a bit differently by clicking on certain crystals. Speculation is that this is Square Enix's way to keep people from "Camping" so much and to actually move around and explore more.
They continue to go on and explain about how there will be a certain type of "Merit" system from the get go, which will allow you to accumulate points to be spent on different attributes and abilities. This is part of how your character will grow and be customizable in FFXIV. They also explain how it might be possible through this system to allow certain abilities and spells from one discipline to be used on others. Personally, I would think these would be only minor spells, traits, and abilities, much like how FFXI's subjob system works.
That's all I can come up with for now in my sleep deprived state. Be sure and click on the google translation to get all the cool new screen shots as well as the official article.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
More Alpha Information from Famitsu.
Famitsu Hands On Alpha Test!
In the latest issue of Famitsu magazine they were lucky enough to actually get to test the newly released Alpha version of FFXIV, and Square Enix was kind enough to let them publish all of their findings! This is the most insight we have gotten to FFXIV so far and we find out a whole bunch of new information and details. There's way too much to list here, so check out the full artical Here On Zam and Here On FFXIVcore to find out all the exciting new screenshots, facts, and details about FFXIV!
FFXIV Devs talk about plans for Alpha & Beta.
Recently, Dengeki magazine got to sit down with the developers and discuss the Alpha and Beta test phases that FFXIV will be undergoing. They got a good look at what the developers have in mind so far and give some great insight as to what you might can expect. There's also more new information regarding the game dynamics itself and how FFXIV will be evolving through the Alpha and Beta stages. Read the full article Here On Zam.
Active Mode, Passive Mode, and Party Dynamics.
In a recent article in Famitsu Magazine, Square Enix developers discuss the passive and active battle modes and how they will effect you in FFXIV. By now you most likely already know that in FFXIV there will be a "Active" stance and a "Passive" stance. One with your weapon sheathed and one with it drawn. What you might not know is that it's more than just being engaged or disengaged with a enemy, like how for example you can be in active or passive mode anywhere at any time. Each will have advantages and disadvantages that are quite obvious, but there are more details to this system than you might think.
We also get some more insight as to how the developers are creating the grouping systems in FFXIV and learn they want us to be able to have quite a bit of freedom. Whether you may want to adventure with many or adventure solo, they assure us that no time will be wasted or without reward.
Take a look at the full article Here On Zam to discover more.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Nvsion Magazine! Now with more FFXIV!
A new spring issue of the popular gaming magazine released by Nvidia's "Nvision" magazine has just hit the shelves and as you can see by the cover, they're giving FFXIV some much deserved publicity. They have a entire section of the magazine all about up and coming MMORPG's for this year, with the first 6 pages being completely dedicated to FFXIV, not to mention the front cover itself and the very back cover. I just picked up my copy, be sure and pick up yours as well! You can get them just about anywhere.
I'll give you guys a run down of what the magazine itself says in these 6 exciting pages of FFXIV goodness.
"And what did you do at work today, honey?"
"Oh, I just created a new world, designed a new planet and some critters to roam the hills and valleys, and outlined the designs for the players that are gonna run around and shoot 'em all."
"That's nice, dear--What are you going to do on the seventh day?"
Building the next generation of massively multiplayer online worlds actually requires years of dedication to concept, design, and execution. Big franchises and bigger teams are crafting the spaces online gamers willl inhabit for the next decade. That requires a talent and commitment level of a flavor that is unique to the games industry, and we're taking you inside the process to reveal what it takes to bring virtual universes to life.
What's clear about the next wave of MMO is that graphics are no longer and afterthought--developers are finally tapping into the full power of the GPU to bring cutting-edge visuals to the genre.
Few gaming franchises combine the longevity, critical approval, and fan adoration that defines the Final Fantasy series. This 14th iteration (not counting all the various off-shoots, side projects, and even animated films) moves the franchise online for the second time (The first time was 2002's Final Fantasy XI). But a brand new world--Hydaelyn--and a new setting on that world called Eorzea require a vast amount of new art concepts, design, and creation--all occurring under the watchful eye of art director Akihiko Yoshido-san. Nvision tapped Yoshida-san for exclusive insights into the process his team goes through to remain within the traditions of the franchise while developing fresh new locations for online gamers to explore.
"The Variety of playing styles available will be considerably greater than that of Final Fantasy XI," Yoshida-san says of the scope of content being created. Hydaelyn blends sci-fi and fantasy elements, as seen in the early images released, leading to a large variety of disparate style needing to be blended into a cohesive world vision. "To deliver the graphics necessary to bring the variety of gameplay to life, we are striving to produce sharp images that are contextually appropriate to the time, place, and situation. An example of this would be the visually stimulating or evocative landscapes," says Yoshida-san, adding, "To help fulfill the expectations that players have cine ti have of afinal fantasy world. One of the first things we take into account is a certain sense of reality. For example, we have paid a great deal of attention to the effects that the passage of time or changes in the weather have on how light is displayed."
Still, veterans of Final Fantasy XI will see some similarities in the character styles and professions, even though the specific races and classes will be new to the series. "The character creation from Final Fantasy XIV will be much more in-depth than that of previous titles of the series," says Yoshida-san, "Players will be able to generate avatars similar to thos in Final Fantasy XI if they choose to do so, but there will also be some new [player character] types." Want more specifics on the new characters? The devs are keeping that information tightly under wraps. though five distinctive races have been revealed so far.
Incredibly, Square-Enix released the single-player Final Fantasy XIII while working on this MMO off-shoot. The games share certain technology details such as the core engine and the tools used to build the worlds, bu the process, challenges, and ultimate requirements are significantly different. More surprising yet is the fact that the world of Hydaelyn revealed in the first release of FFXIV may actually be smaller than the locations crammed on to the Blu-ray disc shipping for FFXIII on PS3. "Since we are still in development a thorough comparison isn't possible, but at releast FFXIB will be about the same scale, if not slightly smaller, than FFXIII," says Yoshida-san.
But that's not to suggest the game world will actually be small. Shortly after its release in Japan, it was revealed that enough content for an entire additional game ended up on the FFXIII cutting-room floor. These game worlds are always massive...and complicated. While Square-Enix is keeping many gameplay details under wraps, five races have been revealed (the Hyur, Lalafell, Miqo'te, Roegadyn, and Elezen) with character classes organized in four discipline types (Disciples of War, Magic, the Land, and the Hand). The races, classes, and disciplines require an intriguing blend of art assets to capture the vast scope of this world. "The world of FFXIV will have certain sci-fi elements such as out-of-place artifacts, perhaps best exemplified by airships," says Yoshida-san. "These elements will play a key role in distinguishing the cultures and civilizations of different nations, regions, and races, but they will not be extremely numerous," adds Yamamoto-san. "We are seeking to create a fantasy world with its core in classic sword-and-sorcery that players will never grow tired of visiting, no matter how much they play."
Veterans of FFXI may, come actual release, recognize certain elements of the class structure, but the developers are happy to point out that lessons learned from the development will be incorporated into a tighter, more focused online Final Fantasy experience. "It would be more accurate to say that we are attempting to achieve a development process that take full advantage of the know-how obtained from Final Gantasy XI while also improving on its shortcomings," says Yoshida-san. "Given the differences in the worlds, there will be no direct transplants from Final Fantasy XIII," he adds, "however, player can expect to see some of the classic monsters from the Final Fantasy series making an appearance, a number of which will be undergoing a makeover from FFXI."
Some of those enhancements will come courtesy of close working relationship between nvidia and the Square-Enix engineers and art department to optimize the vast environments and detailed characters for nvidia GPUs. And you heard it here first: Square Enix is also investigating options to incorporate 3D Vision support.
Like so many in-game details, further specifics on these relationships and what they may deliver to gamers in the year ahead and not being disclosed. Of course, given the evolving development process that MMOs undertake post-launch, many other high-end elements could find their way into the code and your game experience. "We are putting in place a system that will allow us to continually implement fresh, new designs while simultaneously taking precautions to ensure that there is no 'design inflation' early on," says Yoshida-san. "Allowances are also being made for future expansion of the game."
That, for fans of the Final Fantasy universe, is very, very good news. As if the single-player Final Fantasy XIII wasn't enough content, this super-stylized sci-fi epic with swords and sorcery elements will provide even cross-server gaming between locations to keep you entertained for years. And in that time, you'll get to wander some incredible locations, gaze in awe at mind-boggling structures, and craft details on your own character that place it undeniably in the Final Fantasy universe.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Life In Eorzea, Vol. 1
The first entry in Square Enix's FFXIV youtube channel showing us a close up video of Alpha game play has been released! In this video we get a tour of Limsa Lominsa, we get to see some crafting taking place, various emotes, even a chocobo! It's short but very sweet. Below I will post a translation to the video as well. (I did not do this translation myself and am unsure who to give credit to since I've seen it on various sites and blogs and I've not found a source for it)
Riekom: Hi, I’m Square Enix’s Riekom.
Julia: I’m Julia.
Aratam: I’m Aratam.
Riekom: Final Fantasy XIV’s alpha test is just around the corner!
Aratam: Oh, cool.
Riekom: Today we’re bringing you a quick look at Eorzea’s Limsa Lominsa.
Julia and Aratam are impressed.
Riekom: How about this view, huh?
Julia: It’s amazing. What a radiant sea!
Aratam: It definitely has a great, unique feel to it.
Julia: These must be shops.
Aratam: So many great-looking things are lined up. I’m having fun just window-shopping!
Riekom: I’m sure I’ll be spending a LOT of gil here.
Riekom: There’s even fish, and…
All three: Oh! CHOCOBO!
Riekom: There are many different kinds of people working in the city.
Aratam: Aw, she’s crying. I wonder if her boyfriend dumped her?
Riekom: Are you stupid or something? She’s slicing ONIONS.
Aratam: Such realistic movements!
Julia: We can even see the salt he’s putting in.
Riekom: I love cooking, so I feel right at home here.
All three: Oh! HAMBURGER STEAK!
Riekom: We’re also going to show you some character emotes.
Boys: Lalafell~
Creepy Mystery Voice: CUUUUUUTE…
Aratam: She’s dancing!
Riekom: The person controlling this Lalafell is a 30 year old guy.
Creepy Mystery Voice (Julia?): D’OH!
Riekom: This is just the first video, so we can’t show you very much. Sorry!
Riekom: From here on out, we’ll be showing you a lot of things from Eorzea through video, so look forward to it!
All three: See you next time!
New Alpha Screenshot Released.
A new close up look at gameplay and user interface (UI) has been released and gives us a even closer look inside the world of FFXIV. This is a official screen shot from Square Enix themselves! Read the full article and speculation here on FFXIVcore.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Highlander, and a new hope for more Races!
As I was scrolling through all the new information just added to the official Japanese FFXIV website I came across something quite interesting... Quite interesting indeed. Something that could be easily overlooked with all the excitement of new pictures, information and discussions... Do you see it yet? As of now, we have the five races of Eorzea, three of which have male and female counterparts, two of which are gender specific for each gender, as well as two tribes within each race... But what's this? Something is off balance, something is not right... The Highlander? Why is there only a picture of a Male and why does it say only Male Mercenaries of that tribe are seen around anymore?
What this does, is throw off the balance of a equal amount of playable characters for both Males and Females, essentially giving males one more option than females. Now now ladies, there's no need to panic. I highly doubt in modern society a company like Square Enix would dare to do something so taboo. What does that mean? Well it means more or less we're going to be seeing something to return the balance of playable options for both males and females. Most likely a all female tribe. But where will it fit in...? Perhaps a new race...? And why would they keep this from us at this point if there was only one more tribe of all females to be added...? Why would they risk the bad publicity and panic of their being more options for males...?
Once you ask these questions it seems obvious... Square Enix is teasing us, they have more up their sleeves than meets the eyes, and they did this to make us think... More than likely there will not only be a tribe of all women (like the highlander is to all men) announced before release, but we will most likely see other tribes and perhaps new races announced with it. For those of us still hopeful of Square Enix adding Male Miqo'Te this comes as great news and gives us new hope.
If you think about it logically, if I was Square Enix personally, I wouldn't want to announce something coveted and wished for as Male Miqo'Te till the very end. Why is this you ask? Because, If they announced to early on it would lose it's sense of hype, however if they announce it at a date closer to release where it comes as a BIG SURPRISE and something that a lot of people have wanted for a long time, it will influence a lot more people and make it easier for them to make the purchase of FFXIV. It's all about marketing my friends!
There's also a possibility that Square Enix could add a all-female tribe to the Hyur just as they did with the Highlanders. It would also make sense if you look at the names. We have Highlanders, Midlanders... But what about Lowlanders? Those could very well be the race of all-female-Hyur. Who's to say? There might be more tribes added for ALL races. Square Enix seems to want to give us a lot of options this time around, perhaps they will give the ladies a more bulky/amazonian tribe if they wish to be like that, and give the guys a more feminine tribe (like male miqo'te) if they want that option as well. And there's always the chance that Square Enix just might not have the information ready for us yet (as they've shown with how they add bits and pieces at a time, like the city-states and disciplines). Nothing is set in stone yet, so all we can do is wait.
Till we learn more, keep these thoughts in mind and remain hopeful!
(Screen Shot and Picture in this Article belongs to and all rights reserved to Square Enix Co, LTD.)
Official FFXIV website updated.
The official FFXIV site has been updated! Although right now it has only been updated in Japanese. In the next day(s) it will be updated on the North American and European sites, until then I'd like to direct your attention to The Official Japanese FFXIV website. Here you will see all new information as well as more pictures on the new races and tribes for FFXIV! Since it is only in Japanese right now I will give you some rough translations and a few of the new pictures. (Credit for Translations goes to Lumokai from FFXIVzam.com)(pictures are owned and all rights reserved by Square Enix Co, LTD.).
Midlander
Among the populous Hyuran, the majority is comprised of this great clan. They reside in various regions, and are enriched with a diverse livelihood. From a young age, Midlanders become accustomed to books. Because of this, they seem to have a deep, intellectual society.
Highlander
The highlanders dominate the remote, northern highlands. They are the strong, muscular, tribe of the Hyuran. After their city-state of Ala Mihgo fell to the Garlean Empire, with the exception of Male Mercenaries, it has become rare to see them in other cities.
Plainsfolk
The Plainsfolk gather and built villages from the materials of the plains, and have come to be called "The people of the Plains". Their earthly green, flaxen hair resembles vegetation. With their large ears, they can hear even the faintest footsteps of a mole.
Dunesfolk
Large, domesticated livestock are made to carry the homes that the dunesfolk migrate and live in. They live with the movement of the soil, and are called the "People of the Dunes" among the Lalafell. One of their unique features is that their eyes are enveloped by a protective clear film, which makes their eyes resemble a Crystal Ball. On their forehead, a jewel which represents their star of fate is affixed.
Forester
For hundreds of years, this Elezen tribe have inhabited the deep green forests. They are proud of their hawk-like eyesight, and excel in archery. Nowadays, those who have adapted to city life or those who live a nomadic life in the plains often return to the woodlands.
Shader
For hundreds of years, the Shaders have inhabited dark caves. Developing bat-like ears, they can sense the enemy's movement by the rustling of clothes. Because of this, many Shaders excel in hand-to-hand combat. Turning to thievery in order to sustain their cave-dwelling life, they are despised by the forester as turncoats.
Seawolf
Known as "Seawolves", this Roegadyn tribe is feared as marauding pirates from the northern seas. Nowadays, the number of Seawolves who fare the high seas are becoming numerous.
Lohengarde
Residing in the vicinity of volcanic craters, the Lohengarde are a tribe of Roegadyn who are faithful in the "Gates of Hell". They are called the "Gatekeepers of the Flame" . Not only are their bodies hard and tempered, their "fire-walking" asceticism allows them to nurture the qualities of magickal ingenuity.
Sun Seekers
One tribe of the Mi'qote call themselves "The people of the Sun". The followers of the Sun God Azema are numerous, and they are very active in the daytime. They have cold, piercing,, colorful, cat-like eyes.
Moon Keepers
The other tribe of the Mi'qote call themselves "The Wards of the Moon". They are the many followers of the Moon God Menefina, and many follow a nocturnal lifestyle. Many of the Moon Keepers apply vivid war paint onto their face.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Official FFXIV website updated.
As of March 12th 2010 the official FFXIV website has been updated. Mainly, it has been updated with the information we already knew thanks to Famitsu. But be sure to check it out. Go to the "Gameplay" section under "Disciplines" and you will find new detailed information about the disciplines in FFXIV. Still much info is left to be added for the disciplines themselves, and many other aspects of the official website. But for now, be sure to read up on the latest information they added regarding some of the disciplines, how they will work, what weapons they will use and more!
Beta Test Site Now Open.
Well it would seem the BETA test site is now open... "Technically", although as of right now the client (BETA version of the game) is not yet up for download. Word on the street is that Square Enix is having some technical difficulties feeding the hamsters that power the servers- Errr, I mean Square Enix is having some technical difficulties with the test servers. No one knows yet when it will be open, hopefully sooner than later so we can get this all underway and get closer to final stage BETA and the final product.
More rumors continue to circulate about Square Enix sending out more BETA test invites, however, these from what I see are nothing more than rumors. Still no word has been received on the winners of the BETA test invites from the premium FFXI websites "BETA test invite drawings" held about a month back.
I guess for now, all we can do is stay tuned and hope for the best. Keep checking those E-Mails/BETA test site/FFXIV official site/Blogs/Forums!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
New Information from Famitsu!
New information has just poured in from Famitsu Magazine. This information is just a little more insight to the jobs of FFXIV and how they will work and be played. Quite the interesting read indeed.
With all that being said, I will link you now to the articles discussing this very matter.
Article on Zam.
Article on Eorzeapedia.
Article on FFXIVcore.
Original Artical on Famitsu (In Japanese).
It's nice seeing how your physical positioning when fighting will play a big role in this game, depending on what your job is. It also seems like always, each job has strengths and weaknesses. The six major elements will also be making an appearance and the developers even talk about how this could come into play with the jobs themselves. Sadly, Light and Dark don't seem to be elements that players will be using and taking advantage of. This could very well change though, it's too early to tell, as the game is still in it's Alpha Stages.
For those of you wondering, the elements are Fire/Earth/Wind/Water/Thunder/Ice. Each element is weak to one and strong to one. It makes a game a bit more interesting and seems to be playing a bigger role than it was in FFXI even.
(credit for the image goes to Eorzeapedia and Square Enix, co. LTD)
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Let the BETA begin.
Vanafest 2010 brought some exciting new information regarding Final Fantasy XIV. Beta information, to be exact. Turns out the official Beta will be up for download on the official FFXIV beta tester website on march 11th. From what I heard, Square Enix sent E-mails out on the first of march informing people who got into the first stage of Beta, which they are calling the "Alpha Test". If you got in, congratulations! If not, don't fret. Square Enix seems to have picked the Beta testers completely randomly, for the Alpha Test at least. Or perhaps they only had so many spots and wanted a bunch of different types of people, machines (PC only at the moment, sorry PS3 owners), and demographics.
One can rest assured though, as these tests go on, quite frequently they will add more and more people, they send this themselves in a interview. The best thing to is... "Check your E-Mail... And Check it often". As time goes on they will add more and more people to the Beta, commencing with the final "Open Beta" which will most likely last several months as it does with most MMORPG's. Open Beta pretty much is the final Beta stage and more or less anyone can get in. So, with all that being said, keep up your hope. If you didn't get a E-Mail from Square Enix yet, just keep checking regularly.
One thing to note though, is that this E-Mail can often come up in Spam Folders, so be sure to check yours. Another thing, is that the E-Mail will come to the E-Mail address you have registered on your Square Enix account. If you don't have a Square Enix account it will come to whichever one you registered with on the Beta Application.
Official FFXIV website updated.
Sorry for being slow about this, however not too long ago the FFXIV site was updated with new information. As of now, this is the latest information on the FFXIV site. The update consisted of more information being added about the story of Eorzea, new character customization options, as well as new screen shots.
Be sure to check it all out on the official FFXIV website under "World > Races, World > Story" and "Media".
Changes to my Blog...
For Awhile now I've been keeping this blog as updated as possible, however a lot of the information here is simply me copying information I have found for your viewing pleasure and presenting it to you. Although, more often than not I could have simply linked you to the information itself. However, that being said, Most of the time I have indeed added in my own opinions and views as well as a few of my own translations and interpretations on what things mean.
I've kept this site up because I have been a avid FFXI player since it's very beginning and have much pride in how proficient I was at that game. Because of this I was always at the cutting edge of new things, top notch gear, and the best strategies around. I took a lot of pride in finding out exactly what was the best gear combinations, job combinations and generally how to do things with peak performance in any kind of situation.
FFXI was my bread and butter and major hobby for the longest of times, however when the slightest rumor of a successor to the longstanding MMORPG was rumored to be in development years ago, I started my research. I started looking, lurking, and trying to find as much information as possible, I was even there back when everyone started calling it "Project Rapture". When FFXIV was announced at E3 I knew -many knew- it was going to be announced, so when the announcement of FFXIV did come forth I wanted to be on the forefront of data and up to the minute information on this sort of thing.
However, I have found that there are other sources of information (mainly the Japanese Magazines), and better translators than myself around, sadly... I have (with given credit) used a lot of the information (while adding my own to of course) on this site. But at the end of the day, their big teams and staffs can do a better and quicker job than I can.
So the time has come that I think some changes should be made... The fact is, this information is already available on other parts of the internet for your viewing pleasure, quicker than I can get it up. So I have decided simply to link to that information for you. Don't worry though, this will allow me to add up all the different sources in one place as fast as possible and keep them compiled (something most sites won't do so they keep their exclusiveness). But the main reason for all of this?
I will be able to write more articles simply on my own terms, about what we know. Not so much just information from Square Enix and the Japanese media, but what you can expect from a expert MMORPG gamers point of view, what to look for, etc. Think of it like those idiot's guides to everything (not that I'm implying there's any idiots on the internet...)
So I hope you all continue to enjoy my blog and the coming articles and information!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
More Q's & A's with the Dev's!
Some time ago it seems there was a Question & Answer segment with the developers that slipped by us. It seems FFXIVcore got around to translating it. I'm not sure how old this is, but it has what should be new information to yourselves, so enjoy! (Credit also goes to Dengeki Magazine and Square Enix Co, LTD)
Beta Test
Q: How much percentage you can play in beta test compared to the real product?
A: The alpha test will start before the beta, and will start from about 10 percent of the finished product. We’d like to check the entire system before release, but the majority of in-game content won’t be released until the final product.
Q: Will the servers be named after summons, like in FFXI?
A: It’ll be a bit different from FFXI, but it’ll be something familiar to FF fans. By the way, the FFXI beta server had a different name than the final game servers (BLATANT SPECULATION: I’m thinking they’re trying to hint that they might follow the theme for the FFXI beta server name, does anyone know what it was? Either that or they’re trying to say that the beta server name and regular service servers names will be different)
Q: How many servers will there be in the beta test?
A: We’re going to start the alpha with one server and gradually expand during the beta to an environment that can hold hundreds of thousands of players.
Q: What about world transfer service? Can we continue what we did in Beta version in the official version?
A: I’d like to make it possible that users played together in Beta version can start in the same world, when the official service is started. As for the world transfer service, there is a possibility in the future, and some kind of regulation would be needed.
World
Q: Are the beast tribes the same sort of existence as the beast men in FFXI?
A: “Beast tribe” is a name given to these people from the government. They look different from the people living in the cities and have different philosophies and religions, but they have their own culture and knowledge.
Q: So is there a triangular relationship between the beast tribes, the empire and the adventurers?
A: I don’t know about that. It’s a three-way deadlock with irreconcilable forces right now, but as the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” We’ll leave the rest to your imagination.
Q: What exactly is this power that adventurer’s have to change the world by reliving the past?
A: As things stand, it is just the ability to live past experiences as they were your own, nothing more.
Q: So is the world split into two worlds, the past and the future?
A: At this point, all we can say is that reliving the past is not the same as travelling into the past.
Q: The fight with the empire really stood out. Is this a “people vs. people” war? (Translator’s note: Human vs. Human. The interviewer means humans as in non-beast-tribesmen. They do not mean PVP: player vs. player –Manly) Does this mean the adventurers will be taking part in this war?
A: At this point, we can’t explain what that battle is, or answer if it’s even real or an illusion. What we can say is that in Hydaelyn, beast tribesmen are people, and the empire are also people. In this way, a war of the peoples will play itself out naturally, and the adventurer may get caught up in it.
Q: The name of the region is Eorzea, but is it also called the Garlean Empire?
A: Strictly speaking, they’re not the same. Eorzea is the name of the region, but Garlean is the name of the political power that controls it. When comparing it to the real world, it’s like Greece, which includes cities like Athens and Sparta in its cultural region, and the Persian empire, which controlled the region.
Q: The confliction between Eorzea and Garlean Empire means war in the Aldenard Continent?
A: The story begins in Eorzea, which include the Aldenard Continent and its surrounding islands. However, the main base of the Garlean Empire seems to be in some bigger Continent.
Q: How the ability to relive the past and crystals are related?
A: This gets into the main setting of the story. Play by yourself and find it out.
Q: Will we see chocobos?
A: For sure! However, we’re trying to come up with different ways to use chocobos than FFXI.
Q: We only know that there are flying boats for military. Are there flying boats like ocean liners?
A: There are some flying boats that adventurers can use as transportation, I think, but I will give you details another time.
Character
Q: What do you want players to enjoy about character making?
A: Rather than being able to create characters at your will, the emphasis is on having more distinctive features for each race according to the worldview. We’re sure the player will be able to create a character according to their tastes. Starting gear will also be different according to the class you choose, so it’s something you can look forward.
Q: Is it possible to change characters age visually?
A: There is no factor like age, but you can make your characters look like more experienced to some extent.
A: So, first Gear would be decided by the class you choose?
Q: Yes, class decides your first gear. However, what you wear later is up to the player.
Magic
Q: How is the system of Magic?
A: Magic in FFXIV has two properties: "directional property" and "school of magic." This means, even HP curative magic spells can be different in the amount, area, time and MP cost for the spell depending on the school it’s from.
Q: How about magic in FF series which are not in FFXI?
A: There are famous spells from the FF series which are not used in FFXI since they were not suitable for MMOs. Those spells are difficult to apply in FFXIV, also, but we won’t yet say that we are not going to use them. Moreover, even if they have same names as FFXI, there are some spells which have been dramatically changed in FFXIV. Please check them out.
Q: Can only disciples of magic use magic? Is there disciple of magic that can use swords?
A: It is more dependent on how adventurers raise their character rather than being hard-defined by classes.
Q: Will magic use TP, too?
A: We are still considering, but it is quite possible.
Dungeon
Q: Is there any situation that we go through dungeons where we’ll need a torch?
A: Some places are quite dark, but at the moment we are not planning to have systems that you need lighting or illumination magic.
Q: Can you go into dungeons seamlessly?
A: Yes. You can go into dim dungeon from the sunny field seamlessly.
Monster
Q: As far as active-passive, perception, and linking behaviors, are monsters the same as in FFXI?
A: Of course monsters are wandering around in fields. There are same factors as FFXI, but they have some original factors which are special to their environments and herds.
Q: Do the beast tribes attack humans on sight?
A: Beast tribes are also human. Some are pacifists and others are betrayers. Maybe some of them would even try to make deals with you.
Q: Do monsters fight each other?
A: Something like a food chain relationship has been planned since the beginning, so there will be something along those line.
Q: What about summons?
A: There are summons. These summons are closer to god-like existences, and in order to gain their help, even higher hurdles must be overcome.
Q: Are there other races for beast tribes? Will they have classes?
A: There will be other beast tribes besides the ones we have released. They’re also human with their own culture and way of living, so they will most likely have classes that they specialize in.
Q: Can we see our favorite monsters like Mandragora?
A: There are a number of monsters which are in FFXI appearing in FFXIV. You can count on that.
New Information & Screnshots from Dengeki!
Some new information has just come in from Dengeki Magazine! As well as a small writeup between what seems to be two Roleplaying Roegadyn?! As well as a new map of Eorzea! Enjoy the pictures and writeup below! 
Is this an empire airship?
This sky-filling airship seems to be one of the Garlean Empire’s, used in its invasion 15 years ago. This war probably holds some key to the adventurers’ quests.
Clues in the map
The backwards E in this map could hold clues to how to decipher the rest of the map. Perhaps someone could study this and figure out where everything is?
Introducing our two speculators!
Fortune Teller P: In a previous life, he was known as “Speculator Bean” and was a legendary fortune teller that gave many predictions. However, none of them ever came true.
Forecaster O: In a previous life, he was a Roegadyn that predicted the weather in another world. His weather forecasts are spot-on, but that doesn’t mean his game predictions are…
System Speculation 1: World
Fortune Teller P: Well, various fields have been released! What I can tell from these is… Eorzea is huge.
Forecaster O: That’s not really from fortune telling, but I am pretty sure the field is very big. The beginning of adventures should be greatly influenced by which city you choose to start from, like FFXI.
P: Now that you said that, I am interested in the time needed to move around. There may be several ways to move around other than with Aetheryte.
O: Well, but adventurers have to walk in the beginning after all, I guess. Since the scenery is gorgeous, it would be nice to just walk around, taking in the sights. Maybe later, players would be able to move around with airships or chocobos!
This dungeon looks to be located close to Limsa Lominsa, the water city, and is overrun by crab-like marine beasties. What is this mark behind them? Could it be similar to the beast men flags in FFXI?
This area looks like it’s used for mining and was obviously carved by human hands, but the inside is overrun by giant ant monsters. They are act and attack in groups. When they attack, it’s sure to be a rough battle.
System Speculation 2: Monsters
P: The beast tribes are like beast men in FFXI, so they are….. enemies!
O: Hey, that’s not fortunetelling, either. Well, they seem to be main enemies. They say there would be several beast tribes, so maybe different beast tribes live in each state nation. Maybe they are the first strong enemies at each city.
P: That is possible. So, then what are Primals?
O: The gods of the beast tribes, I think. Maybe summons. At the very least, you can’t fight them at an early stage.
P: Sounds like it will be related to the story itself. Maybe they will be the first goal adventurers set out to defeat, like the Shadow Lord in FFXI
Battle with pugilist beast tribesmen
This burly beast tribesman is holding hand-to-hand weaponry. His armor is also finely crafted, suggesting they have advanced crafting skills.
Is this a Primal?
This appears to be a ritual to call forth a Primal. Could this ominous being be the summons for this game?
Take on the dangerous beast tribes
This beast tribesman doesn’t even flinch at the gladiator’s cross-body sword blow!
(Credit for this goes to FFXIVcore more than any other, the translations and images are credit to them, as well as Dengeki Magazine, and Square Enix Co, LTD!)
More Tibits About The Story.
This just in! A new blurb of information about the storyline in Eorzea! From Who? From Where? This is not certain! So let me just give you what I've got! It seems to be a loose translation as well, so take it for what it is...
About ten years ago, a “barbarous God” suddenly appeared in Eorzea.
That was the Genius summoned by odd-looking people called “barbarous people.”
The barbarous people were threatening citizens, enjoying their power.
Meanwhile, “Military Garlean Empire” was coming on from the Northeast.
The Empire seemed to be intending to take over the continent of Aldenard with its overwhelming military force, and Ala Mhigo, a state nation, fell to them.
Eorzea is now exposed to two threatening powers, and adventures are getting mysterious power: reliving past events.
And the power is alleged to be able to change the world… who brought this power?
Is it power a good thing? Why was it given to adventurers?
Adventurers have to find the answer…
(I just received this image as well as the translation from an outside source, SO... If this image or translation belongs to you, then well, so does the credit! But it does not belong to me! All rights reserved by their respectful owners, Including but not limited to: Square Enix Co, LTD.)
New Character Creation Details!
New Details have surfaced about the depths of Character Creation and Customization in the world of Hydaelyn! How much customization will we see? Well, I hope not too much! Woh woh now! Don't get all angry at me... We all know what TOO MUCH freedom can give to the feel of a MMORPG, and when trying to make one with the more "realistic" feel that Square Enix tends to lean towards, we most likely don't need people who are 3 feet tall, with heads the size of a small yacht and pink hearts all over their face...
Do not fret though! Being able to change your skin color, size, body variations (to a realistic degree) is more than welcome from me and I'm sure from all of you as well. So far, it looks so good, so be sure to head on over to the official FFXIV website for more information!
(Image does not belong to me or this website, nor does the information or work within it. All rights reserved by their respectful owners, including but not limited to Dengaki Magazine, Square Enix Co, LTD. and FFXIVcore.com)
Sorry About The Hiatus...
You must forgive me everyone! I must apologize about the slow updates. I was terribly busy for awhile but things have let up and I should have plenty enough time now for updates. Time to get caught up! From now on I will try to keep everything as up to date and up to the minute information as I possibly can, and any BIG news will always be posted here quite quickly! So keep tuned in, and remember to always check back for all the information you might need on FFXIV!
