Some new pictures just came in from Dengaki Magazine of Japan. Not a whole lot of information is said, so I will link you directly to the source for these images. Credit goes to Dengaki Magazine. I do not own these pictures, they are property of Dengaki Magazine and Square Enix co, LTD.
With these pictures, we get a whole new look at the world of Eorzea!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
New Pictures from Dengaki!
GamesCom, Day 1: Videos Galore & More!
Augest 19th 2009, the opening day of GamesCom video game conference and trade show in Cologne Germany. And with it brought a swell of new information on FFXIV. The most exciting of which, would be something that no one even expected. Playable Demo's! That's right, they had demo's setup for certain privileged to partake in. With this, came several video's showing the game play elements and aspects of FFXIV. Now, keep in mind, Square Enix admitted themselves this is the "Alpha" version of the game, so not everything will be perfect (camera angles, certain animations, GUI, etc).
There were not only videos but pictures as well, released from GamesCom. Below are the videos, and below them will be the pictures with a personal writeup on my thoughts about them.
I take no credit for these videos. These videos have been provided by 1up and GameTrailers. All rights are reserved to them, and of course, all pictures and videos shown here are reserved rights of Square Enix, co, LTD. The pictures have come from varying sources, one of which is FFXIVcore. If there are any parties I am missing, please forgive my lack of credit being given.
Video #1:
Video #2
Video #3: (Character Emote Animations)
Video #4:
There is also a 5th video done by Dengaki Magazine, which can be found here. Unfortunately, there is no option to embed it, so you'll have to go to that address yourself. It is worth it though, as it shows how amazingly realistic the weather effects will be in FFXIV.
So, what do these video's tell us? So much, yet so little. Once again, these are videos of the game in Alpha Production, which isn't even in Beta Production. I've heard rumors that this is even a old Alpha at that and there are many changes that have already been made. So let's go off what we know?
The graphics are simply beautiful and stunning, no one can deny that. The world itself looks very beautiful, and has such a rich sense to it. The character animations seem to look very "Alpha" to me, as you can see missing frames here and there, as well as the actions being very clunky. Things like remaining engaged, and the movements seeming choppy. Even at that, take note of the detail the characters take when they change direction, come to a stop, or start to move. Very realistic indeed!
As far as the background music goes, which you care barely even hear, it's hard to say if it's more "Alpha" or if it's the finished product. If I had to guess, I would say it doesn't really sound like the Music Director, Nobou Uemetsu's work.
The GUI (User Interface) seems pretty nice to me, although Square Enix told everyone to take note, that it was not the final product, and that it would be more streamlined when the game was actually released (or perhaps in Beta).
One of the biggest concerns is about the attack speed. When asked about this, Square Enix commented that the game would revolve more on using many skills, than simply engaging and auto attacking, although it is guessed that the auto attack speed won't be much slower than FFXI, but this is just speculation and going off of what they have said concerning Alpha.
But before we go on further, and I end up jabbering off all day, let's take a look at some exclusive pictures. If I'm not mistaken these were taken by Kyuu of FFXIVcore.
Here we see a few small pictures of the new world of Eorzea. Hard to focus in on, but it's a nice little teaser.
Compass Information: Tip: use the compass during your quest to find the squirrels. The squirrels appear at point A. When there's one squirrel left, it's fleeling to point B, so chase the squirrel to point B!
Gladiator information:
Attached Image
1st: Swordslash: Powerfull Attack
2nd: Swordslash: Precise (meaning of Accuracy) Attack
3rd: Shield Block: damage Minimizing
4th (red one): Ranged Attack: Great Distance
Drawing
5th: Provoking: Distraction
6th (red): roundabout slash: AOE damage
7th (red) Red Lotus: huge damage
So far, the jobs shown, from left to right are confirmed to be:
Master of the Great Axe, Master of the Bow, Master of the Fist, and Tailor.
The exact translations are not completely sure, but from what I've heard and deduced these are the correct names. But don't hold me to it!
It seems the folks at FFXIVcore were able to compile a quick list of things they found out at GamesCom on Day one, here is that list of what we know so far, as well as some elements Kyuu from FFXIVcore was able to deduce from playing a quick trial of the game.
* Currently you can't jump, but a developer told me they are considering to add it
* I wasn't able to find water just yet, so not sure if you can swim
* I will have an interview up tomorrow Thursday
* The combat system is interesting, reminds you of FFXI, you select a target with TAB, then take up your weapon with F and X locks on it. Then use the numbers from your hotbars to use abilities. The first two abilities I had generated combat points to use the AOE attacks etc, I'll get back on what class I played later
* Game is polished, very smooth combat and performance
* It was played on a PC (I think), with mouse and keyboard
* I did a kill mob quest, kill 6 peacock-like creatures, they were very easy to kill
* Square Enix points out several times that the game is in alpha, so keep this in mind. For being in alpha, the game has come very far and I'm quite impressed. Check back for a write up later.
* I tried running off further on the map and met many invisible walls.
* You could move around using WSAD
So, my current thoughts in summary is this:
I'm a bit worried about the control system. I do not like absolutely having to use a keyboard + mouse for control. In FFXI you could do everything in the game perfectly efficient without ever touching the mouse. If the option is there for people, that is good, but I hope we are not forced to constantly use the mouse.
Another thing that concerns me, is the camera angle. In FFXI it follows you in a very natural way. If you are indeed using a keyboard + mouse, having to adjust the camera angle at the same time could get very tiresome.
But, keep in mind, this is just a Alpha version of the game. Square Enix keeps telling people at GamesCom that this is not the complete product, and there will still be changes made. So here's hoping!
Stay tuned for more info everyone!
Friday, August 14, 2009
FFXIV at Gamescom 2009!
FFXIV and Square Enix will be making their appearances at Gamescom in Cologne Germany. a European gaming expo. There's said to be new information released there, so I'm very excited to hear about what comes out of this. I myself am in the United States so I will not be able to attend, but I hope to get information as quickly as possible as it's released. Here's hoping Square Enix gives out some good tidbits of info for us to speculate on, perhaps even a Beta date? Who knows.
Be sure to keep an eye out August 19-22nd for the new information.
If you are interested in visiting Gamescom, or would like more information, please visit their official website here.
Friday, August 7, 2009
New Info on FFXIV Main Site!!!
Hello everyone! Not even a day after the exciting news was posted in Famitsu Magazine, we get a whole new load of information on The Official FFXIV Site itself! New info regarding the races of Eorzea, the classes of Eorzea, the three main cities of Eorzea, the story behind Eorzea and the races, as well as information on the Armory System, the Guild Leves System, and even the mysterious Aetheryte crystal system.
We've also gotten some new official clarification on the names used in FFXIV, as well as some clarification on some other things as well. A few key spellings that have finally be officially released though:
Hydaelyn (The world in which Eorzea resides. Known till now as "Hiderin")
Aldenard (The Region of Eorzea and it's Surrounding Islands)
Limsa Lominsa (One of the Three Main Cities, the city by the sea)
Gridania (One of the Three Main Cities, the city in the forrest)
Ul'Dah (One of the Three Main Cities, the city in the desert)
Hyur (The Hume Race)
Miqo'Te (The Mithra Race)
Roegadyn (The Galka Race)
Elezen (The Elvaan Race)
Lalafell (The Tarutaru Race)
For Thorough Information I want everyone to please visit the Official FFXIV Site.
That being said, lets go over some of the information we've just gathered, shall we?
[Disclaimer: I do not own any of these images or articles. All images belong to Square Enix Co., LTD. As well as many of the articles. Some other articles may be fan made from third party sites]
Introduction.
"Such a marvel is proof not only that the gods exist, but that they love, and that profoundly." - Explorer and Mapmaker, Orrick Ballard.
Final Fantasy XIV takes the first intrepid steps into an unknown realm, and in doing so a new place for adventurers of all creeds to call home is born-Eorzea.
In the world of Hydaelyn, the term Eorzea denotes the geographical region comprised of the continent of Aldenard, and it's surrounding islands, as well as the civilization which spawned there.
Calling the area home are several independent city-states, the most notable being Limsa Lominsa, bustling port and pirate hub; Ul'Dah, a desert city rich in mineral wealth; Gradania, nested with within an ageless wood; and Ishgard, bastion atop the mountains.
Throughout the realm can be found climates both harsh and mild, as diverse as the skies are vast. Bleak, desolate landscapes stretch to uncharted horizons, their uninviting expanses yet to be traversed. Colossal monstrosities stalk the land, as if mountains primeval had somehow stirred and risen. Of all things Eorzea may be said to be, hospitable is not amoung them.
In the past, the city-states battled tirelessly, vying for domination and hegemony. Death-mongering beast tribes molested the land unchecked, leaving only destruction in their wake. Unseen enemies lurked beyond the borders, striking at the slightest provocation or show of weakness. The history of Eorzea is a tapestry woven of war and strife, stained with the blood of those gone before, and the tears and ash of fallen endeavor.
And yet the love the gods bear this unforgiving land endures, now and always. What is the allure of this seemingly forsaken place? With what hope and to what end do would-be inhabitants journey here to live out their days?
The answer lies with that which gives form to Hydaelyn and all myriad creation in it-crystals. The cornerstone of all things, it is these crystallized manifestations of the aether that beckon the people to come, risking all in the undertaking.
And so it is, that adventurers too have harkened the call-to bear witness to the epic set to unfold in this land. This Eorzea.
The Story.
The Age of Adventure
Men are wont to suffer
And forget wherein they've sinned
Ne'er bearkening back on tragedies past
Lest the Twelve might humble them
- Unknown
Countless moons have waxed and waned since wandering tribes from across Hydaelyn first arrived in Eorzea and settled its untamed lands. The benevolent deities who ruled the empty continent and its surrounding islands were impressed with the resilience of these primitive men and women, and in an act of mercy each saw fit to ensure their welfare.
These gods and goddesses soon came to be known as the Twelve, and the villages thrived in their light until the land was bespeckled with several independent city-states. Though, where man walks, strife follows, and for generations, these tiny nations carved out a history of blood and betrayal built upon broken oaths and the sun-bleached bones of the fallen.
However, the fate of the land would soon change. Not fifteen years past, a new threat appeared without warning from the east. Metal-clad warriors brandishing weapons that spewed streams of fire, fleets of behemoth airships belching oily smoke that would block out the sun for days at a time...
A resistance was amassed, but to little avail, and it was not long before Ala Mhigo, once considered the most powerful of the remaining six Eorzean city-states, had fallen to the mighty Garlean Empire.
As the empire's dreadnaughts continued their march of terror across the blood-soaked fields of the north, the remaining nations put aside their differences and clandestinely joined hands to form a loose alliance to ensure they not meet the same fate, should the invaders turn theirs eyes southward.
Fortunately, the invasion never came, and just as quickly as it had arrived, the empire was gone again.
However, echoes of their grim message ran clear in the hearts of Eorzea's people - its effect on them, profound and irreversible. The realm would never be the same.
And it was thus that Eorzea slipped into the "Age of Calm", during which an uneasy peace prevailed.
To prepare for the coming storm, the first task of the newly-formed alliance was to fortify their defenses. In the previous era, few city-states maintained organized militaries, opting instead to hire the services of mercenaries and hedge knights to champion their causes. However, after the fall of Ala Mhigo, city guard units were restructured into legitimate standing armies which could be quickly called upon and mobilized if the need arose.
Unfortunately, this left a majority of the realm's hireswords with nowhere to pledge their fealty, and with their livelihood ripped out from under them, many of these men and women resorted to acts of villainy to survive. For fear of the situation worsening and the land falling into chaos, several respected leaders from around Eorzea gathered together, and formed a network of guilds to provide these lost souls with the opportunity to redeem themselves by aiding others.
Through the foresight and resolve of these leaders a new industry known as "adventuring" emerged, its advent helping usher in the current era - an era of hope in a time when the shadows of uncertainty loom ever closer.
The Armoury.
"To discern the true nature of man, one need look no further than the palm of his hand." - from The Treatise on the Principles of Self-Actualization, Rhylsygg Bhirlonsyn
The Armoury System is one of the foundations of the FINAL FANTASY XIV experience, simultaneously being both the impetus behind character development and a key factor in determining individual gameplay.
By merely equipping any of a variety of weapons or tools, players can instantly change their active skills, thus enabling them to dramatically alter their style of play as well as their character's outward appearance. To take an example, let us follow a day in the life of Leeroy.
A New Beginning
Leeroy recently chose to begin the journey down the path of Gladiator, trying his hand at the age-old art of swordplay for the first time. Even today, he woke at dawn to spend the daylight hours drilling relentlessly on the tiny wildlife just outside of town. Alas, opportunities often present themselves when least expected...
An Unheralded Invitation
Without prior notice, some friends invite Leeroy to partake in an expedition to some nearby ruins. Upon joining their ranks, however, he observes that the other party members are seasoned warriors and accomplished mages all. Dismayed yet not given to despair, Leeroy sheathes his sword and takes up his well-worn staff, assuming the role of Thaumaturge, his most advanced class. He bids farewell to the rodents and worms and races to meet his companions, basking in the confident light of his spellcasting abilities.
Disbanding Party
The party members go their separate ways following a successful outing, and while following the river back to town Leeroy is suddenly taken by the urge to fish. He secures his staff to his back in a deft, practiced motion, and on the recoil pulls out his beloved fishing rod. The gladiator and thaumaturge are now gone, and all that remains is Leeroy the fisherman. Three shining trout! Not a bad haul.
A Leeroy of All Trades
Upon arriving home, Leeroy puts aside his fishing rod and takes up his trusty hammer, blacksmithery having ever been one of his passions. He knows, as does any adventurer, that preparation is the key to any battle, and so sets to working the dents out of his armor and sharpening the edge of his blade. It's all in a day's work.
This is but a mere sample of what players can expect from the Armoury. With flexibility of gameplay and effective use of time at its core, the system is designed with emphasis on not only the in-game lifestyles of characters, but those of the players themselves as well. The Armoury awaits you!
Disciplines.
"Every soul must needs have a code, a purpose, to guide them. Else chaos would consume us all." - from The Determination of Being, Guillaurmand de Padellaint
In general, there is a fourfold classification of adventurers based on the disciplinary paths to which they devote themselves:
Disciples of War: Masters of arms who live for the call of combat. Disciples of Magic: Erudite researchers of all this esoteric. Disciples of the Land: Gatherers of material resources and students of the natural order. Disciples of the Hand: Crafters who invest their creative ingenuity in synthesis and industry.
Players may opt to specialize in one discipline, excelling in a single skill, or they may take a more general approach, making free use of the Armoury. The choice is yours.
Guildleves.
"Whither doth a man walk if another taketh the road from under his feet?" - Pandelion Brontard at the 14th Meeting of the Allied Council of Eorzean Nations.
Guildleves are small, rectangular plates made of stained crystal set into a frame of precious metal, each depicting a virtuous deed of one of Eorzea's patron saints, also known as "guardians." When issuing tasks or quests, guilds will often provide adventurers with these plates, allowing their bearers "leave" to take whatever steps necessary to complete the jobs, including entry into normally restricted areas, hunting or harvest on private lands, the confiscation of goods, even negotiations with those considered enemies of the city-states. Guildleves also grand use of Aethertye Portals, ensuing quick travel about the region.
Upon assessing an adventurer's skills, a guildmaster will provide a selection of several different leves, taken from the guild's stock. After weighting risks against rewards, fame against fortune, adventurers may then select the leves that they feel best suit their needs.
Of course, there are no regulations stating that the tasks must be completed alone. Adventurers are free to call on their companions to join them, as only one leve is required to take advantage of the benefits and privileges provided to its bearer. By coordinating the leves of multiple party members, adventurers can even plan grand campaigns built around several different quests.
Whether you have an hour or a whole day, are alone or with friends, seeking battle or bounty, guildleves give you the avility to forge your own adventures. The possibilities are endless!
Valor
Portrays the scene of Saint Daniffen and the Basilisk. Muster the courage to stand against those who would threaten the weak.
Diligence 
Portrays the scene of Saint Tother the Ratcatcher. Earn the gratitude of your peers by humbly accepting the tasks that others shun, and working earnestly to complete them.
Constancy 
Portrays the scene of Saint Moergynn and the Edgeless Blade. Focus your passion upon a single task, wielding your talents to aid those in need.
Aetheryte.
Aetheryte is the name given to massive shards of crystallized aetheric mist, precisely cut and fused to arcane machinery. While it is not known when or by whom these devices were originally constructed, their teleportational qualities have become the backbone of everyday transportation throughout the realm, with most managed and operated by individual city-states.
Though the exact mechanism behind teleportation via aetheryte is still largely a mystery, one theory states that when a sentient being approaches one of the portals, the aether that makes up its body resonates with the aether of the crystals, which in turn results in a complete breakdown of the being's mass, allowing it to temporarily return to the invisible aetheric streams that course throughout the planet.
The being's soul, which cannot be broken down, then guides the particles to a pre-determined destination, and upon arrival, the corresponding aetheryte receptacle reconfigures the mist back into its original form. This whole process takes only a matter of moments, allowing for nearly instant transportation to faraway desitinations.
However, being broken down to the aetheric level can take its toll on one's body, and rest is often required after several consecutive jumps, especially if the distance becomes greater. As a precaution, most city-states strongly discourage over-teleporting, as it can lead to irreversible damage.
The Three Main Cities.
Not a lot of info has been posted as of yet about the three main cities. But we have some things to go off of. It seems as though the three main cities are the three starter cities. There is Ul'Dah located in the desert, Gridania located in the forest, and Limsa Lominsa located near the sea. The site, and several articles have mentioned though, that these will not be the only three main cities. There has been mention of two other cities so far as well. "Ishgard" which rests atop the mountains, and Ala Mhigo, which seems to have once been the largest city, or the capital.
The information goes on to explain that there are many vast regions outside of Eorzea, including their own city-states as well. From what I gather I would say that Ishgard is probably FFXIV's version of Jeuno. A central hub. As for Ala Mhigo, it could be one of several things. It could be a end game area, a end game hub, ruins, or some where you only visit in stories. You might not even visit it, as such with Tavnazia in FFXI.
As of now, not much is known of Ul'Dah or Gridania. But we did get a bit of info on Limsa Lominsa, I'll quote the information on Limsa Lominsa directly from the official site.
Limsa Lominsa is located off the southern coast of the island of Vylbrand, under the shadow of ancient cliffs craved by the relentless Rhotano Sea. The city is actually placed on many different islands or sea stacks. Bridge span across each island that and earned its name "The Navigator's Veil" which bard describe what they had witnessed from afar. Llymlaen is the goddess that is said to have blessed Limsa Lominsa because she took pity on the sailors of a great armada that had to flee from battle. The rocks destroyed their ships and with no way to get anywhere and no home to go to they settled in the islands using the vessels that they had to begin construction. The people of Limsa Lominsa did not forget their old ways, but mearly gathered strenghth to rebuild and adventure out again. This lead their influnce spreading throughout the seas and began rulling the 5 seas of Eorzea. This legends formed the backbone of their society and their leader is referred to as Admiral.
The shipping industry is key to Limsa Lominsa financial success. Knights of the Barracuda secure the safety of mariners and ensure the safety and reliability of shipping route's. However, piracy, reaving and pillaging still runs rampant and other nations believe that the Knights of the Barracuda are actually working with local bandit pirates and make profit off unwary travelers. 
The Races.
I don't have much to comment on this as of now, aside from what I have already said, aside from a few silly puns Square Enix made. So I will just quote the official site on the descriptions of each race.
The Hyur (Hume)
Boasting the largest population in Eorzea, the Hyur came from neighboring continents and islands in three great migratory waves. With them they brought a sophisticated technology and complex ethos tempered by the breadth of the outside world. They rapidly became a driving force behind cultural progress, and are now widely attributed with spearheading advances in Eorzean civilization.
One of the Hyur's strengths is in the staggering variety of the languages and social institutions they exhibit. This is said to account for their firm conviction in individual freedoms, though it also results in a relative lack of solidarity and group cohesion.
Two distinct groups now exist amoung the Hyur-Highlanders, denizens of mountainous areas, and Midlanders, who reside in the lower elevations.
The Elezen (Elvaan)
The Elezen are a traditionally nomadic people who in their former times claimed the sole dominion over Eorzea, their prescence predating that of the other races. Believing this prominence to be ordained by the gods, they came to develop an steemed sense of honor and pride.
Their characteristically tall, slim physiques and elongated limbs are part of a successful adaptation to the land's various environments. Indeed, it is daid their highly sensitive ears can discern the squeak of a field mouse at a distance of up to several malms.
The Elezen perceived the immigration of the Hyur as a tantamount to invasion, and as a result the two share a past plagued by warfare. At present, however, they can be seen coexisting peacefully, the exception being the reclusive Duskwight Elezen.
The Lalafell (Tarutaru)
The Lalafell were originally a group of agriculturalists inhabiting the fertile islands of the south seas. With the introduction of transmarine commerce, they soon found their way to Eorzea via trade routes. They are now one of the more populous races and are well established throughout the region, though they remain averse to cold climates.
The short, rotund builds of the Lalafell belie an incredible agility, and their seemingly feeble legs are capable of carrying them long distances over any terrain. Many amoung them are also known for possessing highly developed and cunning intellects.
The Lalafell place a great deal of significance on familial bonds, but are by no means unfriendly to outsiders. This is evidenced by the fact that they continue to share the prosperous relations with all of the other races of Eorzea.
The Roegadyn (Galka)
The Roegadyn are maritime people whose largest concentrations are found in the northern seas, by way of which they came to Eorzea.
They possess enormous, muscular builds and are known for the cultural emphasis they place on competition and unflinching courage, though tender, introspective individuals can also be found.
Roegadyn in and around the Limsa Lominsa area are typically seamen putting in at port, but many have also settled permanently, becoming mercenaries, bodyguards, or even pirates by trade. Far away, deep in the mountains of Ul'Dah, love mountain clans of reclusive Roegadyn known as the Hellsguard, said to have mastered the magical arts.
The Miqo'Te (Mithra) 
During the age of Endless Frost, as the seas turned to ice and passage over them became possible, Eorzea saw an influx of foreign fauna to her shores. This in turn brought the hunting tribes which subsited upon them, the modern descendants of whom are today known as the Miqo'Te.
Since then, the Miqo'Te have diverged into two physically distinguishable groups--the diurnal Seekers of the Sun and the nocturnal Keepers of the Moon. Both groups share a superb oldfactory sense and powerful leg musculature, results of a long evolution geared towards hunting and predation.
Comparatively few in number, they maintain an insular group mentality, tending to avoid contact with the other races. Many individuals lead isolated lifestyles, even when residing in the more populous cities.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
New Info from Famitsu Magazine in Japan!
Hello everyone! It's been awhile since I've made a post in my blog. There has not been a lot of info, well, none released since my last post. There has been plenty of reposting of information, retranslations, and what have you, but the information has been at a stand still. That is, until just recently. The September issue of Famitsu magazine in Japan came out, with a whopping 9 pages of information on FFXIV, as well as new pictures, and lots of new things to speculate about! 
I'm going to post as much info on here as I can, but before I do I want to add a few disclaimers. There is a LOT of information circulating right now, on a lot of different sites. From my understanding, many different people have done translations and write-ups on this information. I am not exactly sure who to give credit to and unless a solid source is provided to me, proving a particular source was responsible for the translation I am using, the best I can do is to simply say; The Articles Below in Italics are written by third parties other than myself. I take no credit for them, and am simply reposting information. As a disclaimer, many of these write-ups in Italics are not mine, the pictures, screen shots, concept art, and articles themselves belong to third parties, including but not limited to Famitsu Magazine of Japan, and Square Enix co., LTD.
For the most part, they are just basic translations of what the article said, so I'm not taking anyone's write-up. If I know who to give credit to, on anything specific, I most certainly will do so. Also, please keep in mind, my own thoughts will not be Italicized.
Eorzea and Beyond.
The region of Eorzea has three big cities, Rimsa-Rominsa at the sea side, Gridania is in the forest and Uldaha in the desert. There's pirates at the seaside town and Square Enix promise a storyline for each city.
From what I've gathered, Eorzea is just a region in a larger world known as Haiderin. I'm not sure exactly how it will play out, but if I had to guess I would say Eorzea is the "starting area". Well, not as you would think on FFXI terms, but think of it like this. Eorzea is where you start out, it's where most of your leveling is done, it's where most of your exploring in the low to mid levels takes place.
Once you start getting higher level, once you start getting into end game and more complex missions, there will be a bigger world for you to explore. From what I've gathered, it will be extremely large as well. One of the KEY POINTS I've loved about MMORPG's or ANY RPG for that matter, is exploration. I do hope this is finally the MMO that can meet my expectations and desires for such content. I'm thinking that once you start venturing out of Eorzea there will be many new lands and areas to explore, many new missions and hopefully new towns and cities. This would make most sense to me and I'm very excited about seeing if this logic will come true for FFXIV. 
It is also mentioned that one day in Haiderin is 1 hour in earth time, just as in FFXI, and that the weather and seasons change as well. Also, the money of the land will indeed be called "Gil" as we know and are accustomed to.
The Races of Eorzea. Complete, or Incomplete?
With this new article came some introductions to rather familiar races that us FFXIers are already accustomed to. Perhaps... Too familiar? As we've been speculating for a long while now it has been almost certain, given the reasons, why Male Mithra would make an appearance in FFXIV. However, in this article they debut the races. The Humes (Hyuran), the Elvaans (Elzen), the Tarutaru (Lalafell), the Galka (Roegadyn) and the Mithra (Miqo'Te). One thing was kind of unsettling though... Not only the lack of no new races, but the presumption that the Mithra and Galka will once again be gender specific races...
For many people, having Male Mithra has been a big deal and begged for, for a very long time. I've gone over most of the reasons in earlier blog posts and on forums. At a business standpoint, there is absolutely everything to gain from adding them and nothing to lose. However, there is plenty to lose from NOT adding them. I don't want FFXIV to have the same rules and same dynamics that FFXI did, and most people do not wish for this either. Having Male Mithra as a more feminine, agile and cunning male race is something that has been in a very high demand for quite some time. Not adding them would be an enormous letdown to the future player base, the FFXI player base and anyone who was looking forward and hoping to have this feature available in FFXIV.
One of the main reasons we don't see Male Mithra in FFXI isn't because they are locked up sex slaves, it's not even because they are rare and mainly stay in their homeland in Vana'diel. No, the reason is because Square Enix designed FFXI and wrote the story for the females to be the only playable part of that race. By not adding them Square Enix will also be giving off a stigma they really shouldn't, a stigma that FFXIV will be all too much like FFXI in some ways. People want change and new possibilities. It's not too late and I hope Square Enix sees this and does add them, as well as at least one more new race. (In my opinion, if there are no girl Galka, the new race should be female only to offset the balance of the male-only Galka race.)
But before you panic, I want to bring your attention to something it says in the article below...
"The Miqo'te is a cat-like race who are fierce hunters. You can seperate them into "Moonkeepers" and "Sunseekers". Not many of them exist in Eorzea, they're quite the minority."
Hmmm... Intersting detail there. Why would there be two clans mentioned and what would be the difference in them? Why even mention two clans? I think this could possibly be a hint, but who knows as of now, I could be completely wrong. However, it is indeed something to consider.
With all that being said, let's move on and read what we know so far, shall we?
Hyuran (Hume)
The Hyuran race will be the standard race of Eorzea. Kind of like in Vana'diel. Furthermore by translating the article says that they've migrated to Eorzea from islands and continents nearby. Also, they brought with them technology and innivation that has raised the civilization of Eorzea to new heights; which you can see from the FFXIV trailer. As for the language and culture among the Hyuran race, there's a lot of variation. Highlanders and Midlanders are the main "classifications". Basically, who migrated into the mountains and the hills.
Elzen (Elvaan)
This race is native from Eorzea. They clashed with the Hyuran after the latter's massive migration. Their auditory ability is noteworthy.
Lalafell (Tarutaru)
This race of farmers is above all settled near the southern sea. The Lalafells may appear to be small but their intelligence is superior to the other races.
Roegadyn (Galka)
Most live in the northern sea on fishing. Some of them are hired as mercenaries or bodyguards by other races, but the other ones prefer to go towards the sea and choose to become pirates.
Miqo'Te (Mithra)
The Miqo'te is a cat-like race who are fierce hunters. You can seperate them into "Moonkeepers" and "Sunseekers". Not many of them exist in Eorzea, they're quite the minority.
Another thing they go into some detail about is the fact that we will have more "customizable characters" meaning we will be able to choose skin tone, height, weight and other things such as that. Also mentioned was that the differences among races are rather minor, but differences between genders will be more important.
In the words of Square Enix themselves:
"When you make your character, aside from choosing the race, you will also be able to customize their appearance. Head, skin color, hair type, etc, there will be multiple factors. Just how exact we will be able to customize their appearance is still unknown, but we mean it in a good way when we say that it seems like it will become a worry to many players"
The Jobs, the System and What We Know So Far.
Well, we already knew FFXIV would have a different job and leveling system than FFXI, how much different we weren't sure, but as of today we know a bit more. Famitsu Magazine, as they have done with this article already, got to ask Square Enix some questions and get some feedback on what they had to say about the job system and how it will work. This is what Square Enix has said so far:
Final Fantasy XIV revolves around character growth. There will be no experience points or leveling system this time around, and a new system will come in to play. Square Enix wants to deliver an experience where new players have the freedom to try out any quest and many different things, growing naturally from their experiences. A deep story will be in tact in Final Fantasy XIV, including cut-scenes, but they're going beyond that by also delivering a wider variety of stories and quests. They want players to enjoy the process of character growth.
Jobs were the lasting appeal of Final Fantasy XI. They want to utilize that concept, but stack more on top of it. The focus will be on weapons, determining how you play, grow, and fight. They'll be expanding upon the basic job system. He says this also explains the Final Fantasy XIV logo, which features weapons sticking out of the name.
The main idea for Final Fantasy XIV is to provide freedom of growth through the variety of quests offered. However, players can meet up with friends and set off on adventure or they can play solo. Players won't be left with nothing to do, bored.
Square Enix is considering large scale battles, however, regular battles will be against single enemies. During quests you can gather parties and fight against multiple foes.
A bit of a contradiction there, or perhaps that's just how I read it? Square Enix said they will be pulling away from the traditional FFXI system of shoot>pull>kill>shoot>pull>kill and give us more variety. They also said at times we will be fighting many enemies at once instead of just one all the time. I suppose this could just depend on where you are and what you are doing, as well as some "lost in translation" errors. Only time will tell.
So now that we know it won't be your traditional grind/exp fest and will keep your interest hooked a bit better, what do we know about the jobs? How they will work? What they will do?
So far they have mentioned 4 different starting jobs (classes for you non-FFXIers) as well as two more in depth categories for those 4. It is also said that these are just mere examples and that there will be many more to actually play.
Fighter: Swordsman, Archer
Magus: Enchanter, Sorcerer
Crafter: Smith, Cook
Gatherer: Gardener, Fisher
How will they play out? Well, what what they have said, it will depend largely on your weapon, but also VERY largely on your armor, and the level of said armor. It is also mentioned you will be able to possibly even change classes out and about, or on the battle field.
Game system is named "Armory System", it depends on character's equipment. To change play style, you need to change equipment parts: this modification is executed in real time.
For example, if you're invited to join a team of warriors to fight the enemies, you only need to wear the corresponding equipment to be ready. Once the party disbanded, you only need to change equipment to come back as a crafter, fisherman, etc.
This freedom will make the solo play easier since a warrior who wants to be cured can change into a healer himself. Thereof the number of inventory's slots is more important than FFXI. The developers thought about an easier way to change equipment.
To get more powerful in each specifications, it is advised to balance out the equipment parts between them. In FFXIV, the equipment's level is essential, even more than the character's level itself. The developers insist once again on the huge freedom of this system wherer change can be made whenever. That's probably why the name of the jobs are more neutral than FFXI. The game's team has deliberately chosen to avoid the usual job class.
They go on to mention something else, that I'm not entirely familiar with, so please pardon me, but it seems they are adding a system to where when you wish to do certain missions and quests you get a "Card". This card seems to be more or less a key to do so and that one card can represent many people. Anyhow, I'm not really sure, this is just what I've gathered so I'll post a article about it.
In FFXIV, guilds delivers licences/permits to players. These illustrated (and beautiful?) cards match with the missions the character has to fulfill. The players will be able to share these permits (having the card or not) and even decide on the number of persons who can participate to the mission.
The game will be irrevelant to the level of each players but some permits can't be obtained before a definite level. These tasks would take 30min~ to be fulfilled, even if some of them will be shorter. Of course, you can carry several permits at the same time.
Passes of "trust" exists that you get from guilds
There's something called a "Leave", it isn't a quest, it's a card
Mixing your own Leaves with other players Leaves is possible
Visiting the Adventurers Guild you can obtain Guild Leaves
Even when your skill is low you can get Leaves
The approx time of completing a Leave is around 30 to 40 minutes
You're able to set who and how many can do a Leave
Even if only one player carries a Leave, other players can join regardless if they
have the Leave or not
Contests of the Leave changes every week
You can carry as many Leave cards as you want
Apperently the Guild Leaves are quite beautiful, designed like tarot cards
FFXIV sports a complex, advanced and interesting guild system. There are so called permits/licenses in the form of illustrated cards that match missions that your character has to complete. You can share these licenses, i.e having the card or not having it and also decide on how many that can be part of a mission.
The level of each player is mostly non-relevent, but some licenses has a certain level requirement. These wont take longer than 40 minutes to complete approx. Oh and you can carry several licenses at the same time.
Some of the goals of the licenses are:
Those missions will have different and various goals: monster hunting, enemies' raid, skill ups... These operations are called "etherites" (?) and will allow you to be instantly teleported to the specified area.
So, it's good to see they are finally venturing away from the up-to-21-strait-hours and normally-4/6-hour-at-a-time time sinks of FFXI. Short, but sweet, to allow you to enjoy the game, have fun, and still have a life afterwords. It will keep thinks more interesting and should allow for less frustration. The fact of teleporting to area's of interest for missions and quests seems like a nice feature as well, although I'm old fashion and like traveling about. I do hope they give us reasons to explore, and venture into new area's. Nothing beats a good old fashion dungeon crawl!
So, a quick summery I'd like to post that was written up on FFXIcore:
Summary from the interview (some of this is known since before)
The difference between the races in FFXIV isnt as big as it is in FFXI
There is a difference between females and males. What exactly is not yet known.
Cities in Eorzea are not all connected through one landmass. So its quite different than how its in FFXI.
The character creation allows you to adjust the skin, eye color, hair color, face and much more
Battles are in real-time, but a lot of focus is on strategy and execution, instead of just pure action
The main system is not to target an enemy and just attack it like in most MMOs on the market.. Much more will play into the fight than just that.
Due to how the Armory System will work out, you'll be able to carry around on tons of stuff, mules anyone?
Character growth is based on your weapon. Use a weapon to increase your power and skills.
Square Enix is working on customization so you can arrange your windows exactly the way you want them
Weapons will lose durability/power when used
Master everything or not - well, Square Enix is still debating if you'll be able to do this or not. Perhaps the same approach used in FFXI will be used here (see-saw approach).
The Guild Leaves include everything from leveling up your skills to hunting monsters.
Leave runs are easy to get to instantly by using a "ethelite".
Rimsa-Rominsa the city by the seaside has pirates
You'll begin your adventure / the game from your home city.
Even if you can only play one hour per day, you'll be able to have a lot of fun
And in closing, I would like to provide a few Relevant links that I highly recommend everyone check out. These links are as follows, and include a array of information and opinions on this very subject.
The Thread on BlueGartr.
The Information Posted on FFXIVcore, As well as here, on FFXIcore.
And of course, the relevant thread on Zam.
I'll probably be doing some editing and adding more info in coming days, so stay tuned, and thanks for reading!
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