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New Insight Behind Final Fantasy XIV 1.0's Failed Launch

The fact that Final Fantasy XIV's original release in September 2010 was a complete disaster isn't breaking news.  Even the most diehard of fans can look back objectively now and admit that the game was lacking in almost every aspect.

The burning question that has been on everyone's mind is, "How did this happen?"

Now, with version 1.0 of the game having concluded and A Realm Reborn on full steam ahead, it seems producer/director Naoki Yoshida is finally more free to talk about the original game's shortcomings.  Hiromichi Tanaka, the game's first producer/director (who moved from Final Fantasy XI to lead the project but was replaced by Yoshida less than three months after release), also makes a few comments about his experience after leaving Square Enix.

Preparing for the FINAL FANTASY XIV: ARR Beta Test (02/01/2013)

In preparation for the beta test of FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn, we have an announcement for players who meet the requirements for legacy status.

Before the beta test servers go online, an e-mail containing your beta registration code will be sent to the address registered with your Square Enix Account. Please confirm that your e-mail address is correct before the codes are distributed.

Link: Square Enix Account Management System

* Refer to the FAQ for details on confirming or changing your e-mail address.

We are still recruiting beta testers. If you are interested and have yet to apply, be sure to visit the beta test application site.

Announcing the “Chocobos Rule the World” Contest! (01/25/2013)

The brave and majestic steed that’s always been at your side, ready to help at the blow of your whistle – of course, we speak of the mighty chocobo! These trusty companions endure quite a bit of hardships on a daily basis; riding through dangerous landscapes, dashing through hordes of monsters, avoiding treacherous falls, and all the while carrying you and your stuffed-to-bursting inventory around! It’s about time adventurers pay some homage to these friendly domesticated creatures of Eorzea. We call upon the adventurers around the world to, using the medium of your choice, create an artistic rendition of a chocobo. It can be a drawing, a delectable dessert, a hand-crafted piece of art -- the sky is the limit, so be creative and get to wark!

Saddle up and head on over to the official forum for the full contest details!

Letter from the Producer, XLI (01/23/2013)

FINAL FANTASY XIV fans the world round, the forty-first Letter from the Producer has arrived for your viewing pleasure!

Pore over the complete letter.