Final Fantasy XIV has had a tough life. Panned by critics and released at a time when the traditional subscription-based MMO is on the decline, Square Enix’s second online adaptation of the classic RPG franchiseĀ undeniablyĀ fell flat, even by theĀ relativelyĀ low standard set by cult classic Final Fantasy XI. This weekend is the game’s so-called “grand finale,” where loyal players can sign on and take giant, high-level boss battles before the servers shut down tonight at midnight, Pacific time. In honor of the game’s “ending,” Square Enix has released an extended cutscene to serve as the game’s cinematic climax.
It’s not all bad for Final Fantasy MMO fans. As the cutscene name indicates, this weekend is simply “the end of an era.” Soon Final Fantasy XIV will return as “Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn,” a rebooted version of the game that will supposedly fix many of the games visual and mechanical flaws. If you’re an FFXIV player and this is the first you’re hearing of it, don’t worry: All FFXIV characters will be transferred to the new game, and any machine capable of playing the old game should be able to run the new version.
In the meantime, interested players can apply to be a Realm Reborn tester for the beta, which is expected to start at the end of the year. There’s no official release date for the final version of the reboot. Square Enix has said that Realm Reborn will be released this year, but at this rate, early 2013 seems more likely.
(via Square Enix)
- There have been a lot of Final Fantasy games.
- Especially if you include all the minigames.
- Final Fantasy XIV didn’t make a good impression on Square Enix’ shareholders.
