When Final Fantasy XIV was released in 2010 it failed to live up to the Final Fantasy name. Critics complained that the massively multiplayer online game (MMO) suffered from poor performance issues and a failed presentation.
The game was so derided that the developers behind the game said they regretted launching it. Square Enix CEO Yoichi Wada said in 2011 that the "the Final Fantasy brand has been greatly damaged" because of the title's failures.
Square Enix now looks to overcome the previous game's short-comings by releasing a sequel. Here are some of the facts you need to know about Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn.
A return to form
Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn will take place in the same universe as the original title. Square has reported that the game takes place five years after the events of Final Fantasy XIV. Escaping Eorzea right before Bahamut gets released from his prison, the lead character must begin preparation for the incoming invasion from the northern Garlean Empire.
Catching up to WoW
Gameplay for Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn will feature many of the mainstays of the MMO genre. The game will feature a quest system called FATE or Full Active Time Event. Square Enix new feature presents random events to players that can be used to earn extra XP and increase the action.
A Realm Reborn will also feature a new system called hunting logs. The system lets players roam the gameplay world slaying a set amount of creatures to earn XP bonuses. Square Enix says hunting logs are made to reward exploration.
Pay-to-play
Square Enix is charging on a pay-to-play schedule for the title. The MMO will cost $12.99 a month after an introductory price to purchase the title. Luckily, players who bought the first game can get the title without paying the introductory price.
According to gaming site Dualshockers, Square Enix will also be releasing pre-paid value cards. The cards can be used to buy monthly subscriptions in advance. Dualshockers only reports that the pre-paid cards have started to show up in retail stores in Europe and Australia. No word yet on the cards availability in the US.
Getting to play
The game has been available in alpha since December. A Realm Reborn is about to be sent to a third round of beta testing. According to Gamespot, the game will reach its final stage of beta on June 14. Square Enix expects to officially launch a full retail version of the title on August 27. The MMO will be available for both PC and PS3.