Square Enix has confirmed that it will launch Final Fantasy 14: A Realm Reborn this summer for PC and PlayStation 3 with cross-platform functionality. The massively-multiplayer online game set in the Final Fantasy universe will include a new game engine, new map system, a new story, and improved gameplay, interface and server structure.
Square Enix ordered a reboot of the game after its disastrous launch back in 2010. The game was officially closed in Nov. 2012 due to widespread criticism and negative reception.
The alpha test for the reboot was concluded in Dec. 2012 and in Feb. 2013, the game went into beta for the PC. The developer will open a third phase of its closed beta, which will be available for players on both PC and PlayStation 3 in June, IGN reports. Fans can sign up for the beta now here.
"If you applied to be a PlayStation 3 beta tester for FFXIV Version 1.0 and were selected to test the Windows version instead, you need not apply again to test the PS3 version - your original application will be reconsidered when we start selecting PS3 testers. However, if you wish to be considered as a Windows PC tester, we ask that you apply specifically for that," a Square Enix advisory explains. "Players who met the Legacy campaign requirements can participate in the beta test starting from phase 1 and are not required to apply. However, we ask players who wish to participate in the PlayStation 3 beta test to apply for it." Players who participate in the beta "will gain access to a wealth of new content, including the introduction of the city states of Ul'dah and Limsa Lominsa," it says.
Square Enix believes that a reboot is necessary to earn back the reputation of the Final Fantasy brand. "Losing your fans' trust is very easy thing to do. Regaining it is very hard. We believe Final Fantasy 14 is a starting point, and that players joining us will think 'oh wow, this is great, I'll see what they can do with Final Fantasy 15 or 16," the developer's approach is quite clear in Final Fantasy 14 producer Naoki Yoshida's words (via Eurogamer).
