[FFXI] Starting once again.

[violentp]

Just picked up the collection for the PS2 and I'm about to start installing. Any information and help would be greatly appreciated. Gorv, I'm looking at you.

[Panthera]

Keep making your character until you end up on Asura, so you can play with us. :)

I'd be happy to help you out in game, since I'm just starting a new job.

Race/class combination is much, much, MUCH more important than it is in other MMOs. Don't make the choice of race easily, but I'm sure Gorvi will tell you more about that.

[violentp]

Thanks for the info. I'd like to know what a decent starting race/class combo would be so I can get in your server as quickly as possible.

[Wraith]

Thanks for the info. I'd like to know what a decent starting race/class combo would be so I can get in your server as quickly as possible.I thought you didn't have to keep creating characters (or use a world pass) to get on a specific server anymore. They just give you the choice at character creation now. (Unless this doesn't apply to the very first character you make on an account or something.)

As for race/job, what kind of character you want to play? What advanced jobs do you want to shoot for later on? (Job List (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gameplay_of_Final_Fantasy_XI#Job_system_and_leveli ng))

[violentp]

Checking that job list now. So do we have many EvAvers on Asura?

[Panthera]

I thought you didn't have to keep creating characters (or use a world pass) to get on a specific server anymore. They just give you the choice at character creation now. (Unless this doesn't apply to the very first character you make on an account or something.)

As for race/job, what kind of character you want to play? What advanced jobs do you want to shoot for later on? (Job List (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gameplay_of_Final_Fantasy_XI#Job_system_and_leveli ng))

Hah, shows you how long it's been since I played.

[Gorvi]

Awesome. :) I'll post some stuff later, I just got home and don't have time to post anything with substance.

[Panthera]

http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Races

Check out this page to get yourself started. Determine what kind of role you like to place, and see which race is good at it.

[Wraith]

And really, any race can be good at any job, it's just harder if you pick a challenging combo. (It takes a lot more skill/gil to be a successful Galka WHM than it does to be a Tarutaru WHM, for example.) But don't worry that picking a race locks you into only the jobs it's best at. You just don't want to pick the most challenging race for the main jobs you want to pursue, especially if you're new to the game.

[Rakael]

Damnit! I think I'm gonna go pick this up for the 360. Does a standard usb kb work for it?

[violentp]

Considering Tarutaru BLM.

[theevilnarwhale]

Is there cross platform play on this? I keep thinking about picking it up on 360.

[violentp]

Is there cross platform play on this? I keep thinking about picking it up on 360.

That's an affirmative. I just want to confirm the server with most EvAvers.

[Draconis]

I personally am on the Ifrit Server, Dark Knight 71. Some words of advice if you can bear them to make things easier early on. Get signet early and often. Signet now provides an evasion, Experience, and accuracy boost against mobs that con even match and below.



Don't attack mobs who can use poison early on, as you will die frequently if you do.


Take whatever crystals you get from Signet, level Alchemy. The first few levels you can level beehive chips and turn them into Beeswax. Beeswax stacks sell for like 10k a pop on the servers last I checked. Alchemy is your early and best ticket to make easy money with a little bit of patience in the game. Trust me on this.



As for jobs...


Monk is what I would consider the easiest to level to 10. It doesn't take much brains, goes pretty quickly, and you hit things....alot. While to some it may be boring, Monk is one of the best jobs to play early on in the game to get used to its mechanics


Warrior is a bit easier as well, depending on weapon you choose. Use your onion sword for a bit, then get an axe or a great axe and go to town on mobs. Warriors are the games tanks early on. They can take damage and dish damage.



Thief: I hated levelling this job. Dagger damage is not fun to me. Plinking mobs for 3-5 or maybe 8 dmg per shot feels like pulling teeth to me. But the job may be up your alley. Depends on your playstyle


Black Mage: Again, feels like pulling teeth. Getting this job to level 10 will take some patience. You need to bind your target, nuke it to the abyss, and heal up your MP alot. If you choose TaruTaru, the job will be easier MP wise but not so much with Hit points.


Red Mage: This one is easier. More versatility. You can use a sword and you have curing at your disposal and can wear heavier armor. Early on Red mage is a mix of Melee/Magic before it turns into a pure support role job later on.


White mage: Even more difficult to level then Black mage. All you have is a club and some cure spells as well as banish. My white mage is level 1 if that tells you anything, and I have been playing the game since launch day in 2003 I think that covers all the jobs. If you have any further questions feel free to ask.

[violentp]

Thanks D. Can a character switch job classes? Train in multiple?

[Draconis]

Yes, they easily can.

That is one of the most beautiful things of FFXI. If you decide you cannot stand a job, you simply go into your mog house and tell your moogle to switch your jobs to something else. Your levels, exp gained, everything...for that last job remains in tact until you level it again or die etc. Basically, your efforts on each job are recorded and kept that way, you don't reset at all on anything job wise.

Its pretty nice.

For example...

I have Dark Knight at 71
Warrior at 35
Thief at 33
Samurai at 36...

And so on

[Wraith]

Plus the subjob system. Once you do a certain quest in the game (at level 20, was it?), you get the ability to equip a subjob.

For example, if you're a lvl 20 BLM, you might equip WHM as your subjob. While playing as BLM (main) / WHM (sub), you can use all the skills of WHM up to 50% of your main level (in this case lvl 10 WHM) or the max level you've earned in WHM (whichever is lower). You don't add levels to your subjob while you're playing, but it adds greatly to the stats and skills available to you.

So you may level BLM up to 20, do the subjob quest, go back and start playing as WHM/BLM, leveling WHM up to 20, then switch back to BLM/WHM and take BLM from 20 to 40... You always try to keep your subjob leveled sufficiently.

And BLM/WHM is just one example (and the most likely path for someone starting out on BLM). You can combine any main with any sub; some combos just work better than others.

[Gorvi]

Ok, the little one is in bed and I have some time to actually try to lend a hand. First of all, Taru is a fine choice, especially if you want to be a mage. As far as jobs, here's my thoughts for starting out, from easiest to hardest.

Red Mage: IMO, this is by far the easiest job to level as a new player. You can wear all the early heavy armor that a Warrior can, you can swing a sword really well, you can use a bow well, and you can heal yourself. No other job can say that.

Monk: Like Drac said, you hit stuff. And that's about it. Well, you use Boost too. It's really simple, and has the most powerful first Weapon Skill of any job from using Hand to Hand weapons, Combo. Can't use ranged weapons, which personally bugs me.

Warrior: Like Monk, there's not much you do but beat the crap out of mobs at these early levels. Grab an Axe or Great Axe and have at it.

White Mage: Not the easiest in the world, but not the hardest either. You get good club skill and you can heal yourself, so that's a plus.

Thief: No frills melee. Your biggest plus pre 15 is that you have high evasion. Dagger's are a thf's best weapon, but they suck at these levels. Use a sword or hand to hand weapons.

Black Mage: By far the hardest. Like White Mage, but you can't cure yourself. Offensive spells are all but useless unless you feel like resting to regain MP between every single fight. If you want to do Black Mage (which is a great job, don't get me wrong, I'm a 75 Black Mage), wait until you can set a subjob and sub WHM or RDM to it to level.

[Wraith]

Monk: Like Drac said, you hit stuff. And that's about it. Well, you use Boost too. It's really simple, and has the most powerful first Weapon Skill of any job from using Hand to Hand weapons, Combo. Can't use ranged weapons, which personally bugs me.

Warrior: Like Monk, there's not much you do but beat the crap out of mobs at these early levels. Grab an Axe or Great Axe and have at it.And if you're looking at going for an advanced melee or tank job, MNK and WAR are usually your first jobs.

i.e., if you're looking at going for Paladin, you'll want to have WAR leveled for a sub. And for leveling WAR, you'll probably want MNK as a sub. (I've had less experience with /THF, but it's also appropriate for some paths.)

[Gorvi]

And if you're looking at going for an advanced melee or tank job, MNK and WAR are usually your first jobs.

i.e., if you're looking at going for Paladin, you'll want to have WAR leveled for a sub. And for leveling WAR, you'll probably want MNK as a sub. (I've had less experience with /THF, but it's also appropriate for some paths.)
Yeah, that's not a bad idea, leveling your initial job with an "advanced job" (any of the other jobs that you can unlock at 30) in mind. WAR is a safe bet, as it can be subbed well to any melee job. MNK is really only a good sub for pre 30 WAR or THF, other than that, there are better options.

[Gorvi]

Just to expand on some things for you to know as a new player: always have signet on. Always. As Drac said, you get bonuses from it, but you also get Conquest Points from kills as well as makes it so there's a chance for crystals to drop from mobs that give xp.

You can in turn use those Conquest Points from the same NPCs you get Signet from to "purchase" certain items dependant on your Rank (which goes up as you complete missions). The first thing you want to do as soon as you have enough Conquest Points is get an Empress Band (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Empress_Band).

The Alchemy thing is a great tip, and I highly recommend you do it. Crafting can be a good way to make gil in FFXI if you're patient. And really, to play FFXI, you need to be patient anyway.

I know the installation and update process takes a while, so I'm guessing that's what you were doing last night. Will you be starting up tonight?

[violentp]

If I'm home then yeah, I plan to start tonight. Haven't decided what server though.

[Gorvi]

Asura is the only correct answer. ;)

[violentp]

Consider it done then. Is it still the randomly generated server or can I pick these days?

Also, what's a good starting city?

[Gorvi]

Consider it done then. Is it still the randomly generated server or can I pick these days?

Also, what's a good starting city?
You can pick now, they changed that about 8 months or so ago.

As far as city, I'm a bit biased, since I've always been partial to Windurst. But, I'd say go with whatever your starting race's home city is (you get a ring when you do that'll help in the beginning). That'd be Windurst for Taru and Mithra, Bastok for Hume and Galka, and San d'Oria for Elvaan.

[Panthera]

I'd say San'doria is the easiest to navigate and most convenient, but Windurst is great for magey-types and the one that I chose. It's where I'll be going soon, anyway.

I'd agree with Gorvi that it should be based on your race.

[Gorvi]

So, VP, did you ever make it on last night? If so, what's your character's name?

[violentp]

So, VP, did you ever make it on last night? If so, what's your character's name?

Sure did. Got home at about 1:30 and had just enough juice to make my Taru. His name is Cosmosis, remember it well.

[Gorvi]

Sure did. Got home at about 1:30 and had just enough juice to make my Taru. His name is Cosmosis, remember it well.
Good stuff. I'll send ya a friend invite when I get online tonight around 8ish. Maybe I'll even catch you online at the same time sometime. ;)

[violentp]

Oh yeah. I'm gonna need some help as this seems to be veery different than WoW. Thanks Gorv.

[Gorvi]

Oh yeah. I'm gonna need some help as this seems to be veery different than WoW. Thanks Gorv.
Oh, very much so. FFXI is very much a game that kicks you in the junk and you have to be the kind of person that wants to come back and hit it harder. If that makes any sense.

[violentp]

Indeed it does. Lets just hope I'm in the mood for some junk kicking.

[Panthera]

Let the junk-kickery commence.

[violentp]

Good stuff. I'll send ya a friend invite when I get online tonight around 8ish. Maybe I'll even catch you online at the same time sometime. ;)

Actually, it's Cosmodios. Now don't you forget it. Hah!

[Shjinta]

I'm so returning to this game.. when i get the funds.. I need help getting out the Dunes... lvl 14 Elvaan Warrior FTL :(

[violentp]

I'm starting right now. Lvl 1 Taru BLM awaaaay!

[Gorvi]

I saw you online last night and even sent you a friend request, but my internet was not cooperating in any way. After getting booted offline a few times, I just gave up.

So, did you get anything done?

[violentp]

I saw you online last night and even sent you a friend request, but my internet was not cooperating in any way. After getting booted offline a few times, I just gave up.

So, did you get anything done?

I got the request and accepted. Mostly trying to familiarize myself with Windurst. Up to LVL 3 at the moment. They really should have advised me that I had a "stone" scroll in my inventory at start. Sigh, poor Taru.

[Gorvi]

I got the request and accepted. Mostly trying to familiarize myself with Windurst. Up to LVL 3 at the moment. They really should have advised me that I had a "stone" scroll in my inventory at start. Sigh, poor Taru.
Nice. Windurst can be a bit confusing to get around at first, but finding where the warp Tarus are located will help a ton.

[violentp]

Nice. Windurst can be a bit confusing to get around at first, but finding where the warp Tarus are located will help a ton.

What the hell is a warp Tarus? Geez, I'm gonna have to quit my job soon.

[Spigot]

Here's my tip: NEVER, EVER DIE!

I think I still have my installs for the PC version kicking around. One of these days I might get back into it.

[violentp]

Here's my tip: NEVER, EVER DIE!

I think I still have my installs for the PC version kicking around. One of these days I might get back into it.

Dude, I could really use another nooblet.

[Gorvi]

What the hell is a warp Tarus? Geez, I'm gonna have to quit my job soon.
Haha. They're 4 Tarutarus (one in each area) that will warp you to the area diagonal to the one you're in.

http://images.wikia.com/ffxi/images/5/55/WindurstOverview.png

So, for example, you go from Windurst Waters, to Windurst Woods, Port Windurst to Windurst Walls, and vice versa. There's Machu Kuchu (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Machu-Kuchu) in Port Windurst at E-7, Pattsu Yabittsu (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Pattsu-Yabittsu) at K-11 in Windurst Woods, Komulili (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Komulili) at J-11 in Windurst Walls, and Tonana (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Tonana) at G-8 in the northern section of Windurst Waters.

[violentp]

Ahhh, Tarus as in plural Taru. I was expecting a minotaur of sorts. I'll be looking for those guys for sure.

[Gorvi]

Ahhh, Tarus as in plural Taru. I was expecting a minotaur of sorts. I'll be looking for those guys for sure.

You don't want to run into the Minotaur for a while:

http://images.wikia.com/ffxi/images/9/97/Minotaur.jpg

[violentp]

I would be lying if I said that wasn't hot. When we going to visit this precious little guy Gorv?

[Gorvi]

I would be lying if I said that wasn't hot. When we going to visit this precious little guy Gorv?
He's the boss for Chains of Promathia Mission 2-3. It's in a 40 cap area, so when you get to 40 and beat the three Promyvian areas, that's the next place you go in that line of missions.

[violentp]

He's the boss for Chains of Promathia Mission 2-3. It's in a 40 cap area, so when you get to 40 and beat the three Promyvian areas, that's the next place you go in that line of missions.

So I'll see him in what, 7 years? I kid. Hopefully someone else starts FFXI so we can make some progress.

[Gorvi]

So I'll see him in what, 7 years? I kid. Hopefully someone else starts FFXI so we can make some progress.
Haha. Realistically, for a new player, getting to that point in levels and missions would be a good 6 months. You could do it in half the time, realistically, or even less, but you'd have to be playing pretty hardcore.

[violentp]

Haha. Realistically, for a new player, getting to that point in levels and missions would be a good 6 months. You could do it in half the time, realistically, or even less, but you'd have to be playing pretty hardcore.

My Taru will make the Heavens quiver one day. just not today.

[Wraith]

Re: Windurst

You'll eventually spend most of your time in Windurst Woods, as you can access the Mog House, Auction House, Chocobo stable, and exit to East Sarutabaruta (from which you'll move on to the rest of the world). You'll certainly visit the other three zones for quests, shops (for some lower level spells and equipment), and crafting HQs (depending on what crafts you take up).

And as Gorvi mentioned, the warp Tarus help a lot for jumping between zones.

[Cyndair]

I always liked the look and style of Windy but only as a place to visit. I don't think I'd want to conduct business there. Too freaking big and confusing. Sandy and Bastok are a lot simpler in layout and it doesn't take 5 years to run from your mog house to the AH. :p

[Gorvi]

I always liked the look and style of Windy but only as a place to visit. I don't think I'd want to conduct business there. Too freaking big and confusing. Sandy and Bastok are a lot simpler in layout and it doesn't take 5 years to run from your mog house to the AH. :p
Ah, man, you touched on my one problem with Windy: both AHs are too far from the Mog Houses. I mean, really, is that run in Walls all that necassary? That's probably why I always wait for my Windurst mule to have a good 14 items to sell before I run her to the AH.

[Cyndair]

Ah, man, you touched on my one problem with Windy: both AHs are too far from the Mog Houses. I mean, really, is that run in Walls all that necassary? That's probably why I always wait for my Windurst mule to have a good 14 items to sell before I run her to the AH.

lol! I'm in the same boat. I'll be at the character select staring at my windy mule thinking... "Is it really worth it?.... Nah, I'll just log on my main, screw it." Meanwhile I have a full outbox worth of crap on my main that needs to be picked up and sold.

[Spigot]

I think that if I were to play this again with you veteran players, I'd have a much better time than I did when I initially played it. I didn't know anyone then. Sigh.

[Blue]

This thread makes me want to continue on with the Samurai I dropped 3 years ago (level 42...I think). Favorite class/job of any MMO I've played because it's, well, a Samurai.

Anyhow: stop talking about FF XI. Just. Stop. I cannot have two addictions.

[Holiday]

This thread makes me want to continue on with the Samurai I dropped 3 years ago (level 42...I think). Favorite class/job of any MMO I've played because it's, well, a Samurai.

Anyhow: stop talking about FF XI. Just. Stop. I cannot have two addictions.

Oh man, Samurai has become such a better class in those three years! Most importantly the addition of an offensive (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Hasso)and defensive (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Seigan)job ability. Both ability on a one minute timer, but with a five minute duration. One will overwrite the other, but the recast/duration timer is unique in FFXI. Two-handed weapons were also boosted recently, making the base stats of strength and dexterity add more attack and accuracy, respectively.

Not sure why I'm playing devil's advocate here, my account hasn't been active for three months! :D

[Blue]

Oh man, Samurai has become such a better class in those three years! Most importantly the addition of an offensive (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Hasso)and defensive (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Seigan)job ability. Both ability on a one minute timer, but with a five minute duration. One will overwrite the other, but the recast/duration timer is unique in FFXI. Two-handed weapons were also boosted recently, making the base stats of strength and dexterity add more attack and accuracy, respectively.

Not sure why I'm playing devil's advocate here, my account hasn't been active for three months! :D

If you listen close enough, you might be able to hear my wife telling you to shut your dirty mouth.

(As an aside - those changes look really smooth. FFXI was my first ever MMO experience and I loved every minute of it. I still bemoan my leaving)

[Gorvi]

I think that if I were to play this again with you veteran players, I'd have a much better time than I did when I initially played it. I didn't know anyone then. Sigh.
Yeah, getting into a good group of people helps so much. If I hadn't randomly gotten into a fantastic Linkshell when I first started, I think my time with FFXI may have been a lot shorter.

And Blue, I have to second Holiday, Samurai was a kick ass job before, now they are even more so. What other job can self skillchain? ;)

[Spigot]

Yeah, getting into a good group of people helps so much. If I hadn't randomly gotten into a fantastic Linkshell when I first started, I think my time with FFXI may have been a lot shorter. Exactly. I spent a few months with it when I first played and quite liked the look and feel of the game and the combat was fun (which is probably why I enjoyed FFXII so much) but I was basically alone and could only do pick-up groups and that was an exercise in frustration. Plus the punishment for dying didn't help warm me up when I had spent a week solid playing and ended up a lower level than when I'd started.

[Blue]

And Blue, I have to second Holiday, Samurai was a kick ass job before, now they are even more so. What other job can self skillchain? ;)

Haha, I know, I know. Self skillchaining was just a ridiculous amount of fun and being able to do it in a party was even better. So many great things in FF.

[Vadras]

Hey guys. Forgive the low post count, more of a lurker than a poster (typically at work too =p)...

Debating whether or not to pick this up again. I've tried to get into FFXI once before. Only got to about level 10 or so as I recall and had a friend pulling me to play WoW with him. Have always wished I had stuck it out with FFXI more because it looks like it has some pretty amazing content in it throughout the leveling process rather than all at the end... something not typical of other MMOs sadly. I didn't get to see much at level 10 and the leveling process was fairly painful, but the community does seem to be a lot better than the World of Whiners I have grown accustomed to. The more I hear about you guys playing it the more tempting it is...

If I end up buying it again, I may join up with the other EvAvers on Asura if you guys don't mind. Don't want to intrude, but having some people to play with and get tips from would probably help to make it a better experience I'm sure.

Edit: One other question... any recommendation between playing it on the PC vs. the 360? I have a high-end computer, so either way would work fine.

[UWCrash]

Hey guys. A friend (Mot Wakorb) and I are planning on reactivating and are considering making the jump to Asura when we do so. My main character is a 68 Galka PLD (I also have a 66 Hume THF) and Mot is a 68 Hume WHM. Before we do anything we were wondering if there's actually an EvAv LS and if so, how active is it (and how many people have 60+ jobs)? We've still got a few friends on Phoenix, but in the past they've usually just shown up to do Dynamis/Sky/Limbus/etc and then disappear.

Hopefully after all these years we'll finally get something to 75 :D

[Vadras]

Ended up getting it today at Gamestop! It was great, the guy had a copy w/out the box (don't know why) and sold it to me for $10 hehe. Updating now. I'll create a character on Asura. Is there a list of character names floating around anywhere for all the EvAvers on Asura?

[violentp]

Ended up getting it today at Gamestop! It was great, the guy had a copy w/out the box (don't know why) and sold it to me for $10 hehe. Updating now. I'll create a character on Asura. Is there a list of character names floating around anywhere for all the EvAvers on Asura?

Cosmodios here.

[Gorvi]

Ended up getting it today at Gamestop! It was great, the guy had a copy w/out the box (don't know why) and sold it to me for $10 hehe. Updating now. I'll create a character on Asura. Is there a list of character names floating around anywhere for all the EvAvers on Asura?
Gorvi here, oddly enough. :)
Hey guys. A friend (Mot Wakorb) and I are planning on reactivating and are considering making the jump to Asura when we do so. My main character is a 68 Galka PLD (I also have a 66 Hume THF) and Mot is a 68 Hume WHM. Before we do anything we were wondering if there's actually an EvAv LS and if so, how active is it (and how many people have 60+ jobs)? We've still got a few friends on Phoenix, but in the past they've usually just shown up to do Dynamis/Sky/Limbus/etc and then disappear.

Hopefully after all these years we'll finally get something to 75 :D
Nah, unfortunately there's no EvAv LS. I'd love it if there was one, though.

[BlackPete]

Hmm... I've been toying around with the idea of giving FFXI another shot. My only problem is I don't have nearly as much free time as I once did. Plus there's the fact my old character is basically nuked (cuz I screwed up uninstalling the game, so my cd-keys got toasted... thanks Square). So I'd have to start from scratch.

I remember just enough of the game to remember what a fun yet painful game it is. It's been hmmm... 3 years? So before taking the plunge I have questions:

1) Have they toned down the levelling grind at all during the past 3 years? Or is the levelling still the same as it was?

2) Is it any faster to get to, say, level 50?

The part that kills me is thinking about how I'd need to level up without a subjob, no chocobo, etc. for a while until I can re-get them all. Not to mention there's the Dunes and etc... so I'm basically wondering if there's a way to fly past all that as quickly as possible -- again since my time is pretty limited these days.

[Gorvi]

Hmm... I've been toying around with the idea of giving FFXI another shot. My only problem is I don't have nearly as much free time as I once did. Plus there's the fact my old character is basically nuked (cuz I screwed up uninstalling the game, so my cd-keys got toasted... thanks Square). So I'd have to start from scratch.

I remember just enough of the game to remember what a fun yet painful game it is. It's been hmmm... 3 years? So before taking the plunge I have questions:

1) Have they toned down the levelling grind at all during the past 3 years? Or is the levelling still the same as it was?
It's still there, but it's gotten easier. Well, if you actually do it intelligently, it's much easier.
2) Is it any faster to get to, say, level 50?
That depends on a number of factors, but it generally is. This ties in a bit with 1.
The part that kills me is thinking about how I'd need to level up without a subjob, no chocobo, etc. for a while until I can re-get them all. Not to mention there's the Dunes and etc... so I'm basically wondering if there's a way to fly past all that as quickly as possible -- again since my time is pretty limited these days.
Do it in a smart way, and you can do it quickly. The biggest barrier is the ever present need for gil. If you pick a job that's going to be expensive, you may have trouble.

That all being said, unless you actually deleted your content IDs, you can get your character back, at least as long as they're still running the Return Home thing. The CD keys shouldn't matter, as they'd already be registered to your content ID. You could always call POL customer service to check.

[Panthera]

Ended up getting it today at Gamestop! It was great, the guy had a copy w/out the box (don't know why) and sold it to me for $10 hehe. Updating now. I'll create a character on Asura. Is there a list of character names floating around anywhere for all the EvAvers on Asura?

Eilu, here.

[Vadras]

Made a Red Mage tarutaru named Vadras. Aimlessly wandering around Windurst at the moment.

[Gorvi]

Just glancing around, I found a damn good Beginners's Guide (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Beginner_How-To_Guide) on the Wiki, that would be a very good thing to read over. Heck, the Wiki should be where you look for anything, the thing is a fantastic resource.

[Ten19]

Yeah, getting into a good group of people helps so much. If I hadn't randomly gotten into a fantastic Linkshell when I first started, I think my time with FFXI may have been a lot shorter.


I think what happened to me was what didn't happen to you. I researched the hell out of the MMO, went out and bought the collection for PC. Loaded it up and just wandered around aimlessly. I hopped into a few LS's but they never did anything. So I just wandered. And wandered. And eventually quit.

Perhaps someday, in the far future when I have nothing to play (too much atm), maybe I'll hop back on. I assume Gorvi will still be there, championing the cause ;)

[Gorvi]

I think what happened to me was what didn't happen to you. I researched the hell out of the MMO, went out and bought the collection for PC. Loaded it up and just wandered around aimlessly. I hopped into a few LS's but they never did anything. So I just wandered. And wandered. And eventually quit.

Perhaps someday, in the far future when I have nothing to play (too much atm), maybe I'll hop back on. I assume Gorvi will still be there, championing the cause ;)
Haha, yeah, I have a feeling I'll be there when they shut down the servers. Something about the game world just keeps pulling me back. :)

[Vadras]

Got my Red Mage to level 3. Having fun with it so far. Are there any quests to give you experience, gil, and items? So far I found one that asked me to get a tail and was able to do that, but haven't found too much yet. Pretty much just got the signet on, walked outside, and started killing stuff.

[Draconis]

Some advice for you guys starting out again. I am in an end game linkshell in Ifrit so I won't be seeing you guys over on Asura. But I can still help out someway.

First of all, be aware that the RMT are now resorting to dirty tactics of keylogger trojans on websites via injected scripts through hidden iframes. To this end, use Firefox and install no script and adblocker, and set up your options in noscript to block iframes, even on trusted sites.

Two: Use these links. They make life easier and they are your friends.

Auction house site for quick lookups of items based on server. Pretty accurate, updates often.

www.ffxiah.com

The best wiki you can find for the game. This is a monumental resource and it helps a ton. You can find ALOT of useful information in here.

www.ffxiclopedia.com


If you are into crafting, and want to skill up quickly and fast, use the crafting timer. You lose less money on expensive synths if you set up the most favorable conditions possible for crafting.

http://ffxi.lokyst.net/timer/crafttimer.html



The best map resource for the game. FFXI Atlas.

http://www.ffxi-atlas.com/


And a general all site that I use quite frequently for a myriad number of things. Ranging from discussion to crafting guides/equipment guides for various jobs other then Dark Knight.

http://ffxi.allakhazam.com/



Those links are helpful, and provide a wealth of information. I hope they are useful. :)


Shame I'll never get to see you in Sky Gorvi. I'd just love to Punt a Tarutaru over the edge and see how long it takes for their screaming to be met with a large thud. ;):D

[Holiday]

Auction house site for quick lookups of items based on server. Pretty accurate, updates often.

www.ffxiah.com


Of note, this site only tracks auction house activity linked to Jeuno (http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/wiki/Auction_House#Auction_House_Counter_Locations). The three starting cities have independent auction systems.

[BlackPete]

It's still there, but it's gotten easier. Well, if you actually do it intelligently, it's much easier.

That's pretty much what I was hoping for -- just streamline my way back to where I (roughly) was without turning it into an ubergrind and burn out on the game yet again.

That all being said, unless you actually deleted your content IDs, you can get your character back, at least as long as they're still running the Return Home thing. The CD keys shouldn't matter, as they'd already be registered to your content ID. You could always call POL customer service to check.

I'm afraid the content IDs were deleted as well. When I was uninstalling I wasn't really looking at what I was clicking on, and just hit "Yes" to everything. Whoops. Now, I realize that was my bad, but I still wonder why it was even available as an option in the first place.

[UWCrash]

1) Have they toned down the levelling grind at all during the past 3 years? Or is the levelling still the same as it was?

One thing you should make sure to pickup is an Empress Band. You can buy it from any one of your nation's conquest vendors for 1000 CP under the "Common Items" category. When you use it, it provides a 50% XP bonus for 3 hours or until you get a total of 1000 bonus XP. It comes with 7 charges and has a 16 hour cooldown, and you can recharge it for 100CP per charge by trading it to any conquest vendor. (you can trade it to the NPC even though it's a Rare/Ex item)

You should also keep an eye out during some of the seasonal events. I've still got an Anniversary Ring, which is similar to the Empress Band. It's a 100% XP bonus for 12 hours, up to a maximum of 3000 XP. 10 charges but there's no way to recharge it.

Also, in addition to the sites Draconis mentioned, http://ffxi.somepage.com is a good database of items and other information. The two items I mentioned above are:

Empress Band: http://ffxi.somepage.com/itemdb/7591
Anniversary Ring: http://ffxi.somepage.com/itemdb/9282

[Draconis]

Just a note here. Uwcrash is right as to the somepage being there. The reason why I didn't list it is because it was the first site that was hit with the iframe trojan that auto installed to your system.

Over 2,000 accounts were hacked. Items were lost forever. Peoples passwords were changed, irretrievable items were lost. It was a nightmare.

It took somepage hours to even notice it. In fact, Square Enix was the one that had to contact them to get them to even take the page down before the issue was fixed.

If you use firefox, you can set it up to be safe. But generally. I stay away, just a matter of personal preference.

Put simply, I avoid ffxisomepage like the plague.

[UWCrash]

Just a note here. Uwcrash is right as to the somepage being there. The reason why I didn't list it is because it was the first site that was hit with the iframe trojan that auto installed to your system.

Over 2,000 accounts were hacked. Items were lost forever. Peoples passwords were changed, irretrievable items were lost. It was a nightmare.


Holy crap! Was this somewhat recent? I haven't played since August-September of last year, and I don't remember anything like that.

[Gorvi]

Holy crap! Was this somewhat recent? I haven't played since August-September of last year, and I don't remember anything like that.
That happened around December of last year I believe. I'm pretty sure they were able to return items to people by restoring their characters back to a certain date. But yeah, it was bad.

I always avoided somepage anyway, it just never seemed all that useful. That, and Killing Ifrit, but that's just because KI is a festering sesspool of internet drama.

[Draconis]

That happened around December of last year I believe. I'm pretty sure they were able to return items to people by restoring their characters back to a certain date. But yeah, it was bad.

I always avoided somepage anyway, it just never seemed all that useful. That, and Killing Ifrit, but that's just because KI is a festering sesspool of internet drama.


Not entirely Gorvi,

Their still investigating and working on repairing the damage to alot of accounts. Its complicated. Basically, SE's original stance was akin to Up Yours, we ain't doing squat. Then when they got the major protests and the actual number of accounts hacked were made known....their tune changed quite quickly.

Still, it takes time to implement a process. They have to make sure of credit card numbers, account information, etc. People are still waiting for their accounts to be restored.

Since the ordeal has happened, I have become UBER paranoid about my activity on my Pc, and have locked down everything to levels that would make the NSA spit coffee up all over their monitors.

Basically, Sometimes I use another locked down PC to check things but for the most part I have firefox locked down like fort knox and do a virus scan every night after playing. That way if I do get hacked, I have a time that I can give SE so I can recover my account.

I don't even want to imagine the nightmare of losing my account of 5 years of work in this game to some freaking Chinese gilseller.

There is a benefit to those like Gorvi who play on the PS2 and others who play on the 360. Lot more secure. Of course, the downside to the 360 is that if Live is down...YER SOL on getting into ffxi.

[UWCrash]

Wow, that sounds pretty horrible. I probably wouldn't have had a problem between Firefox and AVG, but as an item database I always stuck to somepage because allakhazam was generally too damn slow. KI always seemed slower than either of them...I can't remember ever finding anything useful there either.

I'm in the midst of the 6 hour patching process after reinstalling. I'm guessing we'll be transferring from Phoenix to Asura, but first Mot has to recover his password. I guess they changed the password requirements since Sept and he's locked out...and he can't find the original CD-Keys from 5 years ago.

[Vadras]

I managed to get up to level 5 on my RDM last night. Thanks for answering all of my questions last night Gorvi. You were tremendously helpful. Hopefully we can group together at some point to have you show me the ropes a bit more. Can't wait to see your BM wreak some havoc!

[Panthera]

I've got WAR at level 7. Send me a message, we can party sometime soon!

[Cyndair]

Man, EvAv seems to be forming a small army of new players over on Asura. Hope you guys enjoy the game!

Try not to get frustrated with it early on. The game really starts to shine once you get a character up past level 37. Most of my friends who have tried it all quit before it got good. Just don't be in a hurry to get everything done all at once and you will be a lot happier. The game was designed to take a long time, love it or hate it. If you expect it to take awhile and remain patient, it is a much more enjoyable experience.

[Vadras]

I've got WAR at level 7. Send me a message, we can party sometime soon!

Sounds good! My char name is Vadras as well, so just shoot me a friend request if you see me on at all. I'm out in Windurst at the moment... not even really sure how to travel beyond that yet, so hopefully you're out there too!

And I agree with you Cyndair. I think that was my mistake last time was expecting too much too quickly. I'm taking things slower now and enjoying the game a great deal more!

[Gorvi]

Try not to get frustrated with it early on. The game really starts to shine once you get a character up past level 37. Most of my friends who have tried it all quit before it got good. Just don't be in a hurry to get everything done all at once and you will be a lot happier. The game was designed to take a long time, love it or hate it. If you expect it to take awhile and remain patient, it is a much more enjoyable experience.
I second all of that. The game is one that, if you enjoy it, you can play for years. If you're expecting to get to endgame from scratch in 3 or 4 months, it's just not going to happen. FFXI is a game for the long haul.
I managed to get up to level 5 on my RDM last night. Thanks for answering all of my questions last night Gorvi. You were tremendously helpful. Hopefully we can group together at some point to have you show me the ropes a bit more. Can't wait to see your BM wreak some havoc!
I'm glad I could help! Once you get a job to 15 (going out to party earlier is just painful), let me know and we can set up a time where I can go out and get a party with you. I've got Ranger and Dark Knight sitting at 15 right now, so either one of those is an option.

[Vadras]

I'm glad I could help! Once you get a job to 15 (going out to party earlier is just painful), let me know and we can set up a time where I can go out and get a party with you. I've got Ranger and Dark Knight sitting at 15 right now, so either one of those is an option.

Sounds good Gorvi. I'll let you know when I get there, so we can party up. Workin on getting my 1000 CP for that ring which should speed the process along somewhat. Over halfway there :cool:

[Panthera]

I'm working my way up to 15 in RDM, myself - currently at 13.

Meat Mithkabobs are a great cheap way to speed up leveling, I've found. Oh, and I've finally managed to make some serious money - silk thread and harvesting in West Sarutabaruta! I've got about 7k in value sitting in the auction house right now, and that was in a single night's leveling.

[Gorvi]

Sounds good Gorvi. I'll let you know when I get there, so we can party up. Workin on getting my 1000 CP for that ring which should speed the process along somewhat. Over halfway there :cool:
Nice! We should probably get you up to Rank 2 at least, so maybe if you're on tonight I'll give you a hand with the first few couple of missions. Just post on here and let me know. :)

[Vadras]

Nice! We should probably get you up to Rank 2 at least, so maybe if you're on tonight I'll give you a hand with the first few couple of missions. Just post on here and let me know. :)

Hopefully I'll be on tonight. Supposed to raid with my WoW guild tonight at 5pm (PST), but should be done by about 9pm. They may not need me though... we'll see. Either way I'll be on by about 9pm, so if you're on that'd be great!

Panthera, you sound like you've made some good progress too. Looks like I've got some catching up to do.

[Gorvi]

Hopefully I'll be on tonight. Supposed to raid with my WoW guild tonight at 5pm (PST), but should be done by about 9pm. They may not need me though... we'll see. Either way I'll be on by about 9pm, so if you're on that'd be great!

Panthera, you sound like you've made some good progress too. Looks like I've got some catching up to do.
That sounds good to me. I'm usually on around 8 EST give or take, so I'll try to get a group, and if I don't have one by the time you're on, I'll lend ya a hand.

[Panthera]

Panthera, you sound like you've made some good progress too. Looks like I've got some catching up to do.

I reactivated my old account with the Return program. My main class is BLM, which is at 24. So, I'm leveling RDM as a sub, and WAR in turn as a sub-sub. :p

Most of my money is going to go into spells. I don't have any level 24 BLM spells yet. They're so expensive. :eek:

[Gorvi]

I reactivated my old account with the Return program. My main class is BLM, which is at 24. So, I'm leveling RDM as a sub, and WAR in turn as a sub-sub. :p

Most of my money is going to go into spells. I don't have any level 24 BLM spells yet. They're so expensive. :eek:
Go to the wiki and find what NPC sells those spells. It's almost always cheaper to buy them that way as opposed to the Auction House, at least for lower level spells.

[Draconis]

Do yourself a favor and level up Alchemy some Panthera.


You can get Alchemy to level 60 in Two days if you have the resources. Honestly its one of the easier crafts to level, and if you look at some of the synths, they are almost all profitable and you can make quite a bit of gil with some patience.

Heres a useful link.


http://ffxi.allakhazam.com/forum.html?forum=24&mid=1117213365970092989&num=0

That's a guide to get Alchemy to 60 with ease. Use it, I did, and with my limited time it didn't take me too long to get it that high.

Trust me...one of the biggest barriers in ffxi is the constant need for Gil. Alchemy is one of the best money making crafts early on.

[Gorvi]

Yep, Alchemy to 60 is very easy. It actually used to be profitable to level, too, but I'm not so sure anymore since the average price for Hi Potions has dropped quite a bit. But yeah, that's definitely a good idea. Cooking is pretty easy too.

[Panthera]

Alchemy, huh? I've got clothcraft up to 2 so far from yagudo necklaces alone. I'll check out guides.

[Gorvi]

The only downside with crafting is inventory space. It's much easier to do if you create a mule in each city to hold and/or sell your excess items that you've crafted, as well as to buy materials that may not be available where you are currently. Also, and you'll see this in the guides, but it helps to level a craft in the guild of that craft for crafting support. For Alchemy, that would be in Bastok.

[Panthera]

Don't mules cost... you know... real money?

Wait, so, if you can send stuff freely between alts, does that mean you can essentially access whichever AH or stores you please just by switching? That would explain why there are 500k accounts and 1.7m characters.

[Gorvi]

Don't mules cost... you know... real money?

Wait, so, if you can send stuff freely between alts, does that mean you can essentially access whichever AH or stores you please just by switching? That would explain why there are 500k accounts and 1.7m characters.
Yeah, they do, unfortunately, $1 each. But, yeah, as long as they're on your same server (obviously), you can freely send items between them just like you can to any other player on your server.

[K0LM]

Is it even possible to solo in this game or are you forced to group?

I was looking at getting back in a mmo and I am trying to decide between this and LOTRO.

[Gorvi]

Is it even possible to solo in this game or are you forced to group?

I was looking at getting back in a mmo and I am trying to decide between this and LOTRO.
Very little. One job, Beastmaster, can solo from the beginning to the level cap, but you need to unlock it with another job to level 30 first. I've personally taken Beastmaster to 66, and never once partied with it.

[K0LM]

Thats the only thing I was worried about. I guess it might have to be LOTRO then. I haven't played FFXI since it launched but I remember the game being brutally punishing.

The thing disappoints me is I wanted to play it on the 360.

[JRR1285]

Can someone who has played the various versions (PS2, 360, PC) tell me which one they would recommend. I have heard that the PS2 version will install just fine on the PS3, is this true? I have wanted to play this title forever, I'm just looking for the best version.

[KIllrazor]

Can someone who has played the various versions (PS2, 360, PC) tell me which one they would recommend. I have heard that the PS2 version will install just fine on the PS3, is this true? I have wanted to play this title forever, I'm just looking for the best version.

What I did was buy the 360 version with all the expansions (Vana'diel Collection 2008) and I bought that $2 PC 30 Day Trial DVD that has the main game and 3 expansions.

You can activate the 360 account you got and then install the game on the PC also and then use the same account to play on both platforms. I love that, since I can use the 360 when I just want to relax and do some fishing on the couch or use the PC if I fell like doing so.

Edit: I didn't buy Vana'diel Collection 2007. I got the 2008 version which includes the original game plus all 4 expansions.

[Panthera]

What I did was buy the 360 version with all the expansions (Vana'diel Collection 2007) and I bought that $2 PC 30 Day Trial DVD that has the main game and 3 expansions.

You can activate the 360 account you got and then install the game on the PC also and then use the same account to play on both platforms. I love that, since I can use the 360 when I just want to relax and do some fishing on the couch or use the PC if I fell like doing so.

Do you get your expansions in the PC version if you do that?

[JRR1285]

Well here (http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=647088) is what he was talking about and it looks like an insane deal.

[Mot Wakorb]

You need the install CDs from the expansions to get them on your PC - otherwise you'll end up in an expansion area and have it log you out because you don't have the necessary expansions to be where you are.

EDIT: If you're looking for a version to play, the PC is the best so far. 360 is nice because you can still use your dashboard and whatnot. PS2 is downright atrocious looking, but the majority of Japanese players use this platform. I started on PS2, went to PC, and had a stint with 360 that annoyed me due to key repeat issues.

[Mot Wakorb]

Well here (http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=647088) is what he was talking about and it looks like an insane deal.

If you're only looking to buy FFXI sans all of the expansions, then sure.

[Panthera]

I already have the base game and Zilart, from the game's first release in 2004. I wouldn't mind have the 360 version too, for the same reasons stated above. I was wondering if there was any way to use the keys from the 360 version.

[JRR1285]

I noticed there is a pack for $19.99 (http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=646844) with all 3 expansions. I'll Probably go for the PC version.

[Panthera]

There are actually four expansions. The 2008 version is ~$50, and has all of them.

[JRR1285]

There are actually four expansions. The 2008 version is ~$50, and has all of them.

I just noticed that, I also noticed that the package you mentioned is only available for PS2 and 360.

[Panthera]

Huh.

That would explain why I can't find it.

[JRR1285]

Well I just realized that the 4th Expansion (http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=647203) and the main game with the other 3 expansions (http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=646844) comes to the same price as the collections on both the PS2 and 360.

[KIllrazor]

Just so you guys know, the $2 30 day trial includes the original game plus 3 expansions. So you would be covered there. You would need to get installation disks for Wings of the Goddess only if you wish, but you don't need cdkeys for that if you buy the 2008 Vana'Diel collection for the 360, since you can activate an account with all expansions with that and use it on the PC as well.

It looks like a great deal to me and that's the way I and couple of other friends of mine did.

Edit: You could borrow or get the WotG installation disk "somewhere". I think that is hardly pirating, since you have to actually buy the game with original cdkeys to be able to play it.

[BlackPete]

Just so you guys know, the $2 30 day trial includes the original game plus 3 expansions. So you would be covered there.

That's actually a very interesting idea. Thanks for the tip!

[Gorvi]

I'd recommend the PC version over the others if you have a good PC available, followed by the PS2 and then 360. Ironically, the PC version is the only version I've never spent any real time with, but from what I've heard, it plays the best. The PS2 version actually runs smoother than the 360 version, though it does look significantly worse.

The main problem with the 360 version is some added lag (when you use equipment swapping macros later on, it has a nasty habit of telling you that you can't change pieces of equipment randomly). That, and you use the D Pad a lot when you play with a controller, and that can be a struggle in itself.

[Spigot]

Damn it. You guys are starting to make me get that MMO itch and the fact that the only thing that really killed FFXI for me was the lack of a decent group to party with is making things worse, as I'd actually like to play with most of you!

ARG!

When I finish up Lost Odyssey, I'm going to seriously concider getting back into this. I kicked the WoW habit last year but I miss that style of gameplay.

[Goronmon]

Damn you all for bumping this topic to the sidebar so much. My life is already wasting away trying to play WoW, EVE Online, and reviewing Lineage 2. Now you are making me want to resub to play with you guys on Asura. :mad:

That said, get the PC version with either a wired 360 controller, or a wireless one with the receiver dongle thing. Best PC controller ever.

Edit: And yes, even though it's an MMO it plays much better with a controller than a M&K.

[Mot Wakorb]

Just so you guys know, the $2 30 day trial includes the original game plus 3 expansions. So you would be covered there. You would need to get installation disks for Wings of the Goddess only if you wish, but you don't need cdkeys for that if you buy the 2008 Vana'Diel collection for the 360, since you can activate an account with all expansions with that and use it on the PC as well.

It looks like a great deal to me and that's the way I and couple of other friends of mine did.

Edit: You could borrow or get the WotG installation disk "somewhere". I think that is hardly pirating, since you have to actually buy the game with original cdkeys to be able to play it.

It does *NOT* include the expansions. The software to install it may be on the disc, but it does not include registration IDs for such, you have to purchase those separately. There's a reason it's only two bucks.

[Mot Wakorb]

Damn you all for bumping this topic to the sidebar so much. My life is already wasting away trying to play WoW, EVE Online, and reviewing Lineage 2. Now you are making me want to resub to play with you guys on Asura. :mad:

That said, get the PC version with either a wired 360 controller, or a wireless one with the receiver dongle thing. Best PC controller ever.

Edit: And yes, even though it's an MMO it plays much better with a controller than a M&K.

I can't actually remember the last time i used a mouse in the game, everything I do is keyboard only and I couldn't imagine doing anything with a controller... yikes.

[Wraith]

Even if you do use the keyboard for FFXI, the mouse is all but useless.

[Cyndair]

It does *NOT* include the expansions. The software to install it may be on the disc, but it does not include registration IDs for such, you have to purchase those separately. There's a reason it's only two bucks.

I think what he is saying is that he bought the 360 version, registered his content ids and linked them to his account with the registration keys included in the 360 version, then used the trial CD to get the software installed on his PC so that he could play on both.

Once you register the expansions and link them to your account, it doesn't matter what system you log in on, as long as the software is installed it will let you log on and play in the expansion zones.

Hope that makes sense.

[Gorvi]

I could not imagine playing FFXI with only a keyboard. I've done it a few times when my old PS2 wireless controller would die in the middle of a party and I had no batteries, but it's just a pain.

[Panthera]

Just so you guys know, the $2 30 day trial includes the original game plus 3 expansions. So you would be covered there. You would need to get installation disks for Wings of the Goddess only if you wish, but you don't need cdkeys for that if you buy the 2008 Vana'Diel collection for the 360, since you can activate an account with all expansions with that and use it on the PC as well.

It looks like a great deal to me and that's the way I and couple of other friends of mine did.

Edit: You could borrow or get the WotG installation disk "somewhere". I think that is hardly pirating, since you have to actually buy the game with original cdkeys to be able to play it.

Thanks, that is exactly what I needed to know.

[Vadras]

Thanks, that is exactly what I needed to know.

Same here. Thanks for the info KIllrazor! I ended up getting the Vana'Diel collection with only the first 2 expansions. I may grab that 360 version in order to get the rest as well as being able to play on my 360 too.

I'm absolutely loving the game so far. It is a much more laid-back game thus far and the slower pace is kind of nice. You don't feel the need to rush to the end and getting a level-up feels epic with the music and time invested =p

I hit lvl 7 last night on my RDM and finally got enough CP for my Empress Band I think it's called (the bonus xp ring). I'm thinking of converting to Summoner when I hit 30 (I think that's when you get advanced jobs)... looks pretty cool from the videos I've seen online.

[Mot Wakorb]

I think what he is saying is that he bought the 360 version, registered his content ids and linked them to his account with the registration keys included in the 360 version, then used the trial CD to get the software installed on his PC so that he could play on both.

Once you register the expansions and link them to your account, it doesn't matter what system you log in on, as long as the software is installed it will let you log on and play in the expansion zones.

Hope that makes sense.

It does - my misread, sorry.

[BlackPete]

Wow, this game is getting hard to find. When I was in the stores yesterday, Future Shop didn't have a PC version anywhere in sight -- not even a trial version (where do you find those things anyway?)

They did have Vanadial 2008 collection for the 360, but they only had one copy left. Even so, I still couldn't bring myself to buy it... I'd much rather have it for the PC.

EBGames wasn't any better... a really old version of the PC version with the third expansion included, but not the fourth... and nothing for the 360.

[Spigot]

Wow, this game is getting hard to find. When I was in the stores yesterday, Future Shop didn't have a PC version anywhere in sight -- not even a trial version (where do you find those things anyway?)

They did have Vanadial 2008 collection for the 360, but they only had one copy left. Even so, I still couldn't bring myself to buy it... I'd much rather have it for the PC.

EBGames wasn't any better... a really old version of the PC version with the third expansion included, but not the fourth... and nothing for the 360.They really need to retail the game, at least the core game, online for dirt cheap. I'd be more than willing to buy another copy (as I have no idea where my copy is) if I could snag it online cheaply.

All of that aside, I'm very tempted to pick up the 360 version when I go to EB tomorrow (if they have it)... We'll see how much it costs. What are the monthly fees these days?

[Vadras]

They really need to retail the game, at least the core game, online for dirt cheap. I'd be more than willing to buy another copy (as I have no idea where my copy is) if I could snag it online cheaply.

All of that aside, I'm very tempted to pick up the 360 version when I go to EB tomorrow (if they have it)... We'll see how much it costs. What are the monthly fees these days?

12.95 I believe and +$1.00 for each additional character.

Thinking of grabbing the 360 version as well just to get the other expansions plus the ability to play on my 360 =p

[UWCrash]

They really need to retail the game, at least the core game, online for dirt cheap. I'd be more than willing to buy another copy (as I have no idea where my copy is) if I could snag it online cheaply.

All of that aside, I'm very tempted to pick up the 360 version when I go to EB tomorrow (if they have it)... We'll see how much it costs. What are the monthly fees these days?

I know it's been said before in this thread, but buying a specific version (PC/PS/360) doesn't lock you into playing from that platform. Get the CD keys in the cheapest available format, and then just try to get the discs for whatever platform you actually want to play from. Mot Wakorb actually bought the PS2 version initially, but after entering his CD keys he switched to PC after borrowing my install discs.

Personally, I don't think I could adjust to playing without my left hand ready to ctrl/alt+# for the macros. Turning is a little awkward at first with the using the keypad, but once you get it use to it it's just as good as using any controller.

[Spigot]

I know it's been said before in this thread, but buying a specific version (PC/PS/360) doesn't lock you into playing from that platform. Get the CD keys in the cheapest available format, and then just try to get the discs for whatever platform you actually want to play from. Mot Wakorb actually bought the PS2 version initially, but after entering his CD keys he switched to PC after borrowing my install discs.

Personally, I don't think I could adjust to playing without my left hand ready to ctrl/alt+# for the macros. Turning is a little awkward at first with the using the keypad, but once you get it use to it it's just as good as using any controller.Oh, I know that. I played for a few months on the PC and loved it... Well, most of it. I'm just not sure where on earth my FFXI stuff is anymore and snagging it for the 360 would be the quickest and easiest way for me to play it... depending.

Granted, FFXI is about the last thing I need to add to my ever-growing plate o' games. I should just wait until the summer.

[Vadras]

Oh, I know that. I played for a few months on the PC and loved it... Well, most of it. I'm just not sure where on earth my FFXI stuff is anymore and snagging it for the 360 would be the quickest and easiest way for me to play it... depending.

Granted, FFXI is about the last thing I need to add to my ever-growing plate o' games. I should just wait until the summer.

Give in the call of Vana'Diel Spigot... it beckons!

I should talk... I'm playing WoW, I have a stack of about 5 unplayed games (at least) waiting on me to fire them up and I went out and bought FFXI a few days ago.

If only my teachers would realize I was more behind in my games than my classes and back off a bit :rolleyes:

[Panthera]

Speaking of controllers, I have a EMS PS2 adaptor, so I'm actually using a dual shock - it works with force feedback and all! Very nice. The biggest problem for me with the keypad is that it makes it hard to select things on the first go, since you can't point precisely.

[cp#]

PS2? Wouldn't it be better to play on the PC?

[KJAX]

Well, it's great to see this thread alive and well still. Lvl 70RDM, 50 BST on Shiva. Been a bit too busy to play lately with class and work but I may just fire it up tonight. I'm feeling the need. :D

[BlackPete]

They really need to retail the game, at least the core game, online for dirt cheap. I'd be more than willing to buy another copy (as I have no idea where my copy is) if I could snag it online cheaply.

All of that aside, I'm very tempted to pick up the 360 version when I go to EB tomorrow (if they have it)... We'll see how much it costs. What are the monthly fees these days?

Amen. I can't see why they won't just set up the PC version for download somewhere. You can't really find this anywhere around here anymore (unless you're into buying a dustry half-torn box that's missing an expansion or two...)

The 360 version was $49.99CDN -- probably the same in US? It was tempting and I actually stood there for a good 10 mins trying to justify the purchase in my head but in the end decided to try to keep hunting down the PC version a little while longer as I don't have a USB keyboard for the 360 yet.

EDIT: Oh wait. I just checked Amazon, and they only have the Vanadiel 2007 collection for the PC. No 2008 version in sight. Maybe it's not out yet? :confused:

[Rakael]

Amen. I can't see why they won't just set up the PC version for download somewhere. You can't really find this anywhere around here anymore (unless you're into buying a dustry half-torn box that's missing an expansion or two...)

The 360 version was $49.99CDN -- probably the same in US? It was tempting and I actually stood there for a good 10 mins trying to justify the purchase in my head but in the end decided to try to keep hunting down the PC version a little while longer as I don't have a USB keyboard for the 360 yet.

EDIT: Oh wait. I just checked Amazon, and they only have the Vanadiel 2007 collection for the PC. No 2008 version in sight. Maybe it's not out yet? :confused:

I think the full version with all expansions is around $30 US. I stared at it myself, thinking that I should buy it. Got Orange Box instead. Not entirely sure that was a good decision. HL2 just isn't as cool as everyone made it out to be, and I know I had fun in FFXI way back in the day. I'll probably give in eventually.

[Gorvi]

The Vana'diel 08 Collection has been out since Wings of the Goddess launched back in November, that's what I ended up getting for the 360, since I'd been playing on the PS2.

Actually, looking at SE's online store (http://www.playonline.com/ff11us/intro/shop.html), they may not have released the collection for PC, only PS2 and 360. So you may need the 07 Collection and WotG separately. That's odd. It would come out to the same price, anyway, with the collection being $20 and the expansion being $30, that's just strange that they did it that way.

[Spigot]

Has the Playonline interface gotten any more userfriendly in the past, oh, 4 years? I don't understand how a company that has been in the biz as long as Sony can't seem to do an intuitive, elegant online interface to save its life.

[Gorvi]

Has the Playonline interface gotten any more userfriendly in the past, oh, 4 years? I don't understand how a company that has been in the biz as long as Sony can't seem to do an intuitive, elegant online interface to save its life.
POL is still the same as it's always been for the most part. Really, you spend so little time actually in POL (seconds, really) that it's hardly an issue.

And that's SE, not Sony. ;)

[Spigot]

POL is still the same as it's always been for the most part. Really, you spend so little time actually in POL (seconds, really) that it's hardly an issue.

And that's SE, not Sony. ;)Then the question begs to be asked, who learned how to make crappy online interfaces from whom? :)

[Gorvi]

Then the question begs to be asked, who learned how to make crappy online interfaces from whom? :)
Probably Sony from SE. ;)

Really, what's so crappy about POL, though? It's essentially like an early version of LIVE, but for SE games. Now, over here, that doesn't mean much, because all you have is FFXI and *shudder* Tetra Master. But, in Japan, they've gotten a lot more.

[Spigot]

Probably Sony from SE. ;)

Really, what's so crappy about POL, though? It's essentially like an early version of LIVE, but for SE games. Now, over here, that doesn't mean much, because all you have is FFXI and *shudder* Tetra Master. But, in Japan, they've gotten a lot more.I just remember hating POL when I used it, what 3-4 years ago when I last tried playing FFXI. If it has a lot more functionality in Japan, cool. I just couldn't stand the 300 different things I had to input to activate an account, etc. I think it was more to do with registering my account than anything else. Once I got going, it wasn't so bad. I just remember not being terribly impressed with POL back in the day.

I should go to the scary basement here in my house and see if the people under the stairs have my install discs from back in the day.

[Cyndair]

As far as purchasing the PC version of the game... There is no Vanadiel 08 collection for the PC, just 07. You have to buy the 2007 collection for 20 bucks, then track down a copy of Wings of the Goddess for 30. (Just like Gorvi hypothesized). I'd recommend just picking up the 07 collection and making sure you want to stick with the game before you drop 30 on WotG. All of the WotG content is end game anyway for the most part. (Unless you decide that SCH or DNC are one of the jobs that you really want to level once you get to 30).

Yeah, activating or reactivating an account in POL is so unintuitive. Took me 10 minutes just to find the section where I could update my credit card information. :( Oh well, at least you don't have to spend any time using it apart from account setup.

[Panthera]

It's really easy to find torrents of expansion pack installers on the net, so I now have all the expansions installed. I'm going to get the 360 2008 collection sometime soon, so that I can activate them all.

[Spigot]

It's really easy to find torrents of expansion pack installers on the net, so I now have all the expansions installed. I'm going to get the 360 2008 collection sometime soon, so that I can activate them all.That's sneaky... and genius.

[Panthera]

And legal!

[Rakael]

Ok...ok...damnit. I'm picking this up today. May not be on much, but I'll try to get on now and again. With a kid coming and me working my ass off though, I really don't have time for an MMO. Still, I keep coming to this thread and pausing to look at the game in stores. I want it.

[Cyndair]

Ok...ok...damnit. I'm picking this up today. May not be on much, but I'll try to get on now and again. With a kid coming and me working my ass off though, I really don't have time for an MMO. Still, I keep coming to this thread and pausing to look at the game in stores. I want it.

Another one bites the dust-ah!

Seriously though, welcome! How many people have we gotten to join FFXI now with our two threads? Too bad I'm not on Asura :(.

[Spigot]

Grr...

I picked up the cheaper 360 version today too. I know I have my PC copy somewhere in the house so I decided to broaden my possible experiences... Sigh.

Asura, eh? I'll do my best to get on that server.

[Gorvi]

SE should star paying me. :p

[Vadras]

SE should star paying me. :p

Seriously! Your enthusiasm for the game is contagious. We need a listing of all the players on Asura... and maybe an EvAv Linkshell too :)

[Gorvi]

Seriously! Your enthusiasm for the game is contagious. We need a listing of all the players on Asura... and maybe an EvAv Linkshell too :)
I would be so behind an EvAv LS! The only problem would be that in 3 months I have baby #2 on the way, and that's going to make running a Linkshell a near impossiblilty for a while. If others really want it and play regularly, though, I'd go for it. :)

[Panthera]

I don't think a LS with at tops five people would really be all that helpful. :p

[UWCrash]

I don't think a LS with at tops five people would really be all that helpful. :p

Welcome to every linkshell I've ever been in!

Okay, I lied. Technically I had a pearl for the ShirtNinjaTravelAgency for awhile, but there was an awful lot of Spanish being spoken in there for a LS spun off from an English webcomic.

[Spigot]

Man... this game takes FOREVER to install/update. I started it over an hour and a half ago and am still doing the updates. At least I got everything registered.

My TaruTaru BLM will rule the world again!

[Panthera]

I installed my copy from 2004, and it took over eight hours to update itself.

[Vadras]

Man I am so frustrated right now. I went out and bought the 360 version in order to get the codes for the expansions and I thought I'd give my friend the codes for the stuff I already had. The problem is that the 360 version of FFXI has one code! What the heck? So now I am going to have to register a separate account and lose my character in order to get the extra content using this ID.... bah!

I may just call their customer service tomorrow about this and see if they can just add the two expansions onto my account. I'm only level 8, but I'd still rather not start over if at all possible.

Just thought I'd forewarn anyone thinking of using the 360 version as a means of acquiring the additional expansion packs.

[Panthera]

I don't think it quite works the way you think it does. If you already have a Content ID, then log in with it.

Unless you're saying you don't have a 360 to log in with?

[Gorvi]

Man I am so frustrated right now. I went out and bought the 360 version in order to get the codes for the expansions and I thought I'd give my friend the codes for the stuff I already had. The problem is that the 360 version of FFXI has one code! What the heck? So now I am going to have to register a separate account and lose my character in order to get the extra content using this ID.... bah!

I may just call their customer service tomorrow about this and see if they can just add the two expansions onto my account. I'm only level 8, but I'd still rather not start over if at all possible.

Just thought I'd forewarn anyone thinking of using the 360 version as a means of acquiring the additional expansion packs.

You just use that one code to register each expansion. I have an existing account and bought the 360 Collection when Wings came out (always played on PS2) and just registered WotG with that code. That should work fine.

[Panthera]

Thanks for clarifying that, Gorvi. I'm probably going to pick that up tomorrow (later today).

[Gorvi]

Thanks for clarifying that, Gorvi. I'm probably going to pick that up tomorrow (later today).
Well, I'd still call Customer Service, just to be on the safe side, if you're using it to register more than one expansion. I just don't want to tell you it's ok when it only would have worked to register just WotG.

[Primus]

Man I am so frustrated right now. I went out and bought the 360 version in order to get the codes for the expansions and I thought I'd give my friend the codes for the stuff I already had. The problem is that the 360 version of FFXI has one code! What the heck? So now I am going to have to register a separate account and lose my character in order to get the extra content using this ID.... bah!

I may just call their customer service tomorrow about this and see if they can just add the two expansions onto my account. I'm only level 8, but I'd still rather not start over if at all possible.

Just thought I'd forewarn anyone thinking of using the 360 version as a means of acquiring the additional expansion packs.

I used a 360 expansion code for my PC account. It is interchangeable.

[Spigot]

My 360 version that had the 3 expansions (not Wings) had about 5 codes in the back of the book (PlayOnline, FFXI and the expansions). And it took about, hmm... 5 hours or so to install and update everything. Yeeps!

Dear Gorvi,
I hate you. I thought I'd kicked the MMO bug and especially the FFXI bug but nooooo...
Sincerely,
Spigot

[Vadras]

You just use that one code to register each expansion. I have an existing account and bought the 360 Collection when Wings came out (always played on PS2) and just registered WotG with that code. That should work fine.

Crisis averted. Thanks for the info Gorvi. I decided to give it a shot, registering the expansion as a code, so I picked Wings of the Goddess and registered the code. After it registered, it said that I had other expansions that could be registered on that page as a one-step process... so I said SURE! It registered the other expansion I was missing and now I have them all on my account with no characters lost.

While I don't have the main game code and expansion code to give my friend, at least I didn't get hosed by the whole thing. I'll just give him my friend invite that came with the original collection for him to try that way.

Thanks again Gorvi... helpful as always :D

[Panthera]

I did the same thing today with the single code, and just verified it with my windows copy. I now have all four expansions installed and activated on both systems.

[BlackPete]

Gah, still torn on this game. The main thing that's holding me back is lack of a USB keyboard, but that got me to wondering -- is the keyboard still the primary means of communication, or is it all voice now?

[Vadras]

Gah, still torn on this game. The main thing that's holding me back is lack of a USB keyboard, but that got me to wondering -- is the keyboard still the primary means of communication, or is it all voice now?

Keyboard from what I've noticed thus far.

[SilentScreams]

Hmm, I still have FFXI (both 360 and PC versions).
I never really got into it. I think the furthest I got was about level 6. :D

Can us Brits play on US servers? I'd like to play an MMO with you guys, but the current trend seems to be to stick us Brits/Europeans on our own servers. :(

[Holiday]

Hmm, I still have FFXI (both 360 and PC versions).
I never really got into it. I think the furthest I got was about level 6. :D

Can us Brits play on US servers? I'd like to play an MMO with you guys, but the current trend seems to be to stick us Brits/Europeans on our own servers. :(

FFXI doesn't have region based servers. So, yes, you can create a character on Asura with the majority of EvAvers.

[Gorvi]

Gah, still torn on this game. The main thing that's holding me back is lack of a USB keyboard, but that got me to wondering -- is the keyboard still the primary means of communication, or is it all voice now?
Yeah, it's all keyboard. From what I've heard (never actually seen it), 360 owners can talk to other 360 owners, but I have no idea how that works.

[Spigot]

You need to start a Ventrillo or XFire chat thing for EvAv FFXIers. I think I'm going to try to dig out my PC copy today or tomorrow.

[Gorvi]

You need to start a Ventrillo or XFire chat thing for EvAv FFXIers. I think I'm going to try to dig out my PC copy today or tomorrow.
I would if I played close enough to my PC, but I'm just too far away for that to be practical.

[SilentScreams]

FFXI doesn't have region based servers. So, yes, you can create a character on Asura with the majority of EvAvers.

Cool, thanks.
I may start playing again next month when my CoH/CoV sub has expired.
No idea which expansions I have though. I'm not even sure if the expansions I have are for the 360 or PC versions.
I'll be playing it on my PC either way. It just feels more natural.

[Rakael]

Ok, I got it. I'll be headed home shortly for the hours of tedious updating. Good think I also picked up Chibi Robo - Park Patrol for my DS! And Lunar Knights.

[Spigot]

Ok, I got it. I'll be headed home shortly for the hours of tedious updating. Good think I also picked up Chibi Robo - Park Patrol for my DS! And Lunar Knights.Hooray! At least on the Chibi Robo front. I wasn't enamoured with Lunar Knights but that was probably because I'd owned Boktai back in the day and Lunar Knights is what Boktai should have been, so it made me kind of grumpy.

I ended up picking up the $20 PC version on DVD as I can't find a torrent of the DVD installs anywhere online (at least not that have any seeds) and I can't find my old PC install discs anywhere.

This means I can play FFXI instead of Fairway Solitaire while the kids are playing :)

[Vadras]

Hooray! At least on the Chibi Robo front. I wasn't enamoured with Lunar Knights but that was probably because I'd owned Boktai back in the day and Lunar Knights is what Boktai should have been, so it made me kind of grumpy.

I ended up picking up the $20 PC version on DVD as I can't find a torrent of the DVD installs anywhere online (at least not that have any seeds) and I can't find my old PC install discs anywhere.

This means I can play FFXI instead of Fairway Solitaire while the kids are playing :)

Just as a note... the game and first 3 expansions are all on the $1.99 trial disc that can be found at many Gamestop stores. I ended up going this route to attain one of the expansion packs I couldn't find a download for. You should be able to find a Wings of the Goddess download since it's not as old.

Good to hear you're joining up though Spigot!

[Gorvi]

Hooray! At least on the Chibi Robo front. I wasn't enamoured with Lunar Knights but that was probably because I'd owned Boktai back in the day and Lunar Knights is what Boktai should have been, so it made me kind of grumpy.

I ended up picking up the $20 PC version on DVD as I can't find a torrent of the DVD installs anywhere online (at least not that have any seeds) and I can't find my old PC install discs anywhere.

This means I can play FFXI instead of Fairway Solitaire while the kids are playing :)
You grabbed the $20 version? Man, no wonder your update took so long, you had 2 years worth of patches to download! :p

[Spigot]

Just as a note... the game and first 3 expansions are all on the $1.99 trial disc that can be found at many Gamestop stores. I ended up going this route to attain one of the expansion packs I couldn't find a download for. You should be able to find a Wings of the Goddess download since it's not as old.

Good to hear you're joining up though Spigot!Yeah, I found lots of Wings of the Goddess torrents but I don't have that on the 360 version I bought... Plus I hear it's mostly endgame stuff and that is a LOOOONG way away for me.

There were no trial discs around, sadly. If I'd been able to find something that was cheaper than the $20 I dropped today (and the $20 I spent on Friday for the 360 version) then I'd have done it. I'm sure my old FFXI discs are in the basement somewhere but they only had the Rise of Zilart expansion on it, if I'm not mistaken.

[Rakael]

I'll be damned. I bought what I thought was a usb keyboard for the 360, and it turns out to be a ps\2. At least all the updates were quick, about 15 minutes total. I'll hop on in the next day or two after I get a new kb.

[Spigot]

Well, I'm Spigot on Asura if anyone's looking for me.

[Gorvi]

Well, I'm Spigot on Asura if anyone's looking for me.
You have to actually log on again first. ;)

[Spigot]

You have to actually log on again first. ;)
Hey, I was just on yesterday for a bit. Mostly just to fiddle with settings on my computer (I loves me some default 640x480) but I'm THIS close to level 2.

Sigh.

[BlackPete]

Yeah, it's all keyboard. From what I've heard (never actually seen it), 360 owners can talk to other 360 owners, but I have no idea how that works.

Actually that's good news to me as I prefer keyboard over voice as I can't understand what the hell people are saying. They might as well be speaking Swahili.

[Spigot]

Join the Kalahari Bushman Linkshell!

click click click...

[Rakael]

I'll join if you can get me in. I need a LOT of help here! I'm straight up pitiful lol