Greetings, adventurers.

As announced in the FFXI 2012 Roadmap, an extensive user interface overhaul is currently in development for the Windows version of FINAL FANTASY XI. Today, I would like to take this time to outline some of changes we have in the works for the UI of the Windows version of FFXI.
  • Multi-window Mode
    Users will be able to open and manipulate multiple windows.
  • Layout Customization
    Users will be able to drag UI elements with the mouse to new locations, which will be saved for future gaming sessions.
  • Multiple Log Windows
    Users will be able to open multiple log windows and apply different filters for each one.
  • Font Vectorization
    TrueType fonts will replace the current bitmap fonts.
  • Continual Display of Macro Palette
    In addition to the existing Crtl/Alt macro palette, there will be an option to use a three-rowed palette that is constantly displayed and utilizes the 1 – 0 keys as well as mouse clicks to activate macros.
  • Macro Recast Time Display
    The macro palette will display the time remaining until each macro may be used again.
  • Individual Magic/Ability Icons and High-Resolution Status Effect Icons
    A new set of detailed high-resolution icons will be introduced, with new icons added for specific magic, abilities, and status effects.
  • Macro Palette Icon Display
    Users will have the option to display icons for magic and abilities contained in macros.
  • User Customization Features
    The window scheme and GUI scripts for FFXI will be released so users can design their own interface features.
  • Drag-and-drop Equipment Interface

Other, more technical modifications are also under development that will eventually culminate in an overhaul of the entire user interface.

As previously announced, we are planning to make it possible for area maps to be brought up at all times, which would be implemented in advance of the more comprehensive UI overhaul described above. More information on this will be forthcoming, so please check the forums periodically.