Fujito interview with 4gamer.net (LONG READ)

[Ultimoore]

Here is a AI translation of Mr. Fujito's interview with 4gamer.net.
here is the Link (https://www.4gamer.net/games/005/G000546/20230727051/) to the article.

**4Gamer:**
Thank you for today.
In May of this year, the scenario "Embrace of the Eclipse" concluded, and it was announced that there would be no introduction of major content in the future.
As for the future, it has been stated that the focus will be on "building and maintaining a comfortable playing environment." Could you please provide more specific details about what will be done?

**Thumbnail Image of Gallery No.009 / [Interview] The Future of Vana'diel, and Preserving Its Legacy. An Interview with Hiromu Fujito, the Third Producer of FFXI**

**Hiromu Fujito (Hereinafter referred to as Fujito):**
Within the layered specifications that we have built up through previous updates, our goal is to revisit and streamline parts that are inconsistent or have become separate due to the management of past systems. The game's appearance won't change significantly, but it will be updates that gradually improve aspects that players might have thought "would be better this way."

**4Gamer:**
So, are you not going to make any system adjustments?

**Fujito:**
No, we are also planning to support seasonal event-related excitement. As we mentioned in the "Vana'diel Gathering" released in May, we are also working on planning events where everyone cooperates across different worlds.
We're also considering some experimental things, but in terms of gameplay, I think many people may not feel that they are doing anything special. We are working in collaboration with the community team on this, but please allow us a little more time for specific discussions.

**4Gamer:**
Since Mr. Fujito took on the role of the new producer, has there been any change in the composition of the development team? Like changes in the number of personnel.

**Fujito:**
There hasn't been any significant change. The number of full-time members dedicated to "FF11" has decreased, but in return, they are also involved part-time. In terms of operating the game, we have been able to secure the necessary number of people.

**4Gamer:**
So, there are many part-time members.

**Fujito:**
As I mentioned before, "FFXI" fundamentally can't receive updates to its core development environment. It's based on the PS2 framework from 20 years ago, and we have no choice but to continue working with that environment. However, the development equipment for it is no longer being produced. It's like dealing with antiques, and getting newcomers to learn old technology from scratch now involves a significant risk for them. So, we are assuming that experienced individuals will cover this aspect.

**4Gamer:**
Considering there won't be any new PS2 games developed from now on.

**Fujito:**
I think there will come a time when the service for "FF11" will end, but when that time comes, the technology they are familiar with from, say, 30 years ago won't be able to keep up with the new technology.

For full-time members, learning new technology in parallel is challenging, and it significantly raises the risk in their lives.

**4Gamer:**
"FF11" is important, but the future of the members is also important.

**Fujito:**
Yes. That's why many of the current members are assigned to other projects or departments, or temporarily moved to different divisions, to absorb the latest technology. As a result, the workforce has decreased a bit, but it doesn't mean we can't do new things at all.

**4Gamer:**
Previously, we heard about the progress of server replacement. Can we consider that the service will continue for several more years?

**Fujito:**
Of course, there's no immediate plan to end the service. Because we're investing a lot of money to replace the servers! (laughs)
The servers for "FF11" have become so old that maintenance contracts can't be secured anymore. We held on until the last minute, but around the 20th anniversary last year, we had to make a choice between "ending the service" or "replacing the servers."

**4Gamer:**
You were faced with a difficult decision.

**Fujito:**
The consideration of whether to continue the service of "FF11" had actually been ongoing for several years. However, revenue is still strong, which is one of the reasons why we decided to replace the servers and continue to guarantee the hardware aspect.

**4Gamer:**
With the replacement, how long can the servers be maintained physically?

**Fujito:**
I think this replacement will allow us to continue for another 10 years. By the way, we're running old software on the new hardware by emulating it, since the hardware specifications have improved. But that seems to be quite challenging.
In our YouTube series "Creating Square Enix," the server personnel from the Information Systems Department discuss the difficulties they faced during the previous server replacement. If you're interested, I recommend checking it out.

**4Gamer:**
We can see the 30th anniversary coming!

**Fujito:**
Yes, indeed! (laughs) Since there are fixed monthly costs to maintain the servers, we need to at least make a minimum profit. Currently, we feel that things are going well enough, but if possible, we would like to reach the timing for the next server replacement.

**4Gamer:**
Of course, players would also hope for that. It's amazing for a game to continue for 30 years.

**Fujito:**
When I think of titles that have been in service longer than this one, I immediately recall predecessors like "Ultima Online" and "EverQuest." However, "FFXI" is the first MMORPG that started from a console gaming platform and also has the distinction of being developed in Japan. So, in that context, it's like a pioneer.

**4Gamer:**
The two previous titles were based on PC, which might make renewal easier. If those continue, we might see a 40th anniversary. It seems plausible (laughs).

**Fujito:**
As I mentioned earlier, the development environment for "FF11" is based on the PS2, and specific development equipment is required to verify its behavior. During the initial development, middleware was created specifically for it, and it used a dedicated file format.

At this point, there are already hundreds of thousands of files, so converting everything for use in a different system would require an enormous amount of effort. If we were to do it, it would cost the same as creating a new game, if not more. In that case, it would be more reasonable to create a new game instead.

**4Gamer:**
There are voices wishing for an offline version of "FFXI," but that seems challenging.

**Fujito:**
Whether it's an online version or an offline version, if creating "FFXI" anew could bring in more customers than we currently have, there might be a possibility, but probably not. This is from a business perspective and is quite difficult.

**Collaboration events and exhibitions have materialized the flow of "passion"!?**

**4Gamer:**
Next, I'd like to ask about the 20th-anniversary project. The collaboration event "Fantasia's Utayabito" between "Granblue Fantasy" and "Final Fantasy XI" was very well received and is still fresh in memory. Are there any other collaboration plans in the works?

**Fujito:**
As of now, we're not considering anything like that. In fact, the collaboration project for the 20th anniversary wasn't something we proposed ourselves. Instead, it started from the feeling of, "Isn't it already exciting enough without collaborating with us?" (laughs).

**4Gamer:**
Collaborations often involve requesting popular and well-known titles.

**Fujito:**
It seems the folks at Cygames were dedicated "FFXI" players. Through the program featuring Eriko Kato, we knew there were people playing, but when they approached us with the collaboration proposal, I was like, "Is there something going on...?" and was quite suspicious (laughs).

**4Gamer:**
So, you were skeptical (laughs).

**Fujito:**
It was an unexpected proposition, so I was surprised. As we continued to discuss it, their enthusiasm became evident, and I realized they were serious about it. The project took about two years from its inception to develop. Most of it was created on their side, and our role was mainly in supervising.

**4Gamer:**
So, it was Cygames' enthusiasm that drove the project.

**Fujito:**
Also, this surprised me a bit, but they even produced a web program solely for introducing the content of "FFXI."

**4Gamer:**
I watched it, and it was truly a program solely about "FFXI."

**Fujito:**
They didn't even mention "Granblue Fantasy" in the collaboration episode (laughs). I confirmed multiple times whether it was really okay that there was hardly any talk about "Granblue Fantasy." I thought that those who don't know "FFXI" might not be able to follow, but their dedication was quite impressive. For "FFXI" veterans, it was probably the ultimate program.

**4Gamer:**
It really felt like they genuinely love "FFXI." In the future, if there are passionate proposals, could collaborations with other works also be possible?

**Fujito:**
Collaborations need to be mutually beneficial; otherwise, they won't make sense. Considering that we don't have a lot we can offer, it's realistically challenging. It's enough if people have the feeling of liking it, even if it's not a collaboration.

The Future of Vana'diel, and Preserving Its Legacy. An Interview with Hiromu Fujito, the Third Producer of FFXI**

**4Gamer:**
Characters from "FFXI," like Scholar Shantotto, also appear in other Square Enix titles, right?

**Fujito:**
Yes, that's right. Recently, we've received requests from titles like "Dissidia Final Fantasy Opera Omnia" and "Final Fantasy Record Keeper" to continue having characters from "FFXI" make appearances.

**4Gamer:**
Scholar Shantotto is quite popular among players as well. She's been helpful to adventurers since the early days.

**Fujito:**
"FFXI" doesn't have many NPCs with original faces. However, Scholar Shantotto has a very distinctive personality and is highly popular among players. So, she's serving as a representative face of "FFXI."

**4Gamer:**
Regarding the "FFXI Vana'diel Treasure Exhibition," in our previous interview, there was a sense that organizing offline events would be difficult. However, now it's been unexpectedly decided to hold the event. Could you share the background that led to this decision?

The Future of Vana'diel, and Preserving Its Legacy. An Interview with Hiromu Fujito, the Third Producer of FFXI**

**"FFXI Vana'diel Treasure Exhibition" Special Site**

**Fujito:**
This also ties into the earlier discussion about "enthusiasm." The person in charge of planning and organizing the "Vana'diel Treasure Exhibition" at Movic is a massive "FFXI" fan, or rather, they have almost all the goods, books, and packages released so far. They're incredibly dedicated, even going to the extent of finding and acquiring goods that are no longer sold through overseas auction sites.

**4Gamer:**
So, this was another proposal brought by someone from another company who was a fervent "FFXI" fan.

**Fujito:**
Exactly. He's the one who planned merchandise like the watch that was released last year. Within the context of producing merchandise, we had discussions like "It would be great if we could do something." But around last summer, he approached us with the idea of organizing a real-life exhibition.

4Gamer:
"FFXI" fans tend to be quite active.

Fujito:
During the 20th anniversary and at a time when we were considering changing producers, it took some time before we delved into concrete discussions. Despite that, as we both approached the talks with a positive outlook, we ended up deciding to hold the event.

4Gamer:
I checked the official site for the Treasure Exhibition, and there are many interesting goods that haven't been seen before. Personally, I really liked the Hecteyes Multi Stand. I wonder if this also stems from a deep love for "FFXI."

Fujito:
The Movic representative has a strong attachment to "FFXI," or I should say, a deep understanding of it.

4Gamer:
Previous merchandise was fantastic, but this time, even with something like a T-shirt, there's a variety of designs. There's a neon-sign-like Guild icon design, English logos, monochromatic celestial maps, designs reminiscent of trendy photo T-shirts, and even logo designs like those from band tour T-shirts. It's like they're catering to different clothing preferences. There's meticulous attention to detail, and that brought a different kind of interest.

Fujito:
It's clear that the deep love for the work translates into the design of the merchandise. Also, goods designed by professionals have a certain distinct charm. It was a good decision to trust their sensibilities.

4Gamer:
Could you also tell us about the contents of the exhibition at the Treasure Exhibition? We've heard that there will be unreleased materials and sculptures. Could you give us an idea of the scale?

Fujito:
The venue's size isn't enormous, so if you're just looking around, you could probably see it all in about 30 minutes. The exhibition includes development materials, primarily character concept illustrations and setting texts, with a majority being previously unreleased. Some of the sculptures that were displayed at places like the "Vana'diel Cafe" will also be part of the exhibit, but there will be even more items that haven't been shown before. It's a rather rare exhibition even in the industry. However, I'd say you should experience it in person at the venue. There are many items being shown for the first time, so I encourage you to take your time and explore.

[Ultimoore]

4Gamer:
Even those who consider themselves huge "FFXI" enthusiasts might encounter things they've never seen before and think, "I've never seen this at all!"

Fujito:
Yes, that's right! There will probably be moments like that. Some people might get so captivated by a specific exhibit that they won't want to leave...

4Gamer:
I'm really looking forward to seeing those exhibits. Returning to the topic of merchandise, could you tell us about the items that will be available at the Treasure Exhibition? And are there plans to create new merchandise after the exhibition?

Fujito:
We have the merchandise details on the special website. There are unique items like a parka inspired by the Bahamut Cloak and half pants featuring the motif of the Byakko Haidate. So, if you're interested in any of the goods, please come to the venue to check them out.

As for new merchandise, it's more about whether there's demand. This area is quite delicate; it would depend on projected revenue. However, if it's possible, we would like to create new items.

4Gamer:
It might be early to ask, but are you already considering future events?

Fujito:
I do want to host more events, but first, we'll need to see how this Treasure Exhibition goes. If it's a great success, there might be a second edition, or we might consider holding it in other regions as well.

4Gamer:
Will the merchandise available at the Treasure Exhibition be sold online?

Fujito:
We are considering this matter, so please wait for future announcements.

4Gamer:
Regarding the real-world event, how has the reaction been from fans?

Fujito:
There are many voices requesting, "We want it to be held all over the country!" It's quite challenging for people from distant areas to come all the way to Tokyo. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, there have been inquiries about whether there will be online sales.

4Gamer:
The Treasure Exhibition is scheduled after the Obon holiday. Was it deliberately planned for a less crowded period?

Fujito:
We didn't specifically consider the Obon holiday, but it happened to be a period when many people can take time off, so it coincidentally lined up well with this location and time.

Moreover, the decision to hold the event was influenced by the relaxation of COVID-related restrictions. Until recently, the starting point for organizing any event was centered around how to implement infection prevention measures, and conducting events themselves was quite challenging.

4Gamer:
Through our conversation about collaboration projects and the Treasure Exhibition, it's clear that the presence of individuals with "passion" played a significant role. It made me realize that "FF11" is indeed supported by many individuals.

Fujito:
That's right. When I was creating the "Final Fantasy XI Memorial Site WE ARE VANA'DIEL," I strongly felt that aspect of the "people." I wasn't present during the actual discussions; I was in a role to review the content. But the enthusiasm everyone had for "FF11" was quite evident.

4Gamer:
We've heard that the conversations were so extensive that not everything could be included.

Fujito:
For instance, Mr. Koichi Ise from Sakura Internet had a discussion that extended to Part 4, but we had to cut quite a bit (laughs). It's regrettable, but it was necessary due to editing constraints. Listening to everyone's stories, I came to think that "FFXI," as a game, has acted as a catalyst for connecting people, and it has sparked something significant.

4Gamer:
As a player myself, I felt that this game offers more than just a gaming experience; it allows us to perceive and gain something deeper.

Fujito:
One of the reasons behind launching "WE ARE VANA'DIEL" was to leave a testament that "FFXI" has come this far precisely because of the multitude of people who existed within it. Therefore, it's not just a "20th-anniversary site" but a "memorial site." I hope to continue updating it and keeping it lively if there are opportunities in the future.

Gamer:
So, "FF11" also serves as an archive of sorts. In the future, are you considering preserving the development materials exhibited in the Treasure Exhibition?

Fujito:
One of the goals I've set for myself as a producer is to "archive 'FFXI' in some form or another." Ideally, this could take the shape of an "offline 'FFXI'," but realistically, that's quite challenging. Therefore, I'm primarily focused on preserving the story, music, artwork, and such.

4Gamer:
We're looking forward to it! As an adventurer, there's a desire to have proof of the world I've lived in and experienced.

Fujito:
"FFXI" began its service around the time when the concept of the "internet" was starting to spread. In a sense, it's one of those things that drifts on the electronic sea, not leaving a physical trace.

Modern app games are like this too—once the service ends, everything essentially disappears. There's a common occurrence where you say, "The music was so good, but I can't listen to it anymore since the service ended." I believe "FFXI" is likely one of those things with that kind of fate.

4Gamer:
It's the fate of online games as well.

Fujito:
When the service ends, it can lead to questioning what all that passion and effort was for. In the case of physical retro games, there's a chance they can experience a revival and become a topic of discussion once again. But for games that can never be played again, they simply fade into obscurity.

4Gamer:
That's true...

Fujito:
I strongly believe that we need to leave behind "something" to continue passing on the legacy of "FF11," in whatever form it may take.

**4Gamer:**
Ideally, it would be great if there were tangible things that remain, like books. Even though an offline version might be given up on (laughs).

**Fujito:**
Regardless of whether it's possible or not, if we were to convert the current "FFXI" into an offline version, players would likely find it quite unsatisfying as a game. While it might evoke nostalgia, the feeling would be there...

**4Gamer:**
Given that the game is over 20 years old, is this due to outdated mechanics?

**Fujito:**
The design is fundamentally built around multiplayer gameplay. Elements necessary for offline play have been significantly reduced, and because it's built around online interactions, the living system and gameplay mechanics revolve around that. While there's a desire for it from "FF11" players, making it faithfully would cater to only a small portion of that audience. But, if you change it to appeal to newcomers by modernizing it, it would cease to be "FFXI."

**4Gamer:**
Modern RPGs often have a quest tracker that shows progress on the screen, and you can click on it to fast-travel to a location. It's a different flow. If you make it contemporary, the nervous excitement of walking through fields not knowing what to expect would disappear.

**Fujito:**
"FFXI" has changed quite a bit through updates, but the fundamental progression of adventure remains the same as before. When you step into a new field, dangerous monsters might inhabit it. So, players need to "investigate" and if they encounter enemies they can't handle, like super tough foes, they should avoid them and proceed... This kind of gameplay was essential, and altering it means we can't convey what the game used to be.

**4Gamer:**
When creating something new, you'd want new players to enjoy it, but losing the essence of "FF11" would be a problem. This is indeed a challenging issue.

**Fujito:**
I may sound presumptuous, but I believe that "FFXI" laid the foundation, and it was through that groundwork that current games improved on areas that were inconvenient. So, if we were to develop with the same system, people would probably ask, "Why make it intentionally inconvenient?" Trying to update the UI, for example, while keeping the multiplayer-based design of the game system, and striving to find a satisfying compromise, is quite difficult.

[Ultimoore]

4Gamer:
How about preserving the world and the story?

Fujito:
We're progressing from where we can. For the story, if we were to record every dialogue, including who said what, there might be a method to record all the cutscenes and such in videos. However, due to the enormous amount of content, it would be both labor-intensive and cost-prohibitive, making it unrealistic.

4Gamer:
There might also be a demand to see scenes that include graphics, not just text, especially for events.

Fujito:
There are challenges with preserving methods, but the priority is to create something that revives memories of the time as much as possible. It should be understandable even for those unfamiliar with "FFXI," creating a sense of satisfaction.

4Gamer:
It's a quite challenging path.

Fujito:
In the first place, as long as the operation continues, even without an offline version, players can always connect and play. Event scenes that people want to see can be replayed, so it's like the archive exists within the game. The idea of "continuing the service" leads to the ability to experience it anytime, so I think it's important to keep "FFXI" original and continue operating it.

When it becomes a situation where it's truly impossible to continue, I want to use the term "archive" to ensure that things aren't forgotten and leave behind various things.

4Gamer:
Even for those who have stopped playing, they can still enjoy the story and music if they start playing again.

Fujito:
While it's not directly related to the archive, because many scenarios have been added through expansion discs, if you play anew, these scenarios progress simultaneously. There's confusion about which event follows which story, so from the July 2023 update, we've made it possible to halt the progression of added scenarios.

Although this change only benefits new starters, I believe it's become easier to follow the story.

4Gamer:
For players who have been playing for a long time, it didn't bother them that they progressed through additional scenarios after finishing the initial story.

For the last question, if there are any topics you can share with players right now, please let us know.

Fujito:
I hope to create a space where players can gather as a community outside the game. The specifics of what we'll do are still in the works, but I'd like to explore such proposals as positively as possible.

In terms of the game itself, we're strengthening the foundation for playing in the world of Vana'diel with server replacements and future updates. In the recent "Freshly Picked Vana'diel," we used terms like "feeling of home" and "a place to return to." We will continue to maintain this home, so even if you've taken a break from playing, please consider "coming back" to it. We're creating a place where you can come back anytime with confidence.

4Gamer:
Thank you very much for today.

[Trodorne]

I think a full upgrade to a new engine would make a world of difference when it comes to updates and developments for the future. even then we wouldn't need the play online anymore and just go straight to the game via Steam or even have it launch on the Square launcher that they use for 14. trying to update old hardware is not beneficial for the workers there at all. I am on board with building this game anew on a brand-new engine. if they keep the same features starting from scratch my character would not be an issue at all. I wish the development team all the best. I hope they can get this resolved in such a way that won't have corporate breathing down their neck. this game deserves to be preserved for future generations. it's not fancy or flashy like 14 is, but it is something special for what it tried to do despite its limitations. I think it can only be nothing but up when you can take something like this and make it better.

[Immortal]

They are really stingy with those funds, don't even want to invest into something that made them so much money. One of the highest grossing FF games and its treated like literal dirt in comparison to their other projects. Unreal the amount of money they charge monthly and for addons and they are completely unwilling to do anything for the game. He talks about preserving it but people want it to be expanded upon, thats why you keep losing subs... If you invested the bare minimum to do new content and have actual new assets created, you would see more longevity in the life of this game. Instead they are literally letting it wither away and talking about the eventual day that happens. Of course its going to happen, you are literally willing it into existence lol.

[Gwydion]

They are really stingy with those funds, don't even want to invest into something that made them so much money. One of the highest grossing FF games and its treated like literal dirt in comparison to their other projects. Unreal the amount of money they charge monthly and for addons and they are completely unwilling to do anything for the game. He talks about preserving it but people want it to be expanded upon, thats why you keep losing subs... If you invested the bare minimum to do new content and have actual new assets created, you would see more longevity in the life of this game. Instead they are literally letting it wither away and talking about the eventual day that happens. Of course its going to happen, you are literally willing it into existence lol.

This is extremely accurate. Players want more of an investment from SE in FFXI, because players have already invested so much of our lives into this game.

[Ultimoore]

This is why I still have alot of respect for the dev team. Corporate has been trying to penny pinch this game for 10+ years and actively trying to shut it down. The fact that we have dedicated ourselves to a dying development system makes me hate the top brass of the company even more.

[RichLester]

If you want a fully upgraded version of FF11, jump over to FFXIV. Its basically the same with a lot more content, better graphics/gameplay & still getting expansions. FF11 is more for the veterans of the community. As Fujito says, FF11 is based on old architecture, which is now outdated. I thought if they wanted to make it "offline", they can have mini server files running on our PCs, acting like basic small virtual servers (requiring some GBs), so long as they make the game completely solo-able. If we want to play with others, our mini server files sync up to one version so they all act like they are in the same environment. The Auction House data is all that needs to be downloaded & linked to one live global AH server. If they're going to replace the servers, they better do it soon before more hardware failures start occurring.

[Immortal]

lol you must be joking, how is 14 an "upgraded" 11? They play completely differently and don't have much in common aside from the many assets 14 uses of 11.

[Ultimoore]

If you want a fully upgraded version of FF11, jump over to FFXIV. Its basically the same with a lot more content, better graphics/gameplay & still getting expansions.
You must be a troll, you have to be a troll. Because there is no way you just said something so fundamentally wrong and were that serious.. FFXI is way more sandbox than XIV in terms of the job combinations , story telling, exploration and crafting. You are not shoe horned into a role in XI like you are in XIV (MMO for idiots). While yes, there are recommended job combinations that are most optimal. You are able to experiment in XI and NOT XIV.

[Sirmarki]

As Fujito says, FF11 is based on old architecture, which is now outdated..

What has the age of a game got to do with anything?

It simply boils down to two things: Is the game good, or is it not good?

[Sp1cyryan]

If you want a fully upgraded version of FF11, jump over to FFXIV.

I'd rather book a night in the Hanoi Hilton.

They are two completely different games anyway so if your perception is that off then you don't have any advice to provide.

[RichLester]

Ok, true. I was talking about from what I experienced on FFXIV version 1 for 6 months before it got pulled, which came out at the same time Seekers of Aoudlin was released. I admit it has changed a lot since so yes, they are now different games and the mechanics are quite different so poor choice of words. Sorry. I just saw a lot of FFXI parallels in the very beginning (like bazaars, synthesising, etc). I've been on this since 2006 with all missions completed (have a load of quests outstanding as I knew endgame was coming at some point) so no, I'm not a troll. Just a casual long-term player thinking that this game could be ending some time soon if SE aren't planning on doing any more storyline additions any time soon & they focus on FFXIV, FFXVI & FFVII parts 2 and 3.

When it comes to old architecture, however, FFXI is based on Windows XP technology, which is less flexible than what FFXIV was developed on. That's what I was talking about. PlayOnline is the tool used as the entrance & they can't get rid of that. It's tied into the Windows XP architecture. 20 years worth of game content is here so converting everything to Windows 11 technology would be near impossible for them. SE won't spend the resources doing that & now their Dev team is cut down on the amount of people, how are they going to update this game with a new expansion? They won't so people may start leaving.

[Onimaru]

After reading that whole interview it seems to me that the problem comes down to:Unwillingness

*Unwillingness to develop new content.
*Unwillingness to hire/train new people.
*Unwillingness to upgrade FFxI graphics-wise. Something that they've said they're not willing to do repeatedly.
*Unwillingness to give subscribers of the game anything to show for it despite the ridiculous monthly fee for a 20+ year-old game even though the profits have been constant for them since 2016. (I pay $20+ for one character with some wardrobes. I can't imagine what multi-boxers pay).
*Unwillingness to do THE BARE MINIMUM.

Just to summarize it further, we're dealing with ppl who are ok with taking your money hoping that the nostalgia you feel for the game doesn't wear off until the time they just don't feel like turning the servers on anymore, and until that time they don't mind taking your money. Add to all that they're so selfish they don't want anybody but themselves working on the game, so new ideas are simply not welcome.

We've got dealt a shitt* hand. It's sad.

[Sp1cyryan]

The entitlement around systems players don't understand the limitations of working with and the environment they are in. As always is, astoundingly typical attitude of wanting something and making a circular argument to justify the fact.

[Immortal]

Hes right though, its a business and they are charging a fee to play. We are getting significantly less for that fee, every month the goes by it seems. They are most def taking the approach of milking the sub fees until its not sustainable anymore and they aren't trying to prevent that day from happening, just waiting it seems by doing the bare minimum of keeping servers online.

[Sp1cyryan]

Hes right though, its a business and they are charging a fee to play. We are getting significantly less for that fee, every month the goes by it seems. They are most def taking the approach of milking the sub fees until its not sustainable anymore and they aren't trying to prevent that day from happening, just waiting it seems by doing the bare minimum of keeping servers online.

Even if that is the case, then so what? If you care about that money so much then don't sub. SE doesn't turn around and complain our sub fee gets them less and less over time.

Fee keeps the game going. If you want it to then pay it. Otherwise there is no leg for anyone to stand on.

[Onimaru]

Even if that is the case, then so what? If you care about that money so much then don't sub. SE doesn't turn around and complain our sub fee gets them less and less over time.

Fee keeps the game going. If you want it to then pay it. Otherwise there is no leg for anyone to stand on.

As a paying customer, I am entitled to demand a better service when that service is substandard and they are over-charging me. There are other MMOs as old or older than this one still receiving regular updates because they have a better group of people overseeing things who are not solely focused on the corporate side of the experience. If SE doesn't want to continue ffxi that's fine. They are free to off the servers. That's on them, but I'm not the problem, so I don't have to unsub or do anything for that matter.

[RichLester]

I agree that the fees keeps this game going & we will still play this game, whatever they do, because the community in this game is very strong & well established. If they are going to do the bare minimum, though, the cost of FFXI should now be halved in general as SE is getting a lot for FFXIV for the amount of users on there so they're getting a new expansion for that cost. It's only fair, I think. SE won't do much now until the ye olde servers/virtual machines actually start failing cause the servers are so old. Technology-wise, FFXI has been doing very well, due to the Win XP/7 backwards compatibility, which is a bonus for us.

[Sp1cyryan]

As a paying customer, I am entitled to demand a better service when that service is substandard and they are over-charging me. There are other MMOs as old or older than this one still receiving regular updates because they have a better group of people overseeing things who are not solely focused on the corporate side of the experience. If SE doesn't want to continue ffxi that's fine. They are free to off the servers. That's on them, but I'm not the problem, so I don't have to unsub or do anything for that matter.

You are entitled to nothing, and being a customer means nothing. Absolutely full of yourself. If you are as happy as you described then leave, and don't post.

[leia]

@Spicy Just STFU, and get a life.

The Man is free to express and demand whatever he feel like from SE, it is up to SE to reply to him not you Mr. Knows it all.

[Sirmarki]

and being a customer means nothing.


Well... It kind of does :P

[Sp1cyryan]

@Spicy Just STFU, and get a life.

The Man is free to express and demand whatever he feel like from SE, it is up to SE to reply to him not you Mr. Knows it all.

Meanwhile, here you are.

Well... It kind of does :P

No, it doesn't. All it means is that one pays for a service. It is trivial and without the asserted substance.
The entitled attitude and spoiled mindset of a "consumer". Always loves to assert if they whine about paying an incredibly nominal fee. That they will apply pressure on the profiting entity to make changes they want out of financial interest. That doesn't work here in that capacity. The decisions around this game, it's future, and it's possibilities have been decided. The game will sooner end than suddenly get all the attention spoiled people are demanding. They just don't want to accept that and think way too highly of themselves.

TL;DR,: It's like a parent demanding a principal of a school do what they want with a "I'm on the PTA!" Except even that would carry more weight than a mere "consumer."

[Arciela]

People expect way too much from a 20 year old mmo with 5 developers. Its unrealistic to expect them to do massive expansions the size of seekers of adoulin again. Its not unreasonable to tell people that if there not satisfied anymore then its ok to unsub and not play anymore during maintenance mode. Demanding that they give ff11 millions of dollars and to bring a massive dev team to a game that only has 80k players and is over 20 years old should know it will never happen. Pumping millions of dollars and bringing a massive dev team back for no returns on investment and no guarantee that it will bring players would be a bad business decision.

[RichLester]

I think Fujito needs to give everyone an update on the "State of Play" of the game. A lot of speculation & doubt flying about. If there are no updates to the game over the next 6 months, then they need to tell us to put us at ease.

[Kenaithus]

Wow... many words to say nothing.

Everyone and they mother know what the games needs: A technical upgrade. Ditch Play Online and upgrade the game Engine. You can even make a huge announcement of "Final Fantasy XI - Remastered -" and just that sub bump month will help to reduce many of the investment.

And to anyone saying "it is too complicated", "Too expensive"... they were already doing it. This is the stuff that hurts the most. They were already making this game in Unreal Engine, but the lack of willingness of SE and probably the fact that they didnt know how to monetize it for a phone game bring the project down. But they worked on it, and nobody never said it was because of technical issues.

A real shame, they could easily made something great but choose not to

[RichLester]

The article was many words not saying much but we can read between the lines. Regarding the mobile version, the developers actually said they couldn't continue it due to the technical issues, a couple of months ago. If they were gonna do a complete upgrade, that's what FFXIV v1 was meant to be but FFXIV v2 became so much more than that. That's why the developers are focusing on that, along with other things (FFVII series). There's less developers available to do anything on here now so the "remaster" will never happen. Too much content to convert, too.

Shame we're not getting new areas for us to kill & collect stuff, like Vunkerl Inlet (present) & Grauberg (present)

[Teraniku]

*Snip*

Shame we're not getting new areas for us to kill & collect stuff, like Vunkerl Inlet (present) & Grauberg (present)

Personally, I wanted Olzhirya (Mithra Homeland) and the Orc Continent up North, but oh well....

[Sirmarki]

People expect way too much from a 20 year old mmo with 5 developers. Its unrealistic to expect them to do massive expansions the size of seekers of adoulin again. Its not unreasonable to tell people that if there not satisfied anymore then its ok to unsub and not play anymore during maintenance mode. Demanding that they give ff11 millions of dollars and to bring a massive dev team to a game that only has 80k players and is over 20 years old should know it will never happen. Pumping millions of dollars and bringing a massive dev team back for no returns on investment and no guarantee that it will bring players would be a bad business decision.

Not always the case though. There are games that I paid a one off £1.50 years ago that get regularly updated.

I pay more in FFXI sub than I do my entire housing insurance and that covers everything up to a million UK pounds.

[Arciela]

Not always the case though. There are games that I paid a one off £1.50 years ago that get regularly updated.

I pay more in FFXI sub than I do my entire housing insurance and that covers everything up to a million UK pounds.

I would love for them to keep updating the game and provide expansions but I'm also realistic and realize every game doesn't last forever. I'm grateful the game lasted as long as it did even with the limited budget and resources and them having only 6 developers. At least they decided to invest in new server hardware because the only other option we had was them shutting down the game if they didn't according to the interview. At least we can still enjoy the game for at least 10 more years in maintenance mode with the new server hardware and contracts they signed to provide maintenance for the new servers for 10 more years even if we get no more updates unless they surprise us in a few years and provide some sort of massive content.

[Sp1cyryan]

I think Fujito needs to give everyone an update on the "State of Play" of the game. A lot of speculation & doubt flying about. If there are no updates to the game over the next 6 months, then they need to tell us to put us at ease.

It wouldn't move the needle and just encourage complaining. All these people want is the fruits of more dev labor. Any less and they will get pitchforks.

[Immortal]

I think you are just talking yourself down, the game is still profitable and an expansion (which at the level of seekers, isn't that huge of an investment) wouldn't be a hard ask. They already did a mini one in TVR, if they invested more resources it would increase the longevity of the game and a "maint mode" would not be necessary.

[Elkanah]

If you want a fully upgraded version of FF11, jump over to FFXIV. Its basically the same with a lot more content, better graphics/gameplay & still getting expansions. FF11 is more for the veterans of the community. As Fujito says, FF11 is based on old architecture, which is now outdated. I thought if they wanted to make it "offline", they can have mini server files running on our PCs, acting like basic small virtual servers (requiring some GBs), so long as they make the game completely solo-able. If we want to play with others, our mini server files sync up to one version so they all act like they are in the same environment. The Auction House data is all that needs to be downloaded & linked to one live global AH server. If they're going to replace the servers, they better do it soon before more hardware failures start occurring.

Endgame isn't the same. FFXIV is a one dimension type of endgame content. While XI has always had endgame revolved around multiple options to run through and do. As both a 1.0 player of XIV and an XI player since 2003; theyre not even remotely close to one another

[RichLester]

Endgame isn't the same. FFXIV is a one dimension type of endgame content. While XI has always had endgame revolved around multiple options to run through and do. As both a 1.0 player of XIV and an XI player since 2003; they're not even remotely close to one another

Agreed, they are quite different. I was talking about the basics. Sorry bout that. It's worth reading the whole article from a developer's viewpoint, though, technology-wise.

Regarding content, I hope they provide something new in a few years time, after all, we are paying for this. I'm thinking new areas like an area attached to Tavnazia or somewherewhere we gain exemplar/capacity pts very quickly & gallimaufry, and do it quest-based with npcs at the entrance like it is in Abyssea. SE can then add in new quests whenever ever they want.

[Sp1cyryan]

I think you are just talking yourself down, the game is still profitable and an expansion (which at the level of seekers, isn't that huge of an investment) wouldn't be a hard ask. They already did a mini one in TVR, if they invested more resources it would increase the longevity of the game and a "maint mode" would not be necessary.

How do you know what the extent of an ask it would be or not? Sounds like you are just projecting.

[Arciela]

How do you know what the extent of an ask it would be or not? Sounds like you are just projecting.

The armchair devs in this thread think that "its so easy to do a graphics update and overhaul the game and can be done in days and port the game to a new engine." When none of them have any development experience or done any coding. And people are assuming that ff11 is making millions of dollars or as much as ff14 because they apparently have insider sources

[Immortal]

The budget is shared. There is history already there to show you that it isn't a hard ask. Their budget was probably the lowest its ever been and they managed to do TVR. They did seekers around the time a realm reborn was out. If they care about the longevity of this product and maintaining profit, they should invest into it. Nobody has the numbers, not even you who think its nothing, but they themselves have said its profitable.

[Immortal]

Also I have to wonder what you gain by being so overly negative 24/7. We already established that Spicys opinions are typically not to be listened to given he said the devs don't ever respond to any post here, and they have in the past. He actively encouraged people to not ask for anything or make posts with intentions of them being read by important devs.

You are just actively demoralizing people even further, maybe you are also on SEs payroll. Let them demand that SE do something for this game, if not for the direct profit they should have a respect for people who maintained their profit for over 20 years now, it was one of the highest grossing FF games.

[Arciela]

Demanding respect from a corporation like there your friend or partner doesn't get anywhere. When does customers respect game developers and companies when all people do is attack a dev team or corporation because they don't get what they want and throw tantrums. They put 21 years of dedication to ff11 and people don't show respect to the company or devs for keeping it up as long as they did. Instead they cry and whine when they don't get what they want like spoiled children because they don't get another adoulin sized expansion. Instead they demand they take half the devs from ff14 and divert resources back to a 20 year old game. I know most ff11 players have this weird hatred for ff14 because they think it stole from ff11 but ff14 is what makes money now.

[Immortal]

Demanding respect because we are paying customers, ever heard of that?

We respect them, I personally love this game and have defended the devs many times. My issue isn't with them, its with the money hungry parent company SE that has apparently decided to starve this game. They deserve every ire they get from people.

We are saying we want content as paying customers, I dont think thats whining and crying for no reason. You might be happy not getting any content, clearly because you are an XIV player and couldn't give a crap about this game.

There is no weirdness in the hatred, its blatant and obvious. They milked XI dry for years to support that abomination, including after its initial failure. The state XI is in now is almost directly related to XIV. Its not a wonder why most dislike XIV as a result. Its what makes money now, of course, because they poured all their resources into it since day1. Funny how that works.

[RichLester]

That's why I would like Fujito to give us an update on plans for the next 12 months to put us at ease. I still think having a new quest-based area, like abyssea did, would be a good idea but needs to be well planned. Could even have certain sections of the area enter a field like domain invasion where anyone can kill mobs like in campaign battles. All types of quests (gathering stuff, killing mobs). Something for us to run around & do stuff in, instead of constantly doing the same runs in sortie again & again.

[Sp1cyryan]

Demanding respect because we are paying customers, ever heard of that?

We respect them, I personally love this game and have defended the devs many times. My issue isn't with them, its with the money hungry parent company SE that has apparently decided to starve this game. They deserve every ire they get from people.

We are saying we want content as paying customers, I dont think thats whining and crying for no reason. You might be happy not getting any content, clearly because you are an XIV player and couldn't give a crap about this game.

There is no weirdness in the hatred, its blatant and obvious. They milked XI dry for years to support that abomination, including after its initial failure. The state XI is in now is almost directly related to XIV. Its not a wonder why most dislike XIV as a result. Its what makes money now, of course, because they poured all their resources into it since day1. Funny how that works.

The attitudes of entitlement are so ridiculous with some of the most vocal remaining fanboys. You are paying in exchange for a service. That doesn't entitle you to some personal notion of respect. It is an exchange, and that is it. Thinking you are supposed to get your feet rubbed or something after the fact and that they are supposed to keep doing what you want or forever develop the game is ridiculous.
You are "demoralized" because you refuse to accept the way things are. If they pulled the plug on the game you would still sit there posting about FF14 and how they should have put more into 11 and blamed people like me for saying you are full of it.

[Arciela]

The attitudes of entitlement are so ridiculous with some of the most vocal remaining fanboys. You are paying in exchange for a service. That doesn't entitle you to some personal notion of respect. It is an exchange, and that is it. Thinking you are supposed to get your feet rubbed or something after the fact and that they are supposed to keep doing what you want or forever develop the game is ridiculous.
You are "demoralized" because you refuse to accept the way things are. If they pulled the plug on the game you would still sit there posting about FF14 and how they should have put more into 11 and blamed people like me for saying you are full of it.

I agree people like them act entitled and there the same people who would be the types that would attack the devs for the various things they did at various points in the games history like the salvage bans. Then they demand respect from the devs when they show no respect for the devs. The people demanding respect has the most karen levels of "i want to speak to your manager" levels of entitlement with there demands. People always seem to put blame onto ff14 and its community for them putting 11 in maintenance mode and thinks that if ff14 didn't exist they would still be putting massive resources into 11. I'm sad the game is going into permanent maintenance mode but I'm glad the game is still running, and they decided to not pull the plug and the game is still preserved for the foreseeable future.

[Ultimoore]

Personally, I wanted Olzhirya (Mithra Homeland) and the Orc Continent up North, but oh well....

I would love this as well. More story and more exploration is always great to add.

To everyone else. I have already mentioned this on Reddit. It's easy to judge Mr.Fujito for the situation he is in. I have enjoyed EVERYTHING that Mr.Fujito and Mr. Matsui have done with a ever dwindling staff count and budget. It truly shows (from my view point) the ability to still bring out quality work even though they have almost nothing to work with. Like Mr. Fujito said it would be cheaper and easier to remake the game than to try and port the game data from from the PS2 Development environment. I have already seen people try and port over model and map data to UE4 but even then its just that. Also even if the the game were to get a sequel or remake it is not guaranteed that they would see a profit. Look already how divided people are on the game now and what was said in the article. You are entitled to nothing in life, this is a fact. You are more than welcome to have a dislike of certain things or how something turned out. But it doesn't mean you are entitled to anything. Please show Mr.Fujito the respect he deserves for the hard work he still does for the game.

[Sp1cyryan]

I agree people like them act entitled and there the same people who would be the types that would attack the devs for the various things they did at various points in the games history like the salvage bans. Then they demand respect from the devs when they show no respect for the devs. The people demanding respect has the most karen levels of "i want to speak to your manager" levels of entitlement with there demands. People always seem to put blame onto ff14 and its community for them putting 11 in maintenance mode and thinks that if ff14 didn't exist they would still be putting massive resources into 11. I'm sad the game is going into permanent maintenance mode but I'm glad the game is still running, and they decided to not pull the plug and the game is still preserved for the foreseeable future.

We honestly lucked out that they chose to preserve the game in maintenance mode rather than pull the plug. Despite the ignorant and constant comparisons to 14, 11 was going to end otherwise. So these people need to stop feeling that their pathetic subscription fee entitles them to eat their cake and have it too.

[Arciela]

We honestly lucked out that they chose to preserve the game in maintenance mode rather than pull the plug. Despite the ignorant and constant comparisons to 14, 11 was going to end otherwise. So these people need to stop feeling that their pathetic subscription fee entitles them to eat their cake and have it too.

Right from the interview it seems there only options was shutdown or put it in maintenance mode. Im happy we still get access to the game even in its maintenance mode but people seem to always be unhappy and want to put blame on something and the thing that gets all the blame is ff14. The people that are demanding respect from the devs should be happy it will remain online when they could have shut down the game a year ago which they came close to doing.

[Sirmarki]

11 was going to end otherwise.

Given the sheer level of botting in all zones, I'd say it's already ended.

[Rinuko]

Given the sheer level of botting in all zones, I'd say it's already ended.

Isn't all MMORPG done then since botting is in all games?

[Rinuko]

So, I'm probably a minority since I play this game casually a couple of months a year, so I don't really have an issue with the changes. All I do is either play on new characters, do story stuff, or do Ambuscade to gear up or build relics that I never could back in the good old days.

I no longer treat this game as my main MMO like I did back in 2005-2012.

Although, I'm worried about the future of the game. I don't want to see the game to be shut down. There are so many memories. And I wouldn't want to have to go to a PS.

[Sirmarki]

Isn't all MMORPG done then since botting is in all games?

Yes and no. However in this case, there apparently seems to be very little policing on the matter.
They are literately everywhere and some are breaking rules in the highest degree and have been doing it for years on end. It's gotten to the point where they are so brazen about it due to the apparent lack of enforcement.

The Locus camps are almost entirely botted and I'm not just referring to RMT, I'm talking about average players too. West Ronfaure has also become a haven for bots, so much so that any new players may even struggle to find a monster to fight.

I've played FFXI for many years and I've never seen anything like it.

[Sp1cyryan]

Given the sheer level of botting in all zones, I'd say it's already ended.

Fair statement.

At this point I just pay my sub to help it keep going, and have some fun playing BLM or PUP or something. The future of XI is a somewhat lawless stasis. That being said, it will still be available to play every now and again and that's good enough.

[Rinuko]

Yes and no. However in this case, there apparently seems to be very little policing on the matter.
They are literately everywhere and some are breaking rules in the highest degree and have been doing it for years on end. It's gotten to the point where they are so brazen about it due to the apparent lack of enforcement.

The Locus camps are almost entirely botted and I'm not just referring to RMT, I'm talking about average players too. West Ronfaure has also become a haven for bots, so much so that any new players may even struggle to find a monster to fight.

I've played FFXI for many years and I've never seen anything like it.

Yeah, I mean it's clear SE moved all their staff to 14 and just keep around a handful to deal with in-game related issues and all bot reports sent to that task force (if they even still around or we just send reports into the void)

[Sp1cyryan]

Yeah, I mean it's clear SE moved all their staff to 14 and just keep around a handful to deal with in-game related issues and all bot reports sent to that task force (if they even still around or we just send reports into the void)

Everyone talks about the staff going to 14. They still triage for 11 because of the relationship they share. If it weren't for that then there be even less/no staff. So everyone should consider themselves fortunate that trash game still benefits 11.

[BST]

Should have moved on to FFXIV when it first started, like me.

[Rinuko]

Should have moved on to FFXIV when it first started, like me.

A lot of us did, many came back to 11.

I still play both games but Yoshida wants me to play other games, so I am.

[BobbinT]

Should have moved on to FFXIV when it first started, like me.


A true Final Fantasy fans never disregard any of its mainline series. ;)

[Immortal]

Same thing going to happen in XIV eventually when the new MMO comes out. Nobody wasted anything not moving to 14 if they had fun, and not missing much anyway. Don't miss anything either except some mounts if you try 14 either. Of course, thats exactly what SE wants you to do, starve this game of resources so you just move to their other MMO and keep giving them money, way to fight the man

[BST]

I stopped playing in 2016 when they removed PS2 support, which was the platform I played this game on.

The game was over for me and many others at that point.

I revisit when the game has free login, usually, but now basically everyone I know has left.
Hopefully they remake this game into a single player type game with the Trusts, a re-master, since they have said its current MMO form will never receive such treatment due to PS2 limitations.

[Sp1cyryan]

I stopped playing in 2016 when they removed PS2 support, which was the platform I played this game on.

The game was over for me and many others at that point.

I revisit when the game has free login, usually, but now basically everyone I know has left.
Hopefully they remake this game into a single player type game with the Trusts, a re-master, since they have said its current MMO form will never receive such treatment due to PS2 limitations.

This will never happen in a manner remotely resembling what makes this game FFXI. It was literally in this interview too.

Odd to quit over PS2 only to visit when it's free on PC.

[BST]

Service should have ended for PC at the same time.

Quit as in, I stopped paying then, and only returned on PC when it is free to login.

I completed the added Story content and didn't pay to do so.

[Alhanelem]

The Locus camps are almost entirely botted and I'm not just referring to RMT, I'm talking about average players too. West Ronfaure has also become a haven for bots, so much so that any new players may even struggle to find a monster to fight.I know its late but, this is an asura prblem. now, every server has bots, no question about that. But only on Asura is the state of things like this. Log on Shiva and there's basically nobody in the starter areas, and when there are, it's a far cry from having to search for a monster to fight.

[Sirmarki]

Log on Shiva and there's basically nobody

That is all you needed to put and that is also the reason why there are none in the Locus camps.

[Dragoy]

I know its late but, this is an asura prblem. now, every server has bots, no question about that. But only on Asura is the state of things like this. Log on Shiva and there's basically nobody in the starter areas, and when there are, it's a far cry from having to search for a monster to fight.

I forget if I've seen them on Shiva myself, yet, but I might even bet on that one having those starter area bots at times, just like other smaller places such as Fenrir do. They're thankfully not there 24/7, so might not see them at all if lucky.

[Alhanelem]

That is all you needed to put and that is also the reason why there are none in the Locus camps.
Funny. There's still people here and every other server, and it's far more playable than anyone who insists on Asura thinks. I would argue its more playable with less bot interference, personally.

[Rinuko]

Service should have ended for PC at the same time.

Quit as in, I stopped paying then, and only returned on PC when it is free to login.

I completed the added Story content and didn't pay to do so.

I beg to differ. It would make zero business sense to kill off the game service when so many still play and make SE money.