Mr. SE_James, I don't know if you are aware of this (probably are but I'll mention it anyway), but on some regional variations of Windows, the folders for installed programs and data are laid up with translated names. For my country for example (Brazil) it's "Arquivos de programas" which seems to confuse the automatic launcher for Final Fantasy XI.

Because I run an english OS I don't run on that specific kind of problem but because I am using an Japanese account I had to keep a Japanese copy of the PlayOnline software installed on the PC and again that was causing conflicts with the automatic launcher.

Now that account is managed through a web browser I have no need to keep the Japanese copy of PlayOnline, which should make things simpler.

As per the message problem I had it twice and managed to repair following the same process (months ago, I had to figure out the process of repairing myself as this forums did not exist back then) and I was VERY SAD for having to give up my messages history, email boxes, wallpapers, gift cards and history for years of activity. At least I was able to keep my screenshots because they're standard JPEG files.

It's a pity that some of the POL wallpapers I lost can no longer be downloaded from the service.