A plea to SquareEnix: Linkshell - Quality of life improvements and current problems.

[Olor]

NA players aren't locked out. There's at least one method to install Adoulin on an NA PS2 that works, and I know several people using it. You do need the data from a JP install disc, and an alternate way of putting the files on your own HDD.

That's nothing but a workaround. Officially - support for PS2 is over in NA/EU. They need not continue gimping the game for a tiny minority of people who can't get into 2014 and play the game on a modern(ish) system. You can buy a comp that will run FFXI for peanuts these days, especially if you go used. If you're a committed console peasant get an xbox. This isn't rocket science.

I haven't noticed any loading time increases in the past few years. Thats... odd. I still will remain hopeful.

Maybe you never try to change gear or access your inventory after zoning, but there is now at least 20 seconds where you can't do anything of the sort. It is pretty annoying but its the price we pay for increased inventory.