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[Glason]

...Also, they have instituted a method to freely transfer characters from server to server so that when these servers are brought online that players can opt to move to them, thus relieving the load on the current servers.

Where is your source for this? I haven't seen anything on any of the SE sites that indicates that this will be an option. Would it be nice? Sure, but why do that when they are just clearly limiting character creation as a means to stop server population increases?

As for the lack of an AFK kick function in the game, I think that as players we can petition for that to be added into the game. Via the proper channels.

And what exactly are the "proper channels"? Aside from the standard, we're working the problem updates, I haven't seen a FFXIV community manager like person even address the masses of frustrated players.

As far as compensation for the time lost by literally thousands of players affected, I would suggest calling for a fair compromise. It's been suggested that players should receive a day for a day exchange for all players until this problem is resolved. Another thing that can be suggested are apology items. Many online games often award bonuses or special items in the event of service interruption on such large scales. This can also be an option.

But does that kind of award or bonus really affect how SE would do things in the future? Digital "bonus/awards" don't affect the bottom line of a big company like SE and the bottom line is what really brings attention to the people in charge who can make changes (and make them happen fast!)