How long does the new character restriction last?

[Seoulstar]

Not sure if the title is confusing or not. But I was trying to join the Balmung server because I have a friend there..but it keeps saying the world is not accepting anymore new characters. When exactly can I make a new character there?

[Niwashi]

The rules about which servers are accepting new characters changes quite frequently, even alternating at different times on a given day. It seems to be related to how many people are currently logged in. I've heard some players say they have better success creating new characters in the early morning, though that isn't a guarantee.

[Seoulstar]

Thanks, i'll keep an eye out. Only have three days with this beta. Hopefully the wait wont be too long.

[Erendis]

Try to make a character early in the morning. Usually works for me. Character restrictions depend on server load and change during the day.

[Sagittarian]

The restrictions are updated every 4 or 5 hours. You can check the current restrictions in the top Lodestone article - http://na.finalfantasyxiv.com/lodestone/. Which servers are restricted depends on the load and number of active characters.

[Seoulstar]

Well thanks for the replies. I'm just going to go to another server until that one is available.

[Sagittarian]

Well thanks for the replies. I'm just going to go to another server until that one is available.

It says Balmung is available now... but I realize that post is currently 3 hours old. It should update in another 2 hours.

[Seoulstar]

It says Balmung is available now... but I realize that post is currently 3 hours old. It should update in another 2 hours.

Good thing I just checked. I was able to get in. Thanks again for taking the time to help.

[TenkataSenetai]

I had this exact same problem a few days ago. I have yet to find any information on why it happens, i just know it does.

[Enkidoh]

It was added early on at launch due to severe server congestion - literally no sooner had the game gone live that all servers became full virtually immediately, hence SE implemented this system to try and make it easier for players to actually get onto the game. For over a month after launch it literally was a case of 'go with whatever server was available' rather than 'choose a server where your friends are playing on'. Even though that level of congestion no longer happens, SE has kept it for consistency's sake.