Ok, I know I'm sort of /poking a slumbering drake with this topic, but imo, it just might save the game - If done the right way. Heres what I suggest:

1) Final Fantasy XIV goes completely Free To Play. So not a trial-setup. No "you can only level up to rank/level 20, and then you will have to pay each month. Free.

2) Like most other F2P games an ingame store is added where people can buy stuff for real money. This store has to be fully stocked with eye-candy, and fluff - like new special armors only available this way, or new emote motions. Also adding in "convenience-items" like special high potions and single-use XP-booters. (Empress Band anyone?)

3) Items added to store must never ever feel like they are a necessity. Above mentioned armor must have a free equivalent. What people would pay for would be cosmetic only. The potion has to have a looong cooldown. Something you'd only use once and awhile. XP-booster should also have a hefty time cooldown. So no "forcing" players into buying anything. If someone rejects another player from joining a party, because they lack something only purchasable from the store, the concept has failed.

4) Prices at the store must be kept at a level where everybody feel they can afford to spend money. Make stuff too expensive in there and no one will buy anything. "A bird in the hand is worth more than two in the bush..."

Now... Would you support this idea? Would SE make money this way? Possibly even attract new players?
What do you guys (and gals) think?



{/hurray for me first post - sorry it had to be said. ^.^;}