Square Enix delivers some good and bad news today on Final Fantasy XIV. PC players get the good news, with a September 30, 2010 confirmed and a Collector’s Edition announced. The Collector’s Edition grants one week early access to the MMORPG, allowing players to begin on September 22, 2010. The Final Fantasy XIV Collector’s Edition will include the following for $74.99 (pre-orders are available here):
- Exclusive in-game item: Onion Helm (accelerates character recovery after falling in battle).
- Behind-the-Scenes DVD: Featuring developer interviews and commentary on the making of Final Fantasy XIV.
- Final Fantasy XIV Security Token
- Right of Passage Certificate: Personalized with a unique serial number.
- Travel Journal with concept art.
- Early access to Final Fantasy XIV game: Be among the first in the FF XIV MMORPG, starting September 22, 2010.
- Amano Cover Art featured on box cover.
- Thirty days free: Play for free for thirty days (monthly subscription after that).
- And of course, the game disc and manual.
A PC Beta for Final Fantasy XIV will begin in early July 2010 (details on applying for the beta here). PlayStation 3 gamers are a bit out of luck this year, as the release on the PS3 has been delayed for an estimated early March 2011. PS3 gamers who registered Final Fantasy XIII have the option to use their Final Fantasy XIV bonus code on the PC for the Asuran Armguards ("enhances the effectiveness of their characters’ equipped arm or tool"). Originally, the PlayStation 3 version was anticipated to be released alongside the PC version. The delay proves the challenges of delivering an MMO experience on gaming consoles versus PC.
Visit the official website of Final Fantasy XIV at www.finalfantasyxiv.com for more information on the game.
