This FAQ has been translated directly from Squaresoft Japan’s website. Like all translations, It is not 1:1, word-for word; however, we were able to convey the same things as the Japanese FAQ does.

Section 1: About FFXI
Section 2: Required Equipment
Section 3: PlayOnline & Beta Testing
Section 4: Series Differences & Release Date

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About FFXI
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1.1) Is ‘ FF XI ‘ like other ‘ Final Fantasy ‘ games?
‘ FF XI ‘ is an online RPG where players can participate with a large number of people simultaneously.

1.2) What is an online RPG?
An online RPG connects to a network server. Like former similar RPGs, your character will grow and advance in the world. Players from around the world are united, allowing them to form parties and experience thrill and adventure together.

1.3) Can I play ‘ FFXI’ without an internet connection?
Regrettably, unlike the previous game (X), you cannot play this one without the internet. ‘FF XI ‘ was programmed with prerequisite internet connectivity. We would like everyone to taste the enjoyment of playing online, communicating and adventuring with other players, and advancing in an always-active world.

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Required Equipment
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2.1) What do I need to have in order to play ‘ FF XI ‘?
PlayStation 2 ” DualShock 2 controller
PlayStation 2 ” hard disk drive unit (HDD)
PlayStation 2 ” memory card (8MB)
Corresponding Option
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You can use the keyboard and HUB which are conformed to the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard.

2.2) What kind of network environment is required to play ‘ FFXI ‘?
The modem corresponds to many environments such as Integrated Services Digital Network, ADSL and FTTH.

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PlayOnline & Beta Testing
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3.1) In addition to ‘ FF XI ‘, what must I purchase in order to play?
‘ FF XI ‘ is hosted on the PlayOnline network. Because of that, in order to play ‘ FF XI ‘, you must first join PlayOnline. 3.2) If you are not admitted to PlayOnline, can you not play ‘ FFXI ‘?
Correct. If you are not a member of PlayOnline, you will not be able to access ‘ FFXI ‘.

3.3) How much will PlayOnline cost?
It is undecided. As soon as we decide, we will announce it on our home page.
(Note: Square has confirmed that it will be free to access its PlayOnline Network. You can find the full article at CoreMagazine - Xynder)

3.4) What is the Beta test?
With an online game, a Beta test is where you test the stability of the servers by loading and crowding the network.

3.5) Beta probably means there is also test period costs?
Because beta is the period when it makes the product of this corporation get near completion with the cooperation of everyone, there is no fee that must be paid. However, the customer is responsible for all phone line fees, ISP fees, et cetera.

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Series Differences & Release Date
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4.1) How is ‘ FFXI ‘ different from the present FF games?
As for the differences, because of the games’ contents and the systems which are work completely differently, it is not possible to compare unconditionally. Most notably, ‘ FFXI ‘ will be the first online game in the series. This alone is a huge difference. Players interacting with and fighting alongside one another, being part of an ever-changing world, et cetera… our expectations are high.

4.2) When will ‘ FFXI ‘ be released, any for what price?
Spring of 2002 is the scheduled release date. Price is undecided as of yet.

4.3) When is the targeted date Square will allow stores to begin taking reservations? Also, will there be any benefits and/or bonuses for reserving ‘ FFXI ‘?
Both the reservation target date and the benefits, if any, are still undecided.

4.4) What about a PC version?
The sale of a PC version is planned.