User Submitted: Bridging the Gap

<p>With the impending release of FFXIV right around the corner, many of the die-hard fans of its predecessor are wondering as to where Square has decided to set the balance between the hardcore grindy nature of FFXI and mainstream games such as WoW or Guild Wars. This begs the question; how does Square find a way to bring in the mainstream without over simplifying the mechanics of the prior installment? My largest qualm with Final Fantasy XI was the strenuous amount of time needed to feel any sense of accomplishment whatsoever. While I do believe larger and more prevalent goals should share in the epic nature of the first installment, I do believe Square is heading in the right direction by making the game more accessible in tid-bit form.</p> Busier and Busier <p>With life getting busier and busier, I am finding it hard to have 4 hour gaming sessions to spare in my free time, which is why I like Square's approach to bridge the gap between mainstream gamers and hardcore players (such as my very own brothers, Bloo and Tigerhawk of Unicorn Server). The most important thing in this undertaking is to always consider the fan-base that made this game what it is, which the developer definitely seems to have done.</p> <p>In recent interviews, Square has been quoted speaking upon the more relevant ability to play alone, which definitely lends itself to both the mainstream and the hardcore as well. While you could solo in FFXI, it was not nearly as effective as it could have been, and partying was not always an option when you only have an hour to play. With a new focus being placed upon character creation, Square-Enix has found another way in a broader set of players will be pleased. This feature is lacking from most MMO’s to say the least, so a true customization system is definitely a breath of fresh air. Such gameplay systems, such as the improved solo ability and the overhauled customization system, provide an excellent hook to bring new and old gamers alike as such diversity can only strengthen the user base of Eorzea.</p> Setting the Bar High <p>After sifting through various threads discussing the FFXIV Benchmark results of numerous users, many of which having their PC’s derailed by the underwhelming placement test, one starts to wonder as to how Square believes it can penetrate the mainstream with such hefty requirements. Even considering the theory that says the benchmark is horridly inaccurate, word of mouth can kill small issues such as these. Gamers love to gossip, so when one person says the FFXIV has discriminating system requirements, it becomes an internet fact for all intents and purposes. While the PS3 does offer the mainstream approach, and is probably where Square’s focus will be in trying to garner new players in, those new gamers wanting to play on the PC may be left in the dust, not to mention the delay they will face if they do wish to play the console version.</p> <table class="attachcaption" style="margin-bottom:50px"> <tr> <td></td> </tr> <tr><td> <p class="caption">Limsa Lominsa airship</p> </td></tr> </table> <p>At the end of the day, someone is always going to be alienated, and Square’s decision is inherently brilliant after further analyzing. By producing the game in mind with these higher system requirements, the developers have taken the very important measures as to future-proofing their game. They cannot change these after release, so it is imperative that they set the bar high so the title has room to grow over the next decade or so. MMO’s are a completely different animal as to developing; so many more things must be taken into consideration when developing such worlds for players to explore, so Square’s genius decision to build a strong foundation is actually making it mainstream, just down the road.</p> Approaching the Gap <p>Square-Enix’s approach to bridge the gap between the average player and the veterans of FFXI seems to have taken the best approach possible. The future proof system requirements will provide the longevity necessary to keep this game much more relevant for a long time to come. With all of the new gameplay measures taken to entice new players, I feel Square has not alienated anyone, but rather has found the perfect balance to create a wonderful environment which we will all enjoy exploring for a long time to come.</p>