Final Fantasy 11 - Final Fantasy

In what would be an extremely controversial move, Square would completely deviate from all previous entries, except not in the method the series was known to do. Final Fantasy XI would be a completely online only MMORPG. With brand new gameplay mechanics, a large world filled with a deep history to uncover, Final Fantasy 11 still remains one of the most populated online RPG's today. Released in 2002, Final Fantasy 11 would get almost yearly expansion packs adding new elements, mechanics, worlds, characters, quests, and various other goodies! Additionally, Final Fantasy XI has been released on multiple consoles, including the PS2, PC, and Xbox 360.

Final Fantasy XI takes place in the magnificent world of Vana'diel. Five different races are playable, the Humes, most resembling humans being the balanced fighters. The Elvaan are strong melee fighters with some magic abilities contrast the Galka, a strong genderless race that lacks strong magic abilities and the Tarutaru, a small tiny race with incredible magic capabilities but strong attack. Lastly, there were the Mithra, a quick and dexterous female only race. After customizing their character and choosing their class, players could embark on their adventure.

Unlike previous games in the series, all battles take place in real time, and no random battles or screen transitions occur. Players can form parties or fight alone. EXP is gained to level up characters, and GIL is earned to use for weapons, armor, or various other goodies. Players grow their characters specific job traits and abilities, and at certain level caps, new areas and gameplay mechanics become available. Quests and missions can be taken as well to advance the storyline and flesh out the gameplay. Many sidequests and minigames are also available, such as crafting, harvesting, logging, fishing, gardening, clamming, and chocobo digging.

Final Fantasy XI has carved out its own significant user base separate from the main Final Fantasy Series, and continues to be an expansion and extension of Final Fantasy.