Video Gaming News - September 2003

San Francisco, CA (September 16, 2003) - Sony Computer Entertainment America announced today that Final Fantasy XI will be available pre-installed on the upcoming internal Hard Disk Drive (40GB) for PlayStation 2. Final Fantasy XI, an online only title, will be only available with the internal Hard Disk Drive release in March for a suggested retail price of $99.

From Sony:

Entering the next evolutionary phase in the PlayStation 2 experience, the internal Hard Disk Drive and Final Fantasy XI will utilize the Network Adaptor (Ethernet/modem) (for PlayStation2) to get online, while fostering in a new era of console gaming by allowing gamers to connect to the same exact world regardless of whether they are playing on a PlayStation 2 or a personal computer (PC). Final Fantasy XI showcases the same award-winning visual content, innovative gameplay and deep storyline that has made the FINAL FANTASY series one of the most popular videogame series in the world, with more than 45 million units sold to date. Developed by Square Enix Co., Ltd. and published by Sony Computer Entertainment America, Final Fantasy XI is a cross-platform, cross-continent massively multiplayer online role-playing-game (MMORPG). A brand-new FINAL FANTASY environment awaits gamers as they live in, and navigate through a "persistent world" that continues to evolve and develop, even when they are not playing. Final Fantasy XI utilizes the Network Adaptor and the internal Hard Disk Drive to allow players to connect online, either via broadband or dial-up connections, and join in the ever-changing world of "Vana'diel." The introduction of the internal Hard Disk Drive by Sony Computer Entertainment America provides players with the unique opportunity to experience a completely new FINAL FANTASY gaming universe with large communities, complex gameplay in intense online environments and a constantly, refreshed gameplay experience with the ability to download updates to the world of Vana'diel.

"We are excited to bring the FINAL FANTASY series into its next ground-breaking phase of online play with the new Hard Disk Drive, which further demonstrates our focus on extending the functionalities and capabilities of the PlayStation 2 for a total living room experience," said Ami Blaire, director, product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "The vast living universe of Final Fantasy XI will draw players into a deep, one-of-a-kind online adventure, transforming the boundaries of console gaming with the ability for gamers to join others on quests and adventures regardless of whether they are playing on a PlayStation 2 or a PC."

About Final Fantasy XI for PlayStation 2

Final Fantasy XI has been designed based on creating communities among players, and gamers can create an alter ego that will exist in the world of "Vana'diel" customizing their characters by race, sex, nation of origin, and numerous other physical traits. In Final Fantasy XI, gamers will become immersed in an expansive, original storyline as they go on missions and build their character's skills and attributes, either alone or with other members of the community, ultimately creating the history of Vana'diel. The world of Vana'diel is made up of vast, never-ending environments with more than 100 areas to explore including mountains, forests, ice plains, deserts, oceans, rivers, castles and dungeons. Incorporating time and climate changes, Vana'diel is a truly persistent world, composed of three unique nations: the Republic of Bastok, known for Industry and Might; The Kingdom of San d'Oria, called "A City Within A Fortress"; and the Federation of Windurst, founded on "The Fruits of Knowledge." These nations enjoyed a friendly relationship on the surface; however, the territorial expansion is a constant desire for all of the nations leaders, and players must choose one of these nations as their home. Once players start their adventure in a rather civilized capital city, they may congregate, chat and do battle with the forces of evil, creating Vana'diel's history through various interactions. With the ability to create unique characters, choosing from a variety of races, facial features, size, hair-styles and attributes, users will be able to play at their own pace and form parties with other players while embarking on multiple adventures. They can also acquire skills in trades such as leatherworking, fishing, jewel crafting, and many more, that help them on their quests. Various communication tools have been incorporated into Final Fantasy XI to assist in interaction between players, including easy-to-use chat and messaging systems. Final Fantasy XI for PlayStation 2 will include the expansion pack "Rise of the Zilart." Final Fantasy XI for Windows will begin shipping to North American retailers in late October 2003 and was released in Japan in May 2002 (PlayStation 2) and November 2002 (Windows). The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) has rated Final Fantasy XI (T) for Teen. For more information about the ESRB visit www.esrb.org. About PlayOnline from SquareEnix Final Fantasy XI for PlayStation 2 will give gamers an innovative, online cross-platform gameplay experience between console and personal computer, and allows players to connect either via broadband or dial-up connections. Players will be required to register via PlayOnline, a network service created by Square Enix serving as the gateway to the Final Fantasy XI universe. Players will be charged a monthly fee to play Final Fantasy XI separate from Internet Service Provider (ISP) access charges. Subscribers will receive their first 30 days of access without charge. After 30 days, Final Fantasy XI will be available on a month-to-month subscription basis for $12.95 a month, which includes one character for Final Fantasy XI. Players can create additional characters for an additional charge of $1.00 per character, per month. Tetra Master, the online version of the immensely popular mini-game from FINAL FANTASY IX will also be included with the package and available for $1.00 per month.

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