Players of the MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV have received seven free days of game time following the official launch of the game’s latest expansion, Endwalker, on 7 December. The game’s Director and Producer, Naoki Yoshida, announced this in a post on the game’s community site, The Lodestone, on 5 December.
Those who preordered Endwalker could participate in the early access period, lasting from 2 December to the launch date. However, many players faced long queues and delays getting into the game. A separate announcement on 7 December by Yoshida helped to shed some light on the issues facing the game’s servers. He cited the “record numbers of simultaneous logins” and “unprecedented amount of active players”, particularly during peak hours.
“…We truly appreciate your understanding and cooperation thus far.”
Yoshida acknowledged the frustration experienced by players in his announcement on 5 December, and wished to compensate them by offering those seven free days upon the official launch of Endwalker. He also stated that further free game time may be offered if players continue to be affected by server congestion.
FFXIV operates on a subscription model. Players pay a monthly fee to access the game, and can also purchase the game’s expansions. Furthermore, Square Enix offers a generous free trial, including the base campaign, known as A Realm Reborn, and the first expansion, Heavensward. According to Yoshida, the free days are available for players who own the full game and have an active subscription. Players currently in the 30 day free trial period following registration of the full game are also eligible.
Yoshida closed his announcement with an apology and a promise that the developers are doing all they can. Maintenance took place on 8 December, so players can be hopeful that the situation will improve.
Final Fantasy XIV is now available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, and Mac.
Words by Mia Chitty
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