(MMO) A Few Words...

So I started sampling the FFXIV Realm Reborn beta. I used to think a Final Fantasy MMO would be the one I'd get drawn into. That didn't happen with XI. So how will this one shape up... on its second release?

Well, I've only had a little time with it. It's very, very pretty. It doesn't quite move or feel as fluid as other games I've played. It has some classic appeal and charm. The interface is serviceable, but not an improvement. I find myself disliking the map (though not as strongly as in the original GW). I also find the lack of in-game voice to be something I miss (when did that happen?).

I'll try the beta more (it looks like this stage 3 beta ends on the 15th and stage 4 is "open beta"), but I have yet to see anything that would draw me in past the increasingly-less-typical monthly subscription fee. So far, I think that would take a solid community of friends in the game while I only see one or two likely.

But it is very pretty.

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