It was on May 16, 2002 when Final Fantasy XI Online was first released in Japan. That means the game just had its 20th anniversary. In celebration, a new website honoring the milestone has been launched.
There’s a lot to enjoy with this year’s celebration, like the first part of an interview series with Producer and Director Naoki Yoshida. Players can also look forward to the Reddit AMA on May 23, hosted by Producer Akihiko Matsui and Director Yoji Fujito. The two are set to discuss the past 20 years of the game. Those who want to submit a question or see the responses can do it here.
New Music
As part of the 20th anniversary celebration, Final Fantasy XI composer Naoshi Mizuta has released a new version of the Vana’diel March song, titled We Are Vana’diel. The song itself plays when the player is in the start menu. In a statement, Akihiko Matsui shared that the song has an “uplifting melody,” which can stir the player’s sense of adventure.
New Digital Art Gallery
In addition to music, players can also enjoy some good visuals with the new digital art gallery website. This was created to serve as tribute to the 20 years of adventure. It features curated artworks from the community around the world. You can check it out here.
Special Site
The celebration isn’t over yet. Those who want to get a behind-the-scenes look of the game can go to the We Are Vana’diel special site here. It not only explores the world of the game but also shares about the development and history across the year.
The site has the interview with Naoki Yoshida mentioned previously. It’s a four-part interview with the first part having Yoshida share more about his involvement in the game and how he became part of Square Enix. If you have the patience for it, you can read the first part here.
The Campaign
Those subscribed to the game in the past will get the chance to enjoy the 20th Vana’versary Return Home To Vana’diel Campaign, available until May 31. This one allows players to experience the world of Vana'diel through various new content added over 20 years.
Final Fantasy XI Online is available on PC.
