Since the posting script is disabled at the moment, i'll post this one myself.
http://forum.square-enix.com/ffxiv/threads/59783
Quote:
Hello again to all of you eagerly awaiting FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn. Yoshi-P here, ringing in the new year with the forty-first Letter from the Producer.
We've been back in the office for almost three weeks now, and our calendars are already marked full of meetings and deadlines. It won't be long before beta testing begins, and soon after that, the release of FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn! Looking at the beta test road map we released last month, the road from beta to release would appear to be a long one, but the testing will be over before you know it. There's not a moment to spare in preparation for release, and the development team will stay at full throttle to make sure we get there.
First things first, let's talk a bit about the beta test. Phase one will begin in February, and we were thrilled to see so many players from around the world signing up to participate. I know the beta test is just around the corner, but I'd like to show you guys a few screen shots to tide you over until then.
Here's the title screen, new and improved with a "beta version" tag. The BGM has been changed as well...another little tidbit to look forward to.
Starting from phase 1, all races will be available for testing, so it's time for roll call! First up is the Hyur Midlander female.
The Hyur Highlander female is also front and center, looking strong and sexy.
Next up is the Elezen male smartly sporting race-specific gear.
The Lalafell looking adorable as always, but don't count them out in PvP.
The Miqo'te male makes his long-awaited debut, fueling fan desires for a new project: Miqo'te Online.
Last but certainly not least is the Roegadyn female, with strength matched only by her beauty.
With all these screen shots, it'd be a shame not to include one of the benchmark. We're still putting the finishing touches on it, so pay no mind to the score.
Although all races will be available from phase one of the beta test, not all customization options will be available. We're putting a lot of work into various options such as hair styles and colors (a whopping 192 shades are being planned!) based on feedback from the alpha test, and everything should be ready by phase three.
[.....]
FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn is taking on an unprecedented challenge in the MMO market, and we have not only the support of fans, but also that of our peers in the industry. Taking heart from all this positive energy, we will see the game through to a successful launch and beyond!
See you next time, on the forums, or in the Beta Test!
We've been back in the office for almost three weeks now, and our calendars are already marked full of meetings and deadlines. It won't be long before beta testing begins, and soon after that, the release of FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn! Looking at the beta test road map we released last month, the road from beta to release would appear to be a long one, but the testing will be over before you know it. There's not a moment to spare in preparation for release, and the development team will stay at full throttle to make sure we get there.
First things first, let's talk a bit about the beta test. Phase one will begin in February, and we were thrilled to see so many players from around the world signing up to participate. I know the beta test is just around the corner, but I'd like to show you guys a few screen shots to tide you over until then.
Here's the title screen, new and improved with a "beta version" tag. The BGM has been changed as well...another little tidbit to look forward to.
Starting from phase 1, all races will be available for testing, so it's time for roll call! First up is the Hyur Midlander female.
The Hyur Highlander female is also front and center, looking strong and sexy.
Next up is the Elezen male smartly sporting race-specific gear.
The Lalafell looking adorable as always, but don't count them out in PvP.
The Miqo'te male makes his long-awaited debut, fueling fan desires for a new project: Miqo'te Online.
Last but certainly not least is the Roegadyn female, with strength matched only by her beauty.
With all these screen shots, it'd be a shame not to include one of the benchmark. We're still putting the finishing touches on it, so pay no mind to the score.
Although all races will be available from phase one of the beta test, not all customization options will be available. We're putting a lot of work into various options such as hair styles and colors (a whopping 192 shades are being planned!) based on feedback from the alpha test, and everything should be ready by phase three.
[.....]
FINAL FANTASY XIV: A Realm Reborn is taking on an unprecedented challenge in the MMO market, and we have not only the support of fans, but also that of our peers in the industry. Taking heart from all this positive energy, we will see the game through to a successful launch and beyond!
See you next time, on the forums, or in the Beta Test!
I trimmed the end of the letter off because it's just about some staff new years trip that's all very japanese culture stuff. Go click the link above if you care to read it.
Btw, for some reason it never occured to me there was going to be a Female Highlander. Have they been in any of the art so far?
