A note off the beta forums by Nobuaki Komoto.
Quote:Beta testing is almost upon us!
The beta test will see the implementation of many new features, including significant user interface, character creation, and battle system changes based on alpha test feedback. Before beta testing begins, I'd like to take the opportunity to touch upon certain areas that should be considered "under construction" for this next phase.
Disciples of the Hand
Due to internal processing complications, we will temporarily be disabling local levequests for Disciples of the Hand. These issues also prevent us from implementing the Disciples of the Hand tutorial currently available for classes of other disciplines.
This development will make it difficult for anyone attempting to raise an entirely crafting-centric character. Although this goes against one of the basic concepts for FINAL FANTASY XIV, we decided that releasing the beta version and having our testers experience other elements of the game as soon as possible was a higher priority.
In this beta test phase, we will also be introducing a system in which the condition of weapons, armor, and tools will degrade with use. Disciples of the Hand will be able to repair these degraded items. While NPCs can be asked to perform repairs, PCs and retainers will also be able to fix equipment via bazaars. Although it will be difficult to advance in a crafting discipline, we encourage everyone to attempt to repair their own or their companions' gear, or engage in repair-related transactions at least once during testing. Let us know what you think!
The materials and recipes necessary for repairing items will be announced on the Beta Test Site in the near future.
The User Interface
The user interface, or "UI," will see a significant overhaul for the beta version. There are, however, several UI issues that have yet to be fully addressed-in particular, the overall time delay experienced when navigating the item interface. We are aware of the amount of time required to display long lists of items, and hope to resolve this issue before the next phase of the beta test.
There are also cases where rapid input in the various sections of the UI is not properly registered by the server. We are working to resolve this issue, but meanwhile, if confronted with a "???" or similar error, please try waiting a few moments before reattempting the same action.
Recruiting Party Members
In an effort to bring new elements to party play, we decided to introduce a different recruitment method than was available in FINAL FANTASY XI, in which the usual flow was for the recruiter to send an invitation to the prospective party member. Now, however, players can join a party automatically if they meet the conditions designated by the recruiter.
In the future, we plan to add features such as allowing players to join parties based on skills with weapons not currently equipped, or to join a party in a different area. Give the current system a try and tell us what you think.
Teleporting and Warping
As of the beta test, using the Teleport and Return commands will incur a small cost in "anima" (a character's self-replenishing energy). Countdowns will continue to use the same temporary display used during the alpha test. Furthermore, when teleporting, returning, or logging out, you will no longer be able to cancel the action using the same command-you will need to use a different command, such as toggling active/passive mode. In the next beta test phase, we plan to not only add effects, but also allow for easier teleporting/returning when not in battle.
Delayed Features
Unfortunately, the auto-complete/auto-translation feature that allows players to communicate across languages could not be implemented at this stage. We are currently scheduled to introduce this feature in the next beta test phase.
Player macros, a feature required to fully realize the Armoury System, are essential not only for battle situations, but also for switching equipment and setting up action bar shortcuts. We are working to ensure the implementation of a macro system, but regret that this feature will also not be ready for testing until the next testing phase.
There are still many areas with room for improvement, but we have the same dedication and desire to continue building the realm of Eorzea alongside our players. We hope to see the same great level of feedback and support during the beta test!
FINAL FANTASY XIV Director
Nobuaki Komoto
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