Final Fantasy XI is getting new story content for the first time in five years, titled The Voracious Resurgence
Final Fantasy XI originally released in 2002 and was the first mainline Final Fantasy title to embrace the MMORPG genre. While the game is still supported and has received minor updates in recent years, it hasn't received new story content since Rhapsodies of Vana'diel in 2015, which at the time was described as the 'final scenario' for the long-standing MMORPG.
Late last week, Square Enix made a surprising new post on the official Final Fantasy XI forums, announcing that the August update for the game would include new story content for the first time in five years. In the post, producer Akihiko Matsui outlined the update, including the following:
The most exciting news I have to share is that a brand-new storyline will be coming to Vana’diel! This story, which will play out over the course of many version updates rather than just a few, explores a side of Vana’diel that’s never before seen the light. Be aware that full completion of Rhapsodies of Vana’diel is required to experience this wonderful new content, so I hope that those of you who haven’t set experienced Iroha’s tale in full will take this opportunity to do so.
Square Enix today followed up with a key artwork for the new content, drawn by illustrator/designer Akihiro Yamada. We also received an official title - The Voracious Resurgence. The official website is here.
While details are still somewhat sparse, it looks like this content will unveil over the course of several updates, with the first coming on August 6. Here's the story synopsis for the new content:
Even the smallest of incidents can have ripple effects that alter the course of history. Three individuals of unknown origin have inserted themselves seamlessly into everyday life, their robes murky and their intentions even murkier.
Only a short time passed before small eggs of unknown origin started appearing in all manner of places throughout Vana'diel - eggs whispered of in the oldest of Beastmen legends.
It falls to Vana'diel's finest adventurers to uncover the truth behind this enigmatic phenomenon. Peer beyond the veil of death and unravel the tangled threads of a conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of the world.
Square Enix is also holding a 'Return Home to Vana'diel Campaign', in which previous subscribers can play Final Fantasy XI for free from August 7 to August 17. Specific details and account/eligibility requirements for this campaign and other related events can be found here.