Final Fantasy 11 expansion ‘Seekers of Adoulin’ coming to U.S. in 2013

Final Fantasy XI — the first MMO in the Final Fantasy franchise — came to North America in 2003. 10 years later, the game is getting another expansion. Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin will be coming to the U.S. on March 26, 2013 for the Xbox 360 and Windows PC.

The expansion features a new adventure with an unfolding story involving The Royal Family and the Eleven Knightly Orders who have abolished imperial rule. The Sacred City of Adoulin becomes a maritime metropolis that rivals Jeuno. Players will be adventuring and exploring in this city state and the jungles around it. Players also get two new jobs: Geomancers and Rune Fencers. Geomancers harness elemental energies to aid their allies and attack enemies. Rune Fencers are versatile duelists that use both blade and incantations, as well as using the power of arcane runes.

In addition to these new jobs, the expansion includes new gameplay systems, like player-built outposts, new contract work, and the introduction of special "power spots" that are hidden but provide powerful character enchantments.

Square Enix also announced a Final Fantasy XI: Ultimate Collection Seekers Edition that launches the same day. It is the full compilation of the stand-alone game with all four of the previous expansion, three add-on scenarios, and three battle area add-ons. The Collection Seekers Edition will be $39.99, while the stand-alone Seekers of Adoulin expansion is $29.99.

I'm going to be honest, I didn't think anyone played this game anymore. I dabbled with it for a year, but I like to solo, and at that time it wasn't possible. These are some pretty good enhancements to the game, but the trailer is just awful. It shows nothing compelling. It's just showing the empty, lonely environment and some people running. And then there's the sleep-inducing music with text that doesn't explain anything. It's just an awful marketing trailer for an expansion.

You can follow Senior Editor Lance Liebl on Twitter @Lance_GZ. He likes talking sports, video games, movies, and the stupidity of celebrities. Email at LLiebl@GameZone.com