Final Fantasy XIV PS4 release date, beta phases revealed

Square Enix has confirmed today that Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn will be available for PlayStation 4 on April 14, 2014. The company also shed some light on upcoming beta tests for the PS4 version, while addressed the PS3-to-PS4 transfer process for accounts.

There will actually be two beta phases, both accessible to everyone with a PS4. PS3 and PC players will be able to transfer character data to the PS4 version which Square Enix notes is only necessary for the beta. In the retail version, all players will play on the same servers.

The first beta phase will take place between February 22 and March 3. Following this test, all characters will be wiped.

The good news is that a second beta phase is planned for April 4 to April 7 and characters created during this phase will remain for the release of the final retail version.

The PS3-to-PS4 transfer service is scheduled to begin on Friday, April 11. Square Enix warns that after transferring to the PS4 version you'll be unable to play the PS3 version using your existing copy. Those who wish to play using both versions are required to purchase the PS4 version separately. All user accounts can be transferred from the PS3 to the PS4.