Okay, I know this might sound a little kinky and retarded, but I spent about an hour yesterday JUST trying to figure out where to create an account. I am using a Windows Vista computer, and I thought I finally solved the puzzle when I found the PlayOnline Viewer. But then I tried to create an account with that, and I couldn't log-in with the account on the website.

I also am unable to find the download link for the game. Is there a free trial of a certain time period? I would really like to try the game out before purchasing it and the expansions.

If you can help me with either of these problems, it's greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Zach

Ah, you do know that FFXI is not freeware? It does come with a free trial period (the first month of play), but you still need to buy the actual game first, plus provide a vaild form of payment for the monthly fees, even if you cancel your account before the free trial period is over.

To play FFXI, you first have to go to any game store and purchase the game for either PS2 (Japan and US only), PC or Xbox 360. There is a new budget version of the game available for the PC which only costs $10, but it doesn't include any expansion packs with it.

After putting the game disc into your system, making sure you're connected to the internet first (you need to install it onto your HDD first for the PC version as well), PlayOnline Viewer will launch, connect to PlayOnline and download updates, then proceed automatically to the POL account creation screen. Follow the steps on the screen to create your PlayOnline account (a valid credit card or debit card with the Visa or Mastercard logo is required for this - there is no way around it).

Once this is done, in PlayOnline Viewer you proceed to the FFXI page, and select 'Purchase Content ID'. Enter your POL ID and password (this is given when you signed up with PlayOnline), then follow the directions on screen. After this, you can proceed back to the FFXI page and select 'Play' to start the game (the game will automatically download updates first) and create your character.


Hopefully, this has helped.