8 Massive Online Community Events That Changed Video Games
4. Fan gatherings in Final Fantasy XI
As the first online-centric game in the franchise, the eleventh Final Fantasy offered one of the deepest and most complicated MMOs on offer. It asked its players pour high levels of commitment into the title; for long-term fans however, this was hardly a daunting proposition.
An incredibly dedicated community began to grow and the game grew with it, so much so that eleven was declared the most profitable entry in the series in 2012. Because of this, the game is still being played by some nearly two decades after its 2003 release.
Unlike its predecessors however, Final Fantasy XI took things beyond the growing fandom around the franchise. Taking full advantage of the game's social elements, groups of players have formed close bonds through their adventures in Vana'diel, along with the many expansions that have arrived over the years.
FFXI became so popular that the community started holding meet-ups outside of the game, bringing the community closer together and keeping the game alive to this day. The tradition has also continued across Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, with annual gatherings arranged every year. Cosplayers, exclusive events and developer panel talks are just some of the components that have expanded Final Fantasy XI outside its in-game world.