Final Fantasy XI is an MMORPG set in the persistent medieval world of Vana'diel. This base version was only released in Japan, while the final North American release includes the Rise of the Zilart expansion pack. Create your own character by choosing your race, gender, face, body size and job. The five unique races are: Hume, Elvaan, Tarutaru, Mithra (female only), and Galka (male only).
Gameplay involves starting jobs such as Warrior, Monk, Thief, White Mage, Black Mage and Red Mage, which can be changed at any time. Each job has its own experience pool and level, as well as unique traits acquired by leveling up. Players can also earn merit points to improve their character's stats. Join other players in parties of up to six players or form alliances on various servers to fight against beastmen and other species from Vana'diel. Communication with group members is possible through text, body language, and a linkshell device.
Traveling through Vana'diel can be done by foot, airship, Chocobo, or teleportation to outposts. Defeating specific enemies allows characters to gain extra experience and gils from training manuals.
The game has a maximum level cap of 100, but updates have raised it to 55, 60, 65, and beyond, with the option to gather experience in a separate pool at level 75 to earn merit points.