Hello my name is Tannifae! ^^ I used to play HorizonXI Endgame content and quit entirely moving on to Retail. I created some infographics based on my own experiences. I wish I had known all the risks when I first entered the private server scene.
Private Servers Pros & Cons
MY OWN REVIEW:
I initially joined a private server without much knowledge or experience. The "Free-to-Play" aspect drew me in, and I thought, "What could go wrong? It’s just a game!" It was all wonderful at first, but over time, I started noticing recurring issues: shady practices, questionable behavior, and toxic dynamics coming from different levels. I ignored these, thinking they wouldn’t affect me, but eventually, I experienced a rude awakening.
Beyond normal in-game toxicity, I encountered patterns of incredibly abusive nature outside the borders of the game itself. This deeply eroded my trust in the private server community, making me question whether I was safe there at all.
After two years, my preferences and priorities have shifted. For me, safety and security are now the most important aspects of gaming. This led me to transition to
FFXI Retail, and I can confidently say it was the best decision I’ve made.
FFXI Retail Pros & Cons
Retail servers can be intimidating at first, but I’ve come to realize just how misinformed I was. FFXI is rich with content, offering incredible flexibility: solo or team-oriented play, casual or grind-heavy gameplay, short or long gaming sessions, it’s adaptable to any lifestyle.
I’ve also discovered I had only experienced
~25% of the game within the last two years, with a massive
75%~ of content still left to explore, which I’m excited to dive into for years to come.
Unlike private servers,
Square Enix delivers trustworthy customer support, backed by professionally trained staff who undergo background checks and adhere to strict protocols. This professionalism ensures a safer and more welcoming environment. I have experienced that for the past few weeks and also previously from FFXIV.
Thank you to the retail players who welcomed me with open arms and encouraged me to join the community (like FFXIAH). You’ve made my transition effortless and enjoyable! Thank you guys for being patient with my growth and always treating me with the utmost respect even if I only played the private server previously. I think that says a lot about your character as a retail community.
For anyone on the fence or struggling with similar experiences, my advice is simple: prioritize your safety and enjoyment. Know your people. Know who is out there to hurt you or build you up.
Feel free to reach out if you need support or have questions!
Remember, we’re all here to grow and become better people for ourselves and others. Count your blessings, share kindness, and enjoy the journey.
Happy gaming! xx :)
