10 Questions from JP Players

[Elmer the Pointy]

If you want to answer, I'm putting up a bonus question. It was just posted, and I think it would be interesting to take part in this old Japanese school riddle. The poster put it in Japanese and English himself, so these are his own words:

日本では古くから議論されている問題があります。 
それは「バナナはおやつに入りますか？」です。 
NAではどのように考えますか？ 
以下翻訳ソフトで英文にしてみました。 

There is a problem argued from old days in Japan. 
This problem is not yet settled. 
It is "Is the banana included in a snack?". 
Ex, "The snack expense of the excursion is less than $5" 
Do you think the price of the banana is included in a snack expense or not ?

Here's an explanation of what this means:
In middle school they have school trips, just like most of us do. They are allowed to bring a bento (lunchbox meal) along with them. The bento is made at home and includes a sandwich, fish, rice, veggies... some combination of those things.

Students are also allowed to bring snacks, but there is a limit (usually 300 yen) set on the amount of snacks they can bring, since those are desserts, candies, etc. A banana, being a fruit, remains on the fence between lunch and dessert, and gave rise to this running gag. Is a banana part of lunch, or must it be included in snacks, which have a price limit?

It's nothing to think too deeply about, but feel free to give your opinion on the matter.

[avelle]

1
Have you ever had someone from your own country do something bad to you? For example, they invite you to replace someone, and when you get there, they just disband. Do you hold a grudge against the person who invited you in that case, or do you think “Oh well,” and just forget about it?

I usually just think oh well.

2
I heard that on foreign boards there is a list of useful Japanese players that will help people out. Do you really have such a list?

I'm not aware of any list like that.

3
I don’t go out of my way to invite NA players to my party, but NA players often invite Japanese players. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inviting a Japanese player to your party?

Really the only drawback I can think of is lack of communication. The biggest benefit to me is the ability to party with more people than just NA, instead of standing in Whitegate.

4
Has there been a time when a Japanese player has hurt or insulted you? Also, what are some actions that are normal for us that you find disagreeable? I’m interested to know and would like to hear your thoughts.

There was a time when a JP player laughed to a group of us about the 9/11 tragedy at a HNM camp, that was pretty awful.

5
Lots of NA players exclusively use Auto-Translate when recruiting for Assault and other activities. Does this mean that you are targeting Japanese players as well? I’m fairly knowledgeable when it comes to Missions and Assault, but I barely know any English, and worry if I should even send a tell.

Anytime I use the auto-translate in a shout I am targeting everyone that sees the message. I don't mind if your English is bad.

6
I’ve had a foreign player say to me, “I hate Japanese people.” But Final Fantasy is a Japanese game. If you hate us, why play?

I don't understand these people.

7
A lot of time has passed since service began in Japan, and you barely see any new subscribers coming in. Are there new NA players still joining?

I started when the game came out, I left to play World of Warcraft, and I came back to the game last October. I have brought a few new players with me, I think they exist.

8
In Japan, players that play long periods of time, have many Lvl 75 jobs, possess tons of high-level equipment, and who are usually filled with prejudice and contempt are called 廃人 <[ ( hai jin ) " High Level person but disable from living real life " ]>. Is there a similar name you use for NA players who are like that?

The first word that comes to my mind is elitist.

9
Is there opposition against the practice of RMT or the use of third party tools? What do you do if your friend or Linkshell uses them? How do you feel about RMT業者 (gyou sha) or gil farmers?

I know people try to report RMT whenever they can. As far as third party tools, pretty much everyone I know uses a program like Windower to make the game more enjoyable.

10
In Japan, there are some people who are huge subligar fans. Are there any amongst foreign players, or is there another piece of equipment that is especially popular?

I see a lot of people wearing those Fancy Spectacles or Swimsuits.

[Silenka]

Well I tried to post in Japanese but the board ate most of my post. Any way to get around this?

[Linliel]

Note: I'm Australian, not NA! Not all English-speakers are NA!

1: Yes, of course. But I don't hold a grudge about it, if they have a good reason to disband, then it's no harm done, if they do it because of a stupid reason, then I blist them and move on.

2: My server forum on allakhazam has a "cool people" and "bad people" list, but it's certainly not aimed at any country in particular.


3: I enjoy inviting Japanese players -- it gives me a chance to practice my very bad Japanese! ^^ But usually I like them because they're quiet and get their job done efficiently (most of the time). Sometimes it's hard to tell them if something is wrong though, and I probably wouldn't invite Japanese players to a tough mission party unless they spoke pretty good English, just because of the strategies involved. Easy missions or EXP though, no problem

4: I've been called all sorts of names, and had things like "NA={death}" said to me, even though I'm not NA Also I can read some Japanese so I can tell when a Japanese party is talking about me! (Usually it's been good, but don't think you can hide behind language! hehe)

5: Auto-translate is a short cut for typing, also when I started I was told it was polite to use because of the Japanese players. I like to include as many people as possible!


6: There are dickheads in all corners of the globe


7: Some, but not a huge number. When the expansion packs come out you see a bunch of people who used to play return but usually they go away again after they've explored it.


8: We call them "haijin" too! heh.


9: Yeah, we don't like RMT much either. Most PC players use the windower though, but things that help you to cheat by claiming monsters or running faster are generally unacceptable.


10: Subligars are universal! Especially the lacy JSE panties!

bonus: Banana is lunch! Not a snack! Fruit is an important part of your daily diet! lol


Thanks Elmer, this is pretty interesting. I was curious about the sorts of questions they'd ask us

[Pun]

1. I have had many invitations from my own countrymen that result in disbanding before I reach the campsite. Unless I know the person, I generally do not accept invites from them in the future. I've also had items stolen from me that I lent to past friends. When it comes down to it, I believe we are all human in the end and anyone is capable of discourteous and/or malign deeds.

2. I have never seen or heard of such a list.

3. I usually like to invite Japanese players because of the potential unique interaction that is available. I have never had a chance to communicate in any way with individuals outside of the United States and I find it satisfying to do so. I have even become friends with some Japanese players on my server, one actually asking me first if he could add me to his friends list. Besides the language barrier, I have never encountered any drawback to inviting a Japanese player.

4. There are a few Japanese players on my server (Ifrit) who I have seen with derogatory bazaar and search comments aimed towards NA players. I remember one specifically calling NA "too weak" and dumb. I don't find any specific action of Japanese players disagreeable, personally. I do wish that Japanese players would sometimes use the auto-translate function when shouting for assaults, missions, or otherwise; sometimes I feel it is not done to intentionally leave out NA players from joining.

5. I personally use the auto-translate function when shouting because it is faster for me than to type out everything manually. I also do it because I am in hope of responses from anyone from any country to join.

6. I don't hate Japanese players at all. I enjoy interacting with you whether it be in assaults, missions, quests, or parties.

7. There seems to still be a steady trickle coming in, but it is nothing like it used to be.

8. I usually call these people elitists...though I'm sure there are many names for them....

9. I personally oppose RMT, but I also realize that it will never be stopped. If I find out a friend participates in RMT, whether it be buying or selling, I am extremely disappointed in them and it eventually harms our relationship. As for linkshells using third-party programs and bots, that also can not be stopped, but I do my part and stay away from them if I have prior knowledge of their activities. For a significant amount of NA players, linkshells using bots has become a moot point due to the amount of people partaking in them.

10. I don't like the look of subligar, but I like to wear harnesses and slacks in town, such as Dragon Harness and Galliard Trousers.

[Asura_Zilla]

1.

Yes, I've had it happen to me several times. However, it hasn't only been people from my own country, as well as many other (EU as well as NA, I don't specifically recall any JP player doing that though..). I try not to hold grudges against people, unless it's a grave injury though, but deep down I know if said player invited me again I would probably decline.

2.

Not that I'm aware of, no.

3.

Benefits, I'd say none. There is no guideline that states that being from a certain nationality guarantees you're better or more skilled. I try to pay no mind to who I'm inviting to my party, honestly. Are there drawbacks? Well, yes, not being able to communicate is offsetting but in my opinion as far as Experience/Merit parties go the only communication that is -vital- is where you're going, and fortunately Auto-Translate works for at least THAT. I do try, however, when I invite one Japanese player, to invite more than one, so as to not make them feel left out.

4.

There have been times. I once had someone tell me "{English}{No thanks}" followed by something to the effect that NA suck. Disagreeable behavior I would consider ignoring tells because I'm foreign (it has happened, there have been times when I politely ask someone /invite if they want a party and they ignore, then 5 minutes later they pass me by, or they're in a party). That always makes me hurt a bit >.>..

5.

If I'm using Auto-Translate, anyone is welcome to respond. I do not have any problems whatsoever taking anybody along. The point of this game is to have fun, right? There shouldn't be any barriers to that.

6.

I don't hate Japanese people. Most of the Japanese players I've met in my FF career have been polite and kind to me, and I greatly enjoy the (rare) occasions I get to interact with them ^^. Don't group all of us foreign people together, as we aren't all bad.

7.

All the time. It never stops.

8.

I dunno, I just call them assholes, lol. Doesn't matter how many jobs 75 they have, or how much experience they have, assholes are still assholes.

9.

RMT ruins everything. I disapprove. I don't specifically go out of my way to show my distaste for RMT, but I do not support it. I don't support third party tools either, and certainly if I knew someone who did (and admitted so) I'd have a cold relationship with them (though probably not on purpose).

10.

I hate subligars. I despise them. Only subligars I approve of are Femina and Vir (no, not even the JSE subligars from Sacrarium). For me, my favorite piece of visible gear (that I would wear all the time if I could ''>.>) are crafting glasses. Doesn't matter which craft, I just love crafting glasses.

[Halion]

*4.
Often a Japanese puller will wait for someone to say "Ok pull" every single time. It seems this way at least to me, whether there is mostly Japanese or English players, so it must be a normal thing to do to make sure everyone is ready to fight. In NA parties though we have more of an attitude where we'll keep going until someone specifically says stop, or everyone is out of MP, so a lot of times if it's a mostly NA party they might forget to say "OK pull" every time and be a little annoyed at having to do so. We tend to expect a puller to be pro-active and pay attention to things themselves.

*8.
No-lifer is the main term sometimes used as an insult and sometimes a joke; but when I was in an HNMLS we learned the word haijin from friendly Japanese HNMLS and used it when we meant it to be an insult to someone who camped HNMs all day long and had bad attitudes towards all competition.
I assumed every server has at least one "haijin LS" that all nationality LSes consider to spend too much time in endgame and not enough in real life and therefore usually try to avoid. This is the way it was considered by us from having it explained by Japanese HNMLS members.

*10.
Bathing suits, Beastman hats, and sunglasses are the most popular items to use in town gear. Galkas might use subligar and Nashira or Sha'ir manteel to make everyone laugh; dance emotes made this even more common.

[Suiram]

Bonus Question:
Our government once tried to classify ketchup as a vegetable, so we are perhaps not the best ones to resolve this dispute.

[Waef]

1
Yes, this is actually something that happens fairly frequently. I do somewhat hold a grudge, but usually I forget who it is or never see them again so it's not as big of a deal.


2
I personally don't, and haven't heard of such a thing. Maybe some people have one though...


3
Generally, I don't go out of my way to invite someone from a specific country or of a certain nationality. Usually I only look for the job I need, and if it happens to be a Japanese player, then I'll still ask them to party. Although, admittedly I might be slightly more hesitant to ask them since I always expect them to decline the invite (since I don't speak japanese).


4
I can't recall any specific time where a Japanese player has hurt or insulted me, although there have been a lot of times where I've partied with a Japanese player, and they suddenly leave after a fight and warp, with very little warning. Sometimes it has led to a perfectly good party disbanding, but I've had NA people do that all the time too so I don't hold a grudge against Japanese players.


5
Generally, I'm targeting anyone who is willing to come. My general assumption is that if I give the name of the assault, that person will either already have a general knowledge, or can look up information on the event. Thus, I don't think that the language barrier is incredibly important, so long as everyone has a concept of what needs to be done, and knows how to play their job.


6
A lot of people (and I know I've done this before as well) think that they're always right, and everyone else is wrong. So I believe people get into the mentality that "I'm here so they shouldn't be. Why should I have to share the game with people I can't understand?" In my opinion, it's more of a personal matter with that person than a matter with "foreigners" in general.


7
No idea..I guess you see a few, but I haven't really paid much attention.


8
Off the top of my head I can't think of a specific term, but sometimes people refer to them as having no life.


9
I think everyone hates RMT (except maybe people who buy/sell gil). As for third party tools, it's generally become common knowledge that endgame linkshells bot, so there isn't too much controversy concerning that (anymore). People accept it as part of the game. Personally, if a friend uses third party tools (claim bots, speedhacks, etc.) I don't really mind. I'm not going to report them as it's their choice and they are the one risking a ban.


10
There are subligar fans in America too! Personally I prefer subligar from Phomiuna Aqueducts / Sacrarium (the panties look). Is this the same in Japan, or is it just any subligar in general?

[Neosutra]

1
Have you ever had someone from your own country do something bad to you? For example, they invite you to replace someone, and when you get there, they just disband. Do you hold a grudge against the person who invited you in that case, or do you think “Oh well,” and just forget about it?


Ofcourse, and it pisses us off as well to no extent. US players do typically subscibe to a revolving party style, but proper etiqutte is to inform the entire party that you want to leave, and upon the approval of the party (that they will be continuing for a while) find a good replacement of the same job role that you are.

2
I heard that on foreign boards there is a list of useful Japanese players that will help people out. Do you really have such a list?

NO.


3
I don’t go out of my way to invite NA players to my party, but NA players often invite Japanese players. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inviting a Japanese player to your party?

None, at this stage in the game, the game mechanics are well understood and the playstyle and ability of a person is detatched from their nationality. I have no discrimination among JP/NA, and will invite the best suited person for the job.


4
Has there been a time when a Japanese player has hurt or insulted you? Also, what are some actions that are normal for us that you find disagreeable? I’m interested to know and would like to hear your thoughts.

I dont care for the indifference the JP groups tend to have toward the US, other than that, most of them I work with have alot of fun. Just dont agree with blind prejudice. I find that alot of JP lump NAs into groups, as if we are all alike. US are very VERY individualistic.


5
Lots of NA players exclusively use Auto-Translate when recruiting for Assault and other activities. Does this mean that you are targeting Japanese players as well? I’m fairly knowledgeable when it comes to Missions and Assault, but I barely know any English, and worry if I should even send a tell.

We use it because it is a lazy way to spell out game related mechanics and communicate a message to anyone that needs to hear. I generally prefer everyone speak the same language in a complex assault or fight, but for 90% of the game it doesnt matter, as most intelligent people are competant enough to understand what you want them to do.

6
I’ve had a foreign player say to me, “I hate Japanese people.” But Final Fantasy is a Japanese game. If you hate us, why play?

There are a wide spectrum of US players, some amazingly well skilled members that make us proud fight next too, and some very young and immature. Most of those that are insulting JPs are also insulting other NAs, mostly because they dont understand why no one wants to party with them.

7
A lot of time has passed since service began in Japan, and you barely see any new subscribers coming in. Are there new NA players still joining?

No.


8
In Japan, players that play long periods of time, have many Lvl 75 jobs, possess tons of high-level equipment, and who are usually filled with prejudice and contempt are called 廃人 <[ ( hai jin ) " High Level person but disable from living real life " ]>. Is there a similar name you use for NA players who are like that?

Virgins.

9
Is there opposition against the practice of RMT or the use of third party tools? What do you do if your friend or Linkshell uses them? How do you feel about RMT業者 (gyou sha) or gil farmers?

Most people are very much against RMT, and it is not openly admitted to w/o alot of painful backlash. It is generally accepted to damage the integrety of the game and cheapin the experience.

10
In Japan, there are some people who are huge subligar fans. Are there any amongst foreign players, or is there another piece of equipment that is especially popular?

Most NA are very proud of their gear, and like to wear the best gear they can as town gear, however a few still enjoy the event gear (xmas hats, halloween, etc). Personal choice, we have our "unique" friends too.

[Ashira]

If you want to answer, I'm putting up a bonus question. It was just posted, and I think it would be interesting to take part in this old Japanese school riddle. The poster put it in Japanese and English himself, so these are his own words:

日本では古くから議論されている問題があります。 
それは「バナナはおやつに入りますか？」です。 
NAではどのように考えますか？ 
以下翻訳ソフトで英文にしてみました。 

There is a problem argued from old days in Japan. 
This problem is not yet settled. 
It is "Is the banana included in a snack?". 
Ex, "The snack expense of the excursion is less than $5" 
Do you think the price of the banana is included in a snack expense or not ?

Here's an explanation of what this means:
In middle school they have school trips, just like most of us do. They are allowed to bring a bento (lunchbox meal) along with them. The bento is made at home and includes a sandwich, fish, rice, veggies... some combination of those things.

Students are also allowed to bring snacks, but there is a limit (usually 300 yen) set on the amount of snacks they can bring, since those are desserts, candies, etc. A banana, being a fruit, remains on the fence between lunch and dessert, and gave rise to this running gag.

It's nothing to think too deeply about, but feel free to give your opinion on the matter.

lol...

Solution: cut the banana into slices and eat it with peanut butter as a sandwich. Now it is lunch!

[Corrderio]

1. Have you ever had someone from your own country do something bad to you? For example, they invite you to replace someone, and when you get there, they just disband. Do you hold a grudge against the person who invited you in that case, or do you think “Oh well,” and just forget about it?

Yes, a lot of HNM linkshells are rivals with each other. However for PT invites I don't mind too much, only time it usually bothers me is when it's the Greater Colibri camp since I just wasted a warp scroll or warp club.

2. I heard that on foreign boards there is a list of useful Japanese players that will help people out. Do you really have such a list?

I think someone tried this before on Allah, however it failed.

3. I don’t go out of my way to invite NA players to my party, but NA players often invite Japanese players. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inviting a Japanese player to your party?

For benefits, I can't really see much other than just inviting another person. However, I'd say the biggest drawback is the language barrier.

4. Has there been a time when a Japanese player has hurt or insulted you? Also, what are some actions that are normal for us that you find disagreeable? I’m interested to know and would like to hear your thoughts.

There may have been one time. However it was a long time ago. Personally, unless it's an emergency. I like at least a 30 min. warning before they disband/break the PT.

5. Lots of NA players exclusively use Auto-Translate when recruiting for Assault and other activities. Does this mean that you are targeting Japanese players as well? I’m fairly knowledgeable when it comes to Missions and Assault, but I barely know any English, and worry if I should even send a tell.

Sometimes I try. For when I want people for the Lamia 13 Assault I usually shout: "{Lamia}No.13 {Assault} {Do you need it?} @ 2/3 {Red Mage} or {Corsair} {Can I have it?} I do however know the auto translate function is also a poor methood of communication. Since when most NAs want a tank. They try {meat} {Shield} for a tank. However with JP players they usually say something to me along the lines of "Corrderio {Shield}"

6. I’ve had a foreign player say to me, “I hate Japanese people.” But Final Fantasy is a Japanese game. If you hate us, why play?

I don't have a grudge against JPs. To me hate the person, not the nation. I do know a lot of JPs do hate NAs and I can't blame them. However I think it's unfair when they think all NAs are selfish, rude, etc.

7. A lot of time has passed since service began in Japan, and you barely see any new subscribers coming in. Are there new NA players still joining?

Well, I have recently leveled my RDM to 37 and I haven't seen a lot of new players comming in. Probably due to World of Warcraft being a more time friendly MMO in the states. Dunno if JPs play it or not.

8. In Japan, players that play long periods of time, have many Lvl 75 jobs, possess tons of high-level equipment, and who are usually filled with prejudice and contempt are called 廃人 <[ ( hai jin ) " High Level person but disable from living real life " ]>. Is there a similar name you use for NA players who are like that?

Yes, there people who put this game at the top of their priority. We have a number of names for them, but we usually just say they're lifeless or have no life.

9. Is there opposition against the practice of RMT or the use of third party tools? What do you do if your friend or Linkshell uses them? How do you feel about RMT業者 (gyou sha) or gil farmers?

Windower is a 3rd party tool that a lot of NA players use, and it does come with certain plugins that can give information to PC users that PS2/360 users can't see. Like monster's HP %, Party member's TP, etc. For the RMT, many NAs look down upon them as well. However there are still people out there who do buy gil.

10. In Japan, there are some people who are huge subligar fans. Are there any amongst foreign players, or is there another piece of equipment that is especially popular?

Well, most people only think Subligars look good on female characters. Not Hume/Elvaan Male or Galkas. It really depends on the player's taste. Some players have "town gear" which they just wear around town to look good in. For me my gear usually consists of my Goldsmith Specs., Goldsmith Apron, and my RSE Legs, Hands, and Feet.

[Eddard]

1
Have you ever had someone from your own country do something bad to you? For example, they invite you to replace someone, and when you get there, they just disband. Do you hold a grudge against the person who invited you in that case, or do you think “Oh well,” and just forget about it?

There is a lot of NA to NA player hatred. When it happens to me, I hold a grudge for a bit and then let it go. I guess I'm either really forgiving or just plain stupid. =/

2
I heard that on foreign boards there is a list of useful Japanese players that will help people out. Do you really have such a list?

Never heard of the existence of this board. But I'm sure there are NA players that will help anyone out, regardless of nationality and vice versa.

3
I don’t go out of my way to invite NA players to my party, but NA players often invite Japanese players. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inviting a Japanese player to your party?

When I build parties, which is almost never, I just invite whoever is seeking if the jobs are right.

4
Has there been a time when a Japanese player has hurt or insulted you? Also, what are some actions that are normal for us that you find disagreeable? I’m interested to know and would like to hear your thoughts.

Only thing that ever really annoyed me is the "JP Only" in search comment. I like diverse parties because sometimes someone will critque(sp?) my play style to help me out.


5
Lots of NA players exclusively use Auto-Translate when recruiting for Assault and other activities. Does this mean that you are targeting Japanese players as well? I’m fairly knowledgeable when it comes to Missions and Assault, but I barely know any English, and worry if I should even send a tell.

I think most people would like to open the door everyone whether they're NA/JP/EU or south of the border.

6
I’ve had a foreign player say to me, “I hate Japanese people.” But Final Fantasy is a Japanese game. If you hate us, why play?

Hate that person, not the country. Personally, I find it rude and malicious when people refer to a japanese player as "JAP". GM Call <You can have this.> I'm sure there are many NA players who share this feeling as well.

7
A lot of time has passed since service began in Japan, and you barely see any new subscribers coming in. Are there new NA players still joining?

From what I witness is there are times when there are many new players to the game, and times when there are almost no one joining. But the chinese RMT make up for that I guess. =/

8
In Japan, players that play long periods of time, have many Lvl 75 jobs, possess tons of high-level equipment, and who are usually filled with prejudice and contempt are called 廃人 <[ ( hai jin ) " High Level person but disable from living real life " ]>. Is there a similar name you use for NA players who are like that?

I dont have a term for them, I'm just glad its not me. lol

9
Is there opposition against the practice of RMT or the use of third party tools? What do you do if your friend or Linkshell uses them? How do you feel about RMT業者 (gyou sha) or gil farmers?

Lots of people hate RMT and the use of 3rd party tools. I also notice that some linkshells go out of their way to remove such a practice. But at the same time, others see it as part of the game and allow it to go on.

10
In Japan, there are some people who are huge subligar fans. Are there any amongst foreign players, or is there another piece of equipment that is especially popular?

I'm not a fan of the bronze subligar, but man.... those subligars from Sacrarium are pretty sweet.

Bonus Question about the Banana
I say let the banana be fruit and not part of the cost! Since it is a healthy snack.


~Eddard~Diabolos~

[siyual]

1
Have you ever had someone from your own country do something bad to you? For example, they invite you to replace someone, and when you get there, they just disband. Do you hold a grudge against the person who invited you in that case, or do you think “Oh well,” and just forget about it?

Many times, there will always be someone regardless of nationality who is rude it seems. This seems to be a good example though, as one party I had in particular did just that, but with a twist. I was the leader of the party, as well as a puppetmaster, and after it was made we went to camp. But before we could pull one monster, the rest of the party disbanded and invited a monk and began killing right next to me.

But even in that extreme case, I try not to hold a grudge against those involved, but it's not something easily forgotten.


2
I heard that on foreign boards there is a list of useful Japanese players that will help people out. Do you really have such a list?

I've never seen an actual list, but some names are well known on servers.

3
I don’t go out of my way to invite NA players to my party, but NA players often invite Japanese players. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inviting a Japanese player to your party?

I personally enjoy having Japanese players in parties, since it helps me better learn the language. But I believe a lot of people still have a mindset of "if the player is Japanese, they're a better player." But there is still a language barrier that Auto-translate doesn't fully break, and some strategies may more difficult to convey. But parties now tend to be straight forward TP burns, where strategy isn't hard to get over the language barrier.

4
Has there been a time when a Japanese player has hurt or insulted you? Also, what are some actions that are normal for us that you find disagreeable? I’m interested to know and would like to hear your thoughts.

There was only one that I could readily recall. I remember once leveling Beastmaster in the Boyahda Tree I was tabbing around checking pets to charm, and a PLD ran by and I checked him by accident. I didn't think much of it, but immediately I was flooded with tells filled with racist remarks, and threatening to call a GM for sexual harassment etc.

I had known what the message displayed, and why it wasn't considered the most "friendly" thing to see. But, even when checking as an accident, I felt they took it entirely way too far, and it hurt a little.

Other things I've noticed quite frequently, is sometimes when a Japanese player invites me to a party in Japanese, and I reply in romanji, they reply back with (Thanks for the offer, but I'll have to pass.) or just never reply.

I can speak a fair bit of Japanese, but it seems if I try to speak in romanji, some players just ignore you.

On the same note, when inviting some Japanese players to party, even if they're seeking, sometimes they don't reply at all. I don't mind if you don't want to party with NA players, but please respond and say you do not wish to. It comes off quite rude when completely ignored.

5
Lots of NA players exclusively use Auto-Translate when recruiting for Assault and other activities. Does this mean that you are targeting Japanese players as well? I’m fairly knowledgeable when it comes to Missions and Assault, but I barely know any English, and worry if I should even send a tell.

Usually people don't mind too much about what language you speak, and are targeting anyone interested in attending. But most NA players use Auto-Translate as a typing aid, so they don't have to type the entire phrase.

But it's interesting that you mention being worried about sending a tell; most of the time it's hard for me to speak to Japanese people because I'm afraid I might say something wrong, or it would be so broken that it wouldn't make sense, or make them not want to reply. Even though I can read with no issue, it's hard to actually start talking.

7
A lot of time has passed since service began in Japan, and you barely see any new subscribers coming in. Are there new NA players still joining?

I've seen some new players recently, but not near as much as there were three years ago.

8
In Japan, players that play long periods of time, have many Lvl 75 jobs, possess tons of high-level equipment, and who are usually filled with prejudice and contempt are called 廃人 <[ ( hai jin ) " High Level person but disable from living real life " ]>. Is there a similar name you use for NA players who are like that?

Heh, probably "no-lifer" fits.

9
Is there opposition against the practice of RMT or the use of third party tools? What do you do if your friend or Linkshell uses them? How do you feel about RMT業者 (gyou sha) or gil farmers?

I severely dislike anyone who uses third-party tools, or is RMT. If my linkshell used them, I left it without question. I've never really had a friend that used any to my knowledge, so I don't know what I'd do in that situation.

But as for gil farmers, I make it a habit to report every last one of them I see.

10
In Japan, there are some people who are huge subligar fans. Are there any amongst foreign players, or is there another piece of equipment that is especially popular?

I still bring my subligar around on my Dancer for show (^_^);

[Lexa]

1
Have you ever had someone from your own country do something bad to you? For example, they invite you to replace someone, and when you get there, they just disband. Do you hold a grudge against the person who invited you in that case, or do you think “Oh well,” and just forget about it?

Absolutely, this happens regardless of nationality. Sometimes I get annoyed and angry, sometimes I shrug it off. It depends a lot on the attitude of the party. If they are apologetic about it, I easily forgive and forget. If they treat me badly or are rude to me, I will get angry.

2
I heard that on foreign boards there is a list of useful Japanese players that will help people out. Do you really have such a list?

Not that I have ever seen or heard of. XD

3
I don’t go out of my way to invite NA players to my party, but NA players often invite Japanese players. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inviting a Japanese player to your party?

I invite whatever players might be needed to fill my party, and to make a good setup. I don't look at language (I don't speak any Japanese, but usually find ways to communicate anyway) as much as I look at search comments. If they say "JP only" I try to respect that, unless they have an extremely needed job, in which case I ask anyway, but try to be as polite about it as possible.

4
Has there been a time when a Japanese player has hurt or insulted you? Also, what are some actions that are normal for us that you find disagreeable? I’m interested to know and would like to hear your thoughts.

Personally, I haven't been offended by any Japanese players, although I don't doubt there are rude Japanese out there, same as there are rude NAs. You don't have any customs that I necessarily disagree with, but some of them are odd to us. The /check thing spawned a lot of discussion, since some people feel that if it's rude to you, you should just put on the filter and forget about it. And some friends of mine commented on how it was strange how you were so polite when joining parties, that our "hey" wasn't adequate enough as a greeting.

5
Lots of NA players exclusively use Auto-Translate when recruiting for Assault and other activities. Does this mean that you are targeting Japanese players as well? I’m fairly knowledgeable when it comes to Missions and Assault, but I barely know any English, and worry if I should even send a tell.

Never be afraid to approach a NA who uses auto-translate. I don't think everyone intends to target Japanese players, but I do. When I ask for help, or shout for whatever, I want it to be available for anyone who might want, regardless of nationality. If I turn anyone down for anything, it'll always be because of job, or having filled the group already. I've had some very pleasant experiences with Japanese players.

6
I’ve had a foreign player say to me, “I hate Japanese people.” But Final Fantasy is a Japanese game. If you hate us, why play?

First off, that's an unbelievably narrowminded generalization. Second, I'm gonna guess it's because FFXI has been translated really well into English. If you're stupid enough to make such a prejudiced statement, youre most certainly stupid enough to not consider FFXI's origins, or the hypocrisy of that statement.

7
A lot of time has passed since service began in Japan, and you barely see any new subscribers coming in. Are there new NA players still joining?

Very few. Most are old players who are coming back to the game/starting over. Most new players I see have been convinced to try the game by friends.

8
In Japan, players that play long periods of time, have many Lvl 75 jobs, possess tons of high-level equipment, and who are usually filled with prejudice and contempt are called 廃人 <[ ( hai jin ) " High Level person but disable from living real life " ]>. Is there a similar name you use for NA players who are like that?

We don't have a specific term for them that I'm aware of. I'd probably call them a loser, though that's certainly not just for describing those kind of players, hahaha!

9
Is there opposition against the practice of RMT or the use of third party tools? What do you do if your friend or Linkshell uses them? How do you feel about RMT業者 (gyou sha) or gil farmers?

Personally, I hate them. I don't like claim bots, fishing bots, or any of those type things. I do use Windower, but I refrain from using some of the more... shady tools. I don't blame people who use them, though. Only people who use claimbots, etc. And gilsellers can all go jump off a cliff! I hate them! I've spent literally months camping NMs that would have been no problem, had it not been for gilsellers. When me and my friends is the only player group at an NM, it should not take us weeks just to even get claim, because there are gilsellers there outclaiming us with their bots and hacks! Thankfully, SE has started to get better about this problem, but it is still a problem.

If someone in my linkshell was using bots, they would get kicked. If I had any authorative power in a linkshell, I would also kick them.
[/quote]

10
In Japan, there are some people who are huge subligar fans. Are there any amongst foreign players, or is there another piece of equipment that is especially popular?

Everybody loves subligar!!!

[Lyramion]

Bonus Question

It depends on your taste:

- If you like a bananas taste it´s a snack
- If you are forces to eat it because of the vitamins by your parents it should be considered lunch by all means

[Novalye]

1
Have you ever had someone from your own country do something bad to you? For example, they invite you to replace someone, and when you get there, they just disband. Do you hold a grudge against the person who invited you in that case, or do you think “Oh well,” and just forget about it?

Yeah, but if they've been the same PT for hours, even though I'll be disappointed they wasted my time running there and taking my flag down, I know that I'll just find another PT, and I'll forget about it.


2
I heard that on foreign boards there is a list of useful Japanese players that will help people out. Do you really have such a list?

I've never seen one.


3
I don’t go out of my way to invite NA players to my party, but NA players often invite Japanese players. What are the benefits and drawbacks of inviting a Japanese player to your party?

People think since JP players have been playing longer, they're more skilled in the game than NA players. The drawbacks are communication, even though we have the auto translate, sometimes it's just not enough.


4
Has there been a time when a Japanese player has hurt or insulted you? Also, what are some actions that are normal for us that you find disagreeable? I’m interested to know and would like to hear your thoughts.

The "JP ONLY" thing is insulting when it's not for any reason other than stereotyping. I have nothing against it if they don't want to try to communicate with someone that speaks nothing of their language, but please try saying it nicely.



5
Lots of NA players exclusively use Auto-Translate when recruiting for Assault and other activities. Does this mean that you are targeting Japanese players as well? I’m fairly knowledgeable when it comes to Missions and Assault, but I barely know any English, and worry if I should even send a tell.

If someone of another language barely knows any English and have never done the mission before, it would be really hard to try to explain the strategy to them. But, if they do know the strategy, they are more than welcome to send a tell in my opinion.



6
I’ve had a foreign player say to me, “I hate Japanese people.” But Final Fantasy is a Japanese game. If you hate us, why play?

They need to learn to live with it. It's not optional whether or not you have Japanese players.


7
A lot of time has passed since service began in Japan, and you barely see any new subscribers coming in. Are there new NA players still joining?

A few people are since XBOX360 release.


8
In Japan, players that play long periods of time, have many Lvl 75 jobs, possess tons of high-level equipment, and who are usually filled with prejudice and contempt are called 廃人 <[ ( hai jin ) " High Level person but disable from living real life " ]>. Is there a similar name you use for NA players who are like that?


Elitest or no lifers.


9
Is there opposition against the practice of RMT or the use of third party tools? What do you do if your friend or Linkshell uses them? How do you feel about RMT業者 (gyou sha) or gil farmers?

Windower is very popular with NA players, even though it's third party. Many don't like RMT and still MPK them, too.


10
In Japan, there are some people who are huge subligar fans. Are there any amongst foreign players, or is there another piece of equipment that is especially popular?

Subligars and beastmen hats at the same time. >___>;

[Xali]

日本では古くから議論されている問題があります。 
それは「バナナはおやつに入りますか？」です。 
NAではどのように考えますか？ 
以下翻訳ソフトで英文にしてみました。 

There is a problem argued from old days in Japan. 
This problem is not yet settled. 
It is "Is the banana included in a snack?". 
Ex, "The snack expense of the excursion is less than $5" 
Do you think the price of the banana is included in a snack expense or not ?

It is a snack. Bananas are too delicious to be considered part of an ordinary meal.

[Vodou]

[QUOTE=Elmer the Pointy;2197291]
---

1

I've had that happen to me. I find it insulting and annoying. Although I will forget the name of the person, I don't forget the rudeness.


3

I was raised to try new things and to meet new people. I learned that different is usually more interesting and enables me to grow. While I don't look for JP parties or players, I am always excited to play with Jp players to learn what they know.


4

Actually no. Although people have told me things, in my experience that has never happened.


5

I use auto translate so anyone who is interested can join. I find that assaults and missions are particularly wise to do so since sometimes the strategy that Jp players have is much better than what I have found on English forums.

6

I grew up taking Judo for 8 years and my sensei the entire time was Japanese. Needless to say, I am still grateful to have been his student.


9

I strongly dislike RMT and those who use tools to cheat. I am disappointed that we have people in the game who think there is an excuse to do this. While its frustrating to lose claims to people like this, I have never and will never accept that as an acceptable way to play.

[Stubwub]

Well if you're a mithra.. I would count it as a snack. Since they seem to enjoy them so much in FFXI (Pamamas can be bananas!)

Oh wait, in real life? It's obviously a snack, since it's sweet and isn't filling like most lunch items would be.