Abyssea and how it has affected Final Fantasy XI...

What is Abyssea?:
Abyssea is a series of three new "scenario" expansions for Final Fantasy XI. Along with adding a few new quests and areas, they also include an increase to the level cap, new skills, abilities, equipment, and more. Each scenario retails for $10.

How has Abyssea affected Final Fantasy XI?:
Not entirely sure just yet, but we do know that it has made leveling from level 30 on pretty much piss-easy and quick as hell if you know what you're doing. Some think to a game-breaking extent, some think otherwise. Regardless, it doesn't seem like it will affect us leveling at the beginning.

Do I need to buy the Abyssea expansions?:
At the moment, no. We are unsure when the time will come that we will have to buy them, if ever. One thing is certain though; End-game content is practically dead without Abyssea.

In short, just ignore it for now.

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If you have any more information about Abyssea worth mentioning, please post it here.
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While these links may not be relevant without having played any of Abyssea yourself, here's a guide to Abyssea leveling, as well as an FAQ about Abyssea.

Asked my friend about Abyssea and the speed-leveling shit. This is what she had to say...

Quote :

This is how it goes:
The mobs ALWAYS give EXP no matter the level difference.
You start off with like, 20 EXP per kill.
After a loooong while, you slowly build up this light/aura and you get like 300 EXP per kill.
The max is 600.
You have a time limit to be in Abyssea which you get by trading in Stones.
3 stones max (unless you do something special to get 4 at a time).
For a max of 90 minutes.
during the time you kill shit, you build different colored aura,
Some that will increase chest drops that give you more time and EXP..
So you can literally open EXP chests that give 500-1k+ exp.
The longer you're IN Abyssea, the better the rewards.
So to get the best experience there, you gotta be there for at lease 2 hours with people who know their shit.
So it's hard, but possible.
Also not preferred.
Regular partying is suggested 'til like 60-70.