Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn launched last month and despite some minor MMO teething problems, the game has been a huge success thus far. Square Enix now hold the world record for the most concurrent connections following over 325,000 players simultaneously logging in to explore the fantastic world of Eorzea. As a seasoned MMO gamer I thought it was best to hold on my purchase but now SE have solved the majority of problems, I decided to pick up a PlayStation 3 copy of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn.

I’m a firm believer that the MMO experience on PC is usually far superior to that of its console counterparts. There are certain aspects that mean consoles are always lacking, such as the ability to communicate quickly, and the appearance of the game due to graphical restrictions. I don’t consider graphics to be the most vital aspect of enjoying a game so my decision to purchase a PlayStation 3 copy was as much curiosity as it is anything else.

I was expecting a game that was filled with poor controls, terrible UI, difficult-to-master combat and the typical issues that hinder today’s MMO games. However, after a few hours exploring Eorzea with my mean looking Marauder, I’m delighted to say I was very wrong.

Square Enix have done a great job at bringing an intuitive control system to the PlayStation 3 and other than small targeting issues (that can be fixed with Macros), I was familiar with all of the controls and the UI within an hours worth of playtime. So after the developers had squashed any concerns I had regarding a console MMO, I was left with the benefits of it.

Working as a journalist I have quite a cool setup at home. I have my own personal office, a custom built desk, more monitors that I care to count, and an expensive PC chair. I’m always comfortable when gaming or working but there’s something a little special about sitting on my couch while exploring an MMO world.

Sitting less than 10ft away from a 50inch TV screen with plenty of leg room, areas for pizza and energy drinks, it was perfect. I was able to explore Eorzea in pure comfort while not alienating myself from the rest of the people at home, as I would if I was sitting in my office. This actually led to quite a lot of conversation regarding the game and even 3 of my friends buying it.

This generation of consoles hasn’t really invested all that much into the MMO world and the choices are few and far between. However, with the experience offered by Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, it’s very clear to me that the next-generation of consoles really can push the limits of MMO gaming.

What are your thoughts? Are you a creature of habit or would you be willing to purchase that next highly anticipated MMO on consoles? Leave your thoughts below.