Final Fantasy XI ninth birthday celebration plans laid

Final Fantasy XI is about to turn nine years old, and as is traditional, will celebrate by giving back to the community.

According to the game's website, The first special event of the "Vana'versary" is a fan art competition, an annual tradition kicking off this week and running through May 16.

The Mog Bonanza will also reappear, an event which sees players purchasing marbles which act like lottery tickets on some sweet in-game gear.

Another regular yearly feature also makes a return - the Vana'diel Census. Results will be posted in mid-June, giving players a rare opportunity to learn statistics normally known only to server admins.

For two weeks beginning May 16, Square Enix will run an Adventurer Appreciation campaign to thank players for their faithful support. A new costume item reward has been teased.

Thanks, Massively.