Antonov wrote:
So I recently upgraded to Windows 7 x64 (totally clean install, since it was a new machine) and as such am now trying to install FFXI.
Trying being the operative word.
Following the instructions on the PlayOnline website, I downloaded and installed the Vista / 7 POL client without any fuss, but the copy of FFXI that I have (original EU release) throws a hissy-fit and totally refuses to install because it can't find POL.
So I run the old POL viewer and install FFXI that way, then reinstall the W7 POL. Then install the expansions, no worries. Then when I hit play and brace for a million hours of patching, it proclaims that FFXI isn't installed.
What am I doing wrong?
I wrote a simple guide here:
http://syndicatedlife.com/how-to-install-final-fantasy-xi-on-windows-7/ The first thing aside from an active account that you will need is the PlayOnline viewer from Square Enix that is compatible with Windows 7 (32/64). You can download that from here. After you install POL (PlayOnline) open the program and do all updates required to this point.
After POL is updated insert your Final Fantasy XI install dvd. You will probably get an error when inserted because the auto-run takes a nose dive. That's OK! Open up Windows Explorer and navigate to your DVD drive. You should see folders named "INST#". The # ranges from 1 to 4 depending on your DVD.
Starting with INST1, go into each one and install the setups in there. Once complete you now have FFXI installed. We still need to update it however (I recommend a brand new install so the DLL's get registered properly.) On a side not, if you have a backup of all your ROM folders, then after updating/installing FFXI you can move/copy your old ROM folders over top of the new ones, this will restore any DAT customizations you did.
I also have designed my own GUI for Final Fantasy XI based of Brandson's work. Emiko has taken over his project and can be found here. I'll add this to my files link in the next few days as well :)
Once your FFXI is installed it actual "just works" right out of the box. Now if your the user who likes his Windower I'll be adding a Windower setup/usage guide very soon :)