I've never played FFXI, and despite reading about it online, I'm not really sure what the story is even about.

This game's been out for a long time, and has a devoted fanbase--a lot of them having played as long as the game's been out.

If I were to buy this game, would I be able to fit in? Would I understand what's going on and pick up the gameplay? Would you recommend this to someone new, or say skip it?