I'd generally be cautious about signing up to an MMO under any circumstances, especially one that might be nearing the end of its commerical life-span. But based on Ouch!'s description, FFXI sounds like one I'd genuinely enjoy - but as a stand-alone, offline game with no other actual humans involved. I've yet to have an online gaming experience in any genre which has been fulfilling and rewarding in the long run, unfortunately.