From the FINAL FANTASY XI Development Team
The Walk of Echoes Beckons! (06/15/2010)

The upcoming version update will see a section of the long-awaited Walk of Echoes area opened for access. There, adventurers will find thrilling new battlefields tailored to pose a challenge to seasoned veterans.

The Walk of Echoes

At the behest of a certain moogle of dubious origin and purpose, brave and trusting adventurers shall step forth into a realm forgotten by time. Upon arrival, they will encounter gateways to myriad battlefields wherein fearsome adversaries lie in wait. Conquer each battlefield in succession, and the opportunity to square off against mightier foes and reap richer rewards shall be granted to you.

The Rules of Engagement

To facilitate ease of access, the development team has omitted from the Walk of Echoes the need to lay claim to battlefields. Even if a battle has already been joined, it is possible for other adventurers to step in midway and lend their sword arms to the struggle, so long as the participant limit permits. Moreover, in the same vein as battles waged in Besieged and Campaign, enemies are not claimed when engaged by individual combatants. Battlefield participants are encouraged to use this freedom to their strategic advantage in the effort to dispatch the enemy hordes.

Copious Rewards

Materials used in the synthesis of all-new equipment level 76 and beyond form but a small part of the veritable treasure trove of items that awaits dauntless adventurers. Furthermore, ample opportunities to obtain a share of the spoils have been made available as follows:
- All battlefield participants may cast lots upon items dropped by monsters.
- Vanquishing all foes within the allotted time will produce a treasure chest, and only those participants whose contribution to the battle was deemed satisfactory will be granted the right to cast lots upon the contents.
- Highly evaluated combatants will be further rewarded with bounty befitting their standing.

*To enjoy the battle content offered in the Walk of Echoes, players must be level 70 or above and have progressed to the "Cait Sith" mission of the Wings of the Goddess expansion.