Getting Started

You can be playing in about 30 minutes

New Server Connection

Scythe's public login address is now ffxiscythe.duckdns.org. If you already use Ashita directly, create a separate xiloader boot profile with --server ffxiscythe.duckdns.org and launch that profile from Ashita. Standard ports are automatic.

Launcher update pending. The 3.0.39 download below is the previous release and still uses the old server. Editing its managed profile will not work with Play Scythe. Use the separate Ashita profile above until the revised launcher is available. If you do not already have Ashita configured, wait for the revised launcher before continuing with launcher setup.

1

Install Final Fantasy XI

Start with an installed FFXI client. The launcher updates the selected FFXI folder to Scythe's signed, pinned client version and may downgrade newer retail files. If you also play retail, use a dedicated copy for Scythe. Keep PlayOnline Viewer and Common Files installed; a retail subscription is not required.

Official FFXI Client Installer

Do not install replacement DAT files yourself. The launcher verifies and repairs the managed client from Scythe's signed release.

2

Scythe Launcher (Update Pending)

Scythe Launcher 3.0.39 matches your selected FFXI folder to Scythe's signed, pinned client release, downloads only files that differ, verifies the completed managed client, and installs its own Ashita 4 and xiloader runtime. This release predates the server move; see the connection notice above before playing.

Previous Launcher 3.0.39

SHA-256: 5080AC2A214754AF82A44726F1A9902CC1C712F9539D584682D2994DB72234D0

Windows needs .NET Framework 4.8 or later and the Microsoft Visual C++ 2015–2022 Redistributable (x86). The launcher checks both and offers an official download when one is missing.

  1. Close FFXI, PlayOnline Viewer, Ashita, Windower, and xiloader.
  2. Download the launcher and verify the SHA-256 checksum above.
  3. Run it. If FFXI is not detected, choose Choose FFXI Folder and select the folder Scythe may update.
  4. Choose Check VPS Release, then Match Client to Scythe. Keep the launcher open until full verification completes.
  5. For the new server, use the separate Ashita profile above. The launcher's Play Scythe button needs the pending launcher update.

This release is not Authenticode-signed, so Windows may show Unknown publisher. Verify the checksum above before running it. Do not disable antivirus or add folder exclusions.

3

Create an Account

In the xiloader console, choose Create Account and enter the username and password you want to use. After confirmation, choose Login with those credentials.

You may use up to two accounts per player for dual-boxing, with both online simultaneously. Keep your credentials safe — lost passwords cannot be recovered automatically.

If anyone else has seen your password, change it first. Choose Change Password in xiloader and set a new, unique password before signing in to the website. Enter it only in xiloader or the secure Scythe login page; staff will never ask for it in Discord or chat.

4

Create a Character and Play

After logging in through xiloader, create a character and pick a starting nation. Your character automatically receives every map and a server linkpearl on first login.

Your first move in-game: type !buff to turn on the levelling buff (scaling Regen/Refresh/Regain + 200% EXP), then !cc to warp to Chocobo Circuit — the custom hub zone with the auction house, crafting guild vendors, crystal moogle, Advanced Support NPC, and mission-item shop.

What's next?

Once you're logged in, the Guides page has a step-by-step "Your First Hour" walkthrough plus four recommended progression paths (new player, returning vet, solo, endgame hunter). If you get stuck at any step, ask in Discord — there's always someone around.

Open Guides Join Discord