According to a release schedule published in Japanese publication The PlayStation, Square Enix will release an expansion to its multiplatform MMORPG titled Final Fantasy XI: The Chains of Promathia in Japan this fall. The second expansion to last year's Rise of Zilart expansion (which was packaged with the English versions of the game) will boast many new features, beginning with the addition of over 40 new areas, including the Goblin city Moblupolis and the Tabnesia Archipelago, a group of ancient ruins spread across a cluster of islands.

While Chains of Promathia won't raise the level cap, or include any new classes or job skills, it will add new items, some to aid players in traversing the new locations (such as a raft for getting across water).

Thus far, Square Enix USA has yet to comment on a US release of the expansion, but due to the simultaneous releases of updates and patches to the existing game, it's entirely possible it will release in North America alongside, or soon after it does in Japan. Look for word on this at E3.

• Quiter
• 1UP

• Chains of Promathia Screen Shots