When Final Fantasy XIII released in Japan, it came with a registration code for a chance to enter the Final Fantasy XIV beta on PlayStation 3. No one knew if North America and Europe would be receiving the same treatment… until today. People who purchase only the PlayStation 3 version of Final Fantasy XIII and register the Square-Enix Member’s code inside will be awarded a Final Fantasy XIV Promotional Code. The code offers fans two things: a secret in-game item for FFXIV, and a chance to be accepted into the PlayStation 3 beta test for the game. Oddly, Square-Enix never mentioned this at all before release. Surprise?

Full details below:

If you forget your FINAL FANTASY XIV promotional code, you may review it by logging into SQUARE ENIX MEMBERS and visiting the FINAL FANTASY XIII Feature Page.

*PLEASE NOTE
– The FINAL FANTASY XIV promotional code is available in limited quantities. The code is obtainable by registering a serial code printed on a special MEMBERS Point Card included in the first production run of FINAL FANTASY XIII for PlayStation 3.
– The FINAL FANTASY XIV promotional code enables you to apply for, but does not guarantee participation in, beta testing for FINAL FANTASY XIV. Those selected to participate in the beta test will be notified at a later date.
– The FINAL FANTASY XIV promotional code is required only for the PlayStation 3 beta testing application. The code is not required for the beta testing application for the Windows® version of FINAL FANTASY XIV.
– Submission of the FINAL FANTASY XIV beta testing application is limited to one per Square Enix ID, either for Windows or PlayStation 3.
– Beta testing of the PlayStation 3 version of FINAL FANTASY XIV will begin after the start of the Windows version’s beta testing. The schedule will be announced at a later date.
– The FINAL FANTASY XIV promotional code can be used for FINAL FANTASY XIV beta testing entry starting March 9, 2010. The FINAL FANTASY XIV in-game item can be received after the official start of the FINAL FANTASY XIV service by entering this promotional code.
– Each FINAL FANTASY XIV promotional code may only be used once for each program described in this document.

The Xbox 360 version does not come with the FFXIV promotional code, but instead, codes for the PSICOM avatar items… presumably the same ones that come with the Xbox 360 bundle pack.

Hopefully this means a solid date for both the PC and PlayStation 3 beta phases of Final Fantasy XIV will be revealed soon.