INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the fantastical world of Final Fantasy XIV, a massively popular phenomenon that continues to take the virtual world by storm. Whether you’ve heard about it from friends or have simply been searching for a new, exciting game to delve into, Final Fantasy XIV promises a breathtaking journey of adventure, magic, and camaraderie that transcends the boundaries of your typical fantasy role-playing game. This comprehensive, beginner-friendly guide will help you get started on your journey and equip you with the knowledge you need to get the most out of your Final Fantasy XIV journey.
WHAT IS FINAL FANTASY XIV?
Final Fantasy XIV, often abbreviated as FFXIV, is an online multiplayer role-playing game (MMORPG) brought to us by Square Enix, the developers of iconic gaming series like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest. Set in the fictional land of Eorzea, it provides adventurous souls with a vast, breathtaking world to explore.
But FFXIV is not your basic MMORPG. Standout features such as intricately-structured narratives, richly-textured visuals, and a strong online community distinguish FFXIV from its competitors and make for an immersive, addictive gaming experience.
As a player, you’ll be tasked with creating a character, choosing your race, gender, and initial class. From warrior to mage to everything in between, the opportunities are boundless, with each class boasting unique abilities and traits, and allowing you to fight monstrous beasts, explore vast landscapes, and even socialize with other players.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO START
Getting started with Final Fantasy XIV is eternally simple. First, purchase and install the game to your PC, then create an account on the Square Enix website. You’ll then be led through a character creation process, where you choose everything from your character’s appearance to their race and job.
One thing that sets FFXIV apart is the job system — which allows your character to shift between different roles, from Black Mage to Bard, or even switch to crafting or gathering careers such as a Blacksmith or Fisher. At level 30, you have the possibility to upgrade your initial class to a more specialized job, expanding the scope of your abilities.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY (SUPPLIES, GEAR, SETUP)
All you really need to start your adventure in Eorzea is a decent Windows PC or a PlayStation 4, and a stable internet connection. You’ll also need a licenced copy of the game downloadable from the Square Enix website or other authorized retailers. You might want to invest in a quality headset for communication and a comfortable gaming chair for those long FFXIV sessions.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. START SOLO: It might be tempting to join your high-level friends straight away, but Final Fantasy XIV is best appreciated when experienced at your own pace.
2. TRY EVERYTHING: The game allows you to switch roles easily, so explore different jobs to find your perfect fit.
3. ENGAGE WITH THE COMMUNITY: The FFXIV community is known for being helpful and friendly, so don’t hesitate to reach out to other players for advice or help.
4. DO NOT RUSH: The game is about enjoying the journey, not rushing to the end. Take your time to appreciate the beautiful scenery, complex storyline, and unique mechanics.
5. FOLLOW THE MAIN STORY: The Main Scenario Quest (MSQ) not only offers high experience rewards but is also necessary for unlocking many features of the game.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
The FFXIV subreddit and official forums are great resources for advice, guidance, and discussions about the game. YouTube channels such as “Zepla HQ” and “Work To Game” offer a wealth of guides and tutorials to help beginners find their footing. “The Lodestone” is the official Final Fantasy XIV site and is bursting with news, patch notes, and updates.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. GIL: This is the in-game currency used to buy items, equipment, and services.
2. MSQ: Main Scenario Quests – these quests form the central storyline of the game.
3. DPS: Damage Per Second – this term refers to the amount of damage a character can deal in one second.
4. AGGRO: Short for ‘Aggression’ – it determines which player enemies will attack.
5. FC: Free Company – FFXIV’s version of guilds, these are player-formed groups that can own housing, participate in events, and more.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you’ve gained a basic understanding of Final Fantasy XIV, it’s time to take the leap and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Eorzea. Start by downloading a free trial of the game – lasting until level 60 and including the award-winning expansion Heavensward. This will not only help you ascertain whether the game is a good fit, but also familiarize you with the controls and game mechanics. Remember, every master was once a beginner, and with time, you’ll be commanding the might of your character like a seasoned pro. Good luck, and happy gaming!
