INTRODUCTION
Do you fancy taking a journey into a realm of magic, heroics, and in-depth storytelling? Welcome to the world of Final Fantasy XIV, a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that transports players into a realm of endless adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or someone entirely new to this genre, this beginner-friendly guide has you covered. Get ready to embark on a journey loaded with rich lore, expansive worlds, and fantastic experiences.
WHAT IS FINAL Fantasy XIV?
Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) is the 14th installment in the long-running Final Fantasy series. Released by Square Enix in 2010, FFXIV takes place in the world of Hydaelyn where players create their characters and start their adventure to thwart the potential apocalypse coming their way. FFXIV is comparable to other MMORPGs such as World of Warcraft and Elder Scrolls Online in its gameplay, but stands out with its intricate storytelling and immersive world-building. The choice of races, classes, and jobs for your character further adds to the uniqueness of each player’s journey.
HOW Final Fantasy XIV WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
Starting your adventure in FFXIV consists of a few initial steps.
1. First, you would need to create your Square Enix account and download the client application.
2. You then choose the region and server you wish to play in. Each server is part of a larger collection of servers known as a Data Center.
3. After choosing the server, the fun part begins – character creation. You can choose your race, sex, appearance, and starting class.
4. Once your character is created, it’s time to jump into the game. The new player experience in FFXIV is especially well-crafted, walking you through gameplay mechanics gradually, with the main story quest (MSQ) serving as your primary guide.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY (SUPPLIES, GEAR, SETUP)
To play FFXIV, you’ll need a PC, a PS4, or a PS5, each with specific system requirements. A reliable internet connection is paramount as the game is entirely online. A keyboard and mouse are sufficient for PC players, though some prefer using a controller. Console players, naturally, will need a PS4/PS5 controller. The game itself can be downloaded from the official FFXIV site.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
Here are some nuggets of wisdom for newcomers:
1. Follow the Main Story Quest: This not only guides you through the game’s rich storyline but also unlocks game features and areas.
2. Experiment with classes: In FFXIV, one character can be all classes. You can switch simply by changing your equipped weapon or tool.
3. Communicate: Don’t be afraid to ask for help in chat. The FFXIV community is known to be welcoming and helpful.
4. Don’t rush: Take your time to explore, understand the game mechanics, and immerse yourself in the story.
5. Use the teleport system: This will save you considerable travel time.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
To expand your FFXIV education, use resources like the official FFXIV subreddit or the official FFXIV forums. The Lodestone, FFXIV’s official community center, is also a great place to engage with the community. YouTube channels like Work To Game are a fantastic resource for guide videos on every aspect of the game.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. MMORPG: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game
2. MSQ: Main Story Quest
3. DPS: Damage per Second, common to refer to classes primarily dealing damage.
4. AOEs: Areas of Effect, typically referring to attacks that hit multiple foes within a specified area.
5. Aggro: Short for “aggression”, used to describe the focus of enemy attacks.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
After getting acquainted with the basics, the world of FFXIV is your oyster. As you progress through the main story, join a Free Company (a form of in-game guild). Try different classes and find one that resonates with your preferred style of play. Most importantly remember to enjoy the ride that is Final Fantasy XIV, a testament to collaborative storytelling in an enchanting, virtual world.
Final Fantasy XIV’s journey is akin to crafting a beautiful tapestry, full of humbling beginnings, grand adventures, and lifelong friendships. Welcome to Eorzea, Warrior of Light. So are you ready to save the world?
