INTRODUCTION
With the recent surge in popularity of online role-playing games, there’s one that is prominently standing out from the rest – Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV). This guide will handhold your journey into Eorzea with ease, so don’t sweat over being new or needing a refresher after a long hiatus. FFXIV is an exciting and immersive game that promises endless adventure and camaraderie, set within an enthralling universe with rich lore.
WHAT IS FINAL FANTASY XIV?
Final Fantasy XIV is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Square Enix. As the fourteenth entry in the beloved Final Fantasy series, FFXIV offers players a uniquely rich gameplay experience, complete with grand quests, epic battles, and a diverse range of characters. The game takes place in the fantasy realm of Eorzea where players can explore, quest, and even live out alternate lives. Just like other RPGs, you’ll level up characters, acquire new gear and abilities, and take on bigger, more challenging quests as you progress.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO START
After downloading and starting FFXIV, the first step you take will be to select a server. This will be the server where your character lives and interacts with others. It’s important to understand the culture of each server differs, so I’d advise researching beforehand on which one may suit your play style best.
Next up is character creation – it’s your chance to be whoever you want in Eorzea. You can choose your race (each with its unique abilities and traits), class or job (role in the game like healer or damage dealer), and appearance. After making your avatar, you’re ready to plunge into the vast expanse of Eorzea.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play FFXIV, the basic requirement is to own the game itself, obtainable through Square Enix’s online store. You also need a decent computer or gaming console with a stable and good internet connection. The standard game comes with a 30 days free trial, but after that, it operates on a subscription model.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Learn the basic movement and combat commands quickly – they will become second nature with practice.
2. Don’t rush through the main storyline; take the time to explore and immerse yourself in the game’s world.
3. Experiment with different classes/jobs early on to find one that resonally with your playstyle.
4. Remember to upgrade your gear regularly as you level up.
5. Make friends along the way and join a Free Company – FFXIV’s version of guilds.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Naturally, official sources like The Lodestone (FFXIV’s official blog) and the official Square Enix Forums are great places to start. For comprehensive guides and walkthroughs, you can’t go wrong with the FFXIV subreddit and FFXIV Guild. Youtube is also an invaluable resource, as numerous FFXIV players offer tutorials, guides, and playthroughs on their channels.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. GCD (Global Cool Down): General cool down period for most abilities.
2. AoE (Area of Effect): Spells that affect multiple targets within a specific location.
3. DoT (Damage over Time): Spells or abilities that cause an opponent to slowly lose health over a tagged amount of time.
4. Mobs: Non-player-controlled characters or monsters.
5. DPS (Damage Per Second): Refers to classes or jobs that emphasize on dealing damage.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
The first and most crucial step now is to decide on a character and class that you’d like to play. Spend time understanding the unique abilities and traits they offer. Also, try to hang out with other players and make friends.
It can be intimidating as a new player, but remember – every master was once a beginner. Eventually, you will find your rhythm, learn the nuances and the journey only gets more rewarding from there! Welcome aboard, future Warrior of Light!
