Final Fantasy XIV
News, coverage and analysis tracking Final Fantasy XIV across the outlets.
Latest coverage
World of Warcraft: Forever is "simplifying" Blizzard's usual PvP but also adding a controversial weekly grind as MMO fans beg "please don't do the weeklies thing"
World of Warcraft: Forever is introducing a simplified Player versus Player system that aims to be approachable but includes a controversial weekly grind. Players have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the mandatory weekly tasks, preferring a simpler Honor and Rank Point acquisition model without time-gated progression.
Arc Raiders lead says it's good to "take a break and play some other games" if you're out of…
Embark Studios executive producer Aleksander Grøndal suggests players take breaks from live service games like Arc Raiders, advocating for a healthier relationship with the genre. He believes this approach benefits both players and the industry, allowing players to enjoy other titles and return to Arc Raiders for substantial content updates like the upcoming Frozen Trail.
Critical Role's latest D&D episode was so stressful, I discovered a new noise my mouth can make
The author describes the intense stress and emotional reactions experienced during a recent Critical Role Dungeons & Dragons episode, particularly focusing on a critical moment involving player Sam Riegel and his character's near-death experience. The article highlights the dramatic tension and narrative stakes of the actual play series, deeming it highly engaging.
Vitae Aeternum: History will remember New World falsely
This opinion piece argues that the MMORPG New World is misunderstood and will be remembered unfairly due to its rocky launch and initial reputation. The author contends that despite significant developer efforts to improve PvE content and overhaul the game, public perception remains stuck on its early flaws, unlike the more forgiving reception of Final Fantasy XIV's relaunch.
Wisdom of Nym: Speculating about our traveling companions in Final Fantasy XIV: Evercold
This article speculates on the companion characters for Final Fantasy XIV: Evercold, suggesting a departure from previous expansions where the Scions were a constant presence. The author posits that the new expansion will feature a more fragmented approach to companions, potentially with fewer Scions joining the Warrior of Light on their journey.
MMO Week in Review: Welcome back to Atreia
This week's MMO news roundup covers the official launch of Aion 2 in the West, the early access release of Monsters & Memories, and upcoming expansions for EverQuest and EverQuest II. Lord of the Rings Online's Wolves of Mordor expansion is set for an October 21st release, while World of Warcraft Forever teases new classes. The article also touches on layoffs at Elder Scrolls Online developer ZeniMax and discusses the current state of the MMORPG genre.
What does your dream videogame concert look like?
The author discusses the rise of video game concerts and shares their ideal dream concert lineup, featuring music from various Final Fantasy titles, Kingdom Hearts, Kameo: Elements of Power, and Tekken remixes. They express a desire for more live orchestral performances of game soundtracks.
One Shots: Posing against a flower explosion
This week's One Shots feature showcases community screenshots from various MMOs, including Sword of Justice, Final Fantasy XIV's Aloalo Island, and Guild Wars 2's Janthir Wilds and underground zones. Players are encouraged to submit their own high-resolution screenshots for a chance to be featured.
Has your life ever been changed by someone you met in an MMO?
This article explores the profound impact of friendships formed within Massively Multiplayer Online games, highlighting how these digital connections can significantly alter players' lives. It uses personal anecdotes and the story of Mats Steen from World of Warcraft to illustrate the deep bonds and support systems that can develop through shared online experiences.
A surprisingly in-depth dressmaking simulator has the cosy gamers in a chokehold
The dressmaking simulator 'Dressmaker' has become a popular cosy game, praised for its in-depth garment creation mechanics. Players are sharing impressive designs inspired by various media, including Genshin Impact and Final Fantasy 14, showcasing the game's creative potential.
The WoW: Forever beta's nerf to dungeon XP isn't nearly as bad as it seems
Blizzard Entertainment has reduced the experience points granted from dungeon quests in the World of Warcraft beta, but the change is not as severe as initially perceived. The reduction applies only to the bonus experience, meaning dungeon quests remain a viable way to level, and the developers have time to adjust the system before the final release.
Final Fantasy XIV brings back the Fall Guys collaboration on October 7
The collaboration event between Final Fantasy XIV and Fall Guys will return starting October 7th and run until October 27th. This event allows players to participate in the Fall Guys minigame within Final Fantasy XIV's Gold Saucer. No new rewards are being added for this iteration of the event.
Have you heard of the critically acclaimed MMORPG… oh, Final Fantasy 11, that's new
Square Enix has expanded the free trial for Final Fantasy XI, removing the 14-day time limit and increasing the character level cap to 75. This move follows similar generosity with Final Fantasy XIV's free trial, which extends to the Shadowbringers expansion. The developer is making significant efforts to keep its older MMORPGs active and appealing.
Final Fantasy 11 finally follows in Final Fantasy 14's free trial footsteps, offering new players a chance to try the critically acclaimed MMORPG with no restrictions on playtime
Final Fantasy 11 has expanded its free trial, removing the previous two-week time limit and increasing the level cap to 75. This move aims to attract new players to the critically acclaimed MMORPG, similar to the successful free trial offered for Final Fantasy 14. While some social features and trading are restricted, the trial now offers a more substantial experience for prospective players.
One of my all-time favorite games just announced an expansion, yet all I feel is fear
Developer Coffee Stain Studios announced the first paid DLC for Satisfactory, titled 'Core Values,' which will introduce new underground building mechanics, resources, and fauna. Despite the game's appeal and the author's significant playtime, the announcement evokes fear of re-engaging with the highly addictive construction sim.
Stop trying to make a console war out of which WoW is better, you're all exhausting
This article argues against the divisive discourse surrounding different versions of World of Warcraft, including Classic, Retail, and the new Forever beta. The author finds the passionate arguments about which version is superior to be exhausting and unhealthy, suggesting that players should appreciate the variety offered by each iteration rather than engaging in a 'console war' mentality.
Sony is introducing an anti-scalping lottery system for PS5 Pros in Japan as supply shortages persist
Sony is implementing a lottery system on its Japanese online store to combat scalping and persistent supply shortages for the PlayStation 5. Applicants need a registered Japanese Sony account with over 60 hours of playtime in the last two years. Winners will be notified on October 26th and must purchase the console within a week.
Wisdom of Nym: What went right and wrong with Final Fantasy XIV’s Crucible of the Unbroken
This analysis examines the Beastmaster limited job and its associated content, the Crucible of the Unbroken, in Final Fantasy XIV. While the content offers variety and makes players consider creature choices, it suffers from a lack of functional mechanics and an overly repetitive grind, leading to a less engaging experience than intended.
I'm sure whoever chose to charge for WoW: Forever beta access is feeling very chuffed, given Blizzard's had to…
Blizzard Entertainment has successfully sold beta access for World of Warcraft: Forever, a reinvented version of Classic, for $60, despite the game being part of the standard subscription and progress being wiped. The high demand has forced population cap increases twice, indicating a profitable early access model for the company. The author finds the game enjoyable with its quality-of-life improvements and new quests.
MMO Week in Review: Destiny 2’s revival, Aion 2’s stress test
This week's MMO news covers Destiny 2's revival with unvaulted content, Aion 2's stress test, and Ultima Online's 29th anniversary. Dune Awakening launched on consoles, Elder Scrolls Online discussed experimental features, and Microsoft continued layoffs. World of Warcraft Forever is impressing players, while other news includes The Division 2, Marathon, Warframe, and various other MMO updates and discussions.
