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Is Final Fantasy XIV accessible to new players? Is there too much content to start FFXIV now? It's 2021 and YouTube user, Merchant, takes a look at Final Fantasy XIV as a new player in 2021.
Final Fantasy XIV is an MMORPG that launched in 2010 and had been in development since 2005. While the game was panned upon launch, it was also praised for its graphics and music. Since then, FFXIV has gone on to become critically-acclaimed through subsequent patches and expansions.
According to Merchant, FFXIV is not an instant gratification MMO or a PVP-centric MMORPG, and it is not an end game, only MMO. He believes it is a beautiful game where environments are crafted with care. Character models and armor are well above their competitors. Above all else, FFXIV is a story-driven MMORPG. The game is true to the Final Fantasy series' origins in that it plays best when players approach it as an RPG.
One of Merchant's favorite parts of the game has been its inclusion of other FF series titles, for example, seeing a PC wearing Yuna's Summoner outfit from FFX. Fans of previous entries in the series will appreciate all of the nods and references.
Each class in FFXIV is defined by the weapon they use and can easily be switched after initially gaining it by changing your weapon. According to him, this ease of swapping classes is one of the best features of the game. While the game makes use of the classic triangle of damage dealers, healers, and tanks, the individual classes are well-varied, with unique designs. Some of the class evolutions can be a little confusing, and he'd like to see these evolutions made a little bit clearer to players.
The soundtrack to the game, according to Merchant. It's one of the best he's ever heard in any game. Visual effects can be a little overwhelming if you aren't used to JRPGs but can be toned down in the options.
Above all else, the community for FFXIV has been very welcoming to Merchant. The biggest appeal to new players would be the community's willingness to help new players ramp up their knowledge and skills.
While FFXIV requires patience from new players, there is a payoff for goal-oriented players who keep at it and aren't there for PvP. The class system is well-varied. Players who are able to coordinate will do well, and they'll find themselves well-challenged by enemies. They can also expect a community of welcoming veterans who understand that being a new player in Final Fantasy XIV can be challenging.
Final Fantasy XIV's latest expansion, Endwalker is set to be released in Autumn of 2021. Endwalker will feature the climax of the Hydaelyn and Zodiark story. In that storyline, the Warriors of Light will encounter a greater calamity than ever before experienced as they journey to the far reaches of Hydaelyn and the moon. In addition to bringing the long-running story arc that began with A Realm Reborn to its conclusion, Endwalker will mark a new beginning for FFXIV.
The new expansion will showcase many new features, including multiple new jobs, an increased level cap (from 80 to 90), new areas, battle system updates, many new challenges to overcome, as well as crafter and gatherer content. New areas will include, Garlemald, Thavnair, and the city of Radz-at-Han. One of the new jobs includes the Sage. The Sage can be seen in action in this trailer:
More Endwalker updates will be announced at Square-Enix events throughout the year. Final Fantasy XIV is available on PC, Playstation 4, and Playstation 5. For more information on the game, visit the official FFXIV website.
