Final Fantasy 14 – abbreviated FFXIV – is having a bit of a moment. Despite the fact that the MMORPG has been around for over ten years now, it has somehow managed to revitalize itself, something that its major rivals are struggling to do. And that’s bringing back players in their droves. But what has suddenly changed? Let’s take a look.
You Can Now Go To Level 60 For Free
FFXIV used to operate a subscription model for all players. If you wanted to build a character and explore the Final Fantasy 14 universe, you had to pay for the privilege. Now, though, that’s no longer the case. Recently, the developers announced that new players will be able to play through the entirety of the base game, A Realm Reborn, without having to pay any ongoing fees at all.
Naturally, gamers who are curious about the franchise are grabbing the opportunity with both hands. For the first time since release, they can test it for themselves to see if they like it before committing financially.
It’s A Solid Game
The term “solid game” might sound like a bit of a euphemism for “average.” But that’s not the case with FFXIV. While the game borrows heavily from the series’ well-established tropes, it is also enjoyable to play. It uses a tried and tested formula that works, providing MMORPG players with the experience they expect.
The story, for instance, is great – something that’s in keeping with other games, such as FFX and FFVII. The PvP is also surprisingly good (even though it is the series’ first attempt at it). And, on top of that, FFXIV boasts a friendly community – something that can be lacking in some other mainstream MMORPGs.
A New Expansion Is On The Horizon
So far, FFXIV has had three expansions – Heavensward, Stormblood and Shadowbringer – each of which added a new and exciting twist to the storyline. Now players are looking forward to the latest addition – Endwalkers – which promises to enthrall them even more.
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Endwalkers, Square-Enix says, will flesh out the story even further and make the FFXIV more immersive. It’s due in November 2021, so start saving up your FFXIV Gil now.
People Are Getting Tired Of World Of Warcraft
What happens in World of Warcraft affects the rest of the MMORPG space, and FFXIV is no exception. Given Blizzard’s current lack of popularity, many gamers are looking for new MMORPG experiences.
What’s driving the move away from WoW? Players complain about the lack of development focus, toxic community, and long, boring grinds. The excitement that the game induced in players during its glory days simply isn’t there anymore. Now they’re giving up and looking for alternatives, such as FFXIV, they hope can revive the old magic.
In conclusion, FFXIV is having a moment in 2021. Thanks to a range of factors, including increased publicity, problems with WoW, and the new expansion, the game is back on many people’s radar, and its popularity is surging.
Final Fantasy XIV is a GREAT game. The exact MMO I was looking for. The story is so amazing that I started playing a while before Stormblood was released and had plenty of time to catch up with Heavensward. The initial grind would certainly be difficult with the Shadowbringers expansion and the level cap of 80, but new players join the game daily and you’ll never be missed. The previous content is easier to complete and can be progressed through it fairly quickly. MSQ is tedious but totally worth it, I wouldn’t recommend skipping any of them to farm FFXIV Gil. The Shadowbearers did bring tears to my eyes.