Final Fantasy XIV: Your Guide to the Extended Free Trial

Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV), the popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), offers an incredibly generous free trial. This trial allows players to experience a vast portion of the game’s content without ever having to spend a dime. Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the Final Fantasy XIV free trial.

What’s Included in the Free Trial?

The free trial grants players access to an astonishing amount of content, including:

• All base game storylines, including A Realm Reborn and Heavensward
• Multiple character classes and jobs (up to level 60)
• Limitless time to play (no restrictions on playtime)
• Access to all dungeons, raids, and trials available in the base game and Heavensward
• PvP content (up to level 30)
• Glamour system (for customizing character appearance)
• Market Board (for trading with other players)

Restrictions of the Free Trial

While the free trial offers a wealth of content, it does come with a few limitations:

• Inability to access the Stormblood and Shadowbringers expansions
• Character level capped at 60
• Market Board restrictions (limited to a certain number of purchases per day)
• Inability to use certain in-game features (such as cross-world visitation)
• Inability to purchase in-game items (including microtransactions)

Unlocking the Full Game

To access the full version of Final Fantasy XIV, players can purchase the game’s latest expansion, Endwalker. This purchase will remove all the restrictions of the free trial and grant access to all content, including the Stormblood and Shadowbringers expansions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I play the free trial indefinitely?

Yes, the free trial has no time restrictions. You can play for as long as you like.

What happens if I reach level 60 on the free trial?

You will no longer be able to gain experience on your character, but you can continue to play the content that is available to you.

Will my progress from the free trial carry over if I purchase the full game?

Yes, all of your progress will carry over to the full version of Final Fantasy XIV.

Can I use the free trial to create multiple characters?

Yes, you can create up to eight characters on the free trial.

Can I transfer my free trial character to a different server?

No, free trial characters cannot be transferred to different servers.

I’m having trouble accessing the free trial. What should I do?

Check the Final Fantasy XIV website or contact customer support for assistance.

Conclusion

The Final Fantasy XIV free trial is an excellent way to experience the vast world and compelling storylines of this critically acclaimed MMORPG. With its generous content offering and unlimited playtime, the free trial provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the game without any financial commitment.

Best Final Fantasy XIV Classes for Beginners

For new players, the following classes offer a well-rounded and accessible experience:

• Arcanist: Offers flexibility as both a damage-dealing Summoner or healing Scholar.
• Marauder: Provides a solid foundation for the tank role as a Warrior.
• Pugilist: A versatile DPS (damage per second) class with fast-paced attacks and a variety of weapons.
• Lancer: A ranged DPS class with high mobility and a focus on piercing weapons.
• Archer: A simple ranged DPS class with strong single-target and area-of-effect attacks.

Each class has its own unique playstyle and strengths, allowing players to find one that suits their preferences. As beginners progress, they can experiment with other classes to find their favorite.

Final Fantasy XIV Leveling Guide

1. Choose a Class and Job

• Select a starting class and progress through quests to unlock advanced jobs.

2. Complete Main Story Quests

• Advance the main storyline through a series of quests that provide significant experience.

3. Utilize Dungeons and Trials

• Group up with other players to tackle challenging dungeons and trials that offer substantial EXP rewards.

4. Levequests and FATEs

• Engage in optional quests (levequests) and public events (FATEs) for additional experience.

5. Beastmen Daily Quests

• Participate in daily quests from different beastmen factions to earn experience points.

6. Weekly Challenges

• Participate in weekly challenges, such as the Alexander raid series, for bonus EXP.

7. Grand Companies

• Join a Grand Company and participate in daily hunts and squadron missions for experience.

8. Mentorship and Deep Dungeons

• Seek mentorship from experienced players or explore deep dungeons for opportunities to gain EXP.

9. PvP

• Engage in player-versus-player battles through the Frontlines or Rival Wings modes for EXP rewards.

10. Other Activities

• Consider gathering, crafting, or participating in custom deliveries for additional EXP gains.

Final Fantasy XIV Crafting Guide

Materials and Resources

• Gather or purchase raw materials (ores, lumber, etc.).
• Refine raw materials into usable components (ingots, leather, etc.).
• Obtain crystals and shards for crafting enhancements.

Classes and Levels

• Eight crafting classes: Alchemist, Armorer, Blacksmith, Carpenter, Culinarian, Goldsmith, Leatherworker, and Weaver.
• Level up classes through crafting, daily quests, and levequests.

Tools and Gear

• Use appropriate tools for each crafting class.
• Equip high-quality gear with crafting bonuses and materia.

Crafting Process

• Select a recipe and gather the required materials.
• Choose an appropriate crafting station.
• Initiate the crafting process by clicking the "Craft" button.

Crafting Enhancements

• Use crystals and shards to enhance crafting rolls.
• Utilize abilities such as "Precise Touch" and "Basic Touch" to increase success rate.
• Consider using macros to automate certain crafting steps.

Quality and Stars

• Crafted items have quality levels, with higher quality items fetching higher prices.
• Items can receive stars when crafted with high quality, unlocking additional bonuses.

Specialization

• Specialize in a particular crafting class to unlock advanced recipes and bonuses.
• Craft signature items unique to your specialization.

Advanced Techniques

• Use advanced techniques such as "Ishgardian Restoration" and "Advanced Meld" to improve crafting efficiency and item quality.
• Participate in "Custom Deliveries" for exclusive rewards and reputation bonuses.

Final Fantasy XIV: Best Races for DPS

• Hyur (Midlander and Highlander): Boast high Strength and Dexterity, making them formidable physical damage dealers.
• Elezen (Wildwood and Duskwight): Excel in Intelligence, grant bonus to magic damage, and have a high critical hit rate.
• Lalafell (Plainsfolk and Dunesfolk): Have high Dexterity, which benefits ranged physical damage dealers.
• Miqo’te (Keeper of the Moon and Seeker of the Sun): Possess high Dexterity and critical hit chance, making them suitable for fast-paced melee and ranged DPS classes.
• Au Ra (Xaela and Raen): Offer a balanced mix of Strength and Intelligence, providing versatility for both physical and magical DPS roles.
• Viera (Rava and Veena): Have slightly lower starting stats compared to other races, but can increase Dexterity and Intelligence through their racial traits.
• Hrothgar: Have high Strength and Intelligence, making them viable for both physical and magical DPS classes, but have a lack of ranged attack animations.

Best Final Fantasy XIV Servers for New Players

For new players to Final Fantasy XIV, selecting the optimal server is crucial to enhance their gaming experience. Here are recommendations:

• Spriggan (Elemental Data Center): A highly beginner-friendly server with a supportive community and numerous guilds catering to new players.

• Adamantoise (Primal Data Center): Known for its welcoming atmosphere and active linkshells (in-game groups) that provide guidance and assistance.

• Midgardsormr (Aether Data Center): A well-populated server with a dedicated community of mentors who offer guidance and support to new players.

• Gilgamesh (Aether Data Center): A popular server with a mix of experienced players and newcomers, providing a balance between low-level content and endgame activities.

• Zalera (Aether Data Center): A mid-population server with a growing community of new players and helpful guilds that cater to their needs.

Best Tank Class in Final Fantasy XIV

For players seeking the most effective tank class in Final Fantasy XIV, the following options stand out:

• Gunbreaker: A damage-oriented tank with high mobility and strong personal mitigation.
• Paladin: A well-rounded tank with a focus on defensive utility, providing a variety of buffs and shields to protect the party.
• Dark Knight: A highly mobile tank with self-healing capabilities and powerful offensive options.

Best Healer Class in Final Fantasy XIV

When it comes to choosing the best healer class in Final Fantasy XIV, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The choice of which healer class is best for you will depend on your individual playstyle and preferences. However, there are a few factors to consider that can help you make an informed decision.

1. Playstyle

Healer classes in Final Fantasy XIV can be broadly divided into two categories: pure healers and damage-dealing healers. Pure healers focus on providing healing and support to their party members, while damage-dealing healers can also deal significant damage to enemies. If you prefer to focus on keeping your party members alive, then a pure healer class such as White Mage or Scholar may be a good choice for you. If you enjoy dealing damage while also healing your party members, then a damage-dealing healer class such as Astrologian or Sage may be a better fit.

2. Class identity

Each healer class in Final Fantasy XIV has its own unique identity and lore. White Mages are known for their powerful healing spells and holy magic, while Scholars summon fairies to aid them in battle. Astrologians use their knowledge of the stars to heal and buff their party members, while Sages harness the power of nature to restore health and damage enemies. Consider which class identity appeals to you most when making your choice.

3. Role actions

All healer classes in Final Fantasy XIV share a number of common role actions, such as Cure and Raise. However, each class also has its own unique set of role actions that can be used to enhance their healing or damage-dealing abilities. When choosing a healer class, it is important to consider which role actions are most important to you.

Ultimately, the best healer class for you is the one that you enjoy playing the most. Experiment with different classes to find the one that best suits your playstyle and preferences.

Best Gatherer Class in Final Fantasy XIV

Botanist

The Botanist class specializes in gathering plant-based materials. It offers a unique set of skills that make it the optimal choice for gatherers focused on farming materials for alchemy, crafting, and leveling up other gatherer jobs.

Strengths:

• High gathering yield: Botanists can gather large quantities of materials with their skills, making them efficient for farming rare or expensive resources.
• Versatile gathering range: Botanists can gather a wide variety of plant-based materials from different regions and zones.
• Essential for crafting: Many crafting recipes require plant-based materials, making Botanists crucial for crafters and gatherers alike.
• Synergy with other gatherer jobs: Botanists can work in conjunction with Miners and Fishers to maximize their gathering efficiency in specific locations.

Weaknesses:

• Low durability and low protective stats: Botanists have lower durability and protective stats compared to other gatherer classes, making them more susceptible to enemy attacks.
• Limited combat abilities: Botanists have few combat abilities, making them less suitable for solo content or PvP.
• Requires specific zone conditions: Certain plant-based materials can only be gathered in specific zones during certain weather conditions, which can limit their availability.

Best Crafter Class in Final Fantasy XIV

The optimal crafter class in Final Fantasy XIV depends on the player’s preferences and playstyle. However, the most versatile and highly recommended option is Culinarian.

Culinarian offers:

• High level of versatility: Access to crafting food and beverages that provide various buffs and enhancements.
• Synergy with other crafters: Provides materials and buffs that benefit other crafting classes.
• High earning potential: Culinarian-crafted items are in high demand for both raiding and everyday activities.
• Unique role-playing elements: Includes gathering ingredients and cooking meals for NPCs to build relationships and earn rewards.

Best Glamour in Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV offers a wide range of glamour options, allowing players to customize their characters’ appearance. Here are some of the most popular and highly-rated glamour sets:

• Exarchic Set: Obtained through the Shadowbringers storyline, this set is popular for its sleek and modern design, featuring a full-body suit with glowing accents.
• Edenmorn Set: Available from the Eden’s Gate raids, this set has a celestial and ethereal theme, with flowing robes and intricate details.
• Replica Sky Rat Set: A replica of an iconic set from Final Fantasy V, this glamour features a pirate-inspired coat and hat, making it a popular choice for adventurers.
• Facet Set: Obtained through the Bozja Southern Front, this set has a metallic and mechanical aesthetic, perfect for those seeking a futuristic look.
• YoRHa Type-53 Set: Inspired by the Nier: Automata collaboration, this set features the signature armor and weapons of the YoRHa units.
• Augmented Cryptlurker Set: Obtained from the Deep Dungeon content, this set has a dark and mysterious aura, with a flowing cloak and glowing red eyes.
• Garo PvP Sets: Earned through PvP content, these sets have a unique and edgy aesthetic, often featuring animalistic motifs and tribal designs.
• Hildibrand Manderville Sets: Based on the comedic Hildebrand quests, these sets have a whimsical and over-the-top style, perfect for those who enjoy a touch of humor.
• Seasonal Event Sets: Various seasonal events offer unique glamour items, such as the Lunar Envoy Set from the Moonfire Faire or the Valentione Rose Set from the Valentione’s Day event.
• Mount-Exclusive Sets: Certain mounts come with exclusive glamour pieces, such as the Doman Adventurer’s Set from the Kirin mount or the Argosy Captain’s Set from the Argosy.

Best Mounts in Final Fantasy XIV

Kirin: A majestic azure unicorn with shimmering wings, known for its elegant gait and the soothing aura it exudes.

Fenrir: A formidable wolf of legend, Fenrir boasts a sleek black coat and fiery red eyes that illuminate the darkness. Its swiftness and power make it a formidable mount.

Ashen Barding: A skeletal steed clad in ornate armor, Ashen Barding emanates an ethereal glow. Its imposing presence strikes fear into the hearts of enemies.

Magitek Predator: A futuristic hovercraft with sleek lines and an intimidating presence, Magitek Predator is the epitome of technological prowess. Its agility and speed make it ideal for traversing vast distances.

Coeurl Mount: A fearsome beast of the plains, the Coeurl Mount features a muscular frame and sharp claws. Its ferocity and loyalty make it a formidable companion on the battlefield.

Final Fantasy XIV Best Minions

Final Fantasy XIV offers a wide variety of minions, adorable companions that follow players around. Here are some of the most sought-after and beloved:

• Fat Cat: A corpulent feline with a smug expression, Fat Cat is a popular choice for its cuteness and meme potential.
• Wind-up Ifrit: A miniature version of the Primal Ifrit, this minion boasts fiery effects and is a great choice for Summoner players.
• Wind-up Bahamut: As the miniature version of the mighty dragon, Bahamut, this minion is a spectacle with its grand animations and powerful aura.
• Minion of Light: A glowing, ethereal creature, Minion of Light is highly sought-after for its unique appearance and ability to follow players even into dungeons and trials.
• Coeurl Pup: A playful and adorable puppy version of the Coeurl, this minion is perfect for those who love to have a four-legged companion.
• Namazu: A silly and mischievous catfish-like creature, Namazu is known for its amusing animations and ability to create bubbles.
• Dwarf: A tiny humanoid with a mischievous smile, Dwarf is a popular choice for miners and crafters.
• Mandragora: A plant-like creature with a hypnotic gaze, Mandragora is perfect for botany enthusiasts.
• Baby Chocobo: A miniature version of the iconic Chocobo, Baby Chocobo is a fan favorite for its adorable appearance and cheerful sound effects.

Final Fantasy XIV Best Emotes

• Pray Return to Your Waking Sands: A polite and respectful way to request someone to leave your presence.
• The Thumbs Up: A classic emote that conveys approval, agreement, or encouragement.
• /sit: A versatile emote that can be used to rest, contemplate, or simply relax in style.
• /clap: Express your admiration or appreciate with a round of virtual applause.
• /bow: Show your respect and gratitude with a traditional Japanese bow.
• /wave: Greet your fellow players or bid them farewell with a friendly wave.
• /dance1: Perform a graceful dance that showcases your character’s flair.
• /mount: Summon your trusty mount and ride away in style.
• /beckon: Invite others to join you or indicate where you want to go.
• /laugh: Share a moment of laughter or amusement with other players.