Director Naoki Yoshida and community producer Toshio Murouchi took center stage at the Tokyo Game Show to unveil details about the eagerly awaited Final Fantasy 14 patch 7.35. Slated for release on October 7, this patch brings the thrilling Monster Hunter Wilds crossover into the game, providing players with a variety of exciting new content, including the challenging Guardian Arkveld encounter, the deep dungeon called Pilgrim's Traverse, and fresh installments of beloved storylines.
New Challenges Await
Players eager to dive into the Windward Wilds adventure must meet specific criteria. A level of 100 and the completion of the 7.0 Dawntrail Main Scenario Quest are necessary prerequisites. The average item level recommended for entering the normal Windward Wilds is set at 725. For those seeking a steeper challenge, the extreme version requires an item level of 740. Each fight is designed for eight players but offers flexible group size options, catering to the preferences of FF14's diverse player base.
Innovative Mechanics and Design
Under the leadership of Yoshida, the FF14 team collaborated with Capcom's seasoned Monster Hunter developers to create a seamless blend of the uniquely compelling mechanics from both gaming universes. Yoshida hinted at a possible evolution in gameplay, moving towards less reliance on group-based strategies and more focus on individual player responsibilities. This aligns with the mechanics of their previous Rathalos content. Pilgrim's Traverse will introduce variable difficulty levels, acting as a testing ground for evolving game systems.
Exclusive Rewards and Collections
The aesthetic rewards associated with this update reflect Monster Hunter Wilds' artistic vision while breaking gender barriers in armor design. Weapons will be obtainable in both base and augmented forms at normal difficulty. Each job receives distinctive weapon allocations, including a Hammer for the Black Mage, a Charge Blade variant for the Warrior, and an Arkveld Lance for the Red Mage. Additionally, players can earn a Seikret mount, featuring a whimsical scene with the Warriors of Light, Palicos, and a host of additional unlockables like minions, framer's kits, and exclusive orchestrion rolls.
Insightful Previews
Yoshida and his development team offered fans a sneak peek of the Arkveld battle during the stream, illuminating the encounter's intricate mechanics. The demonstration showcased powerful rolling wave AoEs and the lethal chain-whips wielded by Arkveld. During the preview, the development team managed to clear the encounter on their second attempt, suggesting that with strategy and teamwork, players well-versed in raids can navigate through the challenges.
Store Updates and More
Coinciding with The Ivalice Chronicles release, fans of Final Fantasy Tactics can celebrate with new downloadable outfits inspired by Ramza, Ovelia, and Gaffgarion launching on September 30. These will be accompanied by additional orchestrion rolls, enhancing the musical landscape of the game. As the release date for patch 7.35 draws nearer, players can prepare to explore new horizons and conquer fresh adversaries.
