Square Enix has unveiled the comprehensive patch notes for Patch 7.0, preparing players for the exciting updates arriving with the Dawntrail expansion. Scheduled for early access later this week, the patch notes provide a detailed overview of the changes and additions that players can anticipate. This article delves into these updates, highlighting significant changes and the smaller, yet noteworthy, enhancements that will enrich the Final Fantasy XIV experience.
Major Additions and Tweaks in Patch 7.0
Level Cap Increases and New Quests
One of the most anticipated changes is the increase in the level cap. Players can now advance their characters to new heights, unlocking new quests and storylines that expand the rich lore of Final Fantasy XIV. These quests are set in new locations that promise to offer fresh adventures and challenges.
New Locations and Duties
The patch introduces several new locations, each meticulously designed to immerse players in the expanding world of Dawntrail. Alongside these, new duties have been added, offering a variety of PvE and PvP challenges. These additions are designed to test players’ skills and provide new avenues for obtaining rewards.
Graphical Overhaul and Visual Enhancements
Comprehensive Graphical Update
A major highlight of Patch 7.0 is the comprehensive graphical update. Announced at the Las Vegas Fan Fest, this update enhances textures, lighting, and introduces subtle effects that significantly improve the visual fidelity of the game. This update has been applied to all Dawntrail content, with plans to extend these improvements to older content in future patches.
Improved Textures and Lighting
The patch notes include several slider images demonstrating the improved textures, which are akin to seeing the game world with newfound clarity. Enhanced lighting effects create a more realistic and immersive environment, ensuring that Final Fantasy XIV remains visually appealing and future-proof for years to come.
Free Fantasia Item for Character Edits
To help players adapt to these graphical changes, everyone will receive a free Fantasia item, allowing them to edit their character’s appearance. Moreover, players will have up to 60 minutes of in-game time to re-edit their character if they wish to make further adjustments after seeing their character in action.
Quality of Life Improvements
Hiding Other Players Around Quest Givers
A much-requested feature, previously mentioned in the Live Letter from the Producer, is the ability to temporarily hide other players around quest givers. This is especially useful given the high number of players expected at Dawntrail’s launch, ensuring smoother interactions and less crowded scenes.
Visual Indicators for NPC Following Objectives
New visual indicators have been added to quests requiring players to follow NPCs. These indicators help avoid detection, addressing frustrations from similar missions introduced in Endwalker.
DualSense Edge Controller Support on Windows
For players on Windows, the patch introduces support for the DualSense Edge controller. This addition enhances the gameplay experience, providing more control options for PC players.
Cross-Platform Trophies and Achievements
Trophies and achievements can now be unlocked from play on other platforms, making it easier for players to track and achieve their in-game goals regardless of the platform they are playing on.
Mute List and Term Filter for Safety
To ensure a safer and more enjoyable gaming environment, a mute list and term filter have been added. These features allow players to block disruptive individuals and filter out inappropriate language, enhancing the community experience.
Exciting New Content
Adorable Llama Mount
Among the exciting new content, a new adorable llama mount has been added. This cute addition is sure to be a hit among collectors and mount enthusiasts.
Measures to Reduce Server Congestion
In recent interviews, Yoshi-p stated that he guaranteed there will be no server congestion, unlike Dawntrail’s launch date. To mitigate server congestion, several measures have been temporarily implemented. These include restricting travel between certain Worlds and data centers, ensuring smoother gameplay and reducing lag during peak times. An automatic logout feature has been introduced, logging out players after 30 minutes of inactivity. This helps free up server space and reduces strain during high-traffic periods.
To further manage server load, new areas will be split into multiple instances. This measure ensures that players can enjoy the new content without experiencing severe server lag or overcrowding.
With Patch 7.0, Square Enix continues to enhance and expand the world of Final Fantasy XIV, offering players a wealth of new content, graphical improvements, and quality of life enhancements. The early access for Dawntrail begins on June 28th, with the full launch on July 2nd, slightly delayed to avoid clashing with the release of Elden Ring DLC Shadow of the Erdtree.