The keynote at Las Vegas Fanfest unveiled the latest expansion for FFXIV, called Dawntrail, and provided an overview of the upcoming changes in version 7.0. Let’s take a look at what to expect from FFXIV 7.0 Dawntrail.
Dawntrail and 7.0: Exploring the Fifth Expansion
In terms of the story, now that we have restored hope to the world, we are venturing into the New World, which is named Tural. This South American-inspired continent is home to a diverse range of inhabitants. Alongside the existing Thavnair and Arkasodara, the Mamool Ja also reside here alongside the human races of Eorzea. However, there is much more to discover. The keynote described this expansion as a perfect vacation after the world has been saved from the apocalypse. Erenville will also be joining us. Interestingly, it seems that Tural is seeking the assistance of the Warrior of Light for a rite of succession. Furthermore, the Scions will be divided into two teams, and there will be an exploration of a fabled city of gold. It appears that there is more to this vacation-themed expansion than meets the eye.
The new hub city in Dawntrail will be Tuliyollal, ruled by Gulool Ja Ja, a two-headed Mamool Ja.
- Images via Square Enix
Additionally, we got a preview of a mountain valley area called Urqopacha and Yak T’el, a rainforest area within Tural.
More Exciting Features in FFXIV Dawntrail
Image via Square Enix
- We catch a glimpse of one of the Allied Tribes, the Pelupelu, a diminutive people residing in Urqopacha. They are skilled traders and are often seen wearing distinctive masks. It’s uncertain whether they are a variant of Hyur or another race of Spoken.
A video shown demonstrating how Il Mheg will change with the update. Image via Square Enix
- A highly anticipated graphics update is on the horizon. FFXIV is enhancing its shadows and lighting engine, as well as the overall game resolution. Character models will have higher resolutions, and there will be significant improvements in the quality of plants, foliage, and lighting throughout different areas.
- The expansion will introduce new job classes: Magical Ranged DPS and Melee DPS. Although no specific details were provided, Naoki Yoshida’s choice of wearing a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle tee at the keynote is believed to be a hint regarding one of the new jobs.
- Players can look forward to a new raid series, Alliance raid series, and Ultimate battles. There will also be additional Variant Dungeons, with discussions about the introduction of a Deep Dungeon.
- The level cap is increasing to 100! Previews of new Disciples of War and Hand/Land artifact gear sets were showcased.
Image via Square Enix
- A sneak peek at what appears to be a trial boss named Valigarmanda, inspired by Queztlcoatl.
Image via Square Enix
- Updates to duty support will be implemented for the new dungeons.
- ‘Expansive new lifestyle content’ reminiscent of the Island Sanctuary is being introduced.
- PVP will receive updates to Crystalline Conflict, Rival Wings, and Frontlines, including the addition of new maps.
- The Gold Saucer and Blue Mage content will undergo updates.
- Prepare for more thrilling Hildibrand Adventures.
- Gear will become dyeable, with two new gear sets and an increase in furnishing item limits. Eyeglasses will also be introduced as a new wearable piece of gear, and players will finally be able to wear helmets with glasses without sacrificing inventory space.
Image via Square Enix
- A new feature called the Strategy Board, which appears to be a tool for coordinating content activities, was teased.
Further information regarding all the changes coming in FFXIV 7.0 Dawntrail will be revealed at the London Fanfest. Hopefully, we will also learn details about at least one of the new job classes during that event.