Learn quest types
“There are 3 kinds of quests in FFXIV,” Adam C. explained.
“Main Story Quests (MSQ) are denoted by an exclamation mark inside a fireball-looking symbol. Extra Content Quests are denoted by a excamation mark in a blue symbol with a plus sign. Sidequests are examination marks in a teardrop symbol.
“Main Story Quests will be sufficient in getting you experience to level your character, alongside the dungeons that you unlock. I would personally recommend you save your side-quests to do for a second class to level both because they are a good source of experience, and that they themselves are a little self-contained story — interesting, quirky, or funny.”
Sometimes, you’ve just got to grind
In operation since [starting year], Final Fantasy XIV has a wealth of content – so what are you waiting for? Go play it.
“First and foremost, try to get through the story [to] have at least one [level] 60 character up your sleeve,” Māhina L. said. “Or you will forever be listening, reading or watching others do end game content.”
Just cause you’re levelling up, it doesn’t mean everything has to be a grind/
“Palace of the Dead is also a great place to quick level [and] learn some basics for each class once you get one class to level 17,” Michael A. added.
Multitask wherever possible (and use FCs)
It’s as helpful in Final Fantasy XIV as it is in real-life.
“If you are going to craft, best level miner [and] botanist at same time,” Michael A said. “[It saves] you a ton of money. Also, FC with merchants have all low level crafting materials for sale.”
But, wait. FC? There’s that acronym again.
“FCs are pretty much glorified buddy clubs or fraternities, depending on how you look at it,” Māhina L. explained. “Sometimes come with a house, sometimes not! But usually always come with Buffs. Company Buffs help with everything and as a new player in the game. It’s better to have a good group willing to support you.”
“If you have FC mates to help with queues, starting out as a DPS will be significantly easier in terms of learning the mechanics in content and learning how, what and when the majority of Tanks pull mobs and bosses,” Lynn S. added. It’s also easier to see how and when Healers prep a heal or cleanse. Once you’re comfortable with all this, your ride as a Tank or Healer will be a lot easier.”
Eat a lot. No, really.
This has to be the best tip ever.
“Number one levelling tip: EAT FOOD! Every single type of food in the game gives [a] 3% experience bonus and lasts 30 minutes,” Issa A. said, “so it’s very worthwhile!”
There’s nothing wrong with using a controller, even on PC.
“As a controller user on PC, I got to say, FFXIV works really well,” Sarah K. offered. “It was designed with controller aspects in mind and doesn’t inhibit game play at all.”
Makes sense for a franchise that’s traditionally been on console, eh? Having the game offered up on PS3 and PS4 doesn’t hurt, either.
Don’t forget the simple stuff
In the end, Māhina L. had the best advice: “Last but not least — have fun! It is Final Fantasy for golly’s sake!”
Can’t argue with that.
Do you have any extra tips for newbies or returning players?
Our Final Fantasy XIV Pre-PAX AUS Fan Gathering takes place on 3 November at Melbourne’s Bartronica. While passes have been allocated, you still join up on the FFXIV ANZ Facebook page to get involved with the community.
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