So I loved the game at one point and was playing it off and on since 2010. I took a huge break however around 2017, and didn't come back till late 2023 to where my view of it went from enjoyable to not. I have over 3000 hours on steam and a good bit of time on console on top of that, but upon coming back I've realized the community went from great to complete garbage. This was on Goblin by the way. All the game is now is a 2nd life sim apparently and just trauma dumping.

Never have I once had any problems with anyone from 2010-2017, but heaven forbid once I came back in late 2023, all I ran into were people that weren't really in it to play as they were other things. I spent half a year trying to find a good FC and people to play the game with, but I would always end up in some FC that did nothing but use plugins like mare and just want to ERP or suck at each others face all day. Basically, got tricked into joining every single one, then find out a month or two later why they really play. Like this is fine and all, but some of us don't want to be dragged into that. Pretty sad some of them do this to pull people in by lying, to find out they don't do any of the content they said they did that you were looking for.

That's another thing, you don't have mare? Most won't bother talking to you. You don't have or want to use discord? Good luck trying to get anyone to chat in FC chat, and they always wondered why people left when only a few of us even attempted at communicating within the game. Like I get using discord VC for dungeons and events etc, but come on, the in game chat is there for a reason and you all wonder why people keep leaving when all they hear are crickets because your clique is all that matters. Never was this as big of an issue when TS, Vent, ICQ, AIM, and skype etc were a thing, everyone talked to each other, but discords just basically mandatory now. You do have mare though? Don't share your code with just anyone otherwise you'll regret it.

Then you got so many stalkers and creeps that'll constantly sexually harass you, and before DT improved the blacklisting this was annoying to deal with, and even after DT it still wasn't perfect since half the time you'd think they were decent folks till you shared discord details just to find out otherwise and get harassed there. Those same people would do workarounds to communicate with you or try and the amount of those I've ran into who don't respect boundaries is astounding. It got annoying to get on just to become someones therapist and get trauma dumped on for the 100th time on a daily basis, like I don't care, I just want to play and have fun. Not spend it reporting or blacklisting people over them getting too attached or not able to take no as an answer.

You can't even ask someone if they need help with mechanics if they keep dying to it for the 50th time, they'll get mad. You can't even ask a simple question without someone throwing insults, like really? Then you got so called "Positive toxicity" like no get over it, I'm not enabling such crappy behavior. Some folks even tried to make it a mission to ruin your time playing if you so much as set boundaries to not deal with their personal life, not why I'm playing. Realized it was time to quit for good so I deleted my character so I wouldn't return.

TLDR: Game used to be great, yet the community turned to complete garbage somewhere over the past 8 years or I'm just super unlucky. Met a few good people, but you're better off playing something else or finding a server where it's not this bad, which I wouldn't be surprised if that's not possible. WoW's BS community is much better and tame compared to FFXIV's, and I hate WoW. Everyone's nice and fake till they show otherwise, and it's just 1000x worse after you know. Go get some help and goto therapy, not worth the stress.

It took a minute to get into the game but its been a lot of fun. I'm 80 hours in, and people said the game gets really fun at level 50. I'm level 54 but was hooked on the story by level 30. Great game =)

Good fashion game, everything got designer prices tho

Final Fantasy XIV isn’t just a game; it’s an experience. What began as a rocky, near-disastrous launch has risen, phoenix-like, to become one of the greatest MMORPGs ever made. Combining unparalleled storytelling, a vast and vibrant world, and gameplay that caters to every type of player, FFXIV transcends its genre to deliver something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned MMO veteran or a complete newcomer, this is a game that will draw you in and refuse to let go.

From the moment you create your character and step into the bustling streets of Ul’dah or Gridania, you’re embarking on a journey that will take you across continents, through time and space, and to the edge of existence itself. But what makes Final Fantasy XIV so remarkable isn’t just the story or the gameplay—it’s how it makes you feel.

At the heart of FFXIV lies its narrative, and calling it good feels like an understatement. It’s the gold standard for storytelling in MMOs, rivaling even single-player RPGs in scope and emotional impact. You start as a humble adventurer, but as the Warrior of Light, you’ll face gods, monsters, and existential threats to the very fabric of the universe. A Realm Reborn lays a solid foundation, but the expansions—each one better than the last—elevate the story to legendary heights.

Heavensward is a tale of dragons and redemption, Stormblood explores themes of revolution and freedom, and Shadowbringers flips the traditional light-versus-dark narrative on its head, delivering one of the most memorable stories in gaming. By the time you reach Endwalker, an emotional, bittersweet conclusion to a decade-long saga, you’ll feel as though you’ve truly lived through these adventures. The characters, from stoic Alphinaud to fan-favorite G’raha Tia, become more than NPCs—they’re companions, mentors, and friends you’ll never forget.

But Final Fantasy XIV isn’t just about watching a story unfold; it’s about being part of it. The game’s flexible job system allows you to play every class on a single character, encouraging you to experiment and find your niche. Whether you prefer tanking as a Paladin, healing as a White Mage, or dishing out damage as a Dragoon, every job feels distinct and rewarding. And the combat, while approachable for newcomers, scales up to offer a challenge that will test even the most seasoned players in high-end raids.

Yet, FFXIV isn’t solely about combat. For those who crave a more relaxed experience, the game offers robust crafting, gathering, and even fishing systems that could be entire games on their own. You can decorate your house, run a market empire, or simply spend hours fishing in serene landscapes. The freedom to play your way is one of FFXIV’s greatest strengths, making it just as rewarding for casual players as it is for hardcore raiders.

The world of Eorzea, along with its expansions, is nothing short of breathtaking. Every location, from the glittering deserts of Thanalan to the icy spires of Ishgard, feels alive and meticulously crafted. The expansions continue this trend, introducing unforgettable areas like Shadowbringers’ The First, a realm steeped in eternal daylight, and Endwalker’s surreal vistas at the edge of existence. Complementing the stunning visuals is the game’s musical score, a masterpiece by Masayoshi Soken. From gentle town themes to heart-pounding boss tracks, the music enhances every moment, leaving a lasting impression that extends beyond the game.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Final Fantasy XIV is its community. In an online world that can often feel hostile or impersonal, FFXIV’s players are a beacon of kindness and camaraderie. Newcomers, affectionately called “sprouts,” are welcomed with advice, gifts, and encouragement. The game’s mentor system ensures that veterans are there to guide the way, and you’ll rarely encounter toxicity, even in high-pressure raids. Beyond the gameplay, the community shines in its creativity, hosting everything from in-game concerts to elaborate role-playing events and charity drives.

Even if you’re new to MMOs, FFXIV is remarkably accessible. The free trial—immortalized as a meme—offers an almost absurd amount of content, including A Realm Reborn and the critically acclaimed Heavensward expansion, without a subscription fee. It’s the perfect way to dip your toes into this sprawling world, and before you know it, you’ll be eagerly planning your next in-game adventure.

But what truly sets Final Fantasy XIV apart is its soul. It’s a game that offers not just entertainment, but a sense of belonging. Whether you’re facing a god-tier raid boss, fishing by a tranquil lake, or dancing with strangers in Limsa Lominsa, you’ll find moments of joy, wonder, and connection. Few games can make you laugh, cry, and cheer as often as this one, and fewer still can inspire the kind of loyalty and love that FFXIV enjoys from its community.

At its core, Final Fantasy XIV is about the journey—and it’s a journey worth taking. Whether you’re saving the world or simply trying to get your glamor just right, there’s no place quite like Eorzea. So grab your gear, summon your chocobo, and join the millions of adventurers who have already discovered the magic of this incredible game. Just remember: the true endgame isn’t raiding. It’s glamour. Always glamour.

Nah

Now that I have finished Endwalker, I need to express the importance of this game. This may be my favorite I've ever experienced. The story is one of genuine beauty with every character, every detail, and every twist being treated with immense sincerity. So much of the writing points to a major theme that is etched in the essence of everything XIV encompasses: hope in the face of despair. The many stories through each expansion told may focus on their respective conflicts that eventually tie within one another, but the lessons of hope always shines over it all, leaving an irreplaceable impact on my very being. Everything has been tailored to perfection with attentive care, from the character dynamics that keep you grounded when the scales are massive, to the major plot points and worldbuilding that engulfs you whole as you journey through this immersive world. This moved me in ways I was never expecting starting this years ago and I don't think I could experience something like this game ever again.

The content of the game also adds to the amount of love I've felt, feeling infinite and sometimes overwhelming with how many choices there are. The fashion, raiding, PvP, farming, crafting, it all leaves me with so much to do every week and never fails to value my time as a player. The fact that there are little FOMO elements make it even better, never feeling forced to go out of my way to do something.

The social features are probably one of my favorite aspects however. I've met so many wonderful friends from just sitting and talking in the major cities or asking for help in party finder. It's been helping me get out of my anxious shell I usually hide in with games like this, making me realize how important human interaction is in a game so massive in scale.

Final Fantasy XIV is seriously worth the price point and monthly subscription. I don't regret ever starting it and I can't wait to put even more hours into it. Seriously feels like a love letter to those who appreciate great storytelling, memorable characters, and just Final Fantasy fans. If you want an MMO and don't know where to start, this is the one.

If game didnt have pay to play i would play it more gg.

in 5 days i have play 78 hours this game is addictive if youre new i don't recommend it sucks away your life u wake up shower and play this game till 9 am from 9 am its liek a whole 9-5 its not right don't do it please don't do it to yourself

Best ERP Community to exist on the planet

Best MMO Ever Made