Roadmap

5 wildest FFXIV changes in Patch 6.1 and beyond

Big changes are coming to Eorzea.

by Robin Bea
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Square Enix

Square Enix

Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker ended the beloved MMORPG’s first 10-year story arc, but the game is far from over. Following a recent Live Letter presentation from producer Naoki Yoshida, we have a better idea than ever of what’s next for FFXIV.

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First, an update to patch timing: Major patches have come every three and a half months in the past, but they’re slowing to once every four months for the health of the development team. Patch 6.1 is slated for April 2022.

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Here are the biggest updates coming in FFXIV Patch 6.1 and beyond.

5. Expanded Trust System
Square Enix

Square Enix

FFXIV’s Trust system lets players run through dungeons with NPC companions rather than other players. It’s a godsend for DPS Jobs with notoriously long dungeons queues, but it’s only available in Shadowbringers content and later.

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Starting with Patch 6.1, the Trust System will be expanded to included all Main Scenario Quest dungeons and four-player Trials, so you’ll have more options for early-game leveling with NPC pals.

4. Patch 6.1 group and solo content
Square Enix

Square Enix

Endwalker’s first major patch brings lots of new group content. The first part of the Myths of the Realm alliance raid drops with the patch, along with the Crystalline Conflict PvP mode and new Ultimate and Unreal duties.

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Yoshi-P mentioned that beast tribe quests are now just called tribe quests. Patch 6.1 adds Endwalker’s Arkasodara tribe quests, so you can buddy up to Thavnair’s friendly blue elephants.

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Fan-favorite characters Tataru and Hildibrand will also get more side quests.

3. Housing and customization
Square Enix

Square Enix

Away from the battlefield, players can look forward to new hairstyles for the Hrothgar and a “calling card UI,” which will be explained in further updates, but seems to be a system for showing off achievements in PvP.

The long-awaited Empyreum Ishgard housing district will open in Patch 6.1. Prospective homeowners can enter a new lottery for a chance to buy a plot, or try their luck in first-come-first-served districts.

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2. Patch 6.2 group content and Island Sanctuary
Square Enix

Square Enix

Later this year, Patch 6.2 will expand the Pandaemonium raid, add new (unrevealed) Trials, and new dungeon types called Criterion. These dungeons will support 1–4 players with variable difficulty depending on party size.

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Players an also start their own farm with the Island Sanctuary. Specifics are scarce so far, but it’s said to be a relaxing activity where you can grow crops, place buildings, and hang out with your minions, not unlike Animal Crossing.

1. Patch 7.0 graphics update
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A graphics overhaul in the works. The team isn’t aiming for photorealism, but is buffing character models, environments, and lighting.

Low-level gear and minor NPCs may not get a makeover, but everything added after Patch 7.0 will be affected. The overhaul arrives with the expansion.