Reasons Why I Returned to Final Fantasy XIV in 2024.

The MMORPG genre is saturated with titles competing for the attention of those willing to dedicate a significant amount of time to a single game. Undoubtedly, there are many appealing options based on combat type, endgame content, and preferred payment models, which ensures that it’s nearly certain to find one that fits your needs. After more than two decades exploring this genre and having invested thousands of hours in titles ranging from niche games like Silkroad Online (which, surprisingly, still exists) to global hits like World of Warcraft and Guild Wars, I have begun to feel disappointed with many popular MMORPGs in recent years. The reasons vary but include an excessive focus on endgame raids, content centered around PVP, or unfriendly communities that can make reading chat uncomfortable.

However, this is not the case when I return to Final Fantasy XIV. Every time I launch this Square Enix MMO, I feel an unexpected sense of peace, making it hard to consider other games. Unlike many other MMORPGs that I stop playing after experiencing burnout, since its relaunch and rebranding as Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn in 2013, I have consistently returned to FFXIV. Each new expansion, including this year's Dawntrail, draws me back in. I always enjoy every visit, whether it’s for a few weeks of casual play or for months of daily gaming. Moreover, it seems that this game has a secured future, given that a mobile version is in development.

I have been able to identify three key aspects that have influenced my decision to continue choosing this MMORPG over others in 2024. First, the community is exceptionally charming. While many MMORPGs have friendly players, this genre often attracts elitists who can make the experience less enjoyable for casual players. Recently, I tried the new free MMO Throne & Liberty, and despite enjoying its combat and world, I frequently encountered players who would kick others from groups in the early dungeons if they didn’t know the boss mechanics. The FFXIV community, by contrast, has a well-deserved reputation for being friendly. Every dungeon experience is enriched with positive interactions, like the classic “O/” in chat, and there’s always someone dedicated to making everyone feel welcome and satisfied.

Additionally, spending a few hours in Limsa Lominsa, the vibrant hub where most players gather, is almost magical. This place has become a lively meeting point, where hundreds of players showcase their outfits, enjoy chatting, and often attend impromptu concerts by Bards. Social interaction in FFXIV is genuine, with players using all sorts of emotes to connect with one another.

Another highlight is the ability to manage a single character without the hassle of multiple “alts.” Personally, I dislike having to deal with several characters, and FFXIV eliminates this issue by allowing a single character to easily switch between jobs with just a couple of buttons, as long as that job has been unlocked. This lets me enjoy various aspects of the game without losing my connection to my character.

Finally, the amount of content in FFXIV is overwhelming, but in a way that is relaxing. There’s so much to do: from main quests and dungeons to collecting glamour items and participating in PVP activities. However, unlike other MMORPGs that impose pressure to focus on endgame content, FFXIV allows you to enjoy every aspect of the game lightly and fun. The pressure to advance in serious activities is much lower, giving me the opportunity to explore the magical world at my own pace, while the friendly community ensures that I will always have good companions on my adventures. For these reasons, I will continue to stick with Final Fantasy XIV.