In the realm of video games, especially within the genre of MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games), there are few names as iconic as Final Fantasy. Square Enix, the powerhouse developer and publisher behind this acclaimed series, has been riding a continuous wave of success and shows no intention of slowing down. The latest buzz comes from the announcement of the Final Fantasy 14: Dawntrail expansion, scheduled to roll out on July 2nd to PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 consoles, setting the stage for another thrilling chapter in the Final Fantasy XIV saga.
The revelation comes hot on the heels of an exciting period for Final Fantasy fans, with the recent release of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth creating a buzz in the gaming community. Close on its heels, Square Enix has begun to stir excitement with Final Fantasy 16's add-on, The Rising Tide. The announcement of Dawntrail at PAX East 2024 panel, where director Naoki Yoshida shared the news, has ensured that the fervor for the series remains at a fever pitch.
Notably, Final Fantasy XIV has been one of the most successful iterations in the franchise, revitalized by its A Realm Reborn relaunch in 2013, and Dawntrail promises to continue this legacy. Pre-orders for this latest expansion are slated to open on March 26th, offering players the opportunity to secure their access and score exclusive bonuses—one of which has sparked interest and speculation among the fan base.
These bonuses intriguingly throwback to another dearly beloved installment in the series: Final Fantasy 9. The possible hint of a remake for this classic PlayStation 1 RPG has long been a topic of hopeful whispers within the community. Although Yoshida remained coy, labeling the reason for these references to Final Fantasy 9 as a "secret," the ties are unmistakable and intentional. Among the smorgasbord of pre-order bonuses are a wind-up Zidane minion and Azeyma's earrings, with the latter providing a substantial boost to experience gain—increasing it by a heartening 30 percent.
Furthermore, those who pre-order will be treated to a taste of the adventure earlier than the rest, with three-day early access starting on June 28th. However, to dive into Dawntrail's expanded horizons, players are expected to have made significant progress in the game's previous expansion, Endwalker. This requirement ensures that adventurers are appropriately prepared for the trials and tribulations that await them in this new journey.
For potential buyers, there are two essential purchasing options for Dawntrail on PS5 and PS4. The standard edition of the expansion will retail for $39.99. However, for the more collectible-minded or those looking for additional in-game flair, a Digital Collector's Edition is available for $59.99. This premium package is bundled with several eye-catching in-game items, including a mount modeled after the Ark eidolon and a wind-up Garnet minion—both loving odes to Final Fantasy IX—and an adorable Chocobo brush.
Dawntrail's announcement has undoubtedly set the stage for another successful year for Final Fantasy XIV. With its ever-expanding universe, nuanced storytelling, and vibrant community of players, Square Enix's dedication to evolving the game ensures that its journey is far from its twilight. Whether unfolding the "secrets" behind the pre-order bonuses, delving into untouched lore, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of fellow players, the expansion offers a new frontier for veterans and newcomers alike. Players worldwide have ample reason to mark their calendars for July 2nd, when they can strap in for the next installment of their epic adventure in the land of Eorzea.
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