What just happened? Square Enix has announced a new version of Final Fantasy XIV designed specifically for mobile devices. Curiously, Square Enix called on Lightspeed Studios – the team responsible for PUBG Mobile – to develop FFXIV Mobile rather than take on the project themselves, a decision that has some fans feeling a little uneasy.
The new game is set in the realm of Eorzea, borrows music from the original, and will offer a variety of playable races. Square Enix said nine jobs will be available to choose from at launch, and players can switch jobs freely using the armoury system. The game also features nearly a dozen crafting and gathering classes for those interested in side activities like fishing, mining, or alchemy.
The lifestyle content doesn’t end there. Fancy a friendly wager? Head over to the Golden Saucer for some chocobo racing or try your luck with a game of cards. Elsewhere, you’ll find countless opportunities to customize your character’s look, spruce up your home, and participate in festive seasonal events.
FFXIV Mobile will offer both single-player and multiplayer experiences, with controls optimized for mobile devices. Square Enix said visual elements, including intricate weather and time-of-day systems, have been painstakingly reproduced from the original and optimized for on-the-go gameplay. The weather system alone features more than 600 different patters across varying landscapes.
The new game is described as an adaptation of the original – an “exciting expansion” in a fresh, portable format – and a sister to FFXIV. It will be approachable by newcomers and veterans alike, and feature several staple characters from the original including Thancred and Tataru, among others. Notably, the game will impose no social goals or forced engagements, so expect a relaxed social environment.
FFXIV Mobile will be available via multiple play tests in China in the near future, with a global launch following soon after. No word yet on pricing or platform availability, but it is almost guaranteed to land on most major mobile operating systems including Android and iOS.
