The world of Final Fantasy XIV (FF14) is ever-expanding, and with the upcoming Dawn Trail expansion on the horizon, excitement among the community is at an all-time high. Dawn Trail is expected to bring a new chapter to the highly successful MMORPG, adding fresh content, storylines, and features. As fans eagerly await its release, here’s what we know about FF14: Dawn Trials release date, and what to expect from this exciting expansion.
FF14: A History of Expansions
Final Fantasy XIV is no stranger to expansions. Since its re-launch in 2013 as FFXIV: A Realm Reborn, the game has received multiple major expansions, each of which has introduced new areas, dungeons, storylines, and gameplay mechanics. Some of the most notable expansions include Heavensward (2015), Stormblood (2017), Shadowbringers (2019), and Endwalker (2021). Each of these expansions has pushed the boundaries of what the game offers, with Endwalker concluding the decade-long Hydaelyn-Zodiark saga.
With the release of Dawn Trail, the game’s narrative is shifting into a new direction, introducing an entirely new adventure for players and a new land to explore. Naturally, players are keen to know exactly when they can dive into this new content.
Dawn Trail Release Date: What We Know
Square Enix has officially announced that Dawntrail is set to release in summer 2024. Although no specific date has been confirmed yet, the summer release window typically spans from June to September, giving players a rough timeline for when they can expect the expansion.
Historically, Square Enix tends to release expansions around the early to mid-summer window. For instance, Shadowbringers launched in late June 2019, while Endwalker was delayed slightly and released in early December 2021 due to pandemic-related issues. With these timelines in mind, it is likely that Dawntrail will drop sometime between June and August 2024, barring any significant delays.
As with previous expansions, there will likely be multiple phases leading up to the release. Expect to see pre-launch events, promotional campaigns, and an early access period for players who pre-order the expansion. This early access period, typically lasting a few days, will allow players to explore new content before the official launch date.
Dawntrail: What’s New?
While the release date is the most anticipated detail, players are equally excited about the new content and changes Dawn Trail will bring. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store for this new expansion:
1. New Region: Tural
Dawntrail will take players to an unexplored continent called Tural, located far to the west of Eorzea. This new land promises vibrant jungles, tropical beaches, and majestic cities that differ greatly from the landscapes of previous expansions. The expansion’s trailer showcased lush environments, giving off an adventurous and exploratory vibe that contrasts the more sombre tone of Endwalker.
2. New Story Arc
Dawn Trail will mark the beginning of a fresh story arc for FF14. Unlike the Hydaelyn-Zodiark saga, which spanned the last decade, Dawntrail is set to start a new chapter in the game’s lore. Players will embark on a quest with Warriors of Light to uncover the mysteries of Tural and get involved in local political conflicts. The new storyline promises to be lighthearted and filled with adventure, a shift from the intense and emotional storytelling of recent expansions.
3. Level Cap Increase
As with all FF14 expansions, Dawntrail will introduce a level cap increase from level 90 to level 100. Players can expect new abilities, job quests, and class balance changes as they level up and explore the new regions of Tural.
4. New Jobs
One of the most exciting aspects of every FF14 expansion is the introduction of new playable jobs. While Square Enix has not yet revealed the specific new jobs coming in Dawntrail, speculation is rampant. Players expect the announcement of at least two new jobs, possibly a melee DPS and a ranged magical DPS based on hints from the development team and past expansion trends.
5. Dungeons, Trials, and Raids
Dawntrail will bring a host of new dungeons, trials, and raids for players to tackle, continuing FF14’s legacy of challenging group content. Players can expect intricate dungeon designs, epic boss battles, and high-end raids that will test their teamwork and skills. As with previous expansions, the raid series will likely be split into multiple patches, allowing for a steady release of endgame content over time.
6. Graphics Overhaul
In addition to new content, FF14 is also receiving a graphics overhaul as part of the Dawn Trail expansion. This update will improve character models, environments, and lighting, bringing the game’s visuals closer to modern standards. Although FF14’s art style has aged well, these graphical improvements will ensure that the game remains visually appealing for years to come.
Preparing for the Dawn Trail Release
As the summer 2024 release of Dawntrail approaches, there are several things players can do to prepare for the new content:
- Complete End Walker’s Main Story Quest: Since Dawn Trail will build upon the existing narrative, players should finish the story quests in Endwalker and the post-expansion patches.
- Maximise Jobs: With the level cap increasing to 100, now is the perfect time to level up multiple jobs to 90 and prepare for the new abilities and challenges that await.
- Save Gil and Resources: New expansions often come with new gear, housing items, and crafting materials. Stockpiling gil and resources now will help you get ahead when Dawntrail launches.
- Pre-order: Keep an eye out for the official pre-order announcement. Pre-ordering the game usually grants early access, giving players a head start on exploring the new content.
Conclusion: The Wait for Dawn Trail
The release of FF14: Dawntrail is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events in the MMO world for 2024. With a tentative summer 2024 release window, players are counting down the days until they can explore the new lands of Tural, experience a fresh storyline, and enjoy all the new content the expansion will offer. As Square Enix reveals more information in the coming months, the excitement will only continue to grow.
Until then, fans can prepare their characters, level up their jobs, and speculate about the surprises Square Enix has in store for them in the world of Final Fantasy XIV.
