Beginner guides

Comprehensive guide for anyone starting FFXIV in 2026. Covers Free Trial, MSQ flow, first job, basic combat mechanics, and typical newbie mistakes. A good first resource before the in-game onboarding.

Honest analysis of the obstacles new FFXIV players face: MSQ length, combat learning curve, and expectations vs reality. Useful for friends on the fence about investing the time.

Zepla's perspective returning to FFXIV after a break. Useful for returners: what she did, what surprised her post-Dawntrail, how she resumed MSQ and endgame.

Analysis of FFXIV's positive momentum in 2026 after pre-FanFest. Good for understanding what triggered the comeback narrative and why there's a good window to start/return.

Direct response to the discourse that Dawntrail had overly hard content. Larryzaur explains the new mechanics and contextualizes the difficulty. Evergreen for new players intimidated by Savage commentary.