Set to release on November 23, Endwalker is the latest expansion for Final Fantasy XIV. So far, each expansion for the game since its relaunch with A Realm Reborn has proven better and better, setting expectations high for this release. Covering the finale to the long-running battle between the gods Hydealyn and Zodiark, Endwalker sees the players traveling to new locations, including the moon in grand Final Fantasy tradition. But there is much more content set to come.
There are two new classes being added to the game. One is a barrier-based healer called the Sage, and the other is a magical melee-fighter known as the Reaper. Previously, the Astrologian functioned as a barrier healer in addition to combat support, but that class is losing its barrier abilities to focus better on a range of support skills, leaving Sage as the only dedicated barrier healer. Little is known about the Reaper, although previews seem to imply that it will have some sort of summon or pet to help it deal lots of damage quickly, and its main weapon is a two-handed scythe.
Following community support and demand, a new race option is also being added in with the new expansion. Male variants of the previously female-exclusive Viera are coming. The developers also noted that female variants of the currently male-exclusive Hrothgar are also in the works, but will not be ready upon the expansion's launch.
Two new areas (in addition to the moon) have also been shown off also. These are the region of Thavnair, which as been long alluded to in the game, and Old Sharlyan, homeland of many major Final Fantasy characters. Old Sharlyan will be this expansion's hub city, much like Crystarium in Shadowbringers and Kugane in Stormblood, offering a large area in which to explore and interact with other players.
New content in addition to the main storyline includes two new beast tribes. These are a collection of side quests following the misadventures of creatures such as the lapine Loporrits or the elephant-like Arkasodara. There will also be new gear and equipment, of course. A new series of Raids relating to Lahabrea, one of the Ascians the players would have encountered all the way back in A Realm Reborn, is coming too. All this content will undoubtedly and swiftly push players to the new level cap of 90.
With a stunning full trailer released at the Digital Fan Fest, Endwalker is set to be a major Square Enix release this year, capping off a story that has been going strong for almost a decade. Yet the developers have said that this is not the end for Final Fantasy XIV. Fans will have a new story to look forward to after this one reaches its conclusion.
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