The End of an Era
Final Fantasy 14, the beloved online multiplayer game, is undergoing a significant transition that will impact the gaming experience for many players. Square Enix, the developer of the game, has announced the end of support for 32-bit versions of Windows and the DirectX 9 client. This means that players using these systems will no longer be able to access the game as of March 2024, unless they upgrade to a 64-bit operating system and DirectX 11.
This decision comes as part of the recent Patch 6.55 release, which marked the conclusion of several side stories and set the stage for the upcoming Dawntrail expansion. The new expansion promises a host of exciting changes, including the introduction of two new Jobs: the sword-wielding Viper and the magical artist known as the Pictomancer. Additionally, Dawntrail will bring the first major graphical update to Final Fantasy 14 since its relaunch as A Realm Reborn, with enhanced character models and environmental textures.
System Requirements and Upgrades
As a result of the upcoming changes in Dawntrail, some Final Fantasy 14 players may need to upgrade their systems to meet the new graphical requirements. Square Enix has stated that Patch 6.58, set to release in March 2024, will mandate the use of 64-bit versions of Windows 10 or 11 and the DirectX 11 version of the game. This means that players currently using 32-bit operating systems and the DirectX 9 client will need to make the necessary upgrades to continue enjoying the game.
The Impact on the Gaming Community
The changes announced by Square Enix have sparked discussions and anticipation within the gaming community. Players are eager to experience the enhanced visuals and new content in the upcoming Dawntrail expansion, but they also recognize the need to adapt to the updated system requirements. The impending release of Patch 6.58 has prompted players to consider their hardware and make the necessary preparations to ensure a seamless transition to the new system requirements.