Unveiling the Breathtaking Visual Enhancements in Final Fantasy 14's Graphical Update

Highlights

With the launch of the Dawntrail expansion in summer 2024, Final Fantasy 14 is set to undergo a significant graphical upgrade. However, it is important to note that the development team has advised that the showcased enhancements are subject to potential modifications.

Initial fan feedback on the updated graphics for Dawntrail was positive, prompting Square Enix to make additional refinements based on player suggestions. These refinements included making subtle alterations to character models, particularly focusing on the eyes and facial features.

Square Enix advises PC players to enhance their gaming experience by upgrading their graphics cards to Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 Super or AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT (or newer) for optimum performance in Dawntrail. The company has also expressed its dedication to continually improving the graphics based on feedback from players.

At a London Fan Fest panel, Final Fantasy 14 showcased the upcoming graphical update set to accompany the Dawntrail expansion in the summer of 2024. This marks the game's first major graphical update in over a decade, with the development team emphasizing that these improvements are still subject to changes before the official launch.

During the July 2023 Las Vegas Fan Fest, attendees and stream viewers of Final Fantasy 14 were treated to a sneak peek of Dawntrail, which included a glimpse of the graphical update planned for the expansion. Although the developers clarified that this preview did not represent the final product, fans of Final Fantasy 14 were impressed by what they saw during the convention. Taking this initial feedback into account, Square Enix incorporated it into their subsequent updates and shared the progress with the fans.

At the 2023 London Fan Fest, Square Enix unveiled refinements made to the Dawntrail graphics update. Final Fantasy 14 players on social media compiled and shared these improvements, with a particular focus on the Hyur, Miqo'te, and Au Ra player character models' eyes. Feedback prompted a reduction in the intensity of the Au Ra horns and limbal rings' colors, while the Miqo'te facial features were slightly adjusted. Additionally, the presentation showcased Elezen ears, Hrothgar fur, and the new Viper Job's armor. This included a detailed look at the Viper's leather jacket and hood, which players can earn in Dawntrail.

Square Enix also took the opportunity to remind PC players to upgrade their graphics cards to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 Super, an AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT, or a newer model for optimal enjoyment of Dawntrail. The graphics update received positive feedback from Final Fantasy 14 players on social media. Square Enix expressed its commitment to continuously refining the player character models' graphics and listening to player feedback, considering the wide range of customization options available in the game.

Dawntrail seeks to provide a fresh beginning for both existing and returning players of Final Fantasy 14, with a revamp in visuals and increased emphasis on group experiences compared to Endwalker. Whether it will successfully achieve its goals, only time will reveal. Final Fantasy 14 is currently accessible on PC, PS4, and PS5, while an Xbox Series X/S edition is set to release in Spring 2024.