Final Fantasy XIV, a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), has been a beloved platform for gamers worldwide since its release in 2010. One of the most crucial aspects of the game is the server selection, which determines the gaming experience, community, and overall enjoyment. However, there may come a time when players want to switch servers, either due to dissatisfaction with their current server or to join friends or a new community. The question on everyone’s mind is: how much does it cost to switch servers in FFXIV?
Understanding the Server Transfer Process
Before diving into the cost, it’s essential to comprehend the server transfer process. Square Enix, the game’s developer, offers a feature called the “World Transfer Service,” which allows players to transfer their characters from one server to another. This service is available for a fee, and it’s not a simple process. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved:
- Eligibility: Ensure your account is in good standing, and you’ve met the game’s requirements to transfer servers.
- Character Selection: Choose the characters you want to transfer, keeping in mind that each character transfer costs individually.
- World Selection: Select the destination server from the available options.
- Transfer Request: Submit your transfer request, and wait for the process to complete.
The Cost of Switching Servers
Now, onto the burning question: how much does it cost to switch servers in FFXIV? The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on various factors, including the type of transfer, the number of characters being transferred, and the player’s subscription status.
Standard World Transfer: The standard world transfer fee is 1,000 Gil, the in-game currency. This fee applies to each character being transferred, so if you have multiple characters, the cost adds up quickly.
Paid World Transfer: For players with an active subscription, Square Enix offers a paid world transfer option, which costs $18 per character. This fee is waived for players who have been subscribed for at least 90 days.
Free World Transfer: New players who have created their account within the last 90 days can enjoy a free world transfer. This is a one-time offer, and it’s only applicable to the character created during the trial period.
Additional Costs and Considerations
While the world transfer fee might seem like a straightforward cost, there are additional expenses to consider:
Character Renaming: If you want to change your character’s name during the transfer process, it’ll cost an additional 1,000 Gil.
Character Deletion: If you want to delete a character and recreate it on the new server, you’ll need to purchase a character deletion token, which costs 1,000 Gil.
Housing and Furniture: If you own a house or have furniture in your current server’s housing area, you’ll need to purchase new furniture or a new house on the destination server.
Server Loyalty Rewards: If you’ve earned server loyalty rewards, such as exclusive mounts or minions, they might not be transferable to the new server.
Tips and Tricks for Minimizing Costs
While switching servers can be costly, there are ways to minimize the expenses:
Plan Ahead: Ensure you’ve used up all your Gil and resources before transferring, as they won’t be transferred to the new server.
Consolidate Characters: Consider merging characters or deleting unwanted ones to reduce the number of transfers needed.
Take Advantage of Free Transfers: If you’re eligible for a free world transfer, use it to minimize costs.
Wait for Promotions: Keep an eye on Square Enix’s promotions and events, which might offer discounted or free world transfers.
The Verdict: Is it Worth the Cost?
Switching servers in FFXIV can be a costly endeavor, especially if you have multiple characters or a large amount of Gil invested in your current server. However, for many players, the benefits of switching servers outweigh the costs:
New Community: Joining a new server can provide a fresh start, new friendships, and a more active community.
Better Gameplay Experience: You might find a server with a more suitable timezone, better ping, or a more balanced player population.
Access to Exclusive Content: Some servers have exclusive events, quests, or rewards, which can enhance your overall gaming experience.
Ultimately, the decision to switch servers and the cost associated with it depend on individual preferences and priorities. Weigh the pros and cons, considering your gaming goals, budget, and community needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of switching servers in FFXIV can vary greatly, depending on the type of transfer, number of characters, and subscription status. While it might seem like a daunting task, understanding the transfer process and associated costs can help you make an informed decision. By planning ahead, taking advantage of promotions, and consolidating characters, you can minimize the expenses and enjoy a seamless transition to your new server.
Remember, the FFXIV community is vast and diverse, and sometimes, a fresh start on a new server can be just what you need to reignite your passion for the game. So, take the leap, and explore the world of Eorzea like never before!
How long does it take to transfer my data to a new server?
The time it takes to transfer your data to a new server in Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) can vary depending on the amount of data being transferred and the server’s load. Typically, the transfer process takes around 30 minutes to an hour. However, in some cases, it may take longer, especially if there are a large number of players transferring at the same time.
It’s also important to note that during peak hours or server maintenance, the transfer process may be delayed or take longer than usual. In addition, if you have a large amount of data, such as many characters, retainers, or housing items, the transfer process may take longer. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and transfer your data during off-peak hours to minimize any potential delays.
What happens to my in-game currency and items when I transfer servers?
When you transfer servers in FFXIV, your in-game currency, including gil and tokens, will be transferred to the new server. However, it’s important to note that any items that are bound to your character, such as equipment, materia, and minions, will also be transferred to the new server.
It’s also important to note that any items that are stored in your retainers, such as items in your retainer’s inventory or storage, will not be transferred to the new server. This means that you will need to retrieve any items from your retainer before transferring to a new server to avoid losing them. Additionally, any items that are stored in your housing or in-game mail will also not be transferred, so be sure to retrieve those as well.
Will I lose my progress or achievements when I transfer servers?
No, when you transfer servers in FFXIV, your progress and achievements will not be lost. Your character’s level, class, and job levels will remain the same, and any achievements you have earned, such as completed quests, defeated bosses, or earned titles, will also be transferred to the new server.
However, it’s important to note that any server-specific achievements or rankings, such as server-wide rankings or achievements tied to specific servers, may not be transferred. Additionally, any server-specific events or activities may not be available on the new server, so be sure to check the new server’s event schedule before transferring.
Can I transfer my Free Company to a new server?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to transfer a Free Company to a new server in FFXIV. When you transfer to a new server, you will need to join a new Free Company or create a new one on the new server. This means that you will lose any Free Company data, including company name, rank, and crest.
However, you can transfer your character and individual data to the new server, and then join a new Free Company or create a new one. You can also transfer your Free Company’s name, rank, and crest by re-creating the company on the new server, but this will not transfer any company-specific data, such as company buffs or achievements.
How much does it cost to transfer servers in FFXIV?
The cost to transfer servers in FFXIV is currently 1,320 Mog Coins, which is the in-game currency that can be purchased with real money. This cost is the same for all players, regardless of their subscription status or account type.
It’s worth noting that this cost may be subject to change, so be sure to check the game’s official website or patch notes for any updates. Additionally, Square Enix occasionally offers promotions or discounts on server transfers, so be sure to check for any available deals before transferring.
Can I transfer my housing to a new server?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to transfer your housing to a new server in FFXIV. When you transfer servers, you will lose any housing data, including your house’s location, design, and furnishings.
However, you can purchase a new plot of land on the new server and build a new house. You can also transfer your housing items, such as furniture and decorations, to the new server, but you will need to re-place them in your new home. Additionally, any housing-related achievements or rewards will not be transferred to the new server.
Can I transfer my friends list to a new server?
When you transfer servers in FFXIV, your friends list will not be automatically transferred to the new server. However, you can re-add your friends on the new server by using their character name or ID.
It’s also important to note that any friend requests or pending invitations will not be transferred to the new server, so you will need to re-send or re-accept any friend requests on the new server. Additionally, any social links or party finder listings will not be transferred, so you will need to re-create those on the new server.