Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed and published by Square Enix. Released in 2010, the game has undergone significant transformations, expansions, and improvements, becoming one of the most popular MMORPGs in the gaming world. As with any MMORPG, players often wonder about the costs involved in playing FFXIV. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of FFXIV’s pricing, exploring the various expenses, subscription models, and optional purchases that come with this phenomenal game.
Subscription Models: Understanding the Monthly Costs
FFXIV operates on a subscription-based model, which means players need to pay a monthly fee to access the game’s content. There are two primary subscription models: the Free Trial and the Monthly Subscription.
Free Trial
The Free Trial allows new players to experience the game without committing to a paid subscription. This trial period grants access to the entire base game, including the original storyline, dungeons, and multiplayer features. However, there are limitations to the trial, such as:
- Level cap of 35
- Limited access to certain features, like player-versus-player (PvP) content and high-level crafting
- Restrictions on chat functionality and social features
Monthly Subscription
The Monthly Subscription is the primary way to play FFXIV, offering unrestricted access to the game’s content. There are two payment plans:
- Standard Plan: $12.99 per month (base game only)
- Complete Edition: $14.99 per month (includes the base game and all expansions)
The Monthly Subscription provides:
- Full access to all game content, including expansions and updates
- No level cap or content restrictions
- Full chat functionality and social features
- Ability to participate in PvP content and high-level crafting
Expansions and Optional Purchases
FFXIV has received several expansions since its launch, each adding new content, storylines, and features. These expansions can be purchased separately or as part of the Complete Edition subscription.
Expansion Packs
Current expansion packs include:
- A Realm Reborn (base game): Included in the Standard Plan
- Heavensward: $39.99 (digital) or $59.99 (physical)
- Stormblood: $39.99 (digital) or $59.99 (physical)
- Shadowbringers: $39.99 (digital) or $59.99 (physical)
- Endwalker: $39.99 (digital) or $59.99 (physical)
Each expansion pack adds new story content, zones, dungeons, and features to the game.
Optional Purchases
In addition to expansions, FFXIV offers various optional purchases, such as:
- In-Game Items: Cosmetic items, mounts, and minions can be purchased using in-game currency or real money.
- Square Enix Store Items: Exclusive items, like figurines or soundtracks, can be bought from the Square Enix Store.
- Game Time Cards: Pre-paid cards that grant a set amount of game time, available in various denominations.
Digital and Physical Copies
FFXIV can be purchased as a digital download or as a physical copy.
Digital Copies
Digital copies are available through the Square Enix Store, Steam, and other online platforms. Digital copies often come with bonuses, such as:
- In-game items or mounts
- Early access to new content
- Exclusive content or bonus items
Physical Copies
Physical copies can be purchased from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or GameStop. Physical copies usually include:
- A boxed copy of the game
- A printed manual or artbook
- In-game items or bonuses (depending on the edition)
Calculating the Total Cost of Ownership
To determine the total cost of owning and playing FFXIV, let’s calculate the expenses involved:
- Monthly Subscription: $12.99 per month (Standard Plan) or $14.99 per month (Complete Edition)
- Expansion Packs: $39.99 per expansion (digital) or $59.99 per expansion (physical)
- Optional Purchases: variable costs, depending on individual purchases
- Digital or Physical Copies: one-time payment, ranging from $39.99 to $59.99 or more, depending on the edition and retailer
Assuming a player starts with the base game and subscribes to the Standard Plan, the estimated total cost for the first year would be:
- $12.99 per month x 12 months = $155.88 (subscription)
- $39.99 (base game) + $39.99 (Heavensward expansion) + $39.99 (Stormblood expansion) = $119.97 (expansions)
- Total estimated cost for the first year: $275.85
This calculation does not include optional purchases or additional expansions. As the player progresses, the total cost will increase with each new expansion and optional purchase.
Is FFXIV Expensive?
While FFXIV does require a significant upfront investment, the game’s subscription model and optional purchases can be managed to fit individual budgets. Considering the vast amount of content, frequent updates, and the game’s overall quality, many players find the costs justified.
Key Takeaways:
- FFXIV operates on a subscription-based model, with a Monthly Subscription fee of $12.99 (Standard Plan) or $14.99 (Complete Edition).
- Expansion packs can be purchased separately or as part of the Complete Edition subscription.
- Optional purchases, such as in-game items and Square Enix Store items, are available.
- Digital and physical copies of the game can be purchased, with varying bonuses and prices.
- The total cost of ownership depends on individual purchasing decisions, but estimated costs for the first year can range from $275.85 to over $500, depending on expansions and optional purchases.
Ultimately, whether FFXIV is deemed expensive depends on individual perspectives and gaming habits. By understanding the various pricing models, subscription options, and optional purchases, players can make informed decisions about their involvement in the FFXIV universe.
What is the base price of FFXIV, and what does it include?
The base price of FFXIV is around $60, which includes the full game, along with a 30-day free trial period. This price does not include any additional content or features, but it does grant access to the entire base game, including all classes, jobs, and story content.
It’s worth noting that the base price does not include any expansions, which require separate purchases. However, the base game includes a significant amount of content, including the entirety of A Realm Reborn, and is a great starting point for new players. Additionally, the 30-day free trial period allows players to try out the game and get a feel for it before committing to a purchase.
What are the different types of FFXIV subscriptions, and how much do they cost?
FFXIV offers several subscription options, including a monthly subscription, a 3-month subscription, and a 6-month subscription. The monthly subscription costs around $12.99, while the 3-month subscription costs around $38.97, and the 6-month subscription costs around $71.94. There is also a free trial option, which allows players to try out the game for 30 days without committing to a subscription.
The different subscription options offer varying degrees of flexibility and cost-effectiveness. The monthly subscription is a good option for players who want to try out the game without committing to a longer subscription period. The 3-month and 6-month subscriptions offer discounts for players who are willing to commit to a longer subscription period.
What are the differences between the standard and complete editions of FFXIV?
The standard edition of FFXIV includes the base game, along with a 30-day free trial period. The complete edition, on the other hand, includes the base game, all expansions, and a 30-day free trial period. The complete edition is a good option for players who want to experience the entire game, including all story content and features.
The main difference between the two editions is the inclusion of expansions in the complete edition. Expansions add significant amounts of new content to the game, including new storylines, classes, and features. Players who want to experience the full range of FFXIV’s content should opt for the complete edition, while players who are new to the game may want to start with the standard edition.
Can I purchase FFXIV expansions separately, and how much do they cost?
Yes, players can purchase FFXIV expansions separately, and the cost varies depending on the expansion. The first expansion, A Realm Awakened, costs around $40, while subsequent expansions, including Heavensward, Stormblood, and Shadowbringers, cost around $50 each.
It’s worth noting that purchasing expansions separately can add up in cost, especially for players who want to experience all of the game’s content. In this case, the complete edition may be a more cost-effective option. However, for players who want to try out individual expansions or who are upgrading from the standard edition, purchasing expansions separately is a viable option.
Are there any discounts or promotions available for FFXIV?
Yes, Square Enix frequently offers discounts and promotions for FFXIV, especially during special events and holidays. These promotions can include discounts on the base game, expansions, and subscriptions, as well as bonus in-game items and rewards.
Players should keep an eye on the official FFXIV website and social media channels for announcements about upcoming promotions and discounts. Additionally, players can sign up for the FFXIV newsletter to receive exclusive offers and promotions.
Can I play FFXIV with a free trial, and what are the limitations?
Yes, FFXIV offers a 30-day free trial, which allows players to try out the game without committing to a purchase. The free trial includes access to the entire base game, along with all classes, jobs, and story content.
The main limitation of the free trial is the level cap, which is set at level 35. This means that players will not be able to access higher-level content or certain features, such as endgame activities and crafting. Additionally, free trial players will not be able to form or join linkshells, and will have limited access to in-game features such as the market board.
Can I cancel my FFXIV subscription at any time, and are there any penalties for cancellation?
Yes, players can cancel their FFXIV subscription at any time, and there are no penalties for cancellation. Players can simply log into their Square Enix account, go to the account management section, and cancel their subscription.
It’s worth noting that players who cancel their subscription will not be able to access the game’s content, including their characters and in-game progress, until they renew their subscription. Additionally, players who cancel their subscription may not be eligible for certain promotions or rewards, such as the bonus items offered to subscribers.