The more hardcore a fanbase, the harder it is to like or get an understanding of it. For example, if someone wants to start learning about UFC, the audience and the fanbase are so dedicated that newcomers often struggle to understand it. There’s no clear beginner’s guide, no one to teach the basics, and this pattern exists in many complex video games too. Most of these games have fanbases that can be tough on beginners, often looking down on them for being inexperienced.
As a long-time player, I want to do something different. This blog is a straightforward beginner’s guide for Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV). By the end of this article, you’ll have a solid grasp of what to focus on, how to progress, and how to actually enjoy the game instead of feeling lost.
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What Should Be Your Focus
As a beginner, the key is to focus on a few core areas instead of trying to do everything at once. Even if you play casually, these basics will make your early experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Level Progression Overview
| Level Range | Main Focus | Key Goals | Unlocks |
| 1–15 | Learn controls, explore the first city | Complete tutorial quests and basic dungeons | Job selection starts |
| 16–30 | Progress through MSQ | Unlock class abilities and mounts | First dungeons and crafting |
| 31–50 | Focus on one main job | Unlock specialization (Job) | Core rotation mastery |
| 51–80 | Start learning party play | Raids, trials, and glamour system | Advanced gear and crafting |
| 81–100 | Endgame focus | Farm gear, gil, and challenge raids | Access to expansions and ultimate trials |
Completing the Story (MSQ)
Your number one priority should be the Main Scenario Quest (MSQ). This storyline is Square Enix’s intended roadmap for how new players should experience the game. It introduces you to the world’s regions, the major NPCs, and core gameplay mechanics.
Completing the MSQ unlocks new areas, travel routes, and essential systems like dungeons, trials, and raids. It’s designed to gradually teach you combat, teamwork, and exploration. In short, if you follow the MSQ, you’ll naturally unlock everything you need without feeling overwhelmed.
Learn Your Class and Job
Like most RPGs, FFXIV has several classes—but here’s the twist: you can learn and switch between all of them in one character. Still, as a beginner, stick with one class until you hit Level 30. That’s when your class upgrades to its corresponding Job, unlocking new abilities and bonuses.
Here’s a simplified breakdown:
| Role | Responsibility | Playstyle |
| Tank | Absorbs enemy damage and protects the team | Leads fights and controls aggro |
| Healer | Keeps the team alive with healing and shields | Supports allies and revives fallen players |
| DPS | Focuses on dealing damage | Quick reactions, precise timing, and mobility |
Each class and job has a different rhythm and skill ceiling. Try a few, but master one before switching—it’ll help you learn core mechanics like rotations, cooldowns, and resource management.
Don’t Stress About Gear or Gil
In the early game, don’t worry about farming gear or Gil (FFXIV’s main currency). Just completing the MSQ will provide you with enough of both. Each major quest rewards you with weapons, armor, and items that are perfectly balanced for your level.
You’ll start earning Gil naturally from quests, dungeons, and side missions. Save it rather than spending it on unnecessary items. Later, you’ll use it for crafting materials, glamour outfits, and high-level gear repairs.
Explore and Learn the Game’s Systems
The world of Eorzea is massive. Take your time to explore new cities, hunt logs, crafting stations, and optional dungeons. The game rewards curiosity. As you level up, you’ll also unlock travel systems like Aether Currents, airship travel, and teleportation crystals—these will make exploration smoother.
If you’re part of a Free Company (guild), don’t hesitate to ask questions. The FFXIV community is one of the friendliest in the MMO space.
Join Group Content Early
Many new players avoid dungeons because they feel underprepared—but the earlier you join them, the better. Party-based content like dungeons and trials teaches teamwork and mechanics you’ll need later in harder content.
Start small, use the Duty Finder, and always communicate with your team. Most players are helpful, especially toward new adventurers.
Have Fun and Experiment
Don’t forget—FFXIV is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed. Try crafting, fishing, housing, or just exploring side stories. Every playstyle is valid. What matters most is that you’re enjoying the world and learning at your own pace.
Conclusion
There’s no single “right” way to start Final Fantasy XIV. Whether you love exploring, chasing storylines, or perfecting your combat rotation, the journey is what defines your experience. The tips shared in this guide will give you a strong foundation, but how you build on it is entirely up to you.
So pick your class, follow the MSQ, and step into Eorzea—you’ll learn the rest naturally as you play.
FAQ
What makes Final Fantasy XIV beginner-friendly?
It has one of the best onboarding systems in any MMO. The MSQ guides you step by step, and the community is known for helping newcomers.
When does my class become a job?
At level 30, once you complete your class’s special questline.
What’s the best class for beginners?
Marauder (Tank) and Arcanist (DPS/Healer) are both great starting choices due to their simple but powerful mechanics.
Do I need to buy expansions right away?
No, the base game (A Realm Reborn) offers plenty of content for hundreds of hours before you even need to think about expansions.
Can I play solo?
Yes. Most of the early and mid-game content can be completed solo with AI party members (Duty Support system).