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MONSTER

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail
Item: Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Multiplayer

AvailableJul 2, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperCreative Business Unit III

Overview

The fifth major expansion for FINAL FANTASY XIV Online. The new expansion will bring an abundance of fresh content, including an increased level cap, multiple new jobs, sprawling new areas, new allied tribes, new dungeons, and new core battle content such as FATEs, Hunts, Treasure Hunts, and sidequests, and much more.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail receives praise for its epic storytelling and character development, with critics highlighting themes of community and emotional depth. However, pacing issues and a heavy focus on the divisive character Wuk Lamat detract from the experience. While the narrative starts slow and suffers from filler content, the latter half delivers unexpected twists. Overall, it offers a rich narrative but leaves room for improvement in future expansions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who have praised its epic and emotional direction, particularly highlighting strong character development and engaging plotlines. Reviewers such as COGconnected and GamersRD emphasize the narrative's focus on character growth, with the introduction of new and charismatic characters reminiscent of classic anime adventures. Critics like But Why Tho? and Game Informer appreciate the exploration of themes like community, relationships, and cultural legacy, which adds depth to the narrative. The latter half of the story, as noted by Push Square and GameSkinny, is particularly well-received for its unexpected twists and emotional payoffs, suggesting that the narrative becomes more compelling as it progresses. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks, particularly regarding pacing and character focus. Many reviews, including those from Vandal and RPG Fan, criticize the slow start and the feeling of filler content, which detracts from the overall engagement of the story. The character Wuk Lamat, while compelling, has been described as divisive, with some reviewers feeling that the heavy focus on her detracts from the development of supporting characters. Critics like Siliconera and Checkpoint Gaming also echo concerns about the inconsistent pacing and the presence of predictable elements that undermine the narrative's urgency and excitement. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail offers a rich narrative experience with engaging themes and character arcs, its pacing issues and uneven character development may hinder its overall impact. Many reviewers, such as IGN France and Meristation, acknowledge the potential for future expansions to build on the foundations laid in this installment, indicating a sense of cautious optimism for the series' direction. Despite its flaws, the story's emotional depth and character-driven focus resonate well with a significant portion of the audience, making it a noteworthy addition to the Final Fantasy XIV universe.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail impresses with new job classes Viper and Pictomancer, enhancing combat depth and playstyles. Critics praise revamped dungeons for their intricate mechanics and stunning visuals, creating a polished gameplay experience. However, some note repetitiveness in quest design and concerns over challenge levels. Despite these issues, the overall reception is positive, promising players an engaging and rich expansion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the introduction of two new job classes, Viper and Pictomancer, which have been praised for adding depth and unique playstyles to combat. Reviewers from COGconnected and GamersRD noted that these classes provide fresh challenges and enjoyable experiences, particularly emphasizing the fun factor of the Pictomancer. Additionally, the revamped dungeons and trials have been well-received, with Push Square and Checkpoint Gaming commending their intricate mechanics and stunning designs. The overall gameplay experience is described as polished and engaging, with a satisfying battle system that keeps players invested, as noted by RPG Fan and TierraGamer. However, not all feedback has been entirely positive. Some critics, like Vandal and RPG Site, pointed out that the gameplay structure can feel repetitive, particularly with quest designs that may lack innovation and involve tedious travel and dialogue. While the introduction of Duty Support and more complex mechanics has been appreciated, some reviewers, including Easy Allies and GameSkinny, expressed concerns about stagnation in main quest objectives and the overall challenge level of dungeons and trials, suggesting that while the visuals and designs are impressive, they may not always deliver on difficulty. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail offers a compelling gameplay experience that successfully builds upon its predecessors. The majority of reviewers, such as GAMINGbible and IGN France, highlighted the engaging nature of the new content, with the introduction of diverse job classes and challenging encounter designs contributing to an enjoyable experience. While some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and quest design persist, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception, indicating that players can expect a rich and satisfying gameplay experience in this expansion.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail dazzles with a stunning graphical overhaul, earning rave reviews for its crisp visuals, improved lighting, and detailed environments—especially in the culturally rich new region of Tural. While most critics celebrate these advances as a significant leap forward, some note lingering low-resolution textures on certain outfits and objects, suggesting room for future refinement. Overall, Dawntrail revitalizes the game's visual appeal, striking a balance between modern standards and the franchise's iconic style.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting a significant graphical overhaul that enhances the overall experience of the game. Reviewers from various platforms, including COGconnected and RPGamer, praised the crisp and smooth visuals, noting that the new regions, particularly Tural, are visually stunning and rich in detail. Critics like GamersRD and TheSixthAxis emphasized improvements in lighting effects, high-resolution textures, and environmental details, which have elevated the aesthetic quality of both new and existing areas. The incorporation of diverse cultural inspirations, particularly from South and Central America, has also been well-received, with But Why Tho? noting how these elements are seamlessly integrated into the game’s existing mythos, creating a visually immersive experience. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out areas where the graphics could still improve. Checkpoint Gaming mentioned that while many NPCs and player characters received graphical upgrades, certain outfits and objects still appeared low-resolution. Additionally, Easy Allies and Noisy Pixel noted that while the graphical overhaul brought the game closer to modern standards, there are still specific areas that require further attention to achieve consistency across the board. These minor criticisms suggest that while the updates are significant, they are not without their imperfections, indicating that the game still has room for refinement. In summary, the majority of critics agree that Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail represents a substantial leap forward in graphics and visual design, with the enhancements meeting or exceeding fan expectations after a decade of the game's evolution. Critics like RPG Fan and TechRadar Gaming highlighted the breathtaking improvements in lighting and textures, which contribute to a more immersive experience. Overall, the sentiment is that Dawntrail successfully revitalizes the visual aspects of the game, making it a noteworthy expansion that balances modern aesthetic standards with the beloved art style of the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail's sound design and music, crafted by Masayoshi Soken, have received rave reviews for their genre-blending diversity and immersive quality, enhancing the game's Mexican-inspired setting. Critics praise the epic battle themes and soothing exploration tracks, despite minor notes on some themes not matching previous expansions' heights and sporadic voice acting direction issues. Overall, the soundtrack is hailed as a standout feature, significantly enriching the gameplay experience and upholding the franchise's high standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the work of composer Masayoshi Soken. Reviewers from COGconnected and GamersRD highlighted the soundtrack's diversity, noting its ability to blend various genres, including classical, EDM, jazz, and big band styles, which effectively reflect the game's Mexican-inspired setting. Push Square emphasized the soundtrack's ability to enhance the overall gaming experience, with epic battle themes and soothing exploration tunes. Critics like TierraGamer and Vandal echoed this sentiment, commending the high quality and variety of themes that contribute to an immersive atmosphere, while Game Informer and GameSkinny noted how the music enhances specific gameplay elements, such as dungeons and boss fights. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out minor shortcomings. RPG Fan mentioned that while the music is consistently high quality, certain themes do not reach the heights of previous expansions, suggesting a slight dip in innovation compared to earlier works. Additionally, RPGamer noted that while the English voice acting is strong, it sometimes lacks direction in earlier scenes, which may detract from the overall sound experience. However, these critiques are relatively minor and do not overshadow the overall praise for the soundtrack. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail are exceptional and significantly enhance the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and Meristation, highlighted the memorable themes and dynamic tracks that complement various gameplay scenarios, particularly during combat. The collective sentiment is that Masayoshi Soken's work continues to uphold the high standards of the franchise, making the soundtrack a standout feature of the expansion. As such, Dawntrail is celebrated not just for its gameplay but also for its rich auditory experience, marking it as a notable entry in the Final Fantasy XIV series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail shines with solid technical performance on PS5 and PC, earning praise for stability and graphical improvements, especially during launch. However, PS5 users report some performance issues in balanced mode, and PC players might face FPS inconsistencies depending on hardware. Overall, while the game performs well, there are still areas needing refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail has garnered generally positive feedback across different gaming platforms. On the PS5, both COGconnected and Vandal highlight the game's stability, with COGconnected praising the smooth gameplay even during peak traffic times, such as launch day. This sentiment is echoed by Vandal, who, despite noting some performance issues in balanced mode, does not consider them a significant detractor from the overall experience. On the PC front, reviewers are largely impressed with the technical performance. Checkpoint Gaming notes that the servers managed the launch smoothly, aided by the addition of an Oceania server, while GameSkinny reports a seamless experience post-graphics update. IGN France also emphasizes the solid technical performance, highlighting improvements in the graphical engine that enhance the overall experience. However, there are some negatives to consider. On the PS5, Vandal's mention of performance issues in balanced mode suggests that not all players may experience the same level of stability as reported by COGconnected. For the PC, while most reviews are positive, Checkpoint Gaming points out potential FPS inconsistencies due to increased graphics demands, indicating that some players might face challenges depending on their hardware configurations. Additionally, while Gaming Age and RPG Site do not explicitly mention technical performance issues, the lack of detailed discussion implies that there may be areas for improvement that were not fully explored in their reviews. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail performs well technically across both PS5 and PC platforms, with a few caveats. The PS5 experiences a mix of commendations and minor criticisms, while the PC version is largely praised for its stability and graphical enhancements, despite some concerns about FPS fluctuations. Critics like COGconnected and IGN France highlight the game's successful launch and improvements, suggesting that the developers have made significant strides in optimizing the game. However, the noted issues on PS5 and potential inconsistencies on PC remind players that while the technical performance is strong, there are still areas that could benefit from further refinement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is being praised for its replay value, thanks to new classes like the Pictomancer and fresh dungeons, which keep players engaged. Critics note exciting gameplay and narrative depth that cater to varied playstyles. However, concerns linger about content variety and campaign pacing potentially limiting long-term engagement. Overall, Dawntrail shines with new features but faces hurdles that might affect its lasting appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is largely positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the introduction of new classes, such as the Pictomancer, and the addition of new dungeons and raids as significant enhancements that contribute to replayability. GamersRD notes that the expansion provides "new challenges, activities, and classes," which keeps players engaged beyond the main storyline. Similarly, Gaming Age emphasizes the potential for players to explore new content and strategies, while GAMINGbible points out that the engaging gameplay and narrative encourage players to delve into different aspects of the story and characters. These elements create a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to various playstyles, enhancing the overall replay value of the game. However, there are some concerns regarding the long-term replayability of Dawntrail. Easy Allies mentions that while there are new jobs and mechanics to explore, the lack of varied content in zones and quests may hinder players' desire to continue playing over time. RPG Site echoes this sentiment, suggesting that players who are already fatigued by the current formula might find little reason to stick around for extended periods. VGC also raises a valid point, indicating that the pacing and structure of the main campaign could deter players from replaying it, despite the promise shown in post-game content. These critiques suggest that while there are many appealing features, some players may encounter barriers that limit their engagement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail offers a compelling array of new features and content that enhance its replay value, particularly for those who enjoy exploring different classes and engaging with the narrative. Critics like GamersRD and IGN France highlight the significant replay potential stemming from new dungeons and jobs. However, concerns regarding content variety and the pacing of the main campaign, as noted by Easy Allies and VGC, suggest that while the expansion has much to offer, it may not fully satisfy all players in terms of long-term engagement. Overall, Dawntrail presents a promising expansion that could keep many players invested, but it also faces challenges that could affect its longevity in the gaming community.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and captivating story. Reviewers like COGconnected and Push Square highlight the expansion's narrative depth and the improvements in graphics, noting that it successfully expands the game's universe and provides a satisfying experience for fans. But Why Tho? emphasizes the narrative depth and world-building, while TierraGamer considers it a significant step forward for the series. The addition of new regions and gameplay mechanics is also a common point of appreciation, with many reviewers feeling that it lays a solid foundation for future content. However, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks that prevent the expansion from being universally acclaimed. Checkpoint Gaming and Easy Allies mention pacing issues and a lack of narrative depth that hinder the overall experience. Vandal describes the story as disappointing, despite acknowledging the innovative gameplay mechanics. Critics like Game Informer and RPG Site suggest that while the expansion is enjoyable, it does not reach the heights of its predecessors, indicating a sense of cautious optimism rather than unbridled enthusiasm. Siliconera also notes that the expansion starts off rough before finding its footing, which may frustrate some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is a solid expansion that successfully builds on the franchise's legacy, offering a mix of beautiful visuals and engaging gameplay. While there are criticisms regarding pacing and narrative depth, the overall reception is favorable, with many reviewers expressing excitement for the future of the game. Critics such as Gaming Age and GINX TV encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the expansion as a promising start to a new story arc, suggesting that despite its flaws, it is well worth the investment for fans of the series.

TL;DR

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail receives mostly positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and rich world-building, with critics praising its narrative depth and new mechanics. However, concerns about pacing and narrative shortcomings hold it back from universal acclaim. Despite these flaws, many see it as a promising start to a new story arc, making it a worthwhile investment for fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

63 reviews found

100

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jul 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dawntrail is an incredible expansion that balances a calmer narrative with challenging gameplay. While it may not be the pinnacle of the Final Fantasy XIV experience, it is a joy to explore and enjoy.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Jul 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dawntrail is another excellent expansion for Final Fantasy 14, offering engaging gameplay, a captivating story, stunning visuals, and a fantastic soundtrack. With new jobs, improved graphics, and diverse locations, it sets a high standard for the game's future.

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Noisy Pixel

Jul 9, 2024

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Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is praised for offering a refreshing new chapter with an engaging storyline, memorable characters, and enhanced gameplay mechanics, representing a significant step forward for the game.

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TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Aug 2, 2024

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Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is a significant step forward for the series, providing fresh scenarios, engaging gameplay, and a compelling story that justifies the subscription.

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TechRadar Gaming

Aug 2, 2024

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Dawntrail is a high-quality expansion that builds on the success of its predecessors, offering a fulfilling experience for players invested in the story.

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GINX TV

Aug 5, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is praised as an excellent expansion that balances new adventures with respect for the franchise's history, offering a rich narrative and challenging gameplay.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Jul 12, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is recommended for JRPG fans, offering a fantastic story-driven experience with engaging gameplay, impressive music, and improved visuals. Despite some minor drawbacks, it stands out as a great expansion to the MMO.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Aug 6, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Dawntrail may not reach the heights of previous expansions, but it lays a solid foundation for future content with fantastic gameplay, lovely graphics, and impressive music.

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Gaming Age

Jul 23, 2024

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The reviewer considers Dawntrail a phenomenal start to a new story arc, expressing excitement for future content and praising the expansion's offerings.

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GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Jul 11, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail expands on the game with a new region, engaging story, fun gameplay additions, and improved graphics. It delivers on expectations and offers a satisfying experience for fans of the series.

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