Final Fantasy XIV Official Site Updated Pt. 2

I thought I'd take this opportunity to post the other half of Thursday's promised topic, the news on the official FFXIV site.

The Disciplines of War were released, their names at least, five of them. Of these five, two were given descriptions, Archer and Lancer. Archer is a class we had seen coming since it was one of the characters available at the Gamescom alpha. Lancer, however, is a bit of a surprise although polearm enthusiasts (*cough Elebreth *cough*) have known it was coming since day one. Its most interesting feature is that the description lets Lancers thrust at things from great range and throw javelins at their target. Perhaps each class will be able to exploit this main/thrown weapon dichotomy?

The other significant update is an ostensible codex with a few mob names and pictures. From these a couple have full descriptions. They not only suggest natural behavioral patterns, they also foreshadow mob gameplay elements. I can visualize walking out from an Aetheryte outpost and spotting a group of antelope frolicking on the plain. Then, I have to be careful when the male wanders by me in case he wants to protect his herd from an intruder. If he attacks I might have to fend off the whole party of antelope. Otherwise, if I ambush a straggler in the herd, I may either have to pull it far away to prevent a party battle, or deal with a party of angry antelope regardless.

The release of possible drops from each new mob family they've released: Antelope, Aldgoat, Raptor; makes them doubly aware of how crucial it is to sell their idea of crafting-as-equal-weight gameplay option. Plus, to wonder what kinds of uses the Aldgoat horns may be put to makes me want to experiment with them right away. Beta, where are you?

The concept of Raptors doubling up on their prey is also exciting. I was wondering to what degree party v. party battles would become repetitious now that mobs could come in parties. The "flavor text" on the Raptors show that mob groups will not all be the same. In a battle, you might have to fight two Raptors back to back or have a second Raptor proc at random during an existing Raptor fight. The possibilities are endless.

If you haven't looked over at the new page, go ahead and do so now. Some of the other major fan sites have Japanese press news and other tidbits you should check out. Knock yourself out, then, on this month's trickle of information. ^^

~~~Reyathua