Final Fantasy 14’s Launch on Switch 2 Exceeds Expectations Overall

Warriors of Light can now embark on their adventures in Eorzea with the launch of Final Fantasy 14 on the Nintendo Switch 2. Released on August 4, players are generally reporting a smooth experience on the hybrid console.

This release kicks off a one-month early access period for Final Fantasy 14 on Switch 2, allowing players to dive into the full MMORPG experience without the usual subscription fee. Whether you’re a newcomer or a veteran, you can enjoy the game for free during this initial phase.

However, there’s a catch. Once the early access period concludes, a subscription will be necessary, and the Switch 2 version comes with its own unique subscription requirement, even for those who already have an active subscription on other platforms.

To ease the financial burden, Square Enix is offering a discounted subscription rate for existing players. Additionally, you won’t need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to access the game. For those interested in the complete experience, the full edition of Final Fantasy 14, which includes all expansions, is currently available at a 30% discount. If you’re just curious, you can start with a free trial, but keep in mind that once you purchase the game, you’ll need to create a new account to use the trial again.

Despite some initial hurdles, players are finding that the game runs impressively well on the Switch 2. Many have tested the console’s limits by heading to Limsa Lominsa Aetheryte Plaza, one of the busiest spots in the game, and have been pleased with the performance in handheld mode. Concerns about performance prior to launch have largely been alleviated, with many players expressing their surprise at how well the game runs.

That said, the launch hasn’t been entirely smooth. Some players are experiencing long download times, with the game’s hefty 117 GB size leading to waits of over a dozen hours in some cases. This could be due to individual network issues rather than a problem with the platform itself. The most significant challenge seems to be getting the game to work with existing accounts, with several players seeking help on forums to navigate the setup process on Switch 2. These issues are likely just growing pains as the game transitions to a new platform, and hopefully, they will be resolved soon.

Overall, the feedback for the Switch 2 launch has been overwhelmingly positive. It provides a great opportunity for those who have yet to experience this beloved MMO to see what all the excitement is about, especially with the Evercold expansion set to release in January.

Producer Naoki Yoshida has mentioned that the team is exploring ways to streamline the lengthy story for players.