Farewell Endwalker: Final Fantasy 14 Players Celebrate the Transition to Dawntrail

Earlier today, on June 26, Final Fantasy 14 went offline for Dawntrail maintenance, effectively locking out players until the new expansion launches in early access later this week on June 28. This downtime means that none of the MMO’s millions of players around the world can currently access the game. As a result, many are using this opportunity to bid a heartfelt farewell to Endwalker, a run of content that began when the previous expansion launched in late 2021.

The Endwalker expansion has been a significant journey for Final Fantasy 14 players, filled with memorable moments, challenging content, and a deep storyline that has captivated the community. As the servers went offline, players congregated in various in-game locations to capture the spirit of this momentous occasion through group photos. These photos are more than just screenshots; they are a celebration of the friendships, adventures, and memories forged over the past few years.

Scrolling through social media, you can find countless examples of players gathering for these massive group photos, all shouting “Goodbye Endwalker” in unison. The camaraderie and shared experiences are palpable in these images. It’s clear that Free Companies, the game’s version of guilds, have come together en masse to commemorate this transition and celebrate both the end of Endwalker and the dawn of a new era with the upcoming Dawntrail expansion.

One of the most striking aspects of these farewells is the sheer scale of participation. Players from around the globe are sharing their screenshots and stories, highlighting the game’s international appeal and the strong bonds within its community. On Twitter, the hashtag #GoodbyeEndwalker is trending, with players posting their favorite moments and expressing their gratitude for the experiences they’ve had.

For instance, one player tweeted, “Goodbye Endwalker. You gave me some of the most memorable events out there with my friends. I’m eternally grateful for the journey . Looking forward to the new adventure! o/ #endwalker #dawntrail #FFXIV.” This sentiment echoes throughout the community, as players look back fondly on their time in Endwalker while eagerly anticipating what Dawntrail has in store.

In addition to the virtual gatherings, there are also many posts on the Final Fantasy 14-dedicated subreddit, where individual players are sharing their farewell screenshots. Unlike the large group photos seen on Twitter, these posts often focus on more personal moments, highlighting the unique and diverse ways players have experienced the game. Whether it’s a lone warrior standing at the edge of a cliff or a small party of friends gathered in a favorite in-game location, these images capture the personal connections players have formed with the game and each other.

The sense of community extends beyond the game itself, as even cosplayers are coming together to celebrate the conclusion of Endwalker’s lengthy run. One particularly memorable photo features a group of cosplayers, including a standout Emet-Selch cosplayer who adds a touch of humor by flipping off the camera. These real-life gatherings further illustrate the deep impact Final Fantasy 14 has had on its players, bringing people together both online and offline.

As the countdown to Dawntrail’s launch continues, players are eagerly anticipating the new adventures, stories, and challenges that await. Final Fantasy 14’s maintenance is expected to conclude around 2 am PT/5 am ET/10 am BST, if all goes according to plan. However, Square Enix has cautioned that there could be delays based on how the next 36 hours unfold on the development side, so players are advised to keep an eye on Final Fantasy 14’s social channels for updates.

This transition period is more than just a technical necessity; it’s a moment of reflection and anticipation. Endwalker has left an indelible mark on the community, offering a wealth of content that has pushed the boundaries of what an MMO can achieve. From epic battles and intricate quests to heartwarming moments and unexpected friendships, Endwalker has been a journey that many will remember for years to come.

As players bid farewell to Endwalker, they do so with a sense of excitement for the future. Dawntrail promises to bring fresh adventures and new horizons, continuing the legacy of excellence that Final Fantasy 14 is known for. This sense of continuity, combined with the ever-evolving nature of the game, ensures that the community remains engaged and enthusiastic about what’s to come.

In conclusion, the farewell to Endwalker is a testament to the enduring appeal and impact of Final Fantasy 14. It’s a celebration of a shared journey, a tribute to the experiences and friendships formed, and a hopeful look towards the future. As players gather for group photos, share their stories, and prepare for the new expansion, they embody the spirit of camaraderie and adventure that defines this remarkable MMO. Goodbye, Endwalker, and hello, Dawntrail – the next chapter awaits.