Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward (2015)
Game Description:
Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward, released in 2015, is the first expansion for Final Fantasy XIV Online. It follows the Warriors of Light as they venture to the city-state of Ishgard, embroiled in a thousand-year war with the Dravanian Horde. As tensions rise, players must navigate political intrigue and uncover ancient secrets hidden within Ishgard's bloody past. The expansion introduces new areas, including the floating continent of Azys Lla, and new playable jobs such as Dark Knight, Astrologian, and Machinist. With the fate of Ishgard hanging in the balance, the Warriors of Light must strive to end the Dragonsong War and dispel the shadows threatening to engulf the realm.
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What Parents Should Know About Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward
Age Rating
Release Date
2015
ESRB Age Rating Summary:
FINAL FANTASY XIV: Heavensward is rated T for Teen by the ESRB with Blood, Language, Sexual Themes, Use of Alcohol, and Violence. This is a role-playing game in which players assume the role of an adventurer exploring a fantastical world. Players travel through various lands, interact with characters, and engage in battle against humans and fantasy creatures (e.g., demons, skeletons). Players use swords, spears, and magic spells to kill several opponents. Combat can be frenetic at times, accompanied by clashing sounds and brief yells. Cutscenes also depict instances of violence: an extended off-screen sequence in which a character is stabbed; a character losing an arm off-screen in a swordfight; a character impaled by a magical bolt. Blood is depicted in a handful of cutscenes in which characters are injured; bloodstains also appear on the ground in a handful of levels. The game includes some suggestive/sexual material: female characters dressed in revealing outfits; camera angles that pan suggestively on bodies; dialogue that states “[s]tay clear from them two. Gave me the crotch rot, they did!” Players occasionally encounter characters who consume alcohol (e.g., “Jussone more cup, littlemann! Hic!”). The word “sh*te” appears in dialogue.
Content Warnings:
Blood, Language, Sexual Themes, Use of Alcohol, Violence
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Parental Notes
While many parents praise the gameplay experience, they caution that Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward contains mild profanity, including words like “sh*te.” The violence is moderate, with battles against humans and fantasy creatures using swords and magic, accompanied by clashing sounds and brief yells. Some cutscenes depict off-screen violence, such as stabbings and a character losing an arm. Blood is shown in a few scenes and on the ground. The game includes suggestive content, with female characters in revealing outfits and suggestive camera angles. Alcohol use is present, with characters depicted as intoxicated. Many parents recommend it for teens 13 and older due to these mature themes.
Why Your Kid Might Like Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward
Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward, rated T for Teen, offers an immersive experience that many teens enjoy. The expansion's rich storyline, filled with political intrigue and ancient secrets, keeps players engaged as they explore the city-state of Ishgard. The game's detailed world-building and complex narrative provide a sense of adventure and discovery, appealing to those who appreciate a well-crafted fantasy setting. The introduction of new areas like the floating continent of Azys Lla adds to the excitement, offering fresh environments to explore and conquer.
Teens also appreciate the new playable jobs such as Dark Knight, Astrologian, and Machinist, which allow for diverse gameplay styles and strategies. The cooperative multiplayer aspect encourages teamwork and social interaction, making it a great way for friends to connect online. The challenge of ending the Dragonsong War and the strategic depth required to succeed in battles provide a satisfying sense of accomplishment. Overall, Heavensward's combination of engaging storylines, new content, and social elements make it a popular choice among teen gamers.