Reinstalling Final Fantasy XIV on Steam: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’re looking to reinstall Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) on Steam? Maybe your game files got corrupted, you’re upgrading to a new drive, or you just want a fresh start. No problem! The process is quite straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Uninstall FFXIV through Steam: Open your Steam Library, locate Final Fantasy XIV Online in your game list, right-click on it, and select “Manage” > “Uninstall.” Follow the prompts to completely remove the game files from your system. This ensures a clean slate for the reinstall.
- Verify Steam Game Files (Optional but Recommended): This step helps identify any lingering corrupted files that might interfere with the reinstall. Right-click on Final Fantasy XIV Online in your Steam Library (after uninstalling, it will show as uninstalled), select “Properties,” navigate to the “Local Files” tab, and click “Verify integrity of game files…” Steam will scan your system for any remnants and attempt to remove them.
- Reinstall FFXIV: Back in your Steam Library, find Final Fantasy XIV Online. It should now display an “Install” button. Click it.
- Choose Installation Location: Steam will prompt you to select a drive and location for the installation. Choose your preferred location, ensuring you have enough free disk space. FFXIV requires a significant amount of space, so be sure to check the system requirements on the Steam page.
- Begin Installation: Once you’ve chosen the location, click “Install.” Steam will download the necessary files. This process can take a considerable amount of time depending on your internet connection speed.
- Launch and Update: After the download is complete, click “Play” in Steam. The FFXIV Launcher will appear. The launcher will then proceed to update the game client to the latest version. This update can also take a significant amount of time.
- Login and Play: Once the update is complete, enter your Square Enix account credentials to log in and start playing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Reinstalling FFXIV on Steam
Do I need to repurchase FFXIV if I reinstall it on Steam?
No. As long as you are using the same Steam account that you originally purchased FFXIV on, you do not need to repurchase the game. Your license is tied to your Steam account.
Will I lose my character progress if I reinstall FFXIV?
No, you will not lose your character progress. Character data is stored on Square Enix’s servers, not locally on your computer. Your character, items, and game progress are safe and will be available when you log back in.
What if Steam says FFXIV is still installed even after I uninstalled it?
Sometimes Steam can be a little quirky. Restarting Steam often resolves this issue. If that doesn’t work, try manually deleting the Final Fantasy XIV folder from your Steam directory (usually located in C:Program Files (x86)Steamsteamappscommon). Then, try uninstalling again through Steam.
How much disk space does FFXIV require?
FFXIV requires a substantial amount of disk space. As of late 2024, you should allocate at least 80 GB of free space for the base game and its expansions. It’s always best to have a little extra room to account for future updates.
Can I install FFXIV on an external hard drive?
Yes, you can install FFXIV on an external hard drive, but it is highly recommended that you use an SSD for faster loading times. Using a slower external drive can significantly impact your gaming experience. Make sure the external drive is properly connected and has sufficient power.
How long does it take to reinstall FFXIV?
The reinstallation time depends on your internet connection speed and the speed of your storage device (HDD vs. SSD). Downloading the game files can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, while updating the game can take another few hours.
Can I pause and resume the download during the reinstallation process?
Yes, you can pause and resume the download at any time through Steam. Steam remembers your progress and will pick up where you left off.
What if I encounter errors during the download or installation?
If you encounter errors, first verify the integrity of your Steam game files. If that doesn’t work, try clearing your Steam download cache (Steam Settings > Downloads > Clear Download Cache). You can also try temporarily disabling your antivirus software as it might be interfering with the installation. As a last resort, completely restarting your computer can often resolve obscure issues.
I forgot my Square Enix account credentials. What do I do?
If you’ve forgotten your Square Enix account credentials, you’ll need to visit the Square Enix account management website and follow the instructions for password recovery. You will need access to the email address associated with your account.
Does reinstalling FFXIV affect my Steam achievements?
No, reinstalling FFXIV will not affect your Steam achievements. Achievements are tied to your Steam account and are stored on Steam’s servers.
Why is the FFXIV launcher taking so long to update?
The FFXIV launcher updates can be large and can be affected by server load. Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Try pausing and resuming the update within the launcher. If the problem persists, try restarting your computer.
Can I use my existing game settings after reinstalling FFXIV?
Generally, yes, your game settings should be preserved. FFXIV stores many settings on Square Enix’s servers. However, some settings that are stored locally might be lost. You can also back up your DocumentsMy GamesFINAL FANTASY XIV folder before reinstalling to ensure you have a copy of your local settings.
Is it possible to install FFXIV through Steam and play it without using Steam in the future?
While FFXIV is initially launched through Steam to authenticate the license, some players explore ways to bypass Steam for subsequent launches. However, this can be risky and might violate the game’s terms of service. It’s generally recommended to launch the game through Steam for proper authentication and updates.
What are the minimum system requirements for FFXIV?
The minimum system requirements for FFXIV are constantly being updated. It is best to check the official FFXIV website or Steam store page for the most up-to-date information. Make sure your computer meets these requirements to ensure a smooth gaming experience.
Where can I go for more information and community support about FFXIV?
There are numerous online resources for FFXIV players, including the official FFXIV forums, community websites, and Discord servers. You can also find helpful guides and tutorials on GamesLearningSociety.org to further enhance your gaming experience and explore the educational aspects of online games. The Games Learning Society is a valuable resource for understanding the learning potential within games like FFXIV.
We hope this guide helps you reinstall FFXIV on Steam without any issues. Happy gaming!