Does the Class Matter in FFXIV Retainers? A Deep Dive
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The short answer? Yes, the class of your retainer does matter in Final Fantasy XIV, but perhaps not in the way you initially think. While the game mechanics treat all Disciples of War (DoW) and Disciples of Magic (DoM) retainers similarly regarding gear and item level (iLvl), the class you choose directly impacts the ventures they can undertake and the items they can bring back. Choosing the right class for your retainer is crucial for maximizing their usefulness and potential profit.
Understanding Retainer Classes and Their Purpose
Your retainers are essentially your personal assistants, capable of venturing out into the world to gather materials, bring back valuable items, and even hunt down rare gear. You can assign a retainer to any Disciples of War, Disciples of Magic, or Gathering Classes. The class you pick determines the type of ventures they can embark on and, consequently, the items they can potentially acquire.
Battle Retainers (DoW/DoM)
Battle retainers, assigned to a combat class, excel at bringing back items obtainable through combat. This includes:
- Equipment: Outdated gear from dungeons and trials, which can be used for glamour or sold to vendors.
- Materials: Crafting materials dropped by monsters, such as hides, fangs, and scales.
- Minions: Rare and sought-after minions, particularly from exploration ventures.
The key to maximizing your battle retainer’s effectiveness is equipping them with gear relevant to their level and the iLvl required for specific ventures. While the initial article mentions that your main class doesn’t matter for DoW/DoM retainers, it’s often easiest to gear them with your cast-offs.
Gathering Retainers (DoL)
Gathering retainers, specifically Miners, Botanists, and Fishers, are focused on collecting raw materials from the world.
- Miners: Gather ores, crystals, and stone used in crafting.
- Botanists: Gather plants, logs, and fibers used in crafting.
- Fishers: Gather fish and other aquatic items used in crafting and cooking.
The value of a gathering retainer lies in their ability to acquire materials you might otherwise have to spend time gathering yourself. The level of your gathering retainer, combined with their Gathering and Perception stats, determines the quality and quantity of items they can obtain.
The Importance of Item Level and Stats
While class dictates the type of items a retainer can acquire, iLvl dictates the tier of ventures they can undertake, directly impacting the rarity and value of items they can potentially bring back. For battle retainers, iLvl is the primary driver.
For gathering retainers, Gathering and Perception are paramount. Gathering determines which items they can access, while Perception influences the quantity of those items. Grand Company seals are crucial for increasing your retainers gathering and perception stats. GP, however, is irrelevant for retainers.
Choosing the Right Class for Your Retainer
So, how do you choose the best class for your retainer? Consider these factors:
- Your Own Crafting Needs: Do you need a steady supply of crafting materials? A Miner or Botanist retainer might be ideal.
- Market Demand: Research what items are selling well on your server. This can inform your choice of gathering class.
- Personal Preference: If you enjoy a particular combat class, assigning it to a retainer allows you to gear them with your hand-me-downs easily.
- Minion Hunting: If you’re after rare minions, a battle retainer on exploration ventures is your best bet.
Leveling Your Retainers Efficiently
Leveling your retainers is crucial for unlocking higher-level ventures and accessing better items. Here’s how to level efficiently:
- Appropriate Gear: Equip your retainer with the best gear possible for their level and class.
- Ventures: Send them on ventures regularly, prioritizing those that offer experience points.
- Quick Ventures: Use Quick Ventures as a supplement to regular ventures for additional experience. Note: Gear does not affect the experience of Quick Ventures, but may impact the items brought back
FAQs: Retainers in FFXIV
1. Can I change my retainer’s class?
Yes, you can change your retainer’s class at any time by speaking to the retainer vocate in any of the three main cities.
2. Does my character’s level affect my retainer’s level?
No, your character’s level does not directly impact your retainer’s level. Retainers level independently through ventures.
3. How many retainers can I hire?
Your base subscription allows you to hire two retainers. You can purchase additional retainers for a maximum of nine.
4. What are ventures?
Ventures are tasks you send your retainers on to gather items or gain experience. There are different types of ventures, including gathering ventures, hunting ventures, and exploration ventures.
5. What is the best way to gear my retainer?
The easiest way is often to use your outdated gear. Alternatively, you can purchase gear from vendors or craft it yourself.
6. Do retainers need to be fed?
No, retainers do not require food or any form of maintenance beyond gear and venture selection.
7. Can retainers learn skills?
No, retainers do not learn skills in the same way players do. Their abilities are determined by their class and level.
8. What is the difference between gathering and perception for gathering retainers?
Gathering determines which items your retainer can collect, while Perception affects the quantity they bring back.
9. Are retainers worth the investment?
Yes, retainers are a valuable asset in FFXIV. They can provide a steady income of crafting materials, rare items, and even minions.
10. Can my retainer learn Dancer or Gunbreaker if I have those jobs?
Yes, you can assign Dancer and Gunbreaker to retainers. Your retainer needs to reach the required level for that job on a basic class before it can be given it.
11. Do retainers have a fatigue system?
No, retainers do not have a fatigue system. You can send them on ventures as often as you like.
12. What are Quick Ventures and how do they work?
Quick Ventures are short ventures that offer a chance to obtain random items. They are not affected by your retainer’s gear level in terms of experience gain.
13. Can my retainer access areas I haven’t unlocked yet?
No, your retainer is limited to accessing areas you have personally unlocked on your character.
14. What are exploration ventures and why are they useful?
Exploration ventures allow your retainer to explore a specific region and bring back a variety of items, including minions, equipment, and crafting materials.
15. Is there a resource for learning more about game-based learning?
Yes! To learn more about how gaming principles can improve learning and engagement, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion: Retainers as Valuable Assets
Choosing the right class for your retainer in Final Fantasy XIV is a strategic decision that can significantly impact your gameplay experience. By understanding the strengths of each class and optimizing their gear and ventures, you can transform your retainers into valuable assets that contribute to your crafting, economy, and overall enjoyment of the game. Remember that profit depends heavily on your server’s economy and the specific needs of the player base. Happy venturing!