Gearing Up for Glory: A Comprehensive Guide to Level 80 Gear in Final Fantasy XIV
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So, you’ve hit level 80 in Final Fantasy XIV and are ready to tackle the challenges of Shadowbringers? Congratulations! But now the real journey begins: gearing up to face the endgame content. Acquiring good gear is essential for completing the duties and trials the game throws at you, from dungeons to raids. Here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain level 80 gear, broken down into the most efficient and accessible methods.
The primary ways to get level 80 gear are:
- Mowen’s Merchant [Sundry Splendors]: Located in The Crystarium (X: 10.1, Y: 11.8)
- Aymark: Located in Eulmore (X: 10.2, Y: 11.8)
- Completing Role Quests: Advancing through the Main Scenario Quest will require completing a Role Questline which will grant one of the Cardinal Virtues’ broken Crystals. These crystals can then be taken to Grenoldt in The Tempest to earn gear.
- The Market Board: An excellent, albeit potentially expensive, option for quickly boosting your item level. Search for gear suitable for level 80.
- Allagan Tomestones: Completing duties of level 50 or higher will reward you with Allagan Tomestones, which can be exchanged for powerful level 80 gear at specific vendors.
- Crafted Gear: Level 80 crafted gear can offer a significant boost, especially if you invest in crafting yourself or purchase it from other players.
This is just the beginning, the game includes many more ways to earn great gear. Now, let’s get into details and answer some frequently asked questions to help you optimize your gearing process.
Diving Deeper: Level 80 Gear Acquisition Methods
Leveraging the Market Board
The Market Board is your one-stop shop for almost everything in Final Fantasy XIV, including gear. Look for equipment that has the stats you need for your class/job. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate wildly, so compare costs before making a purchase. Look for items crafted by players, as these will usually offer the most immediate upgrades.
Allagan Tomestones: Your Ticket to Power
Allagan Tomestones are earned by completing various duties, and they can be exchanged for high-quality gear. Once you reach level 80, the tomestones you want to focus on are those that are relevant to the current patch cycle. The vendors are usually located in the major cities.
Level 80 Artifact Gear
Level 80 artifact gear is acquired during the Main Scenario Questline by completing Role Quests. You’ll need to complete a Role Questline to obtain one of the Cardinal Virtues’ broken Crystals, which is then taken to Grenoldt in the Tempest.
Crafted Gear: A Viable Alternative
Skilled crafters can produce high-quality gear that rivals tomestone or raid equipment. If you have leveled crafting classes, you can make your own gear. If not, the Market Board is once again your friend.
Don’t Forget Dungeons!
While dungeons are a good source of gear, be aware that the items that drop are often weaker than other sources. This can still be a great source of experience as you’re still leveling.
FAQs: Level 80 Gear and Beyond
1. Where can I find Mowen’s Merchant to get Level 80 Gear?
Mowen’s Merchant [Sundry Splendors] is located in The Crystarium at coordinates (X: 10.1, Y: 11.8). They offer a variety of items, including some useful gear pieces.
2. Where is Aymark located?
Aymark can be found in Eulmore at coordinates (X: 10.2, Y: 11.8). Similar to Mowen’s Merchant, Aymark sells various goods.
3. How do I obtain Level 80 Artifact Gear?
As mentioned before, you can acquire Level 80 Artifact Gear by completing a Role Questline, which grants you one of the Cardinal Virtues’ broken Crystals. Take the crystal to Grenoldt in The Tempest.
4. How can I quickly increase my gear level in FFXIV?
The fastest methods are purchasing gear from the Market Board and exchanging Allagan Tomestones for equipment.
5. What’s the highest item level gear currently available in FFXIV?
The highest item level gear comes from Pandaemonium Abyssos (Savage), offering gear with item levels of 630/635. This gear represents the pinnacle of equipment.
6. How do I unlock Level 90 gear in FFXIV?
Once you complete the Level 89 Main Scenario Quest “A Bold Decision,” you can find the NPC named Varsarudh in Old Sharlayan (X: 11.8, Y: 9.9). Varsarudh will provide you with Level 90 Artifact Gear and a Weapon for free.
7. What level do I need to be to unlock Endwalker Artifact Armor?
You need to be at level 89 with a Job level of 89 for at least one job to unlock and use the Endwalker Artifact Armor.
8. At what level can I unlock the Dragoon job?
To become a Dragoon, you must have a level 30 Lancer and a level 15 Marauder.
9. How important is item level (ilvl) in FFXIV?
Ilvl becomes crucial during endgame content. While leveling, ensuring your gear is up-to-date for your level is sufficient, but at endgame, ilvl significantly impacts your performance.
10. How can I acquire Level 50 gear in FFXIV?
To get the highest level 50 gear, obtain the individual armor pieces listed in the Item Level 120 – “Ironworks” section, then buy specific items to upgrade each piece. You can then take the Ironworks gear and upgrade items to Drake in the North Shroud.
11. What are some tips for leveling up quickly in FFXIV?
Utilize EXP buffs from food, log out in a Sanctuary, prioritize Story Quests, always complete class and job quests, participate in daily roulettes, and engage in Guildhests, Hunting/Challenge logs, and FATEs. Leveling efficiency is key to unlocking higher-level content.
12. How important is gear during the main story?
During the story, gear is naturally provided through the MSQ. Focus on accessories, as they are often obtained through side quests and dungeons.
13. How can I obtain job gear in Shadowbringers?
Hit level cap, complete one of the role quest series, and advance the MSQ until you reach the quest called “The Light of Inspiration.” The necessary quests will be completed in the Tempest.
14. Does item level affect DPS (Damage Per Second)?
Yes, item level impacts DPS. However, skill and boss mechanics also play a significant role. Simulating your character on websites can provide accurate DPS expectations for your current ilvl.
15. Is it worthwhile to level crafting classes in FFXIV?
Yes, leveling crafting is highly worthwhile. It allows you to craft gear and items yourself, saving gil on the Market Board, and also provides opportunities to make gil by selling crafted items. As the gaming landscape evolves, it’s fascinating to see how elements of role-playing and skill development, much like crafting in FFXIV, find applications in real-world learning and skill acquisition. To explore the intersection of gaming and learning, visit Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining level 80 gear in Final Fantasy XIV is a multi-faceted process. By utilizing a combination of the Market Board, Allagan Tomestones, crafted gear, dungeons, and the MSQ, you can quickly equip yourself to tackle the challenges that await. Remember that this is just one of many MMOs to experience. Good luck, and may your gear rolls be ever in your favor!