What Class Leads to Dark Knight? A Comprehensive Guide
The answer, surprisingly, is no specific class! In Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV), the Dark Knight is unlocked as a Job, not an advanced class. Unlike many other Jobs that evolve from specific classes (like a Marauder becoming a Warrior), the Dark Knight has its own independent unlock path.
Unlocking the Dark Knight: A Step-by-Step Guide
Instead of leveling a specific class, you must meet the following criteria to become a Dark Knight:
- Reach Level 50 with ANY combat class. This is the primary requirement. You can’t start the Dark Knight questline without having a level 50 character already.
- Complete the Main Story Quest (MSQ) “Before the Dawn”. This quest concludes the original A Realm Reborn storyline.
- Travel to Ishgard. This requires owning the Heavensward expansion (or having a game edition that includes it). Ishgard is located within the Coerthas Western Highlands.
- Find the “Ishgardian Citizen” NPC at The Pillars (X:13, Y:8). This NPC offers the quest “Our End,” which will unlock the Dark Knight Job.
- Accept and complete the “Our End” quest. Follow the questline, and you’ll officially become a Dark Knight! Your level will automatically be set to level 30, the starting level for Dark Knight.
Therefore, you could level a Gladiator, a Pugilist, a Conjurer, or any other combat class to 50 and still unlock Dark Knight. The starting class is irrelevant once you hit level 50 and unlock access to Ishgard through the Main Story Quest.
The Allure of the Dark Knight
The Dark Knight in FFXIV stands out as a Tank job, boasting powerful defensive capabilities and striking offensive potential. It’s a popular choice for players seeking a role that’s both impactful in combat and steeped in lore. The job’s identity revolves around a tragic past, wielding dark aether to protect others from the shadows. The Dark Knight’s unique gameplay mechanics and compelling storyline continue to draw players in. This design ethos, which incorporates sophisticated narrative elements to improve game mechanics, is precisely what the Games Learning Society promotes in the field of educational game design. You can learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dark Knight
What role does the Dark Knight play in FFXIV?
The Dark Knight is a Tank job. Its primary role is to protect party members by absorbing damage and maintaining enemy aggro.
Does the Dark Knight use MP or TP?
Dark Knights primarily use MP (Mana Points) for their abilities. Some abilities also utilize a resource called Blood Gauge.
What weapon does the Dark Knight use?
Dark Knights wield Greatswords.
What armor does the Dark Knight wear?
Dark Knights wear Tank armor, generally classified as Plate Armor.
Is the Dark Knight hard to play?
The Dark Knight has a moderately complex rotation and requires good resource management. It’s not the simplest tank to pick up, but with practice, it becomes very rewarding.
Does Dark Knight have any unique mechanics?
Yes. The Dark Knight uses Darkside, a buff that enhances damage output. Maintaining Darkside is crucial for optimal performance. They also manage a Blood Gauge, which is built up by using certain abilities and then spent on powerful attacks.
What are some essential Dark Knight skills?
Some key skills include:
- Grit: Tank Stance, increases enmity generation and reduces damage taken.
- Edge of Shadow/Flood of Shadow: High-damage attacks that consume MP.
- Bloodspiller: A powerful attack that consumes Blood Gauge.
- Living Dead: A potent mitigation tool that can be used in emergencies.
What stats should I prioritize on my Dark Knight gear?
Prioritize Strength as your main stat, followed by Vitality (which increases HP). Other useful secondary stats include Critical Hit, Direct Hit Rate, and Determination. Tenacity is a helpful stat for tanks, increasing damage dealt and reducing damage taken.
Where can I find the Dark Knight Job quests after unlocking it?
After “Our End,” the subsequent Dark Knight Job quests will appear in The Pillars in Ishgard. These quests provide vital skills and lore development.
Is Dark Knight a good choice for beginners?
While not the easiest Tank job, Dark Knight is certainly viable for beginners willing to put in the time to learn its mechanics. The story is compelling, and the playstyle is engaging.
Can I switch to Dark Knight anytime after unlocking it?
Yes! Once you’ve unlocked the Dark Knight job, you can switch to it at any time by equipping a Greatsword, provided you are not in a duty that restricts job changes.
How do I level up my Dark Knight efficiently?
Utilize the following methods to level up your Dark Knight quickly:
- Duty Roulette: Daily roulettes provide substantial experience bonuses.
- Palace of the Dead/Heaven-on-High: Deep Dungeons are efficient for leveling from 1-70.
- Dungeons: Running dungeons is a reliable way to gain experience.
- FATEs: Participating in Full Active Time Events (FATEs) in relevant zones.
- Challenge Log: Completing weekly challenges provides experience bonuses.
How does the Dark Knight compare to other tanks?
- Warrior: Known for its self-healing and raw damage output.
- Paladin: Offers strong party support and consistent mitigation.
- Gunbreaker: Fast-paced and aggressive, with a focus on burst damage.
Dark Knight sits somewhere in the middle, providing both strong damage and respectable mitigation. Each Tank job is viable, and the best choice depends on your play style and party composition.
What are some common mistakes new Dark Knights make?
- Forgetting to use Grit: Essential for maintaining enmity.
- Ignoring MP management: Running out of MP can cripple your damage output.
- Misusing Living Dead: Using Living Dead at the wrong time can result in death if you don’t receive sufficient healing.
- Not using mitigation: Neglecting mitigation tools like Rampart and Shadow Wall can lead to taking excessive damage.
What is the best way to learn the Dark Knight rotation?
Practice on training dummies and then run dungeons to get a feel for the job in a real-world setting. Watch videos of experienced Dark Knight players and read guides to learn advanced techniques.
Conclusion
Becoming a Dark Knight in FFXIV is an exciting journey that doesn’t require you to level a specific class initially. Reaching level 50 on any combat class, completing the required Main Story Quests, and venturing to Ishgard are the keys to unlocking this powerful Tank job. With its compelling lore, unique mechanics, and impactful role in party dynamics, the Dark Knight offers a rewarding and engaging experience for players seeking a challenge. So, gear up, embrace the darkness, and prepare to defend your allies!