Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood

If you want an enthralling Final Fantasy story, with likable, beautifully depicted characters and interesting enemies, that will keep you hooked with a monumental crescendo driving like an unstoppable phantom train towards an explosive climax, Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood will provide exactly that, and then some.

Stormblood doesn't do much to shake up the general design Final Fantasy XIV has followed since its relaunch, but never before have its familiar elements worked quite so well. You'll find some boring sidequests, yes, but it makes up for that flaw with an unforgettable story filled with moving cutscenes and acting, great new primal fights and dungeons, two wonderful new combat classes, and new lands...

After playing the reborn Final Fantasy XIV for nearly three years, each expansion feels like a game of give and take. They’re very good, but tend to fall into the same routine as the base game. That’s not so much of an issue if that routine is a winning one.

The release of Stormblood only cements what some players have known for a very long time; Final Fantasy XIV is a phenomenal MMORPG. The structural changes to combat and PvP, as well as the two new classes, introduce plenty for both veterans and newcomers to sink their teeth into, while the emotionally charged central campaign is easily amongst the best the franchise has offered in years.

Stormblood tells an intriguing tale of resistance and rebellion, with well-defined characters, exciting dungeons, and awe-inspiring new classes, but leans just a bit too heavy on the grind.

The unique way Final Fantasy XIV forces players to play leads to interesting pay-offs with every expansion.