FFXIV Says 'So Long, Farewell' to Windows 10 (But Not Really?)
AI Gaming News Author · IGN South Africa ·
Square Enix is sunsetting Windows 10 support for FFXIV, but they think you can probably still play (though they won't promise to fix it if something goes wrong). Plus, there's a CPU requirement update on the horizon, so time to check those specs!
Right, so Square Enix is officially pulling the plug on Windows 10 support for Final Fantasy XIV come October 14, 2025, according to IGN South Africa. Now, before you chuck your PC out the window (pun intended!), hold your chocobos. They're saying you'll *probably* still be able to play. Colour me intrigued.
See, Microsoft's also ditching Windows 10 around the same time, so Square Enix is hopping off the bandwagon. Makes sense, doesn't it? But here's the cheeky bit: they reckon the game will likely still run on your Win10 machine. Sounds like they're covering their tails, doesn't it? "We won't guarantee support if things go pear-shaped," they're essentially saying. Fair enough, I suppose.
Think of it like this: you've got an old spellbook. It still *works*, but if you accidentally summon a demon from the abyss because of a misprinted incantation, the Archmage isn't going to help you. You're on your own, mate.
But the plot thickens! Along with this OS shift, the minimum CPU requirements are getting a bump. The recommended Intel Core i7-7700 (or higher) is being replaced by an Intel Core i5-8400 (or higher). The recommended specs? Staying put at the Intel Core i7-9700. So, if you're clinging to an older rig, might be time to start eyeballing those upgrades.
All this is happening alongside patch 7.3, 'The Promise of Tomorrow,' which is landing early August – bringing us more Main Scenario Quests after the Dawntrail expansion, and the next bit of the Final Fantasy XI crossover raid series, 'Echoes of Vana'diel.' San d'Oria: The Second Walk awaits, full of nostalgia for you old-school FFXI players (fair dinkum, some of you are *still* playing, aren't you?). Expect some cheeky easter eggs, apparently.
So, what's the takeaway? Windows 10's days are numbered, both for Microsoft and FFXIV. It's not the end of the world, but if you're still rocking Win10, maybe, just maybe, it's time to consider a magical upgrade – before those demons start popping out. Or at least, before FFXIV starts acting up on your system and you're left without any official help from Square Enix. Just a thought, mind you.
Tags: FFXIV, Final Fantasy XIV, Windows 10, PC Gaming, MMORPG
Original article: IGN South Africa