Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers

 PC
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 1547 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,419 out of 1547
  2. Mixed: 26 out of 1547
  3. Negative: 102 out of 1547

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  1. raigon25
    Jul 13, 2019
    10
    What a phenomenal journey how can they top this! the story, the music the gameplay is maddening that this is an expansion! and it well worth the money i'd throw hundreds at it I could.
  2. houjo2000
    Jun 28, 2021
    10
    The story continues and builds on one started almost a decade ago, and it is amazing. Fantastic game with so much care put into it, beautiful for its age, god tier music, the most chill and friendly community I've ever seen.

    This is the best mmo of all time, and this is their best xpac yet. Can't wait to see the conclusion of the story arc that started with 1.0 to end in Endwalker, and    The story continues and builds on one started almost a decade ago, and it is amazing. Fantastic game with so much care put into it, beautiful for its age, god tier music, the most chill and friendly community I've ever seen.

    This is the best mmo of all time, and this is their best xpac yet. Can't wait to see the conclusion of the story arc that started with 1.0 to end in Endwalker, and definitely can't wait to see what the next arc will be.    … Expand
  3. ReviewerX103
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Played this expansion's story from start to finish.

    One of if not the best story I have played in my 14yrs of playing mmos. So many plot twist, raw emotions, and just masterful writing in part of the story writers. Tons of voiced cut scenes. You even begin to question yourself if the main villains are actually bad and second guess if what you are doing is even right in the first place.    Played this expansion's story from start to finish.

    One of if not the best story I have played in my 14yrs of playing mmos. So many plot twist, raw emotions, and just masterful writing in part of the story writers. Tons of voiced cut scenes. You even begin to question yourself if the main villains are actually bad and second guess if what you are doing is even right in the first place. This expansion ties the game into all the expansions before it filling in many of the small questions hinted in the dialog and cut scenes of A Ream Reborn, Heavensward, and Storm Blood.

    The sound track for this expansion is stellar, with the exception of the open world battle music in my opinion had to turn that off in the settings. But everything else just fits so well. I found myself literally just listening to the field music in several of the zones and the final battle zone for 30+mins while I did stuff around the house the other day.

    World design they take us to another shard, parallel universe, where the world developed completely differently. You can tell where you are in game but it is done where they really did not borrow any assets from the old Eorzea world. It is masterfully done. Some parts of the world even change as you progress through the story.

    Negative parts of this expansion are somewhat hard to find, it is very polished but here are a few in my opinion.

    You have to do everything else before it or pay to skip to this. So as a new player you have 50ish hours of work to get to this expansion, or drop money in the cashshop. (You will be sorta lost in the story if you do though.)

    There are points where you need to level up outside progressing the story. While not bad with what the game give you it sucked to have to take a 1-2hr breaks right as you are getting into the story to continue it. This is standard for a mmo though.

    The server issues on certain worlds, while no where near as bad ARR,HW, and Stormblood. Disconnects and ques are up drastically. To note this is common in any major mmo and always resolves itself as the expansion launch gets farther away. This basically means a lot of ppl are playing.

    Extremely long ques for tanks and dps classes due to shortage of healers. Without the launch of a new healer job this expansion there is an extreme imbalance of jobs in the instance que system. You can expect up to 30min waits as tank and dps. Healers insta get into groups for literally everything.

    Overall this is one of the single best expansions ever released in any mmo period. I highly suggest purchasing it even if only to play through the story it is that good.    … Expand
  4. SpudCommando
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    This is the most Final Fantasy game in almost a decade. The story, the cast, the music, it rivals or even exceeds that of single player JRPGs. Square Enix has done a great job on producing this title. Just over a decade ago, FFXIV was a massive failure. But they since then made an amazing comeback to bring Shadowbringers today.
  5. Devilish
    Jul 11, 2019
    10
    This will be the best MMORPG expansion you'll ever played. Story is top notch and Music is so so good.
  6. Gamer4life1985
    Jul 13, 2019
    10
    I will say I am a huge FF fan and have played every single game plus many more RPGs in my lifetime so far and Shadowbringers is arguably one of the best ever created. This story has been a massive build up for 9 years, including when it 1.0 was rough; and with each expansion SE continues to out do themselves and have created an absolute masterpiece. The bad guy is charismatic,I will say I am a huge FF fan and have played every single game plus many more RPGs in my lifetime so far and Shadowbringers is arguably one of the best ever created. This story has been a massive build up for 9 years, including when it 1.0 was rough; and with each expansion SE continues to out do themselves and have created an absolute masterpiece. The bad guy is charismatic, intriguing, and relatable; in other words human and you truly understand his motivations by the ending dungeon and trial. The rest of the story is heartbreaking, emotional, cheerful, and all those emotions that we crave from an excellent story.

    SE was a masterpiece you have created and I truly hope you are paying attention to all this praise. You guys have been doing wonderful the last couple of years and continue to be that with your future releases. Continue the great work. Can't wait for the Nier raid in 14 and the future content of this game especially.    … Expand
  7. Lonegunspy
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    Having played FFXIV since ver 1.0, I’ve seen the game change and grow over the years. It’s been a joy too see the game become something that was nothing but a instrument of frustration to the truly great game it is today

    Ver 1.0 was a mess, and I was ready to abandon this game. Having come from other MMOs I was not impressed to say the least, but when Yoshida came onboard and made his    Having played FFXIV since ver 1.0, I’ve seen the game change and grow over the years. It’s been a joy too see the game become something that was nothing but a instrument of frustration to the truly great game it is today

    Ver 1.0 was a mess, and I was ready to abandon this game. Having come from other MMOs I was not impressed to say the least, but when Yoshida came onboard and made his promises to the players, I was doubtful anything would happen, but it did intrigue me.
    What he did to make good on those promises, and weaving the disaster of the original game into the lore of the Calamity event (fitting name) was masterful. By the end of its lifecycle ver 1.0 was playable and enjoyable a miracle when given what he had to work with.

    After the servers went down, launching ARR after the long wait was like a breath of fresh air, ARR had pacing issues and such but compared to 1.0, it was amazing, and set the firmament for what was to come. The after story for ARR was painful, you could see Square was struggling with what to do now, since it was apparent pre ARR release they didn’t think the redux was actually going to pay off. As the months went on I played on, it was like any MMO I understood, Fuller grinds and such. I wasn’t terribly impressed, but I saw nothing different so played XIV as well as some other MMOs at the time.

    Heavensward came out and it’s narrative, was amazing. The atmosphere it set of the world, long standing cultural and literal warfare as the setting was moving. The story was subtle and we were given a deeper understanding of the world we were set in. The Post HW stories were brief but numerous and kept me involved.
    The storytelling had come to its own, and I looked forwards to what was to come. Stormblood came out and the pacing was so different from HW, the story wasn’t as nuanced but showcased a dichotomy where we weren’t focused on one area but two, expanding our view of the world two fold, and showcasing two opposite outcomes of war. We felt the urgency a bit too much as the pacing had us jumping in and out of two lands but it’s also where the character development started becoming unquestionably refined. Certain characters become beloved. Certain characters you should feel NO sympathy for, became human. The worlds NPCs became more than just the 2d characters and villains that serve no purpose than to play their part and fade away from the spotlight. The after story of SB especially showed that every character you meet probably has a history you may not expect. And we as the hero are allowed to glimpse that history and understand. Now with Shadowbringers, the storytelling has reached a pinnacle. From the magnificent send off from Stormblood, the last story arc and that final dungeon... we the players are thrust into a story that draws you in from the opening quest, and subsequent change in venue that quest launches. We’re presented a slow thought out world, where our conversations feel meaningful and the characters we meet are deeper than just a fetch quest placeholder. Don’t get me wrong, the quest is probably to fetch something, but you feel there’s a meaning for actually needing it to be done. Then almost immediately the game sets the stakes high, and inspires the player to want to be a hero. Want to make things right. Want to figure out a resolution as the problems are encountered. And these problems? These problems are set in such a beautiful crafted world, that changes so much as you advance from zone to zone. So very beautiful and complimented by a magnificent musical score. The most consistently great so far.

    All in all Shadowbringers interweaves all those elements. Characters, environment, music to create a story that makes you want to see how it ends. It rewards you emotionally as well as breaks your heart when appropriate, the world of shadowbringers, has that balance, and makes you want to believe you can make that difference, after all you are the Warrior of Ligh...Darkness...

    Taken as it is, the story is incomplete if you’re a new player, havingbto work Through all the last content may seem burdensome, but it’s so worth it. You are the hero here, imagine how many hours of your own lore you’re creating. Not just observing but actually creating a heroic history, with so many moments of pain and triumph that you will feel attached to your character, regardless if you have the best gear or not. It’s not the destination so much in XIV as the journey, and after Shadowbringers, you’ll want to see more than ever where the journey will go. The creative team shows their love for the game with Shadowbringers and has raised the bar so high, it will be difficult to keep up to par, let alone surpass it. But I believe Yoshi-P and the team can, and I want to see them succeed. And I intend to be there when they raise that bar higher still.    … Expand
  8. iozay
    Jul 14, 2019
    10
    One of the best stories I have ever seen, great music and awesome gameplay :)
  9. HyperTornado
    Jul 20, 2019
    10
    All I can say is the story is insanely good and keeps me reeling in the entire time. The dungeons are super high budget and the world environment is gorgeous. Note that to get to Shadowbringers you must complete the previous expansions.
  10. Kamui22
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Best mmorpg best DLC music 10/10 the new classes is good,new location and the best story.
  11. fenrishero
    Jul 18, 2019
    10
    With a couple tweaks, you could take the main story of this expansion and make it it's own game, and it would be in running for game of the year, it's that good. Good voice acting, good music, and great writing.
    Mechanics wise, it's almost all positive: most of the class re-works were done well, and the two new classes are decently executed (Gunbreaker is a tank with an occasional DPS    With a couple tweaks, you could take the main story of this expansion and make it it's own game, and it would be in running for game of the year, it's that good. Good voice acting, good music, and great writing.
    Mechanics wise, it's almost all positive: most of the class re-works were done well, and the two new classes are decently executed (Gunbreaker is a tank with an occasional DPS rotation mixed in, and Dancer is a whack-a-mole priority class a la Red Mage). The one complaint is that healing is kind of a mess, with it now largely being hitting buttons to 'undo' damage from bosses and not about resource management and situational awareness as much.

    The Trust System for duty's lets you run dungeons with NPCs, removing the speed bump of queues for required dungeons as DPS. The NPCs generally do the mechanics correctly, though they can glitch. Still, it's a great way to 'learn' a dungeon before doing it with other people, and it does drop gear and XP, making it a solid leveling option. Trials still have to be done in groups of 8 players, but the difficulty is correct this time (no Shinryu level nightmares).

    If you've played this game, this expac is worth coming back for. If not, this is a pretty good place to dive in, provided you're willing to read some lore backstory to explain a couple things.    … Expand
  12. Genis94
    Jul 15, 2019
    10
    Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers isn't just a good MMO expansion. It's by far the best Final Fantasy game I've ever played. The combat system has been refined and retooled to be more intuitive with less unfun mechanics bogging it down, such as the removal of the ammo and heat systems from Machinist. The story in Shadowbringers is far and away one of the best RPG stories in years and isFinal Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers isn't just a good MMO expansion. It's by far the best Final Fantasy game I've ever played. The combat system has been refined and retooled to be more intuitive with less unfun mechanics bogging it down, such as the removal of the ammo and heat systems from Machinist. The story in Shadowbringers is far and away one of the best RPG stories in years and is full of twists and turns that challenge your preconceptions of the rules of the world as well as the morality of your struggle. Masayoshi Soken has also blown us away yet again with his OST, managing to implement all manner of musical genre into an ever-evolving game. Shadowbringers is more than worth your time, and I strongly urge new players to progress through the game normally rather than buy skips to jump straight to the endgame. Endgame isn't everything in XIV and the story loses a lot of meaningful impact by skipping it.… Expand
  13. LaysMan
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Amazing new DLC! New classes, new Music, new location. Amazing story. Recommended!
  14. Paladin82
    Jul 20, 2019
    10
    Shadowbringers has great visuals and gameplay (my only significant criticism is healer balancing), but most of all the expansion's story is skillfully written and shown. It ties in the already robust FFXIV story and puts a bow on it. This is a well done expansion.
  15. Pat1711
    Dec 12, 2019
    10
    As a long time WoW fanboy, all I can say is that Shadowbringers sets a new bar for the MMO Genre.

    WoW really has some work to be done to rise to the level of Shadowbringers.
  16. braves300
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    This is one of the best Final Fantasy stories in the last two decades and the best I have ever played (I've played VIII, X, XII, XIII). This story alone beats a lot of non-MMO RPGs out there. The voice acting was top-notch and even better than previous expansions. The character development was high quality as well. The cutscenes were well directed as well making the dramatic moments feelThis is one of the best Final Fantasy stories in the last two decades and the best I have ever played (I've played VIII, X, XII, XIII). This story alone beats a lot of non-MMO RPGs out there. The voice acting was top-notch and even better than previous expansions. The character development was high quality as well. The cutscenes were well directed as well making the dramatic moments feel much more impact. I couldn't stop taking screenshots of my characters whenever there was a big moment going on in the story. Big credit to the story writers here. The zones were also incredible. Each time I enter a new zone, I was always in disbelief in how much prettier the game and environment got with each new zone. There are definitely times where I stop and took in the sights of the environment. And this without mentioning the music as well. The music that accompanies the zones does a really great job at capturing the mood and atmosphere of the story. Same with the trials as well. The buildup to the 2nd and 3rd fight were great as well making the fights feel much more epic. Credit to Soken for composing an awesome soundtrack.

    The only issue I had was the amount of time between the first and second dungeon (but it's understandable as it fits with the story's pacing). The story will make you laugh and cry. This is a tale told of epic proportions.    … Expand
  17. SevenDevils
    Jul 12, 2019
    10
    The best FF storyline in two decades. Also, the best composer since Nobuo himself.
  18. Rikori
    Sep 5, 2020
    10
    Absolute masterpiece, honestly the best MMORPG online I've ever seen. The story is the best thing about the game.
  19. artimis
    Feb 1, 2020
    10
    This is a really amazing expansion, to the story,characters, places, maps scenery, music, all so amazing, well worth the money and worth it, wont be dissapointed
  20. Cavox
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    Spoiler-free review, you have to experience it on your own.

    I've always thought that MMORPGs need to have an awful story by default. That it's just a checkbox to mark like in Hack&Slashes - where gameplay is all that matters. I was sure the story is a necessary evil to drive the player around to do quests or grind through the content. Years of playing World of Warcraft solidified that    Spoiler-free review, you have to experience it on your own.

    I've always thought that MMORPGs need to have an awful story by default. That it's just a checkbox to mark like in Hack&Slashes - where gameplay is all that matters. I was sure the story is a necessary evil to drive the player around to do quests or grind through the content. Years of playing World of Warcraft solidified that opinion for me.

    Naoki Yoshida (the director of FFXIV) and Natsuko Ishikawa (the writer) have proven me wrong.
    Not only FFXIV Shadowbringers has undoubtedly the best story ever written in an MMORPG, even better than universally praised Heavensward expansion from the same game, but also one of the best stories I have seen in any RPG I've played for the last decade at least. Not often do I have goosebumps during a cutscene in a video game, but Shadowbringers is just so good I'm not ashamed of admitting it.
    The music is also on the next level. Masayoshi Soken has again proven his mettle - he makes the highest grade video game music, on equal footing with Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Cross) and Nobuo Uematsu (FF series). It suplements the story of FFXIV in a way that when combined it truly deserves the unofficial title of KINObringers.

    The gameplay and graphics suffer a little bit in Final Fantasy, having to accommodate for console players. They're not bad, mind you - they just aren't at their full potential due to the PS3/PS4 limitations. But if I have to judge the expansion on its own it's still a perfect 10 for me. Worth every penny spent.

    It's made with love and care, which is especially impressive if you account that (allegedly) the game is made on a shoestring budget. It's an RPG first and MMO second, but it knocks-out the competition from the get-go and for me it reigns are the king of MMORPGs in the year 2019.    … Expand
  21. Dustybrown
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    The best Final Fantasy story I’ve ever played. I am just completely blown way. The music is incredible, the new zones are beautiful. The dungeons are amazingly designed. Even the voice acting is amazing. You can see how much hard work the dev team have put into this game and it really shines through. An excellent expansion to an already fantastic mmo.
  22. Hock
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Absolute phenomenal story telling, best expansion story line yet. Would highly recommend to anyone on the fence.
  23. ripshocks
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    The most amazing MMO i've ever played to this day. The release content schedule is stable and keeps on improving upon itself month after month, year after year. It's the best time to become a final fantasy fan.
  24. Eliitti
    Jul 10, 2019
    10
    The story is so good without a question the best so far in FFXIV history and the soundtrack is godlike.
  25. Praxeti
    Sep 13, 2020
    10
    What am I meant to say, goddamn, finishing this was actually insane. Please, help yourself out, try this game.
  26. Lovely_TimeLord
    Dec 21, 2020
    10
    First of all I wanna say I'm a guy who love play everytime of game online or not and I played a lot of mmorpg over the years... that said, I feel cursed for never playing final fantasy XIV...

    Shadowbringer is for me the best game I've ever played, just brilliant. It had been a long time since I had seen something so puzzling and magnificent. If you came here looking to know if it's    First of all I wanna say I'm a guy who love play everytime of game online or not and I played a lot of mmorpg over the years... that said, I feel cursed for never playing final fantasy XIV...

    Shadowbringer is for me the best game I've ever played, just brilliant. It had been a long time since I had seen something so puzzling and magnificent.

    If you came here looking to know if it's worth playing. YEA!
    But if you are going to start in FFXIV play without haste, forget that the game is a mmorpg, enjoy the story as if it were an offline game and you will not be disappointed    … Expand
  27. GenericBlueToad
    Jul 17, 2019
    10
    I made an account this to rate this. This game left me feeling empty and sad in the way only truly amazing stories can. The characters are so incredibly written and voiced. The antagonist is beautifully crafted. The cutscene are animated perfectly to fit the scenes. This game made me connect so much even just with my own character. It's truly a masterpiece. I almost wish this wasnt an MMO,I made an account this to rate this. This game left me feeling empty and sad in the way only truly amazing stories can. The characters are so incredibly written and voiced. The antagonist is beautifully crafted. The cutscene are animated perfectly to fit the scenes. This game made me connect so much even just with my own character. It's truly a masterpiece. I almost wish this wasnt an MMO, because anyone who doesn't play ffxiv will miss out on this, and that's genuinely upsetting.… Expand
  28. Nedkelly
    Jul 13, 2019
    10
    This expansion is really good, really love it.
    Changes to the jobs are really nice and diverse.
    I love new instances, the story, they even improved pvp.
  29. Mikoto94
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Best expansion yet, square enix really outdid themselves, amazing story, soundtrack, locations.
  30. psdao1102
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    Just fantastic. The story/writing/voice-acting is on par with theatrical games, and blows any MMO story away. The big fights are difficult but rewarding, the skill rotations are fun and engaging (I play BLM for reference). The music is bar none.

    The only thing i can throw at this, is that if your brand new to this series, i still think you should go through the entire story... which    Just fantastic. The story/writing/voice-acting is on par with theatrical games, and blows any MMO story away. The big fights are difficult but rewarding, the skill rotations are fun and engaging (I play BLM for reference). The music is bar none.

    The only thing i can throw at this, is that if your brand new to this series, i still think you should go through the entire story... which will take a long time sorry to say. But if you enjoy MMO's its so worth it.    … Expand
  31. exhalo
    Jul 10, 2019
    10
    The best mmorpg ive played since vanilla wow, and one of the best games ive ever played. Breathtaking!
  32. kamuis22
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Best mmorpg best DLC music 10/10 the new classes is good,new location and the best story.
  33. jakkyr
    Jul 20, 2019
    10
    I love this game already, but this expansion made me love it 1000x more, the only real thing that is a problem now is the healer category as I've heard, other then that every other aspect of the game has been vastly improved. Story is great, music is great. I hope only for the best for this games future, because it is in my personal top 3 for games of all time.
  34. Mogster
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Simply the best expansion released for FFXIV. It has come to the point where you can consider FFXIV's story as one of the best FF stories out there.

    ShB comfortable **** on a lot of RPG stories in the last decade or so.
  35. ryudoshi
    Jul 20, 2019
    10
    The salty WoW fan boys coming in here leaving fake reviews are hilariously sad. Get a life you cretins.

    Anyway, Shadowbringers is incredible. This is the most Final Fantasy the game has ever been, it feels like an old school Final Fantasy game and that is saying something. The story of Shadowbringers is just such an incredible experience. The music and visuals are on point and jaw    The salty WoW fan boys coming in here leaving fake reviews are hilariously sad. Get a life you cretins.

    Anyway, Shadowbringers is incredible. This is the most Final Fantasy the game has ever been, it feels like an old school Final Fantasy game and that is saying something. The story of Shadowbringers is just such an incredible experience. The music and visuals are on point and jaw dropping. A lot of jobs got huge QOL upgrades.    … Expand
  36. Steviejd
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best expansion for an mom ever! Easily can carry it self as one of the best Final Fantasy stories ever told.… Expand
  37. InfernusDead
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    Sin duda alguna, uno de los mejores MMORPG superando al antes grande, WoW, Lo Recomiendo
  38. Tarki
    Jul 17, 2019
    10
    Best expansion of ffxiv with amazing storyline, soundtracks, and map-design. Best mmorpg existing for now
  39. DestinyLord1134
    Jul 21, 2019
    10
    This is easily the best game in the FF series in 10+ years. As always, I am enjoying the music, but the story is also top notch, and they brought new feel to several classes I play without affecting the core mechanics or causing more "bloat."
  40. Nucah
    Jul 20, 2019
    10
    I've been playing FFXIV for around four yeara now and have thoroughly enjoyed my time with this game. Heavensward was masterpiece and although Stormblood was good, I felt like it lost some of the magic that HW had.

    Shadowbringers brings back that magic and is driven by a phenomenal story with wonderfully acted cutscenes and a beautiful soundtrack by Soken. This hit all my expectations    I've been playing FFXIV for around four yeara now and have thoroughly enjoyed my time with this game. Heavensward was masterpiece and although Stormblood was good, I felt like it lost some of the magic that HW had.

    Shadowbringers brings back that magic and is driven by a phenomenal story with wonderfully acted cutscenes and a beautiful soundtrack by Soken. This hit all my expectations and more. If you're a fan of XIV or just a fan of the FF franchise, this is a must play in my opinion.    … Expand
  41. brunoblr
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What Squareenix did with all story is awesome! Probably the best xpec released counting all MMO in the market so Far!… Expand
  42. Latorn
    Nov 23, 2020
    10
    Shadowbringers is, in my experience, without a doubt the greatest multiplayer story ever told through a game.

    I've played many Final Fantasy games, but Shadowbringers is my favourite of all. It puts forth the greatest depth accompanied by dark, interesting themes, that are tackled with an expert finesse. Like it's predecessors, Shadowbringers is truly a game upon itself rather than a    Shadowbringers is, in my experience, without a doubt the greatest multiplayer story ever told through a game.

    I've played many Final Fantasy games, but Shadowbringers is my favourite of all. It puts forth the greatest depth accompanied by dark, interesting themes, that are tackled with an expert finesse. Like it's predecessors, Shadowbringers is truly a game upon itself rather than a simple expansion.

    A story that deserves to be experienced by all, but unfortunately may only be experienced by few, as it is necessary to work your way through the other fantastic FFXIV expansions before arriving at Shadowbringers. Shadowbringers is a masterpiece that brings a level of worldbuilding that is a rarity in JRPGs, and unrivaled in the MMORPG genre.    … Expand
  43. ChseeFwal
    Sep 7, 2019
    10
    The story is easily one of the best final fantasy ever had in it’s 30+ years. Can’t wait for the Nier themed raids!!
  44. pagepro
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Even if you aren't a huge fan of MMO and are just looking for a good RPG to play this game is it. I have played many Final Fantasy games in my 26 years being alive and seeing everything come to life is amazing. If you have a favorite Final Fantasy game you will find that this game pulls ideas from all of them and molds it into something amazing.
    This expansion however is the best that XIV    Even if you aren't a huge fan of MMO and are just looking for a good RPG to play this game is it. I have played many Final Fantasy games in my 26 years being alive and seeing everything come to life is amazing. If you have a favorite Final Fantasy game you will find that this game pulls ideas from all of them and molds it into something amazing.
    This expansion however is the best that XIV has to offer thus far and the bar was pretty high to begin with after Heavensward and Stormblood. Shadowbringers sets the bar even higher. If you are looking for an immersive game with a great soundtrack with an engaging story and gameplay you won't be disappointed.    … Expand
  45. mokoantic
    Jul 20, 2020
    10
    Took me too long to start playing this game, and i loved everything about this game: the jobs, the combat, the dungeons, the raids, the community, the world, the story ........

    I played the base game and the three expansions and loved them all. But i think Shadowbringers is the best all around.

    Must play for mmo players.
  46. Arbiten
    Jul 9, 2019
    10
    Notice how the low scores for this game come from people not even talking about the story in a story driven game?

    You'd have to be crazy to score this masterpiece anything less than a 10. The music is incredible, the story invokes so much emotion. Joy, Sadness, Despair, Anger, all precisely inserted into the story at just the right time. Compared to other expansions, I felt the    Notice how the low scores for this game come from people not even talking about the story in a story driven game?

    You'd have to be crazy to score this masterpiece anything less than a 10. The music is incredible, the story invokes so much emotion. Joy, Sadness, Despair, Anger, all precisely inserted into the story at just the right time.

    Compared to other expansions, I felt the closest to the characters in this one. The twins bicker like siblings normally do, the group each have their own issues that they either deal with themselves throughout the story or require your help with. There's even opportunities for our ever stoic WoL to offer life advice during cut-scenes.

    The ending is a masterpiece, many mystery's that alluded us in the previous expansions get answered, but at the same time new mystery's are unearthed. This is by far the best story I've ever played and that includes the witcher 3.    … Expand
  47. Treymok
    Jul 10, 2019
    10
    Greatest expansion yet! Well worth the monthly subscription cost. Love it!!
  48. Dkcbrown
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    You won't find an MMO (And few games in general) with a stronger story or more meticulously crafted music. The new QOL updates and Jobs are aces! Can't recommend this game more!
  49. KaliHeart
    Jul 21, 2019
    10
    Shadowbringers has an MSQ I want to relive countless times. I laughed, I cried, I gasped, I questioned and reveled in each passing scene. I played solo, I played with friends, I took every opportunity I could to participate in all I came across and am still adoring in exploration.

    We've come so far since our earliest days in the Waking Sands, and I'll be damned if the game hasn't as    Shadowbringers has an MSQ I want to relive countless times. I laughed, I cried, I gasped, I questioned and reveled in each passing scene. I played solo, I played with friends, I took every opportunity I could to participate in all I came across and am still adoring in exploration.

    We've come so far since our earliest days in the Waking Sands, and I'll be damned if the game hasn't as well. The voice acting, this expansion, was truly magnificent. Even side characters and NPCs had rich, expressive voice work that surprised and delighted each and every time I came across it. The sound track is incredibly immersive - Soken really went above and beyond to bring this situations, these locations and this story to life.

    Though it's hard to put into words, Shadowbringers, has a 'classic' fantasy feel though never once lacks for pacing. The storytelling speaks to the soul on a whole new level and come it's conclusion I felt the need to take a breath and processed all I'd witnessed; satisfied and emptied, both, with a strong desire to revisit past scenes with a different take. In an attempt to avoid spoilers, I'll not go into detail but the final 'zone' leading up to it's end was incredibly impactful - to feel a sense of nostalgia and sadness bordering on the personal for a place never before visited is uncanny, and it's the truest expression I found to describe 5.0.

    For anyone out there thinking of giving it a go, don't hold back.

    My opinion is that of one voice among millions, but simply said: Thank you. Thank you, Yoshi-P and the SE team for all the time and effort, the thoughtfulness and the passion you bring to game development and the world of Final Fantasy.    … Expand
  50. GlidingFalcon
    Sep 25, 2019
    10
    Great Ff game. Recommend. Best since X. Squaresoft level. Great story. Music. Best MMO.
  51. Kezian
    Jul 30, 2019
    10
    FF14 is amazing ! If you never played it, download the free trial and see for yourself !
  52. EevieRoseAmalee
    Jul 11, 2019
    10
    By far the best experience I have ever had in an mmo. Be it the narrative or the classes I have had so much fun with every aspect!♡
  53. NateDrake123
    Sep 25, 2019
    10
    Great great great. Squaresoft level. Very good. Best MMO out there. Recommend to everyone.
  54. Joseph134
    Sep 25, 2019
    10
    Great great great. Squaresoft level. Very good. Best MMO out there. Recommend to everyone. Good.
  55. yopman69
    Sep 25, 2019
    10
    Great great great. Squaresoft level. Very good. Best MMO out there. Recommend to everyone. Amazing game.
  56. darxiv
    Aug 6, 2019
    10
    Shadowbringers shows that it is possible to have an amazing story in a MMO. Not only does this expansion excel in storytelling but it takes Final Fantasy into a whole new direction.
  57. Ultimagara
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    I thought that Heavensward was pretty goddamn good, one of the better video-game stories I've played. I thought that maybe this expansion would be somewhere in between the last 2 expansions as far as quality and boy was I wrong. This expansion puts every other MMO, base game or expansion, to complete and utter shame. Everything about it, from the MSQ to the characters to the environment toI thought that Heavensward was pretty goddamn good, one of the better video-game stories I've played. I thought that maybe this expansion would be somewhere in between the last 2 expansions as far as quality and boy was I wrong. This expansion puts every other MMO, base game or expansion, to complete and utter shame. Everything about it, from the MSQ to the characters to the environment to the new jobs to the revitalization countless systems to the gameplay itself to the humor to the voice acting and everything in between, is fantastic. If you care about these types of games at all, AT ALL, and even if you don't - play Shadowbringers.… Expand
  58. Akiin
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Holy... this is how a expansion to a game should be, Shadowbringers puts other Mmo's to shame with it's otherworldy soundtrack and a Story better than most tripel A games provide. THIS IS A MUST BUY FOR FF14 PLAYERS !
  59. Wweald
    Dec 15, 2021
    10
    Amazing expansion. Has the best areas, cities, characters, story and dungeons of the game imo. I think Stormblood wins on trials by a tiny bit. Shadowbringers and FFXIV in general is one of the best experiences in gaming.
  60. Naoshi
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Perfection! I've played mmo's since the early days when Ultima Online existed and have to say that Shadowbringers is the first in a long time to make me feel so engaged with the story. final fantasy XIV is known for it's impressive storytelling, but Shadowbringers takes it to another level. On a MMO stand point it's perfection.... equally you could call this an amazing RPG.
    The additions    Perfection! I've played mmo's since the early days when Ultima Online existed and have to say that Shadowbringers is the first in a long time to make me feel so engaged with the story. final fantasy XIV is known for it's impressive storytelling, but Shadowbringers takes it to another level. On a MMO stand point it's perfection.... equally you could call this an amazing RPG.
    The additions of the Trust system and other quality of life changes, really just polish the diamond this expansion already was.    … Expand
  61. Sharess_
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Honestly I've played a LOT since Shadowbringers has released (pre release on 28th) and I've finished all the MSQ (Main Story Quests) and It's been a hell of a ride. Voice acting and story line are ON POINT!!!

    On release there are 8 dungeons and 2 big boss "Trials" as well as 2 lesser Big Boss Trials included with the expansion as well as 5 zones you can obtain flying in right away (Not    Honestly I've played a LOT since Shadowbringers has released (pre release on 28th) and I've finished all the MSQ (Main Story Quests) and It's been a hell of a ride. Voice acting and story line are ON POINT!!!

    On release there are 8 dungeons and 2 big boss "Trials" as well as 2 lesser Big Boss Trials included with the expansion as well as 5 zones you can obtain flying in right away (Not wait 7 months and have to do a buncha BS, looking @ You WoW)

    Also with Shadowbringers it brought a complete revamp to the games combat system and healing system. It made all the jobs (Classes) WAY more fun to play which is awesome. Looking more and more like a fast action MMORPG.

    Each zone ingame is gorgeous in Shadowbringers, all the music is amazing, the game is more fun to play than ever and jobs are more balanced. What more could you ask for to be honest.

    So some people give low scores it seems because it's expensive because they have to buy initial game plus this expansion. Other games make you buy initial, prior expansions and then current expansion.

    At least FFXIV Lets you buy Game + All prior expansions for one low price and then allows you to buy current expansion when you get to it.    … Expand
  62. Prezly
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Anyone who is voting this low hasn’t played it (or is likely a WoW fanboy). Shadowbringers is a flawless expansion, a rare gem of a game that improves in every way upon the game while somehow managing to be an entire standalone game in its own right (storywise).

    I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, and all I want to do is do it over and over again with different characters. If you love Final    Anyone who is voting this low hasn’t played it (or is likely a WoW fanboy). Shadowbringers is a flawless expansion, a rare gem of a game that improves in every way upon the game while somehow managing to be an entire standalone game in its own right (storywise).

    I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, and all I want to do is do it over and over again with different characters.

    If you love Final Fantasy, MMOs, or incredible storytelling this game is for you...

    If you just want to hurry up and beat the endgame content without having to play the game.....this is still for you, but you will need to purchase a token to bypass the story.

    This is, without a doubt. The best MMO expansion ever.    … Expand
  63. Selunari
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    Just finished the Main Story. This is by far the best MMO Expansion I've ever played. The music is fantastic, the QoL changes are extremely good, and the story blows many other non-mmo Final Fantasies out of the water.
  64. BaronSolace
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Aviot is incorrect on the yen price to get into the game, its actually ¥6576 / 59.99 (expac + base) for a new player
    and ¥ 4200 / $40 for a veteran player. you wont find another mmo like this, it transcends the wow clone stereotype.
  65. mikezero0526
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    I am not the type of person who typically writes reviews, but I truly felt like this experience deserved one. This is one of the best stories, so far, that I have ever played in a game. I am putting this on par with AAA single player games as well. This expansion, all by itself, stands on its own but with the foundations set by the past 5 years, it is even better. The music is some ofI am not the type of person who typically writes reviews, but I truly felt like this experience deserved one. This is one of the best stories, so far, that I have ever played in a game. I am putting this on par with AAA single player games as well. This expansion, all by itself, stands on its own but with the foundations set by the past 5 years, it is even better. The music is some of the best I have heard in a video game. The story is amazing and well written. It is like finding a good book that you just can't put down. The world is absolutely gorgeous and filled with life and adventure. The player base is amazing.… Expand
  66. Pmemer
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    The best Final Fantasy experience in over a decade. FFXIV has always been good but Shadowbringers just pushes it over the edge.
  67. iNuclearPickle
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I got early excess and started playing day 1 and love it
    Story -definitely took a darker tone watching a character become a sin eater you sit there as the greater sin eater stabs the npc trying to protect a child who will become a sineater himself in time then transform barfing out light the main on her face as her eyes go blacl then the change is done. Combat for summoner & fates -the changes feel good as a summoner getting bahmuhut after 1 trance feels great and Then going into fire bird trance definitely keeps you busy in a fun way. I’ve been mainly leveling thro fates since you benefit both through exp and rewards you get from trading gems is nice once I’ve finished summoner it’s gonna be nice doing fate trains to level my other jobs to get more options in the shop

    Ending statement
    -I really love what they’ve changed and loving the story and will continue to love it going forward    … Expand
  68. Gamejournalism
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Koji and YoshiP really did go all out here. Other companies should take note
  69. Maliwolf
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Best expansion of the game so far and probably the best overall expansion to a MMO in general of all those that i have played. Story was excellent and kept me wanting to know what happens next. It was also accompanied by a fantastic soundtrack. This is for sure one of if not the best MMO out there now.
  70. Aetheros
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    I have not felt this happy to play this game since Heavensward. This is brilliant. All the attention to detail. All the small improvements to the engine to deliver high quality, expression rich cutscenes. The voicework in the german version also saw a huge increase in production quality. The gameplay may be lacking for some but I think its absolutely brilliant. Beyond that, You only needI have not felt this happy to play this game since Heavensward. This is brilliant. All the attention to detail. All the small improvements to the engine to deliver high quality, expression rich cutscenes. The voicework in the german version also saw a huge increase in production quality. The gameplay may be lacking for some but I think its absolutely brilliant. Beyond that, You only need to pay about 60$ to play the full game, since Shadowbringers includes all previous expansions. This is a brilliant package and everyone should give it a try. Even if the content before looses out in comparison to this newest expansion. Especially the early game needs to be retouched.

    Either way, most of my critisism doesn't concern the changes Shadowbringer does to the game. So a solid 10 from me.    … Expand
  71. Redpaint
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    I'm a lazy person and don't really write review. FFXIV 5.0 made me registered an account in this website and wrote a review to pay my respect! The story is super super super good, personally I think it is better than 4.0 (stormblood)! New maps have very beautiful view!
  72. DaveZarek94
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Played during early access and once i finished the MSQ i must say, hands down GOTY for me, what a great experience, been emotionally invested trough the story and even weeping in some parts. This game is absolute wonderful
  73. Jisatsu
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    Seriously puts a lot of video game stories to shame. You thought your precious heavensward was good? You might want to plan a funeral for it... because Shadowbringers puts it six feet in the ground. May be the best story I’ve ever experienced and really pulls all the lore from the last near decade of content in lovely. You’ve never experienced anything like this in a game. It’s just nextSeriously puts a lot of video game stories to shame. You thought your precious heavensward was good? You might want to plan a funeral for it... because Shadowbringers puts it six feet in the ground. May be the best story I’ve ever experienced and really pulls all the lore from the last near decade of content in lovely. You’ve never experienced anything like this in a game. It’s just next level.… Expand
  74. Iceflare
    Jul 2, 2019
    10
    This Expansion is beyond fantastic!
    First of all, let's look at the bad parts, to show how few there are:
    - The combat music for overworld battles is horrible - The FPS cap was a mistake (although it's being removed again) - Many large areas look pretty empty - From all the shiny old weapons they only implemented the Omega weapons for Gunbreaker and Dancer, unlike Stormblood, where    This Expansion is beyond fantastic!
    First of all, let's look at the bad parts, to show how few there are:
    - The combat music for overworld battles is horrible
    - The FPS cap was a mistake (although it's being removed again)
    - Many large areas look pretty empty
    - From all the shiny old weapons they only implemented the Omega weapons for Gunbreaker and Dancer, unlike Stormblood, where they implemented almost all old weapons for Redmage and Samurai

    And that's it! Everything else is absolutely wonderful:
    - The music is wonderful through the bank. Every dungeon theme is on spot and fits the theme. Every boss theme is incredibly exciting. Every zone theme is absolutely perfect and when the area's night is restored the music gets even better. And the Final battle's music is unbelievable
    - The story of this expansion is absolutely breathtaking, especially the ending. You thought Avengers: Endgame was a great ending? It is total crap compared to Shadowbringers's ending. Shadowbringers genuinely made me cry for the bad guy in the end, despite having done the good deed. Never had this experience before
    - The lore is so rich and well implemented, that you crave for more and actually want to listen to non-essential NPC conversations, which I never did before
    - The changes to combat classes, despite them being a simplification of their rotations, feels extremely good, satisfying and rewarding now. Jobs feel much more intuitive and mistakes don't punish you in such an unsatisfying way anymore (also, boss transitions aren't such a pain anymore)
    - The endgame is full of interesting stuff to do, like the Crystarium deliveries, FATE chains that reward you with several different things (apparently they've learned from Eureka), the typical expert dungeons (which also are very entertaining), very interesting extreme boss fights, countless Sightseeing Log spots that are a challenge to reach, level scaling Sidequests that now reward you with decent experience no matter when you take it and a soon to be released raid which I can't wait to see
    - The trust system (running dungeons with 3 story NPCs instead of 3 other players) is actually better than I imagined it would be. They perform flawlessly in every dungeon, which is great for players who still have difficulties learning the mechanics - even if you deliberately pull extra mobs (the NPCs can take it) - with the only downside vs real human players being that trust NPCs do much less damage and the dungeon takes longer to complete in general
    - The new races Viera and Hrothgar - despite only existing as one gender each in the game for now - look absolutely stunning and despite thinking that not many players would pick up the bulky, muscular Hrothgar, I've actually seen lots and lots of them running around
    - The two new jobs Dancer and Gunbreaker feel extremely great to play. Their animations and sound effects are super satisfying and their general gameplay feels extremely polished
    - With the active subscriber count reaching over the 1 million players bar the game feels so full of other players and no matter where you go at any time everything feels so full

    All in all, this is the best Final Fantasy XIV expansion so far - even a lot greater than Heavensward, which was already amazing and of course better than Stormblood, which was not that great in comparison, but still good.    … Expand
  75. minibiubiu
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    The best expansion of FFXIV and insane OST, breathtaking and tearing story, what I could ask for more.
  76. Fireguardian
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    The Story is one of the best ones in the Final Fantasy Franchise and in MMO's to this date. Classes are fun, endgame is interesting and there is a lot to do after you got your first class to 80. Also the 35€ Price tag is a absolute steal for the amount of content.
  77. Rubedo
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    Nothing on the market has never been more true to the game type MMO-RPG than FF14 with their newly released expansion. The story, music, zones, new jobs, battle changes are just beautiful. I'm at loss for words to describe my experience trough Shadowbringers
  78. Balbereith
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    Shadowbringers is a really a game full of emotions. The story is great, epic from the beginning to the end.

    And the truth behind everything... The truth, guys... The end of this game is incredible.
  79. OtoKitsune
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    Amazing storyline!! The community is as friendly as MMO's go and the level of character customisation/expression is amazing. Very immersive and lots of attention to detail in both the graphics and the interface
  80. metusodium
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    Comparing this expansion with all main series Final Fantasy games, would still easily put it near the top. Huge praise to the team working on this game. All of the other recent Final Fantasy IP's could learn a lesson or five from them.
  81. aevic
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    In an age where the MMO genre seems to be dying off, Shadowbringers emerges to show that MMO's are still alive and kicking. A story that grips you as soon as you jump into it. Environments and music that will leave you breathless. Truly, Yoshi-P and all of SE should be proud of this as they have done a phenomenal job.
  82. GauZanTa
    Jul 6, 2019
    10
    Amazing Experience! This is the best story since Hanvensward. And more than the other FF games of the past 20 years.
  83. Sherchi
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    I haven't felt as exicited playing an MMO since I was a child. City's actually feel like they are cities and not just a warehouse with vendors. Music is so good I could just listen to it all day., Almost all of the main story is voiced beautifully, and the story itself just drags you in and keeps you there. I normally skip stories and only play for endgame, but this expansion's was just too good
  84. ArturPKMN
    Jul 3, 2019
    10
    The new classes, the soundtrack of each new region, the immersion, the maps, the new dungeons and the history ... everything is incredible. Square Enix is outdone! Great MMO!
  85. Valinov
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    I made an account just to rate this. I finished the main scenario quests a couple hours ago and I have no words that can truly describe just how epic it was. If there was a way to say "wtf" and "holy sh!t" at the same time, I'd be shouting it until I lost my voice. The dev team has outdone themselves in every aspect. Bravo
  86. Khalindra_Nela
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Absolutely the best Expansion FFXIV has to offer! The whole Expansion is a roller coaster of emotions from the start to the end ! If ur into the story. I strongly recommend to not buy the jump potion if you are a new player! You will miss out on a lot of the story wich leads up to Shadowbringers wich kinda brings all of the stuff that happened before to its conclusion! And theres moreAbsolutely the best Expansion FFXIV has to offer! The whole Expansion is a roller coaster of emotions from the start to the end ! If ur into the story. I strongly recommend to not buy the jump potion if you are a new player! You will miss out on a lot of the story wich leads up to Shadowbringers wich kinda brings all of the stuff that happened before to its conclusion! And theres more Adventures after!… Expand
  87. novidcat
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Too good for an mmo.The most final fantasy game I have played in last decade.
  88. apexprime
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Just when I thought that it couldn't get any better. So much heart has been poured into this expansion.
  89. Xandis
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The story in this expansion is better than most of AAA titles from last few years… Expand
  90. Kohlmanb
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Shadowbringers is the best mmorpg expansion that we've seen in many many years. SE knocked it out of the park with this one.
  91. Jugo88
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Amazing game. Love what they've done with the healers this expansion. Keep it t up
  92. Star_Prince
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    I don't think you can ever have a perfect game, but this is getting really close to it. One thing that I was dreading before the release of this expansion is the pain to grind from level 70 to 80. All of the MMORPG games I played, it only gets more painful as they raise the cap to a higher level. However, I was wrong. I only did the main story quests, a few side quests, some FATEs, someI don't think you can ever have a perfect game, but this is getting really close to it. One thing that I was dreading before the release of this expansion is the pain to grind from level 70 to 80. All of the MMORPG games I played, it only gets more painful as they raise the cap to a higher level. However, I was wrong. I only did the main story quests, a few side quests, some FATEs, some roulettes, revealed most of the maps and I reached level 80! I omitted majority of the side quests and now I can start to do them with a second job.

    Great story, beautiful new areas, and wonderful music. I haven't try the new classes yet, but I heard they are fun!

    I think people who gave a negative score to this game are most likely those who prefer to play games that are fast paced, all actions with no stories. The type of games where the game is 100% about you, only about you and no one else. If that's you, perhaps you should stay away from this game. If you like to play a game where you can really immerse yourself in the story, get to know the other characters, enjoy the scenery and music while going through a game, you should definitely give this game a try.    … Expand
  93. LingShar
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    FF XIV becomes greater and greater. Great scenario, great antagonist(whom i used to compete a lot). Antagonist deserves a lot of good words in his address. His story, his character it's all so great. And last part of scenario is breathtaking. What more can i say? - Music. Soken is genius, and music in this expanshion says th same. Design of location worse than in Stormblood, but stillFF XIV becomes greater and greater. Great scenario, great antagonist(whom i used to compete a lot). Antagonist deserves a lot of good words in his address. His story, his character it's all so great. And last part of scenario is breathtaking. What more can i say? - Music. Soken is genius, and music in this expanshion says th same. Design of location worse than in Stormblood, but still good. But design of last scenario dungeon is something amazing. About gameplay... I very like rebalance of classes. Trust system is best that they can do - NPC deal good dps, evade AoE and boss mechanics, (Urianger - best healer) and no awaitng in queue for dps, it's good step. So i receive many positive emotions through playing this expansion. Thanks to Yoshida, Soken and other creators of this masterpiece. Looking for new scenario patches.… Expand
  94. drunkoni
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    Considering this is the 3rd expansion in the series, with the first two having the best story in an mmo and best endgame respectively, it’s hard to imagine anything topping in either or both aspects. Well Shadowbringers does just that, as it has one of the best stories in all of gaming and while the true endgame content hasn’t come out yet, I haven’t had this much fun leveling in dungeonsConsidering this is the 3rd expansion in the series, with the first two having the best story in an mmo and best endgame respectively, it’s hard to imagine anything topping in either or both aspects. Well Shadowbringers does just that, as it has one of the best stories in all of gaming and while the true endgame content hasn’t come out yet, I haven’t had this much fun leveling in dungeons and trials in a very long time. This one definitely deserves a 10/10 for achieving what no other mmo’s have ever done: being a great RPG with a strong narrative and an mmo with fun and engaging gameplay that keeps the community growing and more importantly invested.… Expand
  95. Caen
    Jul 7, 2019
    10
    This expansion is a labor of love I've not seen in decades, it truly shines with its story, music, voice acting, and direction. It is an expertly crafted masterpiece through and through.

    The main villain is very special and well written, and the role quests have been a blast (I main a healer). I had lofty, almost impossible expectations for this game, and it delivered so hard, it not    This expansion is a labor of love I've not seen in decades, it truly shines with its story, music, voice acting, and direction. It is an expertly crafted masterpiece through and through.

    The main villain is very special and well written, and the role quests have been a blast (I main a healer). I had lofty, almost impossible expectations for this game, and it delivered so hard, it not only dethroned Heavensward for my favorite FF14 expansion, it overthrew Burning Crusade and Wrath of the Lich King as my favorite expansion for any MMORPG ever.

    This 10 is not given, it is earned.

    Thank you FF14 dev team for this masterpiece.    … Expand
  96. Ianas
    Jul 7, 2019
    10
    If you've reached Shadowbringers you've already invested a lot of time into the characters, but this is where a lot of that investment will pay off. Shadowbringers pulls on countless threads that have been woven into the world of Final Fantasy XIV and tightens the lore into a more cohesive whole than it's ever been, and for me that's where the biggest moments in Shadowbringers have comeIf you've reached Shadowbringers you've already invested a lot of time into the characters, but this is where a lot of that investment will pay off. Shadowbringers pulls on countless threads that have been woven into the world of Final Fantasy XIV and tightens the lore into a more cohesive whole than it's ever been, and for me that's where the biggest moments in Shadowbringers have come from. For all the time I spent attending Fan Fests or watching them in the middle of the night or sitting through translated live letters and parsing each word of interviews and press releases, I was still surprised by so many elements of the plot and the final acts left me simultaneously in awe and terror at the events that were unfolding in front of me, so masterfully brought back to life by Naoki Yoshida and his team. This was a story to rival the best in the Final Fantasy series for sure.… Expand
  97. Myricaria
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    It's time to share a few thoughts about Shadowbringers - spoiler free of course!
    It took me from Friday morning to late Sunday night (Head start] to finish the MSQ of Final Fantasy XIVs newest expansion Shadowbringers.
    From the very first moment the story grabbed me and never let go. It was a pure roller coaster ride full of emotions. I had to cry and laugh. I didn't expect the end of A    It's time to share a few thoughts about Shadowbringers - spoiler free of course!
    It took me from Friday morning to late Sunday night (Head start] to finish the MSQ of Final Fantasy XIVs newest expansion Shadowbringers.
    From the very first moment the story grabbed me and never let go. It was a pure roller coaster ride full of emotions. I had to cry and laugh. I didn't expect the end of A Realm Reborn to be beaten, but Shadowbringers did it. After the last scene was over after the credits, I sat speechless and howling in front of my computer, so good was the story. Without exaggeration I have to say: FFXIV has done a masterpiece, which doesn't need to hide from any single-player game. Even today the enthusiasm keeps me going. Whoever has never played FFXIV before, or who has never touched Shadowbringers before: Do it, immediately!    … Expand
  98. Katsunei
    Jul 8, 2019
    10
    Just finished the main story and I absolutely loved it. I've been a fan of FFXIV for years, but this expac still blew me away from content to story telling. I even believe this is the best FF put out in years.
  99. TRS122P
    Jul 10, 2019
    10
    Words almost can't do this game justice. Not only is this by far the best FFXIV expansion, it may be the best Final Fantasy story since X. This expansion shows why FFXIV is the best MMORPG on the market. Square Enix really takes the "RPG" portion of MMORPG seriously. Shadowbringers proves that you can have an amazing online game with a top-notch story. Naoki Yoshida has set a new, veryWords almost can't do this game justice. Not only is this by far the best FFXIV expansion, it may be the best Final Fantasy story since X. This expansion shows why FFXIV is the best MMORPG on the market. Square Enix really takes the "RPG" portion of MMORPG seriously. Shadowbringers proves that you can have an amazing online game with a top-notch story. Naoki Yoshida has set a new, very high bar for MMO's and RPG's in general.… Expand
  100. LazIsOnline
    Jul 9, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I've never played an MMO that exceeded my expectations for an expansion or it's story. This is a first. From the story, to the visuals and soundtrack, the much needed buffs classes get in 70+ content to make them more fun to play. It has moments where it REALLY challenges the player to pay attention and know their class which is fantastic. No one should be bored doing content using a simple 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 rotation.

    THIS is what an expansion for any MMO should be, not gated story, not gated content that comes out when they get around it, a full experience ready to go with additional compelling end game content.

    If you're like me, and you have nearly every other class and crafting job to work through, you have MONTHS of fun to have. 10/10 would get hyped in Terminus again.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best PC Game of 2019
23
#23 Most Discussed PC Game of 2019
9
#9 Most Shared PC Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 25 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 25
  3. Negative: 0 out of 25
  1. Cubed3
    Mar 27, 2020
    70
    The active story events of ShadowBringers are good fun, but due to the grinding nature of the genre, it suffers from some terrible pacing issues. If you are invested in FFXIV, this DLC will probably excite and please you. It's a fun but forgettable romp that runs just the wrong side of boring during its hours-long retelling and bland A-B mission style. If this tickles your fancy, be sure to start and play with a team of friends - it will easily be 10 times more enjoyable, if infinitely longer.
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  2. Multiplayer.it
    Sep 15, 2019
    90
    Shadowbringers is not just a fun and juicy MMORPG thanks to some intuitive design choices and amazing dungeons and encounters, but also a different take on the overindulged "hero saves the world" story with lots of twists and turns.
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  3. Game Informer
    Aug 15, 2019
    90
    Shadowbringers is the best expansion yet for Square Enix’s MMORPG, a world that comes alive in the player’s hands, with weight and gravitas moving you through every whimsical corner. Old-fashioned quest design and color-dodging combat add a dull tinge to a truly magical landscape, but those imperfections can’t keep down the scale and scope of excellent environments, grandiose bosses, and majestic music.
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