While the effort required to develop a modern game is incredible, the effort needed to update an older game into the modern era may be even greater. Final Fantasy XIV, originally released in 2010, has been receiving consistent updates that improve the game’s features, performance, and adding additional content. Recently, Square Enix announced the latest of these expansions that promises to bring all three, Evercold. The announcement came with a teaser trailer and a new page on the official website providing additional information.
Final Fantasy XIV has been building up a story around the many reflections in the game, with the website confirming that the newest story will come from the fourth. The trailer is set as an old woman telling a little girl her favorite story. This story begins as an introduction to a peaceful time where the people wanted for nothing, juxtaposed with a flashback and battle sequence against flying enemies. The tale takes a dark turn as the old woman describes how the world grew colder and colder until the planet froze over and the people were forced to venture into the skies.
Along with the latest chapter of the story, Evercold also plans to bring large gameplay changes when it arrives. These include the new jobs of tank and physical ranged DPS, allowing players to focus on roles that better suit their style, and an increase of the level cap from 100 to 110. Players will also be able to find and craft new gear. Finally, the new update will add a large number of new areas including cities and dungeons.
Old games with consistent content updates are able to tell some of the longest and most comprehensive stories in gaming. Final Fantasy XIV will offer this next stage in the adventure in January 2026 to both new and returning players.