Final Fantasy XIV has officially rolled out its latest Alliance Raid with the 7.1 Crossroads update. The first segment of Dawntrail’s Alliance Raid, known as Echoes of Vana’diel, involves players teaming up in groups of eight. Before diving into the first tier of this new raid, players must complete several quests to unlock the option to queue for it.
For many players, Echoes of Vana’diel is particularly thrilling as it marks the long-awaited connection between FFXIV and the original MMORPG in the Final Fantasy franchise: FFXI. To embark on this nostalgic adventure, players need to ensure they are Level 100 in any Disciple of War or Magic class, finish the Dawntrail main story quest, and have an item level of 695. Once those criteria are met, it’s time to journey to Tuliyollal.
Unlocking Echoes of Vana’diel
Step 1: Accept "An Otherworldly Encounter"
Start by heading to the Aetheryte in Tuliyollal, where you’ll find a Hoobigo Messenger located at coordinates (13, 11.5). He will offer you the quest titled "An Otherworldly Encounter." Your next task is to travel to Mamook and talk to Miilal Ja, which you can do using Aetheryte travel. Miilal Ja is situated to the west of the Mamook Aetheryte, and she will inform you about finding an Elezen who was unconscious and mumbling about things he couldn’t comprehend. She believes you can help make sense of his condition.
The Elezen does not recall his name or how he arrived in Mamook, but you have other important matters to address. You will then be instructed to speak with Bakool Ja Ja. After a few cutscenes and dialogues, you will receive a notification that Jeuno: The First Walk is available, which represents the first section of Vana’diel.
Loot Mechanics in Jeuno: The First Walk
Much like the Myths of the Realm raid introduced in Endwalker, players are able to earn one gear reward from Jeuno: The First Walk each week. As further parts of the raid are released, you will be able to collect one gear item from each segment. However, be aware that the next section of FFXIV‘s Arcadion raid will likely be unveiled before additional content for Vana’diel comes out. When queuing through the Duty Finder, you can also earn Allagan Tomestones, which are useful for purchasing more gear.
Enjoy the Adventure
The arrival of Vana’diel in Eorzea is sure to excite players, though be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait when joining the queue for Jeuno: The First Walk. It’s important to note that the encounters within this raid involve numerous mechanics, and the complexity of these battles may feel overwhelming during your initial runs. Once you’ve completed the raid, you might want to continue with the subsequent quests to get ready for the next portion being added to Final Fantasy XIV.