After the recent Benchmark test for Final Fantasy 14’s graphical overhaul received negative feedback from players, Square Enix has taken steps to improve the character models based on that feedback. In April, players were given the opportunity to see how their characters would look after the graphical update, but many were disappointed with the results. Director Naoki Yoshida acknowledged the issues and promised to address them in a new Benchmark test.
During a recent Letter From the Producer broadcast, Yoshida announced that Square Enix is working on implementing the feedback received on the character models from the Benchmark test. These improvements will not only be reflected in the test software but also in the actual game when the major 7.0 update arrives alongside the Dawntrail expansion on June 28. The team aims to have these improvements ready for the Benchmark software by May 30, but Yoshida emphasized that this deadline is not set in stone due to the amount of work still needed.
Lighting Difficulties
Yoshida explained that the issues with the character models seen in the Benchmark test were primarily due to lighting difficulties rather than the models themselves. For example, smile lines appeared strange on some characters’ faces due to the lighting, prompting the team to rework the lighting and rebuild certain character mouths to improve their facial expressions. The team showcased some in-progress screenshot comparisons during the broadcast to highlight the improvements made.
One of the sore points among players was the reduction in size of Miqote characters’ teeth in the graphical overhaul. However, players were pleased to learn that the team had increased the size of Miqote teeth in the latest improvements. Despite this change, players will not have the ability to manually adjust Miqote teeth size when editing or creating their characters in Final Fantasy 14. Yoshida cited the extensive work done to redesign the characters as the reason for this limitation.
Final Update and Expansion
The 7.0 update for Final Fantasy 14, featuring the graphical overhaul, is scheduled to launch on June 28 alongside the Dawntrail expansion. The expansion will enter early access on the same day, with a full launch following on July 2. Yoshida confirmed that Dawntrail is on track and will not face any delays like the previous expansion, Endwalker, as it is in the final stages of development.
The improvements made to the character models in Final Fantasy 14 based on player feedback demonstrate the commitment of Square Enix to delivering a high-quality gaming experience. With the upcoming 7.0 update and Dawntrail expansion, players can look forward to enhanced visuals and character designs that reflect the dedication of the development team.
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