Introduction
With Final Fantasy 14: Dawntrail, players can dive back into the well-crafted MMORPG to explore the new storyline. It is, however, important to note that even with this new expansion bringing the continent of Tural and a new summer-vacation feel to the game, the influences of the past, especially the Ascians, are still very much present. This will explain how Final Fantasy 14 manages to blend the new, and the history of numerous past iterations, along with shedding light on why the Ascians still play a pivotal role in this storyline.
Dawntrail: A New Beginning with Old Shadows
In this expansion, Dawntrail lets the players explore a new continent, Tural, where the culture of Latin America and Southeast Asia are fused. In this new continent, players will be joining the fighting the light ganker who is a part of a 52 character battle, step 2 of the new zone. Unlike the previously lore focused Endwalker expansion, this chapter will be focused on the character lore and the culture of the new continent.
That being said, Final Fantasy 14 has previously made a point to focus on the game’s lore, and the Ascians, who were forgotten for a time, are a huge part of the mythos of the game. They have shaped the history of the world of Hydaelyn and are said to have caused Umbral Calamities along with the rise and fall of many civilizations. The story of Dawntrail gives zooms into that lore.
The Ascians: Hydaelyn’s Greatest Antgonists
In Final Fantasy 14, newcomers might encounter Ascians as the immortal servants to the god of Darkness, Zodiark. Considered remnants of an ancient civilization on Etheirys, the Ascians lost their souls during Hydaelyn’s victory over Zodiark. They planned to restore their lost civilization by merging the shattered reflections of the world by causing calamities.
The Ascians have several key characterstics:
Hierarchy: The three Unsundered Ascians (Lahabrea, Emet Selch, and Elidibus) led Overlords and lesser black-masked agents which were associated with the red masks.
Methods: Nations were manipulated, primal summoning was taught to beast tribes, and several conflicts were instigated to create chaos.
Immortality: The mastery of Echo allowed Ascians to possess bodies and evade permanent destruction.
Although the main plot of Dawntrail does not focus on Ascians, their legacy and influences are deeply woven into the world-building of Final Fantasy 14. For instance, the technological marvels of Tural might still have ancient ties to the Allagan or Etheiryan civilizations that the Ascians influenced.
Dawntrail’s Story: Setting the Stage for Future Conflict
Despite the mixed reviews regarding the Wuk Lamat’s focus on pacing, the Wuk Lamat arc is effective in setting the groundwork for future conflicts in the series. This expansion also introduces the technologically advanced alternate dimension civilization, Alexandria, whose queen, Sphene, allies with rogue candidate Zoraal Ja. This interdimensional menace is similar to the Ascians’ meddling with parallel worlds.
Additionally, the Ascians’ ideology of sacrificing lesser beings for ‘greater’ colonial purpose is shown through Zoraal Ja’s colonial ambition. As the new arc for Final Fantasy 14 progresses, players may learn that Sphene’s goals might be aligned with the Ascians’ ancient plans, suggesting the unexpected resurrection of their influence.
Feedback on Final Fantasy 14’s Storyline and Future Updates
Dawntrail may face issues with the expansion’s storyline, however, the new features of Final Fantasy 14 continue to receive praise. As with previous installments, Square Enix remains committed to the franchise, as evidenced by the expansion’s new dungeons and raids as well as the graphical overhaul. In addition to these features, chaos raids and ultimate challenges added for hardcore players, and the new Viper and Pictomancer jobs added for diversity in combat, are sure to satisfy the majority of players.
Looking toward the future, the developers of Final Fantasy 14 have hinted at content updates, including the Cosmic Exploration and Occult Crescent Activities. These may offer deeper lore dives into Etheirys and the Ascians, providing lore veterans new perspectives while engaging newcomers.
Conclusion: The Unending Legacy of the Ascians
Although Final Fantasy 14: Dawntrail might seem less focused on the overarching cosmic conflicts of previous storylines, it demonstrates that the world of the game is still evolving and remains integrated. The Ascians still significantly influence events in and around Hydaelyn, and there is potential for them to return in future plotlines. As Warriors of Light venture into Tural and other new areas, they bring the burden of the lessons and battles they have fought against these primordial puppeteers.
For the time being, Final Fantasy 14 continues to mesmerize millions with its rich narrative, challenging content, and world-building. The game is steeped in lore and deeply immersive, allowing newcomers to experience the game’s universe. Whether a veteran or a curious newcomer, players are offered a refreshing yet familiar experience.
Source: https://gamerant.com/final-fantasy-14-dawntrail-ascians-story-plot/
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