Hey guys! I just wanted to share my thoughts on Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward after finishing it on the free trial. It's been a wild ride, and I've met some seriously awesome characters along the way. I'm still fairly new to the game, so keep in mind I'm only talking about my experiences up to the end of Heavensward. So, without further ado, let's dive into my favorite characters so far!
Alphinaud & Alisaie: The Dynamic Duo
Alright, let's start with a couple of the main protagonists, Alphinaud and Alisaie Leveilleur. These twins totally won me over! At first, Alphinaud seemed a little…well, let's just say naive. He has this idealistic vision and is often the voice of reason in the group. However, I really appreciate his intelligence, his diplomatic approach, and his genuine care for others. Watching him grow and face challenges, especially during the events of Heavensward, was incredibly satisfying. The fact that he is a twin also adds depth to the character. Being the first male twin, and he's also one of the youngest members of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. He is a skilled strategist, often coming up with innovative plans and solutions. His dedication to the ideals of peace and understanding makes him a beacon of hope in a world constantly threatened by conflict. He always strives to find peaceful resolutions and is a strong advocate for diplomacy. His character development is a cornerstone of the narrative. He learns from his mistakes and becomes a more resilient and compassionate leader. I feel like I grew with him on my journey. It's also very heartwarming to watch his evolution from a young man to a respected leader. He learns to temper his idealism with realism, understanding that the path to peace is often paved with difficult choices. I would say that Alphinaud's role as an intelligent and compassionate leader, always seeking peaceful solutions, makes him one of the most important characters in Final Fantasy XIV's narrative.
On the other hand, Alisaie is the passionate and fiery twin. She's Alphinaud's opposite in many ways, and she has a more proactive approach to problems, and she is always ready to jump into action. I love her determination and her unwavering dedication to helping those in need. Alisaie's personality is a perfect balance of courage and empathy. Her direct and assertive nature often contrasts with Alphinaud's more cautious approach, but their contrasting personalities complement each other and create a strong dynamic. She is a skilled fighter, able to hold her own in combat. Her willingness to take risks and her proactive nature are essential to the Scions' success. She is fiercely independent, always seeking to forge her own path. She has a strong sense of justice and a burning desire to protect those who are vulnerable. Watching Alisaie grow from a somewhat impulsive young woman to a mature and responsible member of the Scions has been a real treat. Together, they form a formidable duo, always supporting each other, even when they disagree. Their bond is one of the most heartwarming and inspirational elements of the game. Their contrasting personalities, Alphinaud's intellect and Alisaie's action, create a dynamic that drives the narrative forward. They teach us the importance of collaboration, understanding, and the strength that can be found in differences. Their mutual love and respect for each other adds a deeper layer to their characters and reinforces the importance of family in the game. It's like, they are really the dynamic duo, and I cannot wait to see what they are capable of!
Estinien: The Dragoon with a Heart of Gold (Eventually)
Next up, we have Estinien, the brooding Dragoon of Ishgard. He first appears as a total grump, a lone wolf with a chip on his shoulder. He is very focused on the ongoing war and doesn't show much mercy. Honestly, at first, I wasn't sure what to make of him. However, as you progress through the story, you learn about his tragic past and the weight he carries. His dedication to his duty, despite the personal sacrifices, is admirable. As the story unfolds, you see glimpses of a warmer side, a man haunted by loss but driven by a strong sense of justice. His transformation is one of the most compelling arcs in Heavensward. The events of Heavensward allow Estinien to shed some of his layers. He slowly learns to trust others and forms a real bond with the Warrior of Light. His dry wit and sarcasm provide some much-needed comic relief, while his intense seriousness adds depth to the drama. The fact that he wields a lance and specializes in aerial combat is a big advantage in the game. He is the last surviving member of a noble family, and he has a strong sense of duty and loyalty to his people. Estinien’s growth as a character, from a solitary warrior to a trusted ally, is a major highlight of Heavensward's narrative. He teaches us about the importance of forgiveness, the impact of trauma, and the redemptive power of friendship. His internal conflicts are really what make him a very engaging character. The way he learns to overcome his personal demons, and how he allows himself to be vulnerable, is truly touching. He is a complex and multifaceted character, which is one of the many reasons I like him. His story is one of the highlights of the game, and he became one of my favorites.
Ysayle: The Lady of Ice and the Scions' Savior
Oh, Ysayle. Where do I even begin? Ysayle is one of those characters who makes you feel for her, especially for her role in the conflict between Ishgard and the dragons. She's a member of the heretical sect of the Ishgardian people, and she wants to find peace between the dragons and Ishgard. She is a beautiful and mysterious woman. She is driven by a deep desire for peace and her tragic past fuels her actions. Her faith in the ideals of the gods makes her a compelling character. Her character arc is one of the highlights of Heavensward's narrative. Throughout the story, Ysayle acts as a bridge between the Scions and the dragons. Her dedication to her cause and her willingness to sacrifice herself for the greater good is truly inspiring. Her death in the final moments of Heavensward was utterly heartbreaking. Her selflessness and unwavering faith in the possibility of peace make her a truly unforgettable character. She shows us that even in the darkest of times, hope and compassion can still prevail. Her sacrifice leaves a lasting impact on the story and shapes the future of the relationship between Ishgard and the dragons. She's one of the best characters in Heavensward. She's a great example of how someone can be a peacemaker in a world of conflict.
Haurchefant: The Eternal Friend
No words can truly describe how I feel about this character. Haurchefant is one of the most well-loved characters in Final Fantasy XIV. He’s the epitome of a loyal friend, always ready with a warm smile and a helping hand. His unwavering optimism and genuine kindness are a breath of fresh air in a world full of hardship. His unwavering support and genuine warmth light up even the darkest of moments. He will risk everything for his friends. His sacrifice is one of the most emotional moments in the game, and it really shows the importance of friendship and selflessness. He embodies the virtues of courage, kindness, and unwavering loyalty. His impact on the story is immeasurable, and his memory continues to inspire those who knew him. He leaves a lasting impression and continues to be a source of inspiration for the community. His character is a testament to the power of genuine friendship and the importance of valuing those around you. He shows us the true meaning of friendship and selflessness. His sacrifice has become one of the most memorable moments in gaming history. He’s a beacon of hope and kindness, and his memory will forever be cherished.
My Thoughts on the Free Trial
I am having so much fun playing the Final Fantasy XIV free trial! The story is engaging, the world is beautiful, and the characters are memorable. I also enjoy the community. The gameplay is addictive, and I can't wait to see what adventures await me in the future expansions. The game offers so much content for free players. I am also enjoying the freedom of playing the game without a subscription, although I'm seriously considering subscribing because there's so much more to experience. The story is incredibly immersive, and the world is rich with detail. The graphics are stunning, and the soundtrack is amazing. The community is friendly and welcoming, and it's easy to find groups to play with. Overall, it's been an incredible experience, and I'm excited to see where the story takes me next. I’m so glad I decided to give Final Fantasy XIV a try, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fantastic MMORPG experience!
Conclusion
These are just a few of my favorite characters from Heavensward. I can't wait to see what other amazing characters I'll meet as I continue my journey through Final Fantasy XIV. The characters in this game are truly the heart and soul of the story, and they're a big reason why I'm so hooked. Thanks for reading, and happy adventuring, guys!
