Square Enix’s legendary Final Fantasy XIV will undergo a major change as the company prepares to end mainstream support for the game on Windows 10. On October 14, this change coincides with Microsoft ending support for its widely used operating system. While patches will continue to be released, players seeking the best experience in Eorzea will need to upgrade to Windows 11.
This change is crucial for the Final Fantasy XIV community, especially considering the large number of Windows 10 users. Windows 10 currently holds the largest share of Microsoft’s operating systems, with 45.57%, just behind Windows 11 at 51.36%. For dedicated fans of the Warriors of Light’s story, this update deserves attention. Square Enix has clearly stated that while the game may technically run on Windows 10 after the October cutoff, any technical support for issues that arise will not be guaranteed. There may be some unofficial support available, but without any assurances.
Along with the operating system change, there will be an update to the minimum CPU requirements. The baseline for gameplay will increase from an Intel Core i7-7700 to an Intel Core i5-8400 or better. This means players will need at least a six-core processor from 2017 or newer. This will ensure the hardware can effectively handle both the game’s current needs and future updates, such as the upcoming Patch 7.3.
Players who prefer not to switch to Windows 11 still have other options, as Final Fantasy XIV is also available on macOS, PlayStation, and Xbox. All these platforms offer solid cross-play and cross-progression features. The impact of these changes, particularly regarding players’ transition to Windows 11, will likely be a key topic in this week’s Letter From The Producer LIVE on July 24. As the October 14 cutoff approaches, the fan base is eager for confirmation and clarification on this significant change.