Final Fantasy 14’s upcoming patch 7.35 has been fully unveiled during a special presentation at Tokyo Game Show, hosted by game director Naoki Yoshida and community producer Toshio Murouchi. This event, streamed live by Square Enix, offered a comprehensive preview of the eagerly awaited update. Patch 7.35 marks a significant moment for the acclaimed MMORPG, serving as the final content release before the next expansion’s narrative begins, while also introducing new mechanics that lay the groundwork for the game’s future.
During the presentation, the much-anticipated release date was announced: FF14 Patch 7.35 will launch on Tuesday, October 7. Yoshida confirmed that this update will bring the exciting Monster Hunter Wilds crossover, challenging players to face Guardian Arkveld within Final Fantasy 14. Additionally, the patch includes the new Pilgrim’s Traverse deep dungeon, the Yok Huy allied society quests, and further installments of the beloved Inconceivably Further Hildibrand Adventures.
[Embedded Video: FF14 Patch 7.35 & Monster Hunter Wilds Crossover]
The Pilgrim’s Traverse deep dungeon is expected to be a significant feature. Yoshida reiterated his eagerness for players to explore its variable difficulty settings, a concept he had previously introduced during the initial reveal and elaborated on at Gamescom. He stated, “If you are interested in what is going to come for the future of Final Fantasy 14, then Pilgrim’s Traverse will be the best spot to give it a try.”
The presentation then shifted focus to the Monster Hunter collaboration, featuring Capcom’s Ryozo Tsujimoto alongside Yoshida and Murouchi. To participate, players must be at level 100 and have finished the 7.0 Dawntrail Main Scenario Quest. However, effectively challenging this content will likely require an item level close to current endgame gear, with an average item level of 725 for The Windward Wilds—matching the 7.3 story trial—and 740 for the extreme version. Both versions are designed for eight players, but can be undertaken with custom groups of any size.
Yoshida detailed how the FF14 development team collaborated closely with developers from the Monster Hunter studio, many of whom are also active FF14 players, to seamlessly integrate the unique mechanics of both games. He acknowledged that “No matter how much they try, there’s always this particular clash where the elements from both games do not mesh well with each other.” Despite this, he confirmed that both teams committed to doing “whatever they need to do to make the fight the best thing ever and deliver the best experience to players.”
Yoshida suggested that the Arkveld battle might feature “less group-based mechanics” and instead emphasize “personal responsibility.” This approach aligns with the design of the Rathalos fight from Stormblood, and it accurately reflects the typical Monster Hunter gameplay experience, where individual skill often takes precedence over dedicated support roles.
Beyond the rewards hinted at last week, even more exciting items await. Unlike Stormblood’s Monster Hunter World crossover, which adapted armor to a more FF14 aesthetic, Yoshida explained that the design team aimed to stay “pretty faithful” to the original Wilds designs. He also confirmed that both armor styles can be equipped regardless of gender. All weapons will be available in base and augmented versions, making them accessible for glamour purposes even from the normal-difficulty encounter.
The weapon distribution for each job has also been confirmed, featuring some intriguing choices. Black Mages will wield the Hammer, while Warriors appear to utilize a transformed Charge Blade instead of a Switch Axe. Dark Knights will receive the Greatsword, and Samurai will wield the Longsword. Both Ninja and Dancer jobs gain variations of the Wilds Dual Blades, with Viper receiving a unique, original design. Red Mage seems to be a notable winner, adapting the Arkveld Lance to their distinctive style.
While the Seikret mount was previously showcased, players can also look forward to another unique option: the medical cart, familiar to those who’ve “fainted” in Wilds battles. This mount features your Warrior of Light comically slumping across it while two enthusiastic Palicos transport them. Additional rewards include adorable baby Seikret and Vigorwasp minions, Felyne housekeepers, and a variety of indoor and outdoor housing furnishings. Players can also earn framer’s kits, fashion accessories, and orchestrion rolls, including five new songs.
Yoshida then dived into a live demonstration of the actual Arkveld fight, noting that while he and the art director were familiar with the mechanics, the other six party members were experiencing it for the first time. He lightheartedly requested, “Please don’t admonish them for mistakes.” This preview offered a more extensive look than typical Live Letters, providing a detailed glimpse for those eager to see the battle firsthand, while warning players who prefer a fresh experience to avoid spoilers.
A recurring mechanic in the Arkveld fight involves “rolling wave” Area-of-Effect attacks, similar to those encountered in recent Dawntrail alliance raids. Players will frequently need to manage these overlapping waves as they propagate. Close observation of Arkveld’s movements is crucial, especially when it raises the chain-whips on its arms.
Despite Yoshida’s playful warnings, the team impressively brought Arkveld down to 34% health on their initial attempt before a shared-damage mechanic overwhelmed the remaining three players. They successfully cleared the encounter on their second try. While the fight can feel chaotic at times, it appears quite manageable on normal difficulty for players accustomed to typical raids, suggesting most adventurers should find it surmountable.
Following the battle, similar to the Rathalos encounter, players will have the opportunity to carve Arkveld for additional rewards. A brief “glamour” showcase then highlighted that the new armor features two dye channels, allowing for various customization options. A closer look at the Sage Nouliths revealed a delightful detail: they appear to be four miniature Arkveld Hunting Horns, adding a charming touch.
While the absence of an Arkveld mount is a minor disappointment, the new medical cart mount is arguably one of the most creatively designed yet. Yoshida mentioned that its intricate design pushed the boundaries of mount capabilities, showcasing two Palicos diligently transporting your character across the landscape. This encounter promises to be memorable, though the extreme version will need to deliver significant challenges to surpass the intensity of Monster Hunter Wilds’ Omega fight.
The presentation concluded with a final exciting announcement from Yoshida: three new outfits inspired by Final Fantasy Tactics characters—Ramza, Ovelia, and Gaffgarion—will be available in the online store starting Tuesday, September 30, commemorating the launch of The Ivalice Chronicles. Accompanying these will be additional orchestrion rolls for collectors.
Final Fantasy 14 Patch 7.35 officially launches on Tuesday, October 7.
Looking for something to play while you wait? Consider exploring some exciting new MMORPGs or the best co-op games to enjoy with friends.
With insights into both sides of this crossover, which collaboration quests are you most eager to experience? Share your thoughts and discuss all things PC gaming with fellow enthusiasts.