Final Fantasy 14 is set to enhance the gaming experience with the upcoming Patch 7.16, scheduled for release on January 21. Responding to player feedback, Square Enix has announced a significant update to the reward structure of the Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid. Players will now have the opportunity to exchange excess Clouddark Demimateria 1 for Clouddark Demimateria 2, though the exact exchange rate remains undisclosed. This change is particularly exciting for those eager to acquire high-demand items such as the A Half Times Two hairstyle and the Dais of Darkness mount, which require 49 and 75 Clouddark Demimateria 2, respectively.
Introduced on December 24, following the release of Patch 7.15, the Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid has challenged players to battle the formidable final boss from A Realm Reborn's World of Darkness. This raid incorporates mechanics from the Eden raid series from Shadowbringers, adding a fresh twist to the familiar fight. Successful parties earn Clouddark Demimateria 1 and 2, with additional rewards for first-time clears.
The introduction of the Clouddark Demimateria exchange in Patch 7.16 is a direct response to player feedback, demonstrating Square Enix's commitment to listening to its community. Both the hairstyle and the mount can be traded on the market board, so their prices are expected to fluctuate post-patch. Square Enix has hinted at potential further adjustments based on ongoing player feedback, which could influence future raid content updates throughout 2025.
While Patch 7.16 marks the first content update of 2025 and features the finale of the Dawntrail Role Quest series, major job balance updates are not on the agenda. Players will need to wait for Patch 7.2 for any significant changes to job balance. As Final Fantasy 14 continues to evolve, the impact of player feedback on upcoming raid content remains a focal point of interest for the community.
