The development team behind Final Fantasy 14 is actively working on a solution for significant load time issues affecting the game's recently released Nintendo Switch 2 version. Players have reported experiencing unacceptably long waits, particularly when entering instanced duties.
Reports of slow loading emerged shortly after the game's early access period began on the new platform. Some players described being stuck on black screens for up to 20 seconds during critical moments, such as being revived in eight-player content like trials and normal raids. These prolonged load times pose a particular challenge in high-end content that features enrage timers, mechanics that can lead to a party wipe if encounters are not completed within a set duration.
Square Enix has acknowledged the problem, identifying that the issue appears to be concentrated in instanced duties. The trigger seems to be entering these duties when surrounded by a large number of player characters, a common scenario when queuing from crowded areas like Aetheryte plazas. The problem is further compounded by the fact that the slow loading persists throughout the entire duty, not just upon entry.
Investigation by the development team points to data reloading and cache clearing processes as potential causes. Optimization efforts are underway to improve these processes and reduce load times. An updated build incorporating these fixes is currently undergoing testing, with Square Enix aiming for a swift release. Players seeking the latest information are advised to monitor The Lodestone, the game's official website. In the interim, players can attempt to mitigate the issue by queuing for duties from less populated areas to potentially avoid triggering the extended loading screens.