Final Fantasy XIV's Switch 2 Size Highlights Growing Storage Demands

Final Fantasy XIV is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 next month, with its eShop listing revealing a substantial storage requirement of 117.2GB. This single installation will consume nearly half of the console's internal solid-state drive. The large file size is attributed to the Switch 2 version including the base game along with its five major expansions: Heavensward, Stormblood, Shadowbringers, Endwalker, and the upcoming Dawntrail.

Each expansion adds significant content, including new storylines, classes, and gameplay activities to the world of Eorzea. Considering Final Fantasy XIV has been in development and active service for over a decade, its considerable growth in content naturally translates to a larger install footprint. This trend is further emphasized by other recent Square Enix releases on Nintendo platforms, such as Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which also feature large storage demands at 90GB and 95GB respectively.

Beyond Nintendo hardware, the escalating storage needs for modern games are impacting PC and console players as well. The cost of storage solutions has seen a significant increase recently. This surge is largely due to global NAND flash shortages, exacerbated by high demand from AI data centers. Consequently, prices for microSD cards and internal SSDs have doubled in recent months. For example, a 1TB Lexar microSD Express card, which previously retailed for $220, now costs approximately $350. Similarly, more affordable options like a 256GB Samsung P9 card have risen from $55 to $80, and a 512GB SanDisk card has gone from $100 to $130.

The scarcity and rising costs extend to other PC components as well. Prices for RAM have become significantly higher, and SSDs and GPUs are also experiencing substantial price increases. This component shortage is also contributing to higher console prices, with further increases anticipated. For PC gamers looking to upgrade their systems, the current market conditions may necessitate purchasing components over several months to afford a full overhaul.