The critically acclaimed MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV has launched on Nintendo Switch 2, featuring a free trial that grants access to the base game and its first three expansions: Heavensward, Stormblood, and Shadowbringers. This port marks a rapid release following its announcement in late June.
To begin playing the free trial, users will need to set up both a Nintendo Switch Online account and a Square Enix account. While a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is not necessary for gameplay, the trial imposes certain limitations. Players will be capped at level 80 and will not have access to the full range of multiplayer features, player-versus-player content, or Ultimate Raids. However, this trial offers a significant opportunity to explore the popular MMORPG.
Square Enix is offering a special incentive for a stable launch, waiving subscription fees for approximately one month after release. Following this period, the standard 30-day free play period included with new platform registrations will commence. After this initial free period concludes, a subscription will be required to continue playing, and a separate subscription is needed for the Switch 2 version, even if already subscribed on another platform.
It is important to note that purchasing any of the pre-order editions of Final Fantasy XIV on Switch 2 will disqualify players from utilizing the free trial. This offer is strictly a 'try before you buy' promotion. For those ready to commit, Square Enix is offering a 30 percent discount on both versions of the Complete Edition until August 13, 2026, bringing the price down from the standard $59.99 / £44.99 to $41.99 / £31.49.
Additionally, players with an active subscription on another platform, such as PlayStation 5 or PC, can obtain a 50 percent discount on the Switch 2 subscription. This offer may mitigate the cost for existing players looking to expand their platform options.
A considerable hurdle for the Switch 2 version is its massive file size. The free trial alone requires a staggering 117.2GB of storage, surpassing the download sizes of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and Remake. This substantial requirement will necessitate significant free space on the console's internal storage or an expanded storage solution.