Performing Arts in Eorzea

Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) is a sprawling MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) beloved by gamers worldwide for its rich storyline, expansive world, and striking attention to detail. Amid its battles and quests, one unique feature stands out for those with a penchant for the arts: the ability to perform music. It's an addition that has turned heads since its introduction, bringing a whole new dimension to role-playing within the game. We're going to look at the melodic art of performance in Eorzea, from becoming a bard to mastering instruments and understanding the unspoken rules of public performances.

Becoming a Bard

First things first, to unleash your inner virtuoso, you will need to become a Bard. Bards are a job class that branches off from the Archer base class. To embark on this journey, you must have first reached level 30 as an Archer and completed all associated class quests. Upon doing so, the quest 'A Song of Bards and Bowmen' becomes available in Gridania, setting you on the path to becoming a Bard.

Becoming a Bard is more than a mere progression in your combat capabilities; it unlocks the Performance action, allowing you to play music solo or with a troupe, using a variety of instruments. This feature was introduced with patch 4.15 and has since then received expansions, including more instruments and quality-of-life improvements for performers.

Performing Music

Performing music in FFXIV is relatively straightforward but requires practice to master. Access to the Performance feature is found in the Actions & Traits menu under the Character tab. Initially, you may find the on-screen keyboard or gamepad controls a bit cumbersome for creating music. However, practice makes perfect.

Players can use their keyboard or MIDI devices to play music in-game, though MIDI support requires some setup. It's worth noting that there's a slight latency to consider, which can affect timing, especially for more complex pieces or performing in ensembles.

When performing, players can switch between different octaves and tones to create a range of sounds. Creativity here knows no bounds, as the community continually showcases through concerts and performances held in various in-game venues.

Instruments

As of my last knowledge update in early 2023, FFXIV features a diverse array of musical instruments players can choose from. Each instrument has its unique sound, covering a broad spectrum from strings such as the harp, to wind instruments like the flute, and even exotic options like the shamisen. New instruments are often introduced with major updates, keeping the musical repertoire fresh and exciting.

To select an instrument, players must first purchase it from an in-game vendor with Gil (the game's currency) or earn it through specific quests and achievements. Once owned, you can select your instrument of choice through the Performance interface.

Performance Songs

While Square Enix does not provide an official library of sheet music for songs to play in-game, the FFXIV community has stepped up to fill this void. Numerous websites and forums are dedicated to sharing MML (Music Macro Language) scripts and sheet music tailored for FFXIV's Performance mode. From classical pieces to iconic Final Fantasy scores and even contemporary hits, there's a vast library of songs at players' fingertips.

When choosing songs to perform, it's essential to be mindful of copyright restrictions. Square Enix has a list of songs that are not allowed to be performed in public spaces within the game, primarily to avoid legal complications. It's always a good practice to check the latest guidelines provided by Square Enix before your public performance.

Performance Etiquette

As with any community-focused feature, there's a certain etiquette to observe when performing in public spaces within Eorzea. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Location, Location, Location: Choose your performance spot wisely. Avoid playing near NPCs with quest markers, as large crowds could obstruct other players' access to these essential characters.

2. Respect the Audience: Be mindful of your audience. If you notice another performer nearby, either find a different spot or wait until they are finished. It's all about mutual respect.

3. Volume Control: While you can't directly control your in-game volume for others, be considerate about the length of your performance and the nature of your chosen song. Opt for pieces that embellish the atmosphere rather than disrupt it.

4. Player Feedback: Engaging with your audience can be both rewarding and revealing. Accept compliments graciously and take any criticism in stride. Feedback can be a great way to improve.

5. Legal Awareness: As mentioned earlier, ensure you're up to date on the list of songs permitted by Square Enix for public performances. This list is vital to maintain a hassle-free performing experience.

Engaging in the performing arts in Eorzea opens up a unique avenue for creativity and self-expression within FFXIV. Whether you're performing solo outside the gates of Ul'dah or part of an ensemble in the Lavender Beds, the joy of music brings an additional layer of community-driven content to an already rich game. It allows players to connect with one another in new, meaningful ways, offering moments of peace and enjoyment amidst the high-stakes drama of saving the realm.

As we look to the future, we can only anticipate further enhancements to this beloved feature, with more instruments and perhaps even more complex ways to create and share music. The performance scene in FFXIV is a testament to the game's ever-evolving nature, providing players not just with epic quests and battles, but with a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange. Engage, perform, and let the harmonious melodies of Eorzea elevate your spirit.