Final Fantasy 14: Best Heavensward Zones, Ranked

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich lore and breathtaking landscapes of Final Fantasy XIV, I can confidently say that each expansion offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. Having journeyed through the first few zones of Heavensward, I’m particularly captivated by the mysterious and oppressive atmosphere of Azys Lla.

Heavensward was the first major expansion of Final Fantasy 14 and had many expectations foisted upon it. After the initial failure of the game, it was rebooted into a new game under the name of A Realm Reborn. The base game set up a storyline and a new world, but Heavensward’s task was to build up on it and show that the game was sustainable and would have a lot that to keep players engaged. Heavensward is widely considered a successful expansion for the game, if not one of the best, for many reasons, including its captivating zones.

In the expansion of “Heavensward,” the adjacent areas are situated fairly near one another yet are divided by numerous maps. During this expansion, players will explore Coerthas, Alabantha’s Spine, and Dravania territories, offering a richly varied landscape that is sure to keep them engaged. Each “Heavensward” area portrays the aftermath of the Dragonsong War that devastated the land throughout the expansion.

6 The Sea Of Clouds

Beyond The Sky

Final Fantasy 14: Best Heavensward Zones, Ranked

Land of Vanu Vanu
Untamed wilderness
Bismarck’s domain

In the game “Heavensward,” The Sea of Clouds is an early destination for players. A series of drifting islands controlled by Coerthans creates a striking difference from the frigid and uninviting snowy realms players have known. This zone is particularly popular among those aiming to boost their standing with the Vanu Vanu beast tribe, making it a frequent visit. Additionally, the free-roaming primal Bismarck resides here.

In this friendly and inviting area of Heavensward, you’ll find a refreshing change of pace from its heavier themes. Here, you can unwind and recharge before the Emperor of Garlemald makes his appearance. The distinctive design of the zone means that certain notable landmarks are accessible only through flight. As a result, mastering the new mechanic of aether currents becomes an engaging quest as you explore every inch of this captivating place.

5 The Dravanian Hinterlands

The Ruins Of Sharlayan

Final Fantasy 14: Best Heavensward Zones, Ranked

A land of mystery
The home of the goblins
A trove of knowledge

In the Dravania region, which is a part of the larger world, there are no dragons present. Instead, it introduces unique races and ideas that haven’t been explored much before. This area becomes accessible later in the main storyline as the protagonists look for a way to uncover the secrets of Azys Lla. The solution to this puzzle can be found here, along with the remnants of the once powerful Sharlayan civilization, as evidenced by Idyllshire being overtaken by goblins.

The area possesses a captivating ambiance, filled with breathtaking natural scenery that showcases Dravanian land’s beauty. However, civilization is scarce beyond Idyllshire, leaving the zone feeling isolated and immersing players in the sensation that its grand past has faded away. Numerous ancient Sharlayan artifacts lie waiting to be discovered, adding an intriguing enigma about the elusive nation before its introduction in Endwalker.

4 The Dravanian Forelands

The No Man’s Land

A land of man and dragon
The mountainous path
Home of the gnath hive

During your adventure leading to Nidhogg and Hraesvelgr, you’ll encounter the Dravanian Forelands – a region holding significant memories for some players. For others, it brings back recollections of Ysayle and Estinien’s unexpected alliances. Meanwhile, many remember the treacherous battle with Ravana that took place here. Most significantly, this zone illustrates the tense coexistence of dragons and Ishgardians, with frequent conflicts, thereby emphasizing the ever-present air of warfare.

In this area, you’ll find a diverse landscape that includes vast grasslands dotted with forests and tranquil lakes. Amazingly, this region continues to flourish amidst the ongoing conflicts among warring factions. As you explore further, you’ll encounter various architectural styles. First, there’s the well-known Ishgardian settlement. Next, you’ll discover the intricate hives of the Gnath, an insectoid race. Lastly, you’ll catch a glimpse of the craggy ruins where dragons make their homes. The ambiance of this zone shifts in certain areas, transforming it into a platform for newfound harmony.

3 Azys Lla

The Relict Of An Empire

The floating laboratory
The prison of the Triad
A technological wonder

The hidden zone of Azys Lla marks the culmination of the expansion. Throughout the promotional materials, its true nature was kept veiled in secrecy, leaving many surprised by the stark contrast it presented compared to the initial zones of Heavensward. Steeped in lore, Azys Lla is a place of great significance as it once belonged to Amon, an elusive character who orchestrated the Fourth Umbral catastrophe and other calamitous events. The power held within Azys Lla is that of the Warring Triad of primals, making it a coveted destination for various factions.

In the realm of Azys Lla lies a string of technologically advanced islands floating on the winds, akin to the ethereal Sea of Clouds. However, unlike its natural counterpart teeming with life, these islands are entirely dominated by Allagan machinery and structures, instilling an ominous, tense ambiance. The majority of beings and entities in this technological wonder are adversaries, and it is populated by numerous grotesque inventions born from the Allagans’ past greatness. A fitting finale to the expansion, Azys Lla promises an indelible adventure for players.

2 Coerthas Western Highlands

The Broken Domain

The ruins of the Ishgardian nation
A frozen land
The hideout of the heretics

In ARR (A Realm Reborn), Coerthas Western Highlands were off-limits due to inaccessibility. However, other parts of this snowy land called Coerthas, which had been devastated by a calamity, were available for players to discover. Now, the region that closely resembles these areas is once more accessible. It’s essential to note that this place endured severe damage and was just recently retaken. Its rugged mountains serve as bases for both Ishgardian forces and heretics, making it a contested territory.

In this area, an oppressive air of sadness and decay hangs heavy as players explore the remnants of a once-majestic civilization. A prominent feature within this zone is the Dusk Vigil, the crumbling ruins of an ancient castle seized by undead forces and devastated by cataclysmic events. The signs of past civilization are scarcely visible in the Highlands, making it an ideal sanctuary for heretics to conceal themselves, with their elusive leader, Lady Iceheart, among them.

1 Churning Mists

The Heart Of Dravania

Home of the elder dragons
Moogle abode
The peak of the land

Atop Dravania’s peaks lie the enigmatic Churning Mists, a pivotal location in the expansion’s intricate narrative. Within this zone reside two formidable dragons: Hraesvelgr and Nidhogg, brothers with immense power on Eorzea. Their ideologies clashed over addressing Ishgardian hostilities, leading to an unending conflict. The player’s objective is to intervene, attempting diplomacy with the warring dragons. Estinien, however, prepares for drastic actions if peace cannot be reached.

The area bears a resemblance to the Dravanian Forelands, yet it’s much more transient. With minimal human development, these drifting mountain islands give off an air of being dragon realms. Hauntingly beautiful ruins like Aery and Hraesvelgr’s domain occasionally reveal hints of ancient civilizations. Furthermore, one island harbors a moogle tribe whose assistance is crucial for the heroes in their quest to halt the Dragonsong War.

2024-07-18 16:33