Final Fantasy 14 Reveals Heart-Wrenching Lore About Iconic Endwalker Song

Final Fantasy 14 Reveals Heart-Wrenching Lore About Iconic Endwalker Song

Key Takeaways

  • Ardbert narrates the emotional Final Fantasy 14 song “Close in the Distance” to the Warrior of Light.
  • The song was confirmed at a concert by voice actor Junichi Suwabe, adding depth to Ardbert’s character.
  • The unexpected lore reveal delighted fans, highlighting the emotional connection between players and Ardbert.

As a devoted fan of Final Fantasy 14, I can wholeheartedly say that the recent revelation at THE PRIMALS concert has sent shockwaves through our community. The confirmation that “Close in the Distance” is sung from Ardbert’s perspective was an unexpected lore bombshell, and it’s safe to say that tears were flowing like the rivers of light and darkness in Ultima Thule.


In an exciting turn of events, “Close in the Distance,” a touching melody from Ultima Thule in Final Fantasy 14’s Endwalker expansion, has been confirmed to be sung by Ardbert to the Warrior of Light. This heartfelt revelation about the game’s lore emerged in an unexpected setting: a concert dedicated to THE PRIMALS.

As a devoted gamer, I can’t help but appreciate the legendary work of Masayoshi Soken, the mastermind behind the critically-acclaimed soundtracks for Final Fantasy 14 and 16. This composer isn’t just a gaming icon; he’s also an exceptional musician, as demonstrated by his rock band, THE PRIMALS, which was formed in 2014 within the universe of Final Fantasy 14. Since then, we’ve been treated to countless concerts that have only amplified my gaming experience and made me cherish these games even more.

In a surprising turn, the latest concert for Final Fantasy 14 in Japan on September 21 and 22 unveiled intriguing details about the game itself. As reported by Game Watch, Junichi Suwabe, who voices Ardbert, the “Warrior of Darkness,” was present as a special guest at the PRIMALS performance. Throughout the concert, Suwabe narrated as Ardbert, addressing the audience, reciting lines from the game, and creating an emotional journey for the spectators. The climax came with “Close in the Distance,” the theme from Ultima Thule in Endwalker, performed by acclaimed American musician Jason Charles Miller. Through Suwabe’s narration, it was confirmed that this song is sung from Ardbert to the player character’s perspective.

“Close in the Distance” is Narrated by Ardbert from FF14

Warning: Spoilers for Final Fantasy 14: Endwalker below.

Initially appearing as a Warrior of Darkness in the game Heavensward, Ardbert later resurfaces as a spirit in Shadowbringers, having been unable to prevent his realm from being consumed by the Light’s Deluge. As the story unfolds, it is disclosed that Ardbert and the Warrior of Light were once united as a single entity. Towards the end of the expansion, he merges with the player character, imbuing them with power to complete the struggle. With his captivating narrative and exceptional voice acting in both English and Japanese, Ardbert has become one of Final Fantasy 14’s most beloved characters.

Back when I was deeply engrossed in the world of Final Fantasy 14, a game I’ve come to love, Natsuko Ishikawa – the mastermind behind some of the most captivating story arcs, including those of Ardbert in both Heavensward and Shadowbringers – hinted that “Close in the Distance” was sung from a specific character’s viewpoint. Fast forward to now, over two years later, it turns out she was talking about none other than Ardbert! To add to this intrigue, Miller, the singer for Shadowbringers, the theme of the expansion bearing its name, seems to imply that song too might be sung from Ardbert’s perspective. Exciting times ahead in this epic journey!

Without a doubt, fans of Final Fantasy 14 were taken aback by this piece of lore, particularly during a concert. The song “Close in the Distance” was already known for its emotional impact within the game, but discovering it was told from the viewpoint of such a cherished character left players in tears once more. Fans who want to relive the concert can do so until October 7 for 4400 yen, which is approximately $30.

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2024-09-27 03:04