The Dark Throne, a captivating addition to Final Fantasy 14’s Endwalker expansion, has been brimming with tantalizing clues about what lies ahead for players in the next chapter of the game. While many hints have been scattered throughout the Void storyline, one particularly intriguing clue remains hidden from plain sight. The recent patches of Endwalker have delved into the iconic boss fights of Final Fantasy 4, evolving them into standalone characters that explore profound themes of death and purpose, resonating with the overarching narrative of Endwalker.
Remaining true to the promise of director Naoki Yoshida, the content updates for Endwalker have maintained their standalone nature. The Final Days were averted, and the story of Hydaelyn and Zodiark reached its conclusion by the time the expansion’s end credits rolled. The Warrior of Light’s journey into the Void has not only provided a fresh adventure separate from the next decade-long chapter in Etheirys’ tale but also served as an entry point for newcomers to encounter the beloved cast of Final Fantasy 14.
However, Patch 6.4 of Endwalker has skillfully woven cryptic lines and imagery, discreetly hinting at “The Next Big Thing.” Through seemingly innocuous scenes, players have caught glimpses of chess pieces being moved on the board, although the destination of these intricate maneuvers remains enigmatic. Recently, a player using the alias “notColdReactive” may have stumbled upon a significant piece of evidence hidden within Krile’s letter.
[Spoiler: 6.4-6.5+] If you manage to ram your camera in a specific spot in the Annex…
by u/notColdReactive in ffxiv
By tilting the camera in a specific way while in the Baldesion Annex in Old Sharlayan, an obscured yet suspicious seal becomes visible. The pixelated image bears a resemblance to Marilith, the Fiend of Fire from the original Final Fantasy game. Marilith, alongside Lich, Kraken, and Tiamat, served as one of the four primary bosses in the original game. In Final Fantasy 14, Tiamat, the widow of Bahamut, strongly hints at her intentions to return to Meracydia. Some fans argue that the seal could also resemble a dragon, further suggesting that Meracydia might become the focal point of the next expansion.
Crucially, Erenville’s casual remarks about a homecoming in the same scene shed light on the port city of Valnain and the Golmore Jungles of the Viera in Final Fantasy 14. Given its geographic location, it is plausible to speculate that Valnain could serve as a gateway to Meracydia, potentially becoming a new capital city, starting zone, or even both. While this analysis should be approached with cautious optimism, it stands as a compelling theory supported by substantial evidence. Fans can eagerly anticipate more concrete details during FanFest on July 28, where they are rumored to face off against a Primal from the upcoming expansion.
As the story of Final Fantasy 14 continues to unfold, players can expect a thrilling new chapter filled with adventure, epic battles, and unexpected twists. The hidden clues and hints scattered throughout Endwalker’s patches only deepen the anticipation for what lies ahead in the beloved MMO.
