In Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, Grand Companies provide players with a structured faction system linked to the three principal city-states of Eorzea: The Maelstrom (associated with Limsa Lominsa), The Immortal Flames (rooted in Ul’dah), and The Order of the Twin Adder (tied to Gridania). Players typically join a Grand Company as they progress through the main storyline around level 20.

Benefits of Joining a Grand Company

1. Grand Company Seals: Joining a Grand Company allows players to earn and spend Grand Company Seals, a unique currency obtained by completing various activities, such as missions, FATEs (Fully Active Time Events), and specific duty roulettes. These seals can be used to purchase a variety of items from the Grand Company Quartermaster, which include:
– Unique weapons and armor
– Crafting materials
– Cosmetic items and emotes
– Housing items
– Relic weapon materials

2. Rank Progression: Players start at the rank of Private Third Class and can progress to higher ranks, such as Captain and beyond. Progressing in rank requires accruing seals:
– Advancement increases your seal allowance, allowing you to hold more seals.
– Higher ranks unlock access to a broader range of, and typically better, items from the Quartermaster, which can include gear tailored for combat, crafting, and aesthetic (glamour) purposes.

3. Chocobo Mount: At rank level 20, players can access the quest “My Little Chocobo,” which enables them to obtain a personal Chocobo mount. This is done by purchasing a Chocobo Issuance with Grand Company Seals.

4. Retainer Ventures: Players can also use Grand Company Seals to buy Retainer Ventures. These ventures are useful for sending retainers on gathering missions, which can yield valuable items and experience points.

5. Lore and Community Engagement: Joining a Grand Company provides players with a sense of belonging and participation in the broader narrative of Eorzea. The Grand Companies are involved in the military efforts of their respective city-states, enriching the role-playing experience. While they offer faction-specific missions and content, there currently are no dedicated quest chains attached to them.

Changing Grand Companies

Players have the flexibility to change their Grand Company if they choose. Each Grand Company exhibits distinct aesthetics and lore reflecting the culture and history of its associated city-state, adding depth to the gameplay experience.

Conclusion

In essence, Grand Companies are integral to the gameplay of Final Fantasy XIV, contributing to progression, unique rewards, and gameplay mechanisms focused on rank advancement and seal management. They enhance the narrative context of the game, fostering both player engagement in the lore and participation in dynamic gameplay systems. This rich structure offers players an immersive experience as they explore the world of Eorzea.