One of the major new additions being made to Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn in the game’s upcoming patch is the Wolves’ Den, a player-vs-player arena that lets you duel with others. A newly-released set of patch notes explains how PvP duels will work.
Matches in the Wolves’ Den are divided into categories based on your level and party matching preferences. Whether you register for a match alone or in a pre-formed party, the team needs to include one tank, one healer, and two DPs. The number of players can go up to 4-on-4.
Once you’ve registered, you’ll be sorted into one of two teams—Fangs or Claws. If you exceed the designated level for an arena, you will be level-synced with everyone else. Players are then given two minutes to make whatever preparations they would like before the duel begins. PvP matches end when all member of a team have been knocked out. If neither team is defeated in the time limit, the match will be declared a draw.
In addition to normal actions, patch 2.1 will also add the ability to learn PvP-exclusive actions and traits. These are earned with Action Points (AP), which can be won by participating in PvP battles. A list of these actions, along with their effects, is included in the patch notes linked above.
Additionally, you’ll be able to acquire PvP-specific gear as well. Participating in PvP battles will allow you to earn Wolf Marks, a special currency that can be exchanged for gear and Materia specifically tuned for PvP. How much you earn depends on your performance in battle.
While patch 2.1 introduces the Wolves’ Den for PvP duels, Square Enix say they intend to make more upgrades to the PvP system in the future. In a future update to Final Fantasy XIV, you’ll be able to watch others players fight, and Square Enix say they’re also open to the idea of increasing battles from 4-on-4 to 8-on-8, depending on how the community reacts to the current 4-on-4 system. Other types of PvP modes such as Capture the Flag are under consideration as well, and will be discussed at a later date.
