News & Guides

FFXI Beginner Guide - How to Start Questing & Tips

By Penny2023-12-20

Questing is one of the main activities in Final Fantasy XI. Quests are tasks that you can undertake from various NPCs in the game world, which usually involve completing objectives, such as killing monsters, delivering items, or exploring areas. Quests can reward you with experience points, gil, items, fame, and access to new content. Questing can also help you learn more about the lore and history of Vana'diel. So here are the basic steps and tips to help you with your questing journey in FFXI.

 

ffxi how to start questing

 

Steps

To start questing in Final Fantasy XI, here are some basic steps that you should follow:

 

Choose your starting nation and city.

There are three nations in Final Fantasy XI: San d'Oria, Bastok, and Windurst. Each nation has its own culture, history, and storyline, as well as different quests and missions. You can choose your starting nation and city when you create your character, and you can change it later if you want. Your starting nation and city will determine your initial quests and missions, as well as your home point, where you can teleport to any time.

 

Talk to NPCs and look for quests.

NPCs are non-player characters that populate the game world. You can talk to NPCs by targeting them and pressing the enter key. Some NPCs will have a chat bubble above their head, indicating that they have something to say or offer. Some NPCs will also have a quest icon above their head, indicating that they have a quest for you. You can activate a quest by talking to the NPC and agreeing to their request. Some quests may require you to talk to the NPC multiple times or to have a certain level, fame, or item. You can find quests in various locations, such as cities, towns, outposts, and dungeons.

 

Complete quests and get rewards.

To complete a quest, you need to fulfill the objective that the NPC gave you, such as killing a certain number of monsters and delivering an item. You may also need to return to the NPC or talk to another NPC to finish the quest. Once you complete a quest, you will get a reward, such as experience points, gil, items, fame, or access to new content. You may also get a cutscene or a dialogue that reveals more information about the quest or the story. To get your reward, you need to enable and complete the quest from the Quests tab in the menu. You can also check your current quests and their objectives from the same tab.

 

Tips

Here are some tips to enhance your questing adventure in the world of Vana'diel:

 

Read Quest Text: FFXI is known for its rich storytelling. Take the time to read the quest dialogue to understand the lore and immerse yourself in the game world. NPCs often drop hints and clues within their dialogue that can be crucial for completing quests.

 

Keep a Journal: Maintain a quest journal or use in-game notes to track your progress. This is especially helpful for quests with multiple steps or those that require you to travel to different locations. Having a clear record of your objectives can save time and prevent confusion.

 

Check Quest Flags: Look for NPCs with markers such as exclamation points or question marks above their heads. These indicate quest-givers or NPCs relevant to your current quests. Additionally, check the quest log to see which objectives you need to complete.

 

Coordinate with Other Players: FFXI is designed to encourage player interaction. Coordinate with other players, join parties, or form alliances to tackle group-oriented quests. Many quests are easier and more enjoyable when completed with a team.

 

Use the /check Command: The "/check" command allows you to inspect an NPC or object to gather information about its level and status. This can help you determine if you're ready for a particular quest or if you need to level up further before attempting it.

 

Leverage Trust NPCs: Trust NPCs are AI companions that can assist you in battles. As you progress through the game, you'll unlock various Trusts. Utilize them during solo quests or when you're unable to find a party.

 

Be Prepared for Battles: Many quests involve combat, so be sure to prepare your gear, stock up on consumables, and check your job abilities and spells. Understanding your job's strengths and weaknesses will make battles more manageable.

 

Explore Thoroughly: Vana'diel is a vast world with hidden corners and secrets. Explore thoroughly to discover new quest opportunities, hidden items, and shortcuts. Some quests require you to explore specific areas, so having a good knowledge of the game world is beneficial.

 

Use Field Manuals and Survival Guides: Field Manuals and Survival Guides serve as fast travel points. Activate these whenever you can to facilitate quicker movement between areas, especially when quests involve traveling long distances.

 

Diversify Your Activities: While questing is a significant part of FFXI, consider diversifying your activities. Engage in other content, such as crafting, fishing, or participating in events to earn additional rewards and experience different aspects of the game.

 

Keep an Eye on Timers: Some quests have time-sensitive elements or specific in-game time requirements. Pay attention to day and night cycles, weather conditions, and any time restrictions mentioned in quest descriptions.

 

Check Online Resources: FFXI has a dedicated community that produces guides and walkthroughs for quests. If you find yourself stuck or looking for efficient ways to complete a quest, consult online resources, forums, or fan sites for tips and advice.

 

Review Key Items and Quest Items: The Key Items and Quest Items tabs in your inventory are essential. Keep track of these items, as they often play a role in quest progression. Some quests may require you to use or trade specific items to advance.

 

Stay Flexible: FFXI is known for its dynamic world and evolving storylines. Be flexible in your approach to questing, and don't be afraid to adapt to changes in the game world or new content releases.

 

Enjoy the Journey: Lastly, savor the questing experience. FFXI is a game with a deep narrative and a sense of adventure. Take the time to enjoy the stories, characters, and challenges that quests offer as you journey through Vana'diel.

 

Final Words

Questing in Final Fantasy XI is a never-ending activity, as there are hundreds of quests available in the game, and new ones are added regularly. It can help you experience the rich and diverse world of Vana'diel and immerse yourself in the stories and characters of Final Fantasy XI. Questing can be fun, rewarding, and challenging as long as you have the patience, curiosity, and resourcefulness to find and complete quests.

Related Link: https://www.mmogah.com/news/ffxi/how-to-efficiently-complete-all-the-quests-in-ffxi


SHARE
Was this helpful?