FFXIV Adjusts Raid Reward Distribution

Responding to player feedback, Final Fantasy XIV Patch 7.16 will introduce a Clouddark Demimateria exchange system. This update, launching January 21st, 2025, addresses concerns regarding the reward structure of the Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid.

Players will be able to exchange their surplus Clouddark Demimateria 1 for Clouddark Demimateria 2, facilitating acquisition of high-demand items like the "A Half Times Two" hairstyle and the "Dais of Darkness" mount. While the exact exchange rate remains unannounced, this change significantly improves accessibility to these coveted rewards. Both the mount and hairstyle are also available for market board trading, potentially impacting their prices post-patch.

The Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid, introduced in Patch 7.15, presents a challenging encounter for up to 24 players. The current reward system, distributing Clouddark Demimateria 1 and 2 (with bonus Demimateria 2 based on first-time clears), proved imbalanced. This prompted Square Enix to implement the exchange, based directly on player feedback.

Further adjustments to the raid's reward structure are possible, contingent on ongoing player feedback and planned 2025 raid content updates. While Patch 7.16 will primarily feature the Dawntrail Role Quest series finale, significant job balance changes are anticipated in Patch 7.2.