GamerEscape

During our hands-on time with Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers, we got to check out the new level 73 dungeon Dohn Mheg, and we got to take some friends along for the ride!

This article is based on play of an in-development build of FINAL FANTASY XIV: Shadowbringers, and content in the final version is subject to change.

The new Trust system seems to be an evolution of the NPC Squadrons, with the benefit of not having to micromanage them during a dungeon.

In the build we played, we had the option to choose between Alphinaud, Alisae, Thancred, Minfilia, and Urianger. Each character had a different Class/Job associated with them. It would seem that in her time hanging out with Thancred, Minfilia is being training in the ways of the Rogue.

Upon entering the dungeon, the NPCs had some bubble text specific to the dungeon. One of the best parts about this system is that while it seemingly only applies to Main Scenario dungeons, they have both dialogue, and actions that are scripted. The NPCs will also interact with each other, and this is likely dependent on who you choose to accompany you. Thancred and Minfilia had some interactions that you can see in the video above, and there’s no doubt that there will be sibling squabbles abound if you select Alphinaud and Alisae during the same dungeon.

Upon approaching the first group of enemies in the Dungeon, I was surprised to see that when I got close to them, Thancred (Gunbreaker) rushed in and gathered enmity without me having to take any action. This changed later on in the dungeon, with me having to aggro the enemies before he would charge in, but it’s quite possible this will be refined by release.

My biggest curiosity about this system lies in the story telling of Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers. It feels as though all the characters that are available in this system might actually be journeying with the character throughout the entirety of the MSQ.

Overall, the Trust system works as advertised, allowing players to take on dungeons by themselves. The added perks of getting some character dialogue in the form of bubble text and seeing the characters act out certain scenarios in the dungeons is very welcome. It reminds me a lot of running a story heavy dungeon like The Ghimlyt Dark. There’s no doubt that this will be an incredibly useful system for those looking to avoid queue times.