Greetings, adventurers!
Zhexos here, still awake after the early morning Letter from the Producer LIVE. We hope you enjoyed it!

As previewed on the stream, the Stormblood benchmark software is now available! Check out the trailer below if you haven't seen it yet!

Being able to check out new locales and jobs ahead of launch is one of best parts about the benchmark. I'm sure we'll see a lot of speculation from the community after watching it!

We introduced a new feature where you can load the system configuration from your version of FFXIV. Please note that the benchmark is only available in DirectX®11, so users who play FFXIV in DirectX®11 will be able to use this feature.

It's also possible to load saved character appearance data from the standard or free trial versions of the game. Doing so will show your character starring as the protagonist in the benchmark. You'll also be able create a character in the benchmark, save the appearance data, and load into the actual game as well. Be sure to give it a try!

There are also new hairstyles that made their debut in the benchmark.
Here's the first one! This is the hairstyle worn by the samurai in the FINAL FANTASY XIV: Stormblood trailer. It looks great on both male and female characters.

The second hairstyle available to both male and female characters is the new monk hairstyle seen in the trailer. Maybe you'll run into some fierce Auri in the Azim Steppe?

Compared to the Heavensward benchmark, the number of equipment available to try out in the benchmark has also been expanded. You will also be able to try out the veteran reward outfits!

Players will be able to select from 24 different gear sets, which includes the new monk job specific gear. Before you tackle the benchmark score, I recommend trying out the character creator first!

I ran the benchmark on my PC and...not too bad for my work PC!

Download the benchmark and experience a taste of Stormblood!

- Zhexos
Community Team