As a long-time Summoner, I’ve journeyed through numerous battles, experienced myriad strategies, and explored various build options to optimize my performance in Eorzea. With the advent of Endwalker and the rise of the spell speed build around February 2022, it’s become the standard path for many Summoners, with its enhanced damage output and quickened casting times making it a compelling choice.
However, I’ve remained steadfast in my affinity for the classic critical hit/direct hit build, despite the current meta’s shift towards spell speed. I’ve always found there to be a certain charm in the balance of consistent damage and the thrill of critical hits that this build offers.
Now, I hear you asking, “Aren’t you at a disadvantage?” In terms of raw damage output and speed, perhaps so. However, I firmly believe that there’s more to our role as Summoners than merely dealing the highest DPS possible. It’s about understanding your class, adapting to the situation, and most importantly, enjoying the game.
While the spell speed build might reign supreme in the current meta, the critical hit/direct hit build is far from obsolete. It continues to offer a reliable, well-rounded approach to combat that can hold its own in most situations. Moreover, it serves as a testament to the diversity of playstyles that Final Fantasy XIV encourages, celebrating the unique paths that each player can forge in their journey.
So to all my fellow Summoners who still embrace the critical hit/direct hit build, remember that our chosen path is not defined by the meta, but by our passion for the game, our understanding of our class, and our determination to succeed, no matter the odds.
In the end, it’s not about which build is superior, but about how we choose to navigate the ever-evolving world of Final Fantasy XIV. So whether you’re a spell speed enthusiast or a devotee of the classic build like me, let’s continue to honor the spirit of adventure that binds us all.
And as always, I welcome any feedback or insights from the community. The journey of learning is endless, and I’m eager to grow along with all of you.
That's awesome! I have noticed that a majority of players seem to only care about where they come out on the DPS tables. I've always been baffled by their willingness to sacrifice enjoyment and personal preference for a bigger number. Too many people in all mmo's just follow the crowd. It's nice to see somebody who has the self-confidence and maturity to walk the path that works best for you, no matter what.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog post about your steadfast commitment to the critical hit/direct hit build as a Summoner in Final Fantasy XIV, despite the current meta's preference for the spell speed build. Your passion and dedication to your chosen playstyle are truly commendable.
I wholeheartedly agree with your sentiment that the chosen path of a Summoner should not be defined solely by the meta, but by their passion for the game and their understanding of their class. It's the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of enjoyment that binds us together as players. Whether one is an advocate of the spell speed build or a devoted follower of the classic build like yourself, our shared love for Final Fantasy XIV unites us in our pursuit of excellence.
Crit/direct hit builds are the best because big numbers.
I appreciate all the positive feedback I've received. I recall when people used to say, "the meta is the meta, keep up with it," implying that I should adapt to the current trends even though I remained loyal to the old build. Now, with the release of version 6.4, it seems like our build is getting its moment in the spotlight once more. People are starting to recognize the limitations of the speed build, which can't surpass the 2.18-second barrier and fails to produce impressive numbers.
I will say this I think people forget it's a game first and not a job this is what I think but you are there to have fun that's why I haven't completed any extreme and savage people are well hardcore toxic in most cases
