For a long time I've wanted to do a challenge run in FFXIV but focussing on my main character meant I never had the time. I've now decided to take the plunge with what I'm calling The Twelveswood Challenge.
The rules are simple but may be amended over time as where I've only just started there are a lot of uncertainties right now:
The Rules
I. Never leave The Black Shroud
Every overworld map location except for Gridania, Central Shroud, North Shroud, East Shroud and South Shroud are off-limits. The aim of the challenge is to never leave the Twelveswood.
This means that your starting character must be either Archer, Conjurer or Lancer, as those are the classes which begin their journey in Gridania.
II. Stay Solo
Partying with other players is not allowed. This means that FATE farming in a party and running dungeons for experience is off limits with the exception of playing Palace of the Dead solo (if that's actually accessible - I've not got to that point yet).
III. No Buying, Selling or Trading with Other Players
As an extension to the Stay Solo rule, use of the market board, trading with other players and receiving messages through Delivery Moogles with items attached is not allowed. The idea of the challenge is to stay self-sufficient to what is available within The Black Shroud.
The Challenge
The challenge is simply to stay within the bounds of the Twelveswood (The Black Shroud) in a self-sufficient way. I'm personally aiming for level 50 and endgame would likely involve me being equipped with items like Butchers Crown (Defeat 100,000 enemies achievement) and Paragon's Gown (Complete 3,000 FATEs achievement) - if I ever get that far.
For me this breathes new life into older game content whilst giving me a purpose to keep playing. This isn't intended to ever be my main character, but something I play on when I want a break.
What Isn't Accessible?
Unfortunately it's quite a long list, but the more important things are:
1. Challenge Log (unlocked in Limsa Lominsa);
2. Companion Chocobo (unlocked through MSQ progression beyond level 15);
3. Grand Company (unlocked through MSQ progression beyond level 15);
4. Job Soul Crystals (unlocked through MSQ progression beyond level 15);
5. Mounts (unlocked through MSQ progression beyond level 15).
Perhaps a better question would be...
What Is Accessible?
1. Archer, Conjurer, Gunbreaker* and Lancer;
2. Carpenter and Leatherworker;
3. Botanist;
4. Hunting Log (not completable);
5. Achievement rewards (provided the achievement can be unlocked).
* Gunbreaker isn't confirmed but the starting quest is in New Gridania and it doesn't appear to have any other quest requirements beforehand. It does however it require reaching level 60 first.
