Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood is still under development but it's scheduled for release on June 20, 2017. The latest upcoming expansion has also introduced some new characters and features to the game.

Meet the Red Mage

Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood will introduce a new character called Red Mage. This was announced by Naoki Yoshida who is both the director and producer of the latest expansion. An introductory video about the new character was also release. This character was shown using a rapier as his main weapon while controlling a floating crystal. This indicates that the Red Mage will use a combination of melee and ranged weapons. Basically this new character can defeat his enemies by using several "chained" spells first before launching his rapier attack.

Ananta - The Beast Tribe

The Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood will also introduce a new beast tribe known as the Ananta. The beasts are made up entirely of females and are famous for their spell casting and gem crafting. They lived in the mountains that are near Ala Mhigo and have been there since the time of the Allagans. The Ananta people have also been suffering from the oppression of the Garleans.

Swimming and Diving

In Final Fantasy XV, players can camp, stay in hotels, eat and fish. Meanwhile in Stormblood, players can swim and dive in Eorzea. Unfortunately, swimming is only allowed in certain bodies of water. The good news is even flying mounts can also swim.

Additional Contents to Expect

Lakshmi, The Lady of Bliss is joining the upcoming installment as one of the Primals. Not much information about her though has been released as of press time. The Bend of Time - Omega raid is also coming soon. Another raid called the Return of Ivalice was also announced. This particular venture will be composed of two dozen allied players. Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood pre-orders will begin on January 24, 2017.