FFXIV All Jobs Unlocking & Requirements (Pictomancer & Viper Added)

SHADOWBRINGERS UPDATED: Dancer and Gunbreaker added. Learn the requirements and how to unlock all jobs and classes in FFXIV!

DAWNTRAIL Guides! Dawntrail L90-100 Miner Leveling, Botanist Leveling
Dawntrail Normal Raid Guide (Quick, Spoiler Free)
See:
Viper STARTER Guide / Rotation | Pictomancer Starter Guide / Rotation


 

Hello there and welcome to our completely overhauled FFXIV Job Unlocking & Requirements Guide! This guide is updated up to Dawntrail! Let’s get right to it, straight to a summary table! Althrough I have a feeling you’re here for (SCROLL TO:) Viper or Pictomancer lol. Beastmaster? Kinda like Blue Mage, Dawntrails limited job. Not much info yet will update asap.

I’ll add a small blurb at the very end for Unlocking DoH and DoL jobs. If you’re confused, or maybe looking for a base class – look at the notes below the table.

LOST IN YOUR JOB QUEST?
CHECK RIGHT BELOW YOUR MAIN SCENARIO QUEST BOX!

Prefer to discuss / give feedback on reddit? See /r/MahikoSan FFXIV Job Unlocking Guide

Job Requirements & Unlock Quest: SUMMARY

Click on the class name to scroll to its more detailed section.

JobCodeUnlock Quest NameLocation & AreaXYRequirement Note
ViperVPREnter the ViperUldah99Disciple of War or Magic L80
PictomancerPCTThe Joy of PictomancyOld Gridania810Disciple of War or Magic L80
AstrologianASTStairway to the HeavensThe Pillars1510Disciple of War or Magic L50
BardBRDA Song of Bards and BowmenNew Gridania1511Archer (ARC) L30
Black MageBLMTaking the BlackUldah - Steps of Nald712Thaumaturge (LNC) L30
Blue MageBLUOut of the BlueLimsa Lower Decks1011Disciple of War or Magic L50
DancerDNCShall We DanceLimsa Lower Decks912DoW or DoM L60
Dark KnightDRKOur EndThe Pillars138Disciple of War or Magic L50
DragoonDRGEye of the DragonOld Gridania145Lancer (LNC) L30
GunbreakerGNBThe Makings of a GunbreakerNew Gridania1111DoW or DoM L60
MachinistMCHSavior of SkysteelFoundation810DoW or DoM L50
MonkMNKBrother from Another MotherUldah - Steps of Nald910Pugilist (PGL) L30
NinjaNINPeasants by Day, Ninjas by NightLimsa Lower Decks816Rogue (ROG) L30
PaladinPLDPaladin's PledgeUldah - Steps of Thal911Gladiator (GLD) L30
ReaperRPRThe Killer InstinctUl'dah - Steps of Nald139Disciple of War or Magic L70
Red MageRDMTaking the RedUldah - Steps of Thal1411Disciple of War or Magic L50
SageSGESage's PathLimsa Lominsa Lower Decks913Disciple of War or Magic L70
SamuraiSAMThe Way of the SamuraiUldah - Steps of Nald99Disciple of War or Magic L50
ScholarSCHForgotten but Not GoneLimsa Lower Decks411Arcanist (ACN) L30
SummonerSMNAusterities of FlameLimsa Lower Decks411Arcanist (ACN) L30
WarriorWARPride and Duty (Will Take You...Limsa Upper Decks116Marauder (MRD) L30
White MageWHMSeer FollyOld Gridania610Conjurer (CNJ) L30

From here, let’s have a little note about each and every job (or class) you want to unlock, its requirements, and a little protip for each!

Base Classes Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

ALMOST ALL base classes (WITH THE NOTABLE EXCEPTION OF ROGUE), can be accessed as you create your character, as you spawn into this world! Here’s a quick table of base classes (click on the box below), and where to unlock them.

Base Class unlocking table
JobCodeUnlock Quest NameLocation & AreaXY
ArcanistACNWay of the ArcanistLimsa Lower Decks411
ArcherARCWay of the ArcherNew Gridania1512
ConjurerCNJWay of the ConjurerOld Gridania611
GladiatorGLDWay of the GladiatorUldah - Steps of Thal911
LancerLNCWay of the LancerOld Gridania145
MarauderMRDWay of the MarauderLimsa Upper Decks116
PugilistPGLWay of the PugilistUldah - Steps of Nald910
RogueROGMy First DaggersLimsa Lower Decks816
ThaumaturgeTHMWay of the ThaumaturgeUldah - Steps of Nald712

ALL OF THE BASE / ARR JOBS
seem to have ditched the old requirements to unlock..?
You only need Level 10 in your original base class?

Rogue is a little different. It’s the only base class you cannot START THE GAME WITH. So any new player aspiring to be a Rogue (and eventually Ninja) would be best served by choosing a starter base class that spawns in Limsa, either Arcanist or Marauder. But honestly, it doesn’t make much of a difference.

Astrologian Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Astrologian.

  • Astrologian Unlock Quest: Stairway to the Heavens
  • Location: The Pillars (15,10)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 50 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Ishgard / Foundation
  • Expansion: Heavensward

New players wanting to play AST asap will have to take a bit of a detour. The requirements are having a disciple or magic or war at level 50. So you might as well level up a healer. Start the game as Conjurer (into White Mage), or Arcanist (into Scholar).

The sad part is Astrologian starts at L30. Ouch.

Bard Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Bard.

  • Bard Unlock Quest: A Song of Bards and Bowmen
  • Location: New Gridania (15,11)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Archer (ARC), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: New Gridania -> Archers Guild
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

Being part of the original roster of Jobs, new players aspiring to play BRD have it easy. Simply start the game as an Archer, and you’ll be well on your way to being a Bard!

Black Mage Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Black Mage.

  • Black Mage Unlock Quest: Taking the Black
  • Location: Uldah – Steps of Nald (7,12)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Thaumaturge (THM), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet:
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

As one of the original Jobs, new players wanting to blow up the world with BLM simply have to start the game as Thaumaturge, and you’ll be burning your path to Black Mage in no time.

Blue Mage Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

WARNING: MEME TIER JOB. PLEASE READ

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Blue Mage.

  • Quest: Out of the Blue
  • Location: Limsa Lower Decks (10,11)
  • NPC: Zealous Leatherjacket
  • Requirements: Level 50 DoW or DoM
  • Complete the main scenario quest “The Ultimate Weapon.”
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Limsa Upper Decks -> Limsa Lower Decks
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

HOLD IT! BEFORE YOU HAVE DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR ABOUT YOUR CARREER AS A BLUE MAGE – BLU is the first “Limited Job” which means quite a bit IT DOES NOT REACH MAX LEVEL! So hold your horses. Sadly you have to choose something else for a serious path.

It’s meant to be a fun sidejob which has a completely different progression path and goals from your typical combat jobs. Currently, Blue Mage is a purely “for fun” kinda job… I suppose…

Fun is loosely defined, btw. Don’t @ me if it doesn’t pan out.

Dancer Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Dancer.

  • Dancer Unlock Quest: Shall We Dance
  • Location: Limsa Lower Decks (9,12)
  • NPC: Eager Lominsan
  • Requirements: Level 60 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Lower Decks Aetheryte straight up… it’s near.
  • Expansion: Stormblood

As one of the Shadowbringer Jobs, Dancer requires you have a level 60 disciple or war or magic to unlock. So new players have a bit of a journey ahead before they get to shake dat booty.

Technically the quickest way to level up to 60 is by taking advantage of tank or healer queues, but I would highly advise newer players to play a similar role – so starting from Archer into Bard should get you in rhythm.

Dark Knight Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Dark Knight.

  • Dark Knight Unlock Quest: Our End
  • Location: The Pillars (13,8)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 50 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Ishgard / Foundation –
  • Expansion: Heavensward

New players wanting to play DRK asap will have to wait a bit. You need a Level 50 disciple of magic or war to unlock Dark Knight. My advice is to get used to tanking, and start the game as Gladiator (into Paladin), or Marauder (into Warrior).

Sadly, Dark Knight is one of three jobs that “backtrack” in level, starting out their journey at Level 30. Oof.

Dragoon Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Dragoon.

  • Dragoon Unlock Quest: Eye of the Dragon
  • Location: Old Gridania (14,5)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Lancer (LNC), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: New Gridania –
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players attracted by the flashiness of DRG are in luck – it’s one of the original jobs so starting the game out as Lancer (LNC) will “point” you in the right direction.

Gunbreaker Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Gunbreaker.

  • Gunbreaker Unlock Quest: The Makings of a Gunbreaker
  • Location: New Gridania (11,11)
  • NPC: Gods’ Quiver bow
  • Requirements: Level 60 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: New Gridania straight up. Near aetheryte.
  • Expansion: Shadowbringers

New players who wanna squall it up as GNB will have to put in some work first. You need an L60 combat class of any other kind. I highly recommend picking something of the same role though. So Gladiator into Paladin, or Marauder into Warrior are your best bets.

Gunbreaker starts at L60 so there’s no real time lost there.

Machinist Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Machinist.

  • Machinist Unlock Quest: Savior of Skysteel
  • Location: Foundation (8,10)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 50 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Ishgard / Foundation
  • Expansion: Heavensward

New players who want to pile it in with the bots as MCH are in for a bit of work… You need an L50 combat class, which technically is easiest reached by a tank or healer.

HOWEVER, I will always recommend another class of the same role so Archer (ARC) into Bard (BRD) would be my shot at a recommendation.

Sadly, Machinist is one of three classes that backtrack their level – starting out as a Level 30 character. Hnnng.

Monk Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking the Monk job.

  • Monk Unlock Quest: Brother from Another Mother
  • Location: Uldah – Steps of Nald (9,10)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level30 Pugilist (PGL), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet:
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players who have the unexplained desire to punch stuff ASAP with MNK are in luck – it’s one of the original jobs so starting the game off as Pugilist (PGL) will allows you to hit it off in no time.

Ninja Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking the Ninja job.

  • Ninja Unlock Quest: Peasants by Day, Ninjas by Night
  • Location:  Limsa Lower Decks (8,16)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Rogue (ROG), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte / Aethernet: Limsa Upper Decks
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players wanting to live the NIN dream will want to get to Rogue (ROG) ASAP. However, you cannot start the game as rogue!

That being said Rogues need a relatively low unlock requirement (L10, and a low level MSQ). The most efficient choice for me personally is picking any other class that starts in Limsa: Marauder or Arcanist, then switch to Rogue when able.

Paladin Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Paladin.

  • Paladin Unlock Quest: Paladin’s Pledge
  • Location: Ul’dah – Steps of Thal (9,11)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Gladiator (GLD), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Ul’dah
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players wanting to star the game as PLD are lucky – it’s one of the original jobs! Simply starting the game as Gladiator will reinforce your path straight into the shield.

Pictomancer Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

See: Pictomancer Starter Guide – Rotation, Setup, etc

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking the Pictomancer Job.

  • Pictomancer Unlock Quest Name: The Joy of Pictomancy
  • Location: New Gridania -> Conjurer’s Guild (8.0, 10.3)
  • NPC: Cheerless Hearer
  • Requirements: Level 80 Disciple of War or Magic.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: TBA
  • Expansion: Dawntrail

New players wanting to star the game as PLD are lucky – it’s one of the original jobs! Simply starting the game as Gladiator will reinforce your path straight into the shield.

Aspiring artists apply! If you wanna be a Pictomancer, you’re gonna any other combat class at Level 80. If you want a “similar” job, then go with Black Mage on your journey upward. Once you make the switch, Pictomancer starts at Level 80!

Along your way you can try the Summoner (start game as arcanist), or Red Mage (once you reach L50).

Otherwise, pick tank or healer to improve your queue time haha.

Reaper Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Reaper.

  • Reaper Unlock Quest: The Killer Instinct
  • Location: Ul’dah – Steps of Nald (12.8, 8.6)
  • NPC: Flustered Attendant
  • Requirements: Level 70 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte / Aethernet: Ul’dah – Steps of Nald, Adventurer’s Guild
  • Expansion: Endwalker

Since RPR unlocks at a high level with many skills, check out our Reaper initial skills, setup and rotation guide.

New players wanting to be up and coming edgelords rushing into Reaping might want to start as any melee DPS. Pick any starting melee DPS (Monk, Dragoon, or Ninja) as your goal, and unlock its base class (Pugilist, Lancer, or Rogue respectively).

Alternatively, if you want to reach L70 ASAP you can abuse tank or healer queues, but, I heavily suggest going for a similar role and job as the one you’re aspiring to me.

Red Mage Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Red Mage.

  • Red Mage Unlock Quest: Taking the Red
  • Location: Uldah – Steps of Thal (14,11)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 50 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet:
  • Expansion: Stormblood

New players itching to swashbuckle as RDM will have to level up another combat class to L50 first. While technically leveling a tank or healer would improve your speed I always recommend picking a similar class to kickstart your journey!

That being said, the closest thing would be Thaumaturge (THM) into Black Mage (BLM). From there, get to Red Mage!

Luckily RDM starts as L50 so you’ll pick up right where you left off.

Sage Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Sage.

  • Sage Unlock Quest: Sage’s Path
  • Location: Limsa Lominsa Lower Decks (9, 13)
  • NPC: Sharlayan Maiden
  • Requirements: Level 70 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte / Aethernet: Limsa Lominsa Lower Decks
  • Expansion: Endwalker

Since SGE unlocks at a high level with many skills, check out our Sage initial skills, setup and rotation guide.

Rushing for Sage? Then you might wanna train up any other healer first until L70 then switching up to Sage. If you’re absolutely new then you’re going to want to start the game as one of the healer classes, Conjurer or Arcanist, which becomes White Mage and Schiolar Respectively.

Samurai Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Samurai.

  • Samurai Unlock Quest: The Way of the Samurai
  • Location: Uldah – Steps of Nald (9,9)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 50 DoW or DoM
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Uldah

New players wanting to train in the blade of SAM have to level up another combat class to Level 50 first… Technically, the fastest way is to level up a tank or healer to take advantage of faster queues –

BUT! I always advise going for a similar role on your journey. Pick any starting melee DPS (Monk, Dragoon, or Ninja) as your goal, and unlock its base class (Pugilist, Lancer, or Rogue respectively).

Luckily Samurai starts at L50 – right where you left off!

Scholar Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Scholar.

  • Scholar Unlock Quest: Forgotten but Not Gone
  • Location: Limsa Lower Decks (4,11)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Arcanist (ACN), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Limsa Upper Decks
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players strategizing their way to SCH should rest easy since it’s one of the original jobs! Starting out as an Arcanist (ACN) should put you right in the books to become a Scholar!

As an added bonus, SCHOLAR EXP IS SHARED WITH SUMMONER – so you can choose to pew pew when it suits you! (Soloing, for example). By shared I don’t mean halved – they gain it equally!

Summoner Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Summoner.

  • Summoner Unlock Quest: Austerities of Flame
  • Location: Limsa Lower Decks (4,11)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Arcanist (ACN), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Limsa Upper Decks
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players wanting to control deez SMN pets are in luck. It’s one of the original jobs so starting the game as Arcanist (ACN) will put you right in control up to Summoner!

As an added bonus SUMMONER EXP IS SHARED WITH SCHOLAR, so you get a healer to boot! Double value! By shared I don’t mean halved – they gain XP at the same time!

Viper Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

See: Viper Starter Guide – Rotation, Setup, etc

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking the Viper job.

  • Viper Unlock Quest Name: Enter the Viper
  • Location: Ul’dah – Steps of Nald (9.3, 9.2), It’s near the main Aetheryte.
  • NPC: Worried Weaver
  • Prerequisites: Level 80 Disciple of War or Magic.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet:
  • Expansion: Dawntrail

If you’re itching to stab your way (multiple ways, actually) through with the Viper – you’ll have to wait. You need another Level 80 combat class of any other kind! But don’t sweat it, because Viper starts at Level 80 as well!

If I could recommend a class most similar to Viper from the base game (for new players wanting to rush in), it’s probably Monk, or Dragoon – both melee DPS. You can progress to other melees like Ninja, Samurai, or Reaper down the line.

I don’t advise this, but, you can also roll healer or tank to improve your queue time while leveling up. Heh.

Warrior Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking Warrior.

  • Warrior Unlock Quest: Pride and Duty (Will Take You…)
  • Location: Limsa Lominsa Upper Decks (11,6)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: L30 Marauder (MRD), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: Limsa Lominsa Lower Decks -> Marauders Guild.
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players itching to be an Axe-wielding WAR, fret not! It’s one of the original jobs so starting off as a Marauder (MRD) will put you in the right direction straight to Warrior!

White Mage Unlocking, Requirements & Tips

Here’s a quick summary on unlocking White Mage.

  • White Mage Unlock Quest: Seer Folly
  • Location: Old Gridania (6,10)
  • NPC:
  • Requirements: Level 30 Conjurer (CNJ), and all class quests.
  • Aetheryte -> Aethernet: New Gridania
  • Expansion: Base / A Realm Reborn

New players who want to go straight to WHM are in luck. It’s one of the original jobs so simply starting your journey as a Conjurer (CNJ) will set you on the straight and narrow to White Mage!

DoH and DoL Jobs – Might as well put it here!

Just a quick addition here, if you’re trying to unlock all of ’em I’ll list ’em by location first.

Crafters (DoH) Disciple of the Hand
Limsa: Armorsmith, Blacksmith, Culinarian.
Ul’dah: Alchemist, Goldsmith, Weaver.
Gridania: Carpenter, Leatherworker.

Gatherers (DoL) Disciple of the Land)
Limsa: Fisher
Ul’dah: Miner
Gridania: Botanist

Summary, Closing , Related Info

THAT’S IT FOR ALL JOB UNLOCKS!

I’ll be updating this guide with further supplemental info in the very near future, so stay tuned! GOOD LUCK UNLOCKING THOSE JOBS AND GETTING THOSE REQUIREMENTS!

I suppose I can add some links here in the future as well.

Prefer to discuss / give feedback on reddit? See /r/MahikoSan FFXIV Job Unlocking Guide

FFXIV Melee DPS Role Actions: Guide & FAQ (Dawntrail UPDATE)

All you need to know about the Melee Role Actions in Shadowbringers!

Here’s a quick guide for the Melee DPS Role Actions.  We no longer have to choose – and have access to all Role Actions! Used to be the “cross-class” system.

Dawntrail Update: Added Viper to the mix. Dawntrail changes are:

  • Second Wind more powerful, almost double potency to 800. (L94)
  • Feint increased duration to 15s.
What Jobs benefit from the Melee DPS Role Actions?

Job Class

Monk (MNK)
Dragoon (DRG)
Ninja (NIN)
Reaper (RPR)
Samurai (SAM)
Viper (VPR)

Base Class

Pugilist (PUG)
Lancer (LNC)
Rogue (ROG)

Melee DPS Role Actions – Navigation:
Melee DPS Actions List | Role Actions Uses & Discussion

Melee DPS Role Actions List

LvlActionDescriptionCastRecast
8Second WindRestore own HP, scales with attack power.Instant120
10Leg SweepStuns target for 3s.Instant40
12BloodbathConverts part of your damage to HP for 20s.Instant90
22FeintLower target's strength and dexterity by 10% for 10s.Instant90
32Arm's LengthIgnore most position altering effects for 6s. Cause Slow +20% when struck.Instant120
50True NorthNullifies all action direction requirements. Duration: 10s. Max charges 2.Instant45

Second Wind improves via a Role Trait at L94.

Melee DPS Role Actions: Quick Strategy & Discussion

Here we talk a little bit about each of the role actions and their applications.

Second Wind

Can save your life in raids when expertly used. Learn how to use it well! Never bad to have a self-heal while soloing too, of course.

Note: As a healer main there are very few instances where Second Wind ACTUALLY helps. It’s great for when you accidentally took a hit before a damaging mechanic. Ask your healers about it! I’d rather you Second Wind “before” mechanics if you aren’t full, than heailng up after it.

Leg Sweep

Great for soloing and dungeons, rare for raids. a 3 second stun works wonders for mass dungeon pulls.

Bloodbath

A strange skill that has limited usefulness outside of soloing. As for raiding, this is about as useful anytime a regen would be…

Ask your healers when’s the best time to pop this per encounter as they would give you the best use-case.

Feint

Reduces enemy physical damage by a large amount for a short duration. Best used to help mitigate heavy physical tank busters (and the rare physical AoE) in raids. Coordinate with your tanks and healers about it!

Arm’s Length

Comes up in raids. Anytime there’s a knockback in an encounter try to imagine how this skill would be best utilized to mitigate its effect on your DPS, or to ease up the mechanics.

True North

Oh boy… a godlike cheese when your raid needs to take sub-optimal melee positioning. You’ll be using this often.

Melee DPS Role Actions – Navigation:
Melee DPS Role Actions List | Role Actions Uses & Discussion

Well, that’s about it for Melee DPS Role Actions! FOR NOW! I’ll be adding to this soon.

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FFXIV Dragoon (DRG) Basics Guide & FAQ – Shadowbringers Updated!

DAWNTRAIL Guides! Dawntrail L90-100 Miner Leveling, Botanist Leveling
Dawntrail Normal Raid Guide (Quick, Spoiler Free)
See:
Viper STARTER Guide / Rotation | Pictomancer Starter Guide / Rotation


 

Diving into Dragoon? Don’t distress! Devote a little time to digest about the DRG job! Find basic information and FAQs in our Dragoon Basics Guide. Read on if you’re expecting to learn about unlocking DRG, Dragoon Job Identity, trait and skill list, crafters and gatherers related to DRG, and link to other important Dragoon info!

Dragoon is a Melee DPS job, and one of the starting nine jobs released in 2.0 A Realm Reborn. DRG’s came out alongside another melee DPS, Monk.

How to become a Dragoon? Unlocking DRG:

First and foremost you need to have a Level 30 Lancer, and have completed the L30 LNC class quest, “Proof of Might”. After doing this you can unlock the actual quest to become a Dragoon, “Eye of the Dragon” issued by Lancer guildmaster Ywain at Gridania – Old Gridania.

You also have to complete a Level 20 MSQ, “Sylph Management”, which realistically should be completed by the time you’re looking to unlock Dragoon. 

Note that, upon completing Eye of the Dragon you MUST EQUIP the “Soul of the Dragoon” to actually formally BECOME a DRG. Interestingly, in the old days, unlocking Dragoon required L15 MRD – that’s no longer the case.

Rushing to or want to know how to unlock a certain class? Learn more:
FFXIV Job Unlock & Requirements Guide.

Dragoon Playstyle & DRG Job Identity

If you’ve asked yourself, “Why play, try, or choose Dragoon?” – here’s my attempt at selling you the DRG class.

Heavy hitting, extreme looking, high flying (animation locking) goodness – this embodies the DRG in theory and in practice. Dragoons have the longest combos in the game – it’s one of the most unique aspects about it. They also have quite a few positional requirements. 

They’re the slow side of the GCD which can be good or bad for some, but they have MANY off-gcd weaving skills. While Dragoons have a mid to high tier personal DPS, historically they improve overall raid DPS quite a bit via raid buffs.

Aesthetically and thematically, there’s no mistaking that trademark “FF Dragoon look” and that satisfying “Dragoon feel”. The job plays how you expect with the flashiness and heaviness of the jumps. The FFXIV Dragoon hits it home IMO, paying great homage to the general Final Fantasy Dragoon!

DISCLAIMER

DISCLAIMER: This is not meant to be a blurb that aligns with the current meta. That changes from patch to patch. Our goal here is to provide you with an idea of what the job is trying to be, getting cues from both the Developers’ concrete decisions on job design, as well as our own feedback.

What Crafters & Gatherers should Dragoon level?

While it’s common in MMORPG’s to think you want to craft your own gear as you level up your DRG… I DO NOT RECOMMEND IT.

Leveling up your DoH and DoL jobs should be thought of as a different activity completely. To be honest, if you’re a newer player, simply ensure that you DO NOT OVERCAP Levequests (always have less than 100).

The only relation a combat job has to a crafter or gatherer class is “which classes do you need to repair your gear”? My advice, ultimately, is pretty much all or nothing – level up all DoH classes in tandem. As a separate project, level up all DoL classes in tandem (with the optional Fisher).

What’s the best race for Dragoon?

Racial stats are (was?) a thing. However, I highly recommend not caring about it. The difference in performance between the “best” and “worst” race for you is not even 0.1%.

My advice? Pick for aesthetics. Will you stay the same job forever? If you change mains, will you race change? Ultimately, the difference is so microscopic that I cannot in good faith tell you that racial stats are an integral part of your character.

I won’t even link the Racial Stats Guide, as I haven’t checked up on this in a while – and I don’t want to cement the idea that the “best race” really matters.

Related Dragoon Guides – Read More!

Here are a few useful links for you:

Upcoming Odds and Ends

Here’s a few things we’ll be adding on here in the near future:

  • Adding a “links to further resources”, we’re doing a site restructure so once those links are set, they’ll go in here.
  • Human-readable, newbie-friendly skill and trait list.
    > I used to have the in-game skill list here, but I found it useless as the in-game one is better… I’d rather have a new player friendly rundown.
  • More descriptive job identity? Pics?
    > I dunno… pictures of the job gauges? A gif of some flashy skills?
  • Feel free to suggest anything else via comment or socials!

Summary & Outro

Well that’s about it for a really, really basic guide that hopefully points some lost souls in the right direction, or answers some of your questions regarding Dragoon.


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FFXIV 3.2 Dragoon (DRG) Best in Slot (BiS) Gear

3.2 UPDATED! DRG Best in slot guide! “I dropped blood”. DRG Lore buy order, Melding, Pages & Normals, more!

So you’re thrusting forward yet again as Dragoon in 3.2! Well you’ve been pointed to the right place for 3.2 DRG BiS! You’ll need it to get the jump on these robots!

Quicknotes: There’s alot of sets that can come up with VERY similar stats.

Navigation: Dragoon BiS
DRG BiS | Discussion | Lore Buy Order (&Pages)  | Crafted TBA

3.2 Dragoon Best-in-Slot

DRGBiSMeld 1Meld 2ACCCRITDETSS
WeaponMidan Metal SpearACC VACC V2486118-
Offhand-------
HelmAugmented Splitstream Helm of MaimingACC VSS V606912
BodyMidan Jacket of MaimingACC VACC V2478107-
HandAugmented Splitstream Gauntlets of MaimingACC VACC V2448-69
BeltMidan Belt of MaimingACC V-1236-51
LegsAugmented Splitstream Breeches of MaimingACC VACC V2411275-
BootsMidan Boots of MaimingACC VACC V2469-48
NeckMidan Neckband of SlayingACC V-4851--
EarringAugmented Primal Earrings of SlayingACC V-4851--
WristAugmented Primal Bracelet of SlayingCRIT V--48-51
RingMidan Ring of SlayingCRIT V-5148--
RingAugmented Primal ing of Slaying
CRIT V--124936
FoodBaked Pipira Pira1837
StatsTotal stats from gear357745349267
End value7111099567621
 

DRG BiS Discussion

Let me first preface this discussion by saying theres more than one way to arrive at a set that has nearly the same stats. And a whole lot of other
ways to make sets that are about 95%+ efficiency as this BiS.

Accuracy? It’s got 99.8++ frontal accuracy for A86 which should be more than enough. This should be enough! If you’re foreseeing problems, go ahead and change one of the ring melds to acc.

621 Skillspeed? It’s 5 points above the practical softcap of 616 (and the absolute minimum for DRG which is 590). As far as I know DRG’s should not go much higher than 616 – it may even be detrimental to the rotation. If you wan’t to go for 590+ (depending on your latency and experience) you can drop the single SS meld above and meld a DPS stat.

The LORE WEAPON and LORE BODY both have SS, and both are good fillers anyway. Lore Body large amounts of accuracy, So DO NOT HESITATE to pick that up even if it’s not BiS!

Melding? Can be a pain since it’s one of those sets that need accuracy melded on. Stick to cheapmelding IV’s (DPS stats or ACC) if you’re far from your BiS, and switch to accuracy V slowly. (The lore body helps out with this)

Lore Body BiS? Is very possible. Just change the melds and switch body piece THATS IT. The only downside is a little overcapped with SS, and lower DET (Not too painful). The upside? Much more flexibility with melds. It’s not BiS but can serve as a temporary solid set. This is the route you wanna take if you have no money for ACC V, lol.

Aside from this, the set works out quite well with over 1k crit and a safe level of SS (616+), and the rest being the “worst”, non-scalable stat, DET
which we can’t really avoid. Overall, quite a good BiS yet again for DRG!

DRG Lore Tomestone Buy Order

  • Weapon: Still worth even if its not BiS. Go further down the list if you haven’t gotten your hypercharged tome yet.
  • Legs: By order of Midan appearance. (A7)
  • Helm: Likewise (A6)
  • Glove: Since helm is a more stable choice, this is last.
  • BODY (You’ll get this either now, or after accessories).
  • Ring > Earring > Bracelet. By order of stability.

Everything ELSE IS OPTIONAL! left-side fillers priority Body (if you didn’t get it earlier),  Boots, Belt – then accessories Earring > Neck.

USING UP PAGES AND MIDAS NORMAL PARTS

The boxes below are expandable on click!!!

Midan Savage Pages

MIDAN SAVAGE PAGES

This strategy purely outlines the “speediest BiS” getting:

A5S: Belt > Ring > Neck > Any
A6S: Boots > Illuminati Dark Gobcoat x 3 > Any
A7S: Illuminati Taut Gobtwine x 3 > Any
A8S: Weapon > Body > Any (Waiting for Spear and getting Gobdip is OK)

Midan Normal Parts

MIDAN NORMAL PARTS

“what should DRG’s pick up in Midas normal”! Is something I get asked often so here it is…

This is a general thing, and people might have varying levels of gear or goals but as a catch-all good enough recommendation:

 DRGM1NM2NM3NM4N
Week 1pedalpedalshaftshaft
Week 2chainlensshaftshaft
Week 3boltlenscrankcrank
Week 4boltboltANYANY

We avoid legs since we’re getting it with lore ASAP. The body isn’t too good but its better than 210. Pretty good since you get all body pieces by W3. W5+ = ANYBolts? Ring > Bracelet > Any

Click the boxes above to expand!!

DRG Crafted Gear Viability

Well, I’ll get back to this once I wrap all BiS up – it’s pretty much better for ALTS at this point anyways. 90% of the info you’ve come to look for is above, anyway.

Navigation: Dragoon BiS
DRG BiS | Discussion | Lore Buy Order (&Pages)  | Crafted TBA

Well, I wish you all the luck in getting your Giers! GL with your Dragoon 3.2 BiS!

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FFXIV Dragoon (DRG) Cross Class skills guide

Go to our Stormblood updated
Melee DPS Role Actions Guide
instead!

What are the Lancer -> Dragoon Cross Class Skills? Here, we will be strictly discussing the cross-class skills Dragoon can get.

How many cross-class skills can I get as a Dragoon? Any job class may only equip five (5) cross-class skills.

From what other classes does Dragoon get skills from? Pugilist and Marauder.

What are the best Dragoon cross-class skills? This is discussed below.

Full list of Dragoon (DRG) Cross-class skills

Dragoon
NameIconLevelDescriptionFrom Class
Foresight2Increases defenseMarauder (MRD)
Skull Sunder4Attack that generates enmityMarauder (MRD)
Featherfoot4Increases evasionPugilist (PGL)
Fracture6Damage over time (DOT)Marauder (MRD)
Bloodbath8Converts damage dealt to HPMarauder (MRD)
Second Wind8Instantly restores own HPPugilist (PGL)
Haymaker10Delivers an blow after evading an attackPugilist (PGL)
Internal Release12Increases critical hit ratePugilist (PGL)
Mercy Stroke26Attack that can only be executed when enemy is below 20% HP. Up to 20% life steal.Marauder (MRD)
Mantra42Increases HP recovery via curing magic by 5% for self and nearby party membersPugilist (PGL)

 

Dragoon (DRG) Cross-class skills discussion

Foresight – Well, I guess this depends on the encounter. If staying alive is absolutely critical, you can take this.

Second Wind – Any class that can take second wind, do so. If you have to ask why, then somethings wrong with you.

Fracture – Not a bad skill for longer fights.

Bloodbath – The heal on this is quite noticeable if you’re a dragoon…

Haymaker, Featherfoot – Again, best in a pair… ultimately not worth the trouble.

Internal Release – a no brainer. Increase critical chance is just too good to pass.

Mercy Stroke – Surprisingly good for bursting down tougher adds.

Mantra – Always decent in a large raid.

Ideal Dragoon (DRG) Cross-class progression

  1. Lancer to 15 for: Unlocking other classes.
  2. Marauder to 6 for: Fracture
  3. Lancer to 30 for: DRG Requirement.
  4. Marauder to 15 for: DRG Requirement.
  5. Pugilist to 12 for: Internal Release, Second Wind.
  6. Dragoon to 50 for: Maximum level.
  7. Marauder to 26 for: Mercy Stroke
  8. Pugilist to 42 for: Mantra (All Cross-class skills obtained)

MRD 6 for Fracture is a pretty useful DoT, and well worth the side-track to Lancer 30. Pugilist to 12 is also great anytime before 50, gaining important skills like Internal Release, and Second Wind.

Summary

  • Dragoon use skills from: Pugilist and Marauder.
  • Second Wind is really, really, really good. Get used to using it!
  • Internal Release is your key DPS cross-class skill.
  • Best Dragoon Cross-class skills:
    Internal Release, Second Wind, Mantra, Mercy Stroke, Fracture.

More Info: Lancer | Dragoon | LNC DRG Stats

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FFXIV Lancer / Dragoon Stats & Materia Guide

What’s a good lancer stats build? What are useful dragoon stats? Lancer / Dragoon materia? If any of these questions brought you here, you came to the right place. Whether its by stat allocation, gear or materia, knowing what stats your Lancer or Dragoon need should never be far from mind!

Lancer (LNC) & Dragoon (DRG) Stats

What are the lancer or dragoon stat weights?

STR > Critical Chance > Determination  > VIT  > Skill Speed > DEX

*These may vary slightly from patch to patch, or by personal preference. Following the recommendation above will always give you a good LNC & DRG build.

Lancer (LNC) & Dragoon (DRG) Primary Stats Allocation

What stats should I add as a lancer or dragoon?

STR > VIT > DEX

Since this is where people may mess up the most, I’ll explain it in word for word. When you allocate stats, put as much points into STR (Strength) as you can. If you cannot put any more points into STR, place points into VIT (Vitality). If you cannot put any more points into VIT and/or STR, invest in DEX (Dexterity).

Strength – Well, you have one job as a Dragoon. Dealing tons of melee damage. No-brainer here.

Vitality – Increases total HP. Since other stats are pretty useless, you get to take VIT pretty early. Always a good thing.

Dexterity – DEX is the only other stat that has any function. Increases Parry Rate, and you should have some pretty big parries due to strength.

 

Lancer (LNC) & Dragoon (DRG) Secondary Stats

What are good secondary stats for lancer and dragoon, and why?

Critical Chance > Determination  > Skill Speed

While you can’t allocate this directly, these will be heavily considered when picking gear upgrades and slotting materia.

Critical Chance – More Damage.

Determination – More Damage.

Skill Speed – More Damage. See a pattern here?

Dragoon stat choices are really linear for now. Critical Chance will give the best returns 99% of the time.

Lancer (LNC) & Dragoon (DRG) Materia

This is directly related to the first section. As you may know, all gear has a limit for each stat it can have, the higher its Item Level, the higher amount of stats it can hold. So the idea is to max out (or get close to maxing out) the left most, and work your way right. Again:

STR > Critical Chance > Determination  > VIT  > Skill Speed > DEX

Materia Name
STR: Strength
Critical Chance: Savage Aim
Determination: Savage Might
VIT: Vitality
DEX: Dexterity
Skill Speed: Quickarm

See Also: Materia Guide | Melding Guide

Summary:

  • Overall LNC DRG stat importance: STR > Critical Chance > Determination  > VIT  > Skill Speed > DEX
  • LNC DRG Stat allocation: VIT> STR > DEX
  • Secondary stats for LNC DRG: Critical Chance > Determination  > Skill Speed
  • Reference links: Lancer FAQ , Dragoon FAQ
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Have a question about LNC /DRG? Chime in on the comments or in our Lancer / Dragoon Forums.