Square Enix has moved the release date for the Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) Evercold expansion to February 23, 2027. Early access for players is now scheduled to begin on February 19, 2027.
Square Enix shifts Evercold launch to February 2027
The announcement came during the Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival in Japan, where the company also debuted a new cinematic trailer. This update moves the launch window back approximately four weeks from the original January 2027 target.
Evercold was first introduced to the public during the North American Fan Festival in April 2026. Despite the delay in the full release, Square Enix confirmed that pre-orders will open on November 4, 2026.
Did you know? Pre-ordering Evercold grants players specific bonuses, though the company has not yet disclosed the details of these rewards.
Version 8.0 introduces Zephyr and Bastion jobs
The Evercold expansion marks the arrival of FFXIV version 8.0. Director and Producer Naoki Yoshida detailed several updates during the festival, including changes to gameplay mechanics and the primary storyline.
The update introduces two new character classes. Zephyr is a ranged DPS job that utilizes a crossbow and is supported by a companion bird during combat. Bastion serves as a tank role, designed to absorb enemy attacks and protect party members.
Square Enix integrates crossover raids
Square Enix is integrating content from other major franchises into the expansion. This includes a series of crossover raids featuring the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion and the Final Fantasy VII game series.
These collaborations will provide additional group-based combat challenges within the FFXIV world. A full opening trailer was shown at the event to establish the narrative direction of the new expansion.
Evercold release and pre-order timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Pre-orders Open | November 4, 2026 |
| Early Access | February 19, 2027 |
| Official Launch | February 23, 2027 |
Common questions about the Evercold expansion
What is the primary weapon for the Zephyr job?
The Zephyr class uses a crossbow as its main weapon and is accompanied by a bird that assists in battle.
Which franchises are collaborating for the new raids?
The expansion features crossover raid content with the Neon Genesis Evangelion anime and the Final Fantasy VII game series.
When can players begin pre-ordering the expansion?
Square Enix has scheduled the start of pre-orders for November 4, 2026.
Pre-orders for the expansion open on November 4, 2026.
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