Responding to player feedback, Final Fantasy XIV Patch 7.16 will introduce a Clouddark Demimateria exchange system. This update, launching January 21st, 2025, addresses concerns regarding the acquisition of high-demand items from the Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid.
The core change allows players to exchange Clouddark Demimateria 1 for Clouddark Demimateria 2, facilitating the purchase of items like the "A Half Times Two" hairstyle and the "Dais of Darkness" mount, both currently requiring significant amounts of Demimateria 2. While the exact exchange rate remains unannounced, this adjustment aims to improve accessibility.
The Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid, introduced in Patch 7.15, presents a challenging encounter for up to 24 players. The current reward structure, awarding varying quantities of Demimateria 1 and 2 based on raid completion status, proved problematic for many players.
The introduction of the exchange is a direct response to player concerns. Square Enix has indicated that further adjustments to the Demimateria system and raid rewards are possible based on ongoing community feedback. This will likely influence future raid content updates throughout 2025. Other notable features of Patch 7.16 include the conclusion of the Dawntrail Role Quest series, with major job balance updates anticipated in Patch 7.2. The ability to buy and sell the mount and hairstyle on the market board will also impact their in-game value.
