Final Fantasy XIV Expands Free Trial to Include One of the Most Highly Praised Expansions in the MMORPG

Final Fantasy XIV concluded its Fan Festival 2026 in Anaheim, where players were able to learn about the future of the MMORPG and what sorts of systems they could expect. This included a presentation that talked a bit about the upcoming expansion, a crossover event, and various system updates that players can expect.

However, one interesting addition to those who aren't current fans of the MMORPG was also mentioned. As one of the last talking points in the keynote presentation on day one, it was announced that FINAL FANTASY XIV would be expanding its free trial beyond the current scope, and it'll include an exciting expansion for players to enjoy.

As it stands, FINAL FANTASY XIV's free trial is a robust, multi-hour-long experience that lets players get well-invested in the world. It's available for free, giving players access to the world without having to pay either the upfront cost of £9.99 or the monthly subscription fee.

What's already there is an impressive look at everything players can expect, but it's about to grow exponentially, including a very exciting new feature. The free trial is being expanded, bringing in the game's third expansion, Shadowbringers, which is regarded as one of the best expansions of the entire MMORPG.

This means that players who haven't experienced FINAL FANTASY XIV and are interested in dipping their toes (or taking a full-in plunge because of the depth of the free trial) can now experience the peak of the MMORPG from the get-go. Including the Shadowbringer expansion, this'll give players a great look at the potential that the world has, and a possible way to get excited for the upcoming FINAL FANTASY XIV: Evercold coming next year.

The Shadowbringer expansion will be included in the free trial on the 28th of April 2026, bringing the final free trial product to hundreds of hours spanning the base game and three full expansions, without a limit on playtime. You can download it on PC via Steam, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.