The votes were in and Pet Class had the most votes total. I know many of us are excited to get started on that class, having a companion at your side brings a whole new dynamic to the gaming experience.
Do you want a Pet Class and have high hopes for it?
Have you played other MMO's or Single Player's and remember something that you loved about a certain pet class that they hope implement?
Do you hope they keep everything as it was in XI?
Do you dislike pets or have allergies and would prefer to keep a rock?
Do you prefer a traditional Pet Class from XI?
What about a Hybrid of Pet Class characateristics from multiple MMO's and single players?
How do you think SE can improve on the Pet Classes from FFXI to FFXIV?
I want to see feedback on this topic. Lets let our imaginations run with ideas. Have fun. I love to theorize about topics like this because it makes me feel like we are one step closer to getting there. I also love to read peoples ideas as some can be very brilliant.
Side Note: I personally wouldn't mind having a adventuring fellow! (Non-instanced) *cough* *cough*
Here is a chart of the Pet Classes that I am familiar with and have experienced. I know there are many other people from other MMO's that have a lot of input. So please feel free to add some.
Dragoon is not included for obvious reasons.
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My first ever MMO was FFXI. I played that solidly since 2008/2009 so my experience in other MMO's is very limited, however I did dip into World of Warcraft for a bit and there was one thing I really liked...
My initial thought when I asked myself "Which pet classes do I want to see?" was "Perhaps it is time for another Disciple of Magic." But I realize that I am looking for something more.
Summoner
My ideal pet class would be a FFXI Summoner sparkling and whirling elementals and all. I don't have hopes that it will be as grand and or well, I am really worried that it won't meet my expectations. I wish we could get more feedback as to if we were going to get a Summoner, which direction would it go? I have heard it suggested that instead of the Elemental Avatars we will get creatures more like Carbuncle? Interesting thoughts.
Beastmaster
So... back up plan! Beastmaster (With a Twist). Using a jug to summon your pet...(unaware of how the system has evolved, have not played since 08/09ish). And unfortunately the concept didn't really appeal to me at the time. However I loved the idea of Beastmaster, I just felt it limited.
Why not have Beastmaster reflect more along the lines of WoW's Hunter. Allow Beastmasters to tame and level up aggressive beasts from around the realm (though Snurbles would be awesome too). Allow them to be our companions wherever we may go. Instance, town, ferry.
What I also liked is that there was a lot of what I considered fun Solo content for Hunter. I really enjoyed camping the Rare mobs that to me were lovely and really provided me with a sense of accomplishment when I tamed one of them. So for more added solo content could be Beastmaster taming rare / unique looking mobs around Eorzea.
If we look at the man and beast relationship. The above would be more realistic in regards to how humans interact with beasts. Over centuries man has domesticated animals from adversaries to tools and companions. They have traveled with us for thousands of miles, evolved with us, and now share even our most deadliest health risks. Through thick and thin our animal companions provide companionship, food, clothing and tools. We form bonds with our animals and friendships which may be short but memories which may last a lifetime.
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I realize not everyone will agree with me that we all have our own different perspectives or ideas and I will state again, this is what I enjoyed. This isn't an end all statement that will change the face of FFXIV forever, just some fun talk about some fun ideas revolving Pet classes. Thoughts, ideas and suggestions!
My Journal Entry