The above post was getting long.... wanted to add something.


You're not even taking into account the fact that 100%... yes ONE HUNDRED PERCENT! Of the best items in the game are obtained OUTSIDE of Ifrit / Raids.

I would take an HQ weapon with 3-5 materia over an Ifrit weapon any day of the week.

Crafters create the best gear in the game, this is where FFXIV differs from a ton of other MMO's; including your WoW example.


Multi Materia > Ex / Rare > Single Materia > Uncommon (green items) > No Materia