Ifrit...wonderful, isn't he? Big, strong, terrifying...and a bit of a nuisance, especially with all of the interface lag and skill lock-ups that occur. While the idea of a dynamic, movement-oriented fight is great, this was hardly the ideal time. An inherently flawed game design with a good idea operating under it is still...well, an inherently flawed game design! I congratulate Yoshi-P for moving forward the way he and his team has--great job; still, the game just wasn't ready for a battle like Ifrit. Frankly, I don't even think Darkhold should have been done just yet.

The reasons? Several. First off, the already existing lag makes it difficult, even with a great, state-of-the-art gaming rig. Sans that level of technology, it's a nightmare. This isn't to say it's impossible, and to some it may come easy! But not everyone.

Many people claim it's an 'easy' battle. Easy is a relative term, and most of these people are what could be called 'hardcore' and 'experienced' gamers. Keep in mind that part of the intent of FFXIV was to be friendly to the casual gamers, and we have a huge population of them within our community. While there's nothing wrong with a challenge, some people with less experience are at a disadvantage--even at level 50.

The solution? Simple: difficulties. You can choose to do a slightly easier battle, based on stars (with the middle difficulty being the 'base' Ifrit you all know, and the higher being stronger than normal, if you want a real hard battle). This way, the 'hardcore' gamer can get the thrills they seek, and the casual gamer can still achieve the satisfaction they desire.

Will this happen? I don't know, but I'm voicing it regardless! I would certainly hope it gets seen.