HDR

[jupiker]

I would kindly like to ask the developers to consider adding native HDR support to Final Fantasy XIV.

A large and growing number of players are now using HDR-capable displays, and the game’s already beautiful world would truly benefit from the expanded color range, deeper contrast, and improved lighting that HDR can provide.

Eorzea has incredible art direction, and HDR support could elevate the experience even further—making environments feel more vibrant, immersive, and alive, especially during sunrise/sunset scenes, dungeons, and cinematic moments.

Thank you for your continued work and dedication to the game!

[Hyperia]

I’m all for more modes but I hope it really would look better because every time I get to see HDR on my system, things become a lot darker and the colors are washed out.

[jupiker]

✅ 1. Turn OFF Windows HDR (for desktop use)

Go to:

Settings → Display → HDR → OFF

������ Why:
Windows HDR often makes SDR content look flat and desaturated.

✅ 2. Disable Windows Auto Color Management (VERY IMPORTANT)

Go to:

Settings → System → Display → Advanced display → Color management
Turn OFF:
������ “Automatically manage color for apps”

������ This is a hidden culprit:

it alters gamma and colors in the background
causes that “washed-out” / “milky” look
✅ 3. NVIDIA Settings (or AMD equivalent)

Set:

Output Color Format → RGB
Output Dynamic Range → Full
Output Color Depth → 10 bpc (if available)
Refresh Rate → 100–120 Hz (lower than max if needed)
✅ 4. Monitor Settings (important!)
If you want the best “always looks good” image:
Keep Windows HDR OFF
On the monitor:
Enable HDR Peak 1000 (or similar)
Use Standard / Gaming preset (NOT Creator/sRGB)

������ This gives:

deeper contrast
richer colors
no Windows interference
⚠️ Important Reality Check

There are 2 different things:

✔ True HDR (technical accuracy)
requires Windows HDR ON
often looks worse on desktop
✔ “Looks good all the time” (what most people want)
Windows HDR OFF
let the monitor enhance the image

������ Most people prefer the second option.

������ Quick Test

Do this:

Turn HDR OFF in Windows
Disable auto color management
Compare before/after

������ If colors suddenly:

pop more
have deeper blacks
look “alive”

➡️ your issue is fixed

[Tuchkin]

Great post indeed
but you can do it simply turn off Windows HDR (it white out your screen, nothing more) and set full color game/sRGB 10 bit profile for you card and monitor.