In the recent 7.2 patch of the Dawntrail expansion, Final Fantasy XIV released a new game mode called Cosmic Exploration. It was released as a Lifestyle content, where you can explore and develop various planetary surfaces. For now, you will have to work only with the surface of the moon, but more planets will be added in later patches. If you are a crafter, or a gatherer, this is going to be just the right experience for you.
This guide will discuss how you can unlock the Cosmic Exploration, what different mechanics this game mode offers, what rewards you can get, and how you can make the best out of your gameplay experience. No matter what you do, make sure you stack up on FFXIV Gil, as it is the most primary form of currency you will have to use in the game.
Unlocking Cosmic Exploration
First, you have to complete”Endwalker”, which is a Main Scenario Quest. After that, you have to visit Namingway in Old Sharlayan (X:12.6, Y:13.6), who will give you access to the quest “A Cosmic Homecoming”.
Once you complete the quest, you can now enter the Sinus Ardorum, also known as the Moongate Hub, which is kind of a central hub for Cosmic Exploration. From here, you can start exploring as you like. If you want to return to the Moongate Hub, you can do so any time by talking to Drivingway in Mare Lamentorum (X: 21.9, Y: 13.2). Note that you do need to have at least one level 10 class for crafting or gathering.
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Core Gameplay Mechanics
Once you go through the Sinus Ardorum and unlock Cosmic Exploration, the game will let you explore and learn everything on your own. You can then talk to Reaserchingway at the Cosmic Research Counter (X: 21.1, Y:21.8), where you can access different quests and missions.
The main objectives for you in Cosmic Exploration are completing Stellar Missions, Mech Ops and Red Alerts. To track your progress, access all options and missions, and see how much progress you have made, you will have to use the Exotablet. You can access the Exotablet from the Menu option in Cosmic Exploration.
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Stellar Missions
These are tasks where you will have to craft or gather specific items by which you can develop zones and get rewards. You can start a Stellar Mission by going to your Exotablet menu. You will see that each mission is divided into classes. You will start with the Class D missions first, getting better class missions as you complete lower class missions.
For any reason, if you have to stop a Stellar Mission, you can do so by choosing “Abandon” from the Exotablet menu, and you can abandon the mission without getting any rewards no matter how much you have progressed. For completing these missions easily, you can hop on to U7BUY and buy in-game items at low prices, giving you a significant boost in your gameplay.
Mech Ops
These are dynamic events like FATEs, which appear randomly on the top of your screen saying that a Mech Ops event is about to start in an area. First you need to buy a Pilot Application from Aerot (X: 22.2, Y: 20.6) using 1000 Lunar Credits. Then you need to apply to the mission as a pilot.
If you don’t get chosen as a pilot, which may happen more often than you think, you can keep reusing your application as long as you are not chosen as one. You can also start the mission as Ground Support. However, with Pilot Support, you can get a Big Bang Ticket which you can use at the Cosmic Fortunes Counter (X: 21.8, Y: 21.1) which you can access by visiting Orbitingway.
Red Alerts
Red Alerts are rare, high-stakes missions by which you can progress in the zone significantly. These missions have a special progress box on your Exotablet with two gauges for two independent jobs. Your mission will be considered a success if both gauges are filled to 100%.
Conclusion
Cosmic Exploration adds a fresh and rewarding experience for crafters and gatherers in FFXIV, offering unique missions, rare rewards, and collaborative gameplay that enhance your journey across the stars.