In response to player feedback, Final Fantasy 14 has announced significant changes to the reward structure of the Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid in the upcoming Patch 7.16, set to launch on January 21. Players will now have the opportunity to exchange excess Clouddark Demimateria 1 for Clouddark Demimateria 2, though the exact exchange rate remains undisclosed. This new system will facilitate the acquisition of highly sought-after items such as the A Half Times Two hairstyle and the Dais of Darkness mount, which require 49 and 75 Clouddark Demimateria 2, respectively.
The Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid, introduced on December 24 following the release of Patch 7.15, challenges up to 24 players to conquer the final boss from A Realm Reborn's World of Darkness, incorporating mechanics from the Shadowbringers' Eden raid series. Successful parties earn Clouddark Demimateria 1 and 2, with additional Clouddark Demimateria 2 awarded for first-time clears.
Both the hairstyle and the mount can be traded on the market board, and their prices are expected to fluctuate once Patch 7.16 becomes available. Square Enix has confirmed that these modifications stem directly from player feedback, and they have hinted at the possibility of further adjustments in future updates. Patch 7.16 marks the first content update of 2025 for Final Fantasy 14, featuring the conclusion of the Dawntrail Role Quest series.
While major job balance changes are not anticipated in Patch 7.16, players should look forward to Patch 7.2 for significant updates in this area. As Final Fantasy 14 plans to roll out more raid content throughout 2025, the impact of player feedback on these future developments remains a point of interest for the community.
