Square Enix Postpones Final Fantasy XIV Evercold to February 2027

What changed#

During Final Fantasy Fan Fest Japan, Final Fantasy XIV producer and director Naoki Yoshida—known to fans as Yoshi-P—confirmed that the Evercold expansion has been delayed. The new official launch date for the expansion is February 23, 2027, with early access scheduled to begin on February 19, 2027. Pre-orders are set to open on November 4, falling on the exact same day as rival title World of Warcraft Forever, though this shared date is noted as likely coincidental.

Players who purchase early will receive a Cottra minion from a new fluffy cat race, a pair of earrings, and early access entry. Square Enix has listed all available editions on the official site, highlighting an enticing mount from Final Fantasy 13 that may tempt fans to spend a significant amount of money.

Evercold introduces several major changes to the online RPG:

• Evolved System: Simplifies quick-access hotbars for abilities and overhauls the existing profession system.
• Zephyr Profession: Adds a brand-new ranged fighter job equipped with a deadly bird pet. The opening quest for the Zephyr job will require level 90 and will appear in Gridania after Patch 8.0 releases.
• Final Fantasy 7 Remake Crossover: Features a brand-new raid centered on a crossover with Final Fantasy 7 Remake.

Why it matters#

This delay places Evercold right in the middle of a heavily stacked gaming calendar. February 2027 is projected to be a crowded month for major releases, including Grand Theft Auto 6, Fable, God of War: Laufey, Persona 4 Revival, and Metro 2039 alongside other big titles.

From a business perspective, community excitement surrounding Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Final Fantasy 14 Evercold previously boosted Square Enix profits by more than 88%. Combining these two high-performing brands through the upcoming Final Fantasy 7 Remake crossover raid allows Square Enix to capitalize on that ongoing player enthusiasm.

What to do next#

Players interested in pre-ordering can check out all listed versions on the official website before pre-orders open on November 4.

If you want to play the Zephyr job immediately upon launch, make sure to level a character to 90 ahead of Patch 8.0 so you can pick up the initial quest in Gridania. Players aiming for early access on February 19, 2027, can secure entry alongside the Cottra minion and bonus earrings by locking in their pre-order when sales open.