Nearly 3 Years Later, FFXIV’s Best Raid Series Still Can’t Be Topped

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Approximately three years since its debut, this particular Raid series within Final Fantasy XIV is still considered the pinnacle in the game, boasting unparalleled quality and design that seems hard to surpass. Square Enix’s critically acclaimed MMORPG has celebrated the first anniversary of Dawntrail, its latest content expansion following the events of Endwalker, transporting players to Tural. Since then, the game has been consistently updated, with the latest being Patch 7.2 for Final Fantasy XIV.

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the world of Final Fantasy XIV, I’ve been thrilled by the latest update that’s brought fresh content into the mix. We now have the Cruiserweight tier for the Arcadion raid series, along with a new dungeon and quests to keep us engaged. It’s always exciting to see the game evolving, even though there are whispers about potential content and service decline.

The upcoming expansion, Dawntrail, might not be as powerful or captivating as its predecessors, but it doesn’t diminish the joy of revisiting some of the game’s finest moments. Despite the uncertainties, I can’t help but look back at the incredible content that has made this MMORPG an unforgettable journey.

FFXIV: Endwalker’s Pandaemonium: Abyssos Raids Are Still The Best In The Game

Abyssos Is The Second Part Of The Larger Pandaemonium Raid Series

Among the exceptional content pieces, the set of Pandaemonium: Abyssos Raids was introduced during the Endwalker expansion as additional content following the main story quest patches. For context, Abyssos represents the second level of Raids within the larger Pandaemonium Raid series. The Abyssos Raids were preceded by Asphodelos and followed by Anabaseios Raids, marking the conclusion of Pandaemonium. Although all these Raids are part of a continuous storyline, the Abyssos Raids in Final Fantasy XIV are particularly memorable.

Introduced in August 2022, the Abyssos section encompasses the Fifth Circle, Sixth Circle, Seventh Circle, and Eighth Circle Raids. These challenging levels showcase Proto-Carbuncle, Hegemone, Agdistis, and Hephaistos as the formidable bosses to conquer. From a narrative perspective, Abyssos immerses players in the lower depths of Pandaemonium, unveiling a broader conspiracy unfolding.

FFXIV’s Pandaemonium: Abyssos Raids Are A Master Class In Gameplay Design & Soundtrack

The Abyssos Raids’ Soundtrack Is Memorable

Among the various sections of Pandaemonium and Raid series, the Abyssos Raids are particularly notable due to their exceptional design across all aspects – excluding Alliance Raids. In terms of gameplay, these four Pandaemonium circles boast some of the most captivating bosses to confront. These adversaries possess distinct move sets that stand out more vividly than any others. For instance, Agdistis showcases an unforgettable arena mechanic that keeps players on their toes unlike any other encounter. Director Yoshi-P’s favorite addition in FFXIV: Patch 6.2 also distinguishes itself with its outstanding soundtrack.

When you initiate the Abyssos Raids, during the Fifth Circle Raid, you’ll encounter the Proto-Carbuncle and will be accompanied by an excellently composed instrumental track titled “Silent Scream“. As you progress to Hegemone and Agdistis, you’ll instead hear a version of this song with vocals, named “Scream“, adding fresh energy. Although leitmotifs are common in the game, this specific medley highlights why the soundtrack of FFXIV is one of the finest in the series.

Besides offering top-notch performance during gameplay, the Abyssos Raids are distinguished by some of the most stylish armor and weapon sets found throughout Final Fantasy XIV. Though their item levels have been outclassed since their debut, the chance to showcase these luminous designs in customizable glamour plates makes farming the Abyssos Raids an appealing prospect.

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2025-07-06 17:00