Revamping Character Portraits: Final Fantasy 14's Patch 7.1 Brings Much-Needed Improvements

The character portrait system in Final Fantasy 14 is set for an important update that addresses long-standing issues that many players have experienced. As the MMORPG prepares for its upcoming patch, excitement builds for new features and enhancements. Patch 7.1, titled Crossroads, marks the first major update for the Dawntrail expansion and is scheduled for launch on November 12. This patch promises a wealth of content, including new main scenario quests, a fresh 24-man raid inspired by Final Fantasy 11, and numerous quality-of-life improvements.

One significant quality-of-life enhancement found in the 7.1 patch notes targets the character portrait system, which players have found to be lacking since its introduction early in 2023. The patch notes explain that if the gear displayed in a saved instant portrait does not match the current equipment after updating or switching gear sets, users can easily refresh their instant portraits through a dedicated window. Players can adjust this by toggling the 'Use as Instant Portrait' option in the Edit Portrait window.

Final Fantasy 14 provides players with the ability to create personalized portraits for their characters, which are visible to others at the start of light parties, full parties, or alliance duties. Players can customize various aspects, including pose, expression, background, flair, and camera angle. While this feature is delightful, issues arose when players changed their character's armor, as their portraits would revert to a standard version during duties. This was notoriously referred to as the 'DMV portrait' by the community, showcasing the character against a blue backdrop with a blank expression.

With patch 7.1, a convenient pop-up will allow players to promptly update their portraits following gear changes, simplifying the previously complex navigation within the feature's menu. Although this may be seen more as a temporary solution rather than a complete revamp, this change is a welcomed improvement that will alleviate frustration regarding default portraits for many players.