As wildfires continue to devastate the Los Angeles region, the team behind Final Fantasy 14 has made a compassionate decision to postpone the automatic housing demolition feature on North American servers. This measure aims to protect players who are unable to log in due to the ongoing crisis, ensuring they do not lose their virtual homes.
The suspension of the auto-demolition timer took effect on January 9 at 8:20 p.m. PT for players in the Aether, Crystal, Dynamis, and Primal data centers. The developers will keep a close watch on developments in Southern California before deciding when it is appropriate to resume normal operations. Typically, Final Fantasy 14 players risk losing their housing after a period of inactivity lasting 45 days—a policy that reflects the game’s high demand for property ownership among its community.
In a heartfelt message from Square Enix, they expressed solidarity with those impacted by these devastating fires: “From all of us on the Final Fantasy 14 development and management team, our hearts go out to those who were affected by the mountain fires that occurred around Los Angeles in North America. It is our sincere hope that recovery is swift and those of you who were affected will be able to rejoin us in FF14 soon.”
According to reports from The Los Angeles Times, at least ten lives have been lost due to these wildfires; over 100,000 residents have been evacuated; approximately 9,000 structures have been destroyed; and tens of thousands of acres have burned as multiple large-scale fires rage across Southern California. For those looking for ways to assist victims during this challenging time, The LA Times has compiled an extensive list of organizations accepting donations here.
This proactive approach by Square Enix highlights not only their commitment towards player welfare but also underscores how gaming communities can come together during times of crisis. As we navigate through such unprecedented events—where real-life challenges intersect with digital experiences—it becomes increasingly important for companies within this space to show empathy and support.
while many may find solace within virtual worlds like Final Fantasy 14, it’s crucial that we remain aware and responsive towards real-world issues affecting our communities. Whether through direct action or simply spreading awareness about available resources for assistance—every effort counts as we strive toward recovery together amidst adversity.