How to unlock The Windward Wilds trial (Guardian Arkveld) in Final Fantasy XIV

If you’re looking to start the Windward Wilds trial to face Guardian Arkveld in Final Fantasy XIV, here’s a simple guide to get you going.

First, make sure your character is a combat job at level 100. You’ll also need to have an item level of at least 725 to queue for the trial.

It’s important that you’ve finished the main story quest related to the Dawntrail expansion before you try to unlock this trial.

Requirements to unlock The Windward Wilds Trial in Final Fantasy XIV

Image via Square Enix

To unlock the trial, head over to Tuliyollal at coordinates (13.3, 13.1). Find the NPC called Dawn Hunt Tracker and talk to them to start the quest named The White Wanderer.

Completing this quest will unlock the trial for you, but keep in mind the quest only finishes after you defeat Guardian Arkveld. Once you’ve done that, you’ll have access to the normal version of the trial.

Step-by-step guide to unlock The Windward Wilds Trial in Final Fantasy XIV

Image via Square Enix

1. Reach level 100 on a combat job.
2. Finish the main story for the Dawntrail expansion.
3. Make sure your item level is at least 725.
4. Go to Tuliyollal (13.3, 13.1).
5. Talk to Dawn Hunt Tracker to get The White Wanderer quest.
6. Defeat Guardian Arkveld to complete the quest and unlock the trial.

Rewards from The Windward Wilds Trial in Final Fantasy XIV

Image via Square Enix

After beating the trial, you’ll get a Veldian Weapon Coffer, which contains a Monster Hunter-style weapon. You can also collect Guardian Scales from the boss, which you can trade at the smithy in Tuliyollal for weapons and other items.

If you want to try the Extreme version of the trial, you need to talk to The Wandering Minstrel NPC in Tuliyollal at (11.1, 14.6) after you’ve cleared the normal fight.

This version requires an average item level of 740 or higher and gives extra rewards like Guardian Arkveld Certificates, used to upgrade your Veldian weapon.

How to unlock the extreme version of The Windward Wilds Trial

Image via Square Enix

To unlock the Extreme trial, clear the normal version first. Then speak with The Wandering Minstrel in Tuliyollal at (11.1, 14.6).

The Extreme version needs a higher item level, around 740 or more, and rewards you with extra certificates for weapon upgrades.

FAQs

How do I start the Windward Wilds trial in Final Fantasy XIV?

• You need to be level 100 on a combat job, have item level 725+, finish the Dawntrail main story, then talk to Dawn Hunt Tracker in Tuliyollal at (13.3, 13.1) to start The White Wanderer quest.

What is the item level requirement for the trial?

• You need at least item level 725 to queue for the normal trial and 740 or above for the Extreme version.

Where can I find the NPC to unlock the Extreme version?

• After beating the normal trial, talk to The Wandering Minstrel in Tuliyollal at (11.1, 14.6) to unlock the Extreme trial.

What rewards do I get from defeating Guardian Arkveld?

• You get a Veldian Weapon Coffer, Guardian Scales to trade for items, and in Extreme mode, Guardian Arkveld Certificates to upgrade your weapon.

Do I need to complete the main story before unlocking this trial?

• Yes, you need to have completed the main scenario quest related to the Dawntrail expansion to access this trial.