In the eclectic and vibrant universe of Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV), the Dancer job stands out as a mesmerizing blend of deadly effectiveness and graceful artistry. This guide seeks to unfurl the convoluted medley that makes up the Dancer, leading you through the steps from initiation into this charming profession, to mastering the dance floor of battle with poise and precision. Whether you’re a greenhorn eager to learn the basics or a seasoned performer looking to perfect your craft, this guide will be your compass in the enchanting world of FFXIV’s Dancer.

Becoming a Dancer#

The journey to becoming a Dancer begins not with a step, but a leap - both literally and figuratively. Introduced in the Shadowbringers expansion, the Dancer is a ranged DPS (Damage Per Second) job that requires no previous class levels to initiate. However, the prerequisite to unlocking this whirlwind of blades and beauty is reaching level 60 with any class or job and having access to the Shadowbringers content.

Your odyssey commences in Limsa Lominsa, specifically at the dancing troupe’s performance in the city’s plaza. Here, you will meet the charismatic NPC (Non-Playable Character), Nashmeira, who will lead you through your initial steps as a Dancer. The first quest, “Shall We Dance,” serves as your gateway into the world of rhythm and ruin, imbuing you with the essence of what it means to be a Dancer in Eorzea.

Dancer Steps#

The fundament of the Dancer’s arsenal lies in their unique ability to perform dance steps, which empower both themselves and their allies. These abilities consist of a sequence of dances: the Standard Step and Technical Step, each serving a pivotal role in the Dancer’s rotation.

Standard Step initiates a mini-game of sorts, prompting you to execute two dance steps (indicated by icons) in a specific order to augment your next Standard Finish, dealing AOE (Area of Effect) damage and buffing you and your chosen dance partner with increased damage output.

Technical Step expands on this concept, requiring four dance steps to be completed. It culminates in Technical Finish, a more potent AOE attack that buffs not only you and your partner but also all nearby party members with a significant damage increase. Mastering the sequence and timing of these steps is crucial to maximizing your efficacy in combat.

Dancer Rotation#

A Dancer’s rotation is a symphony of precise movements and timely abilities designed to improve damage output. The rotation can be divided into two segments: Single Target and AOE, each with its unique sequence and priorities.

Single Target Rotation#

The core of your single target rotation revolves around generating Esprit via your Cascade and Fountain abilities, leading to powerful Sabre Dance attacks. Weaving in your Fan Dance abilities, generated by procs (programmed random occurrences) from your main attacks, adds layers to your damage output. Essential to your rotation is maintaining the buffs from Standard Step and Technical Step, ensuring they’re used on cooldown to maximize their uptime and benefits.

AOE Rotation#

In situations where you’re faced with multiple foes, your rotation shifts to prioritize AOE moves like Windmill and Bladeshower, generating procs for Fan Dance II. Here, maintaining Standard Step and Technical Step remains vital, with the addition of using Rising Windmill and Bloodshower as they become available through procs. Balancing your Esprit for Sabre Dance while managing procs ensures a devastating flurry of attacks against groups of enemies.

Dancer Gear#

Outfitting your Dancer is akin to preparing for a grand performance. Gear choices should primarily focus on increasing your Dexterity, as it directly enhances your damage output. Secondary stats to prioritize include Critical Hit Rate and Direct Hit Rate, both of which further augment your ability to deal significant damage. Determination and Skill Speed are also beneficial but take a backseat to the former stats.

Your armament, a pair of chakrams, serves as the conduit of your dance. Keeping your weapon updated with the highest item level available to you is paramount for maintaining the potency of your attacks.

Dancer Quests#

The anecdote journey of the Dancer is woven through a series of job quests, each offering insights into the lore and mechanics of this captivating profession. Starting at level 60 and concluding at level 80, these quests not only grant new abilities but also tell the tale of your character’s growth into a masterful performer.

• At level 60, “Shall We Dance” introduces you to the world of the Dancer, setting the stage for your adventure.
• Subsequent quests like “The Road to 70” and every ten levels afterward unlock new moves and abilities, culminating in the powerful Improvisation skill.
• Each quest not only enhances your repertoire but deep-rootedens your connection to the Dancer’s story, highlighting the impact of your performances on the world of Eorzea and beyond.

Embarking on the path of the Dancer in FFXIV is a venture into a world where art meets combat, where every step and spin carries the weight of both elegance and efficacy. Mastering the nuances of this job entails a ballet of balance between execution, gear optimization, and understanding the deep lore that surrounds this unique profession. Through dedication and practice, the stage of battle becomes your dance floor, where every encounter is a performance waiting to be applauded.