Treasure maps are not only a thrilling activity but also a lucrative way to earn Gil in Final Fantasy XIV. Combining adventure, teamwork, and the potential for high rewards, treasure maps are a favorite pastime for many players. In this guide, we’ll delve into what treasure maps are, how to obtain and use them, and strategies for maximizing your profits while having fun.
What Are Treasure Maps?
Treasure maps are items obtained through gathering or purchased from the market board. These maps lead to buried treasure scattered throughout Eorzea and beyond. Each map contains a riddle or coordinates, guiding players to the location of the treasure chest. Once found, the chest spawns monsters that must be defeated before the loot can be claimed.
Treasure maps come in several varieties, with each offering different levels of challenge and rewards. Some of the most popular maps include:
- Timeworn Gazelleskin Maps – Level 70 maps
- Timeworn Zonureskin Maps – Level 80 maps
- Timeworn Kumbhiraskin Maps – Level 90 maps (Endwalker)
Each map offers a chance to access treasure dungeons, such as The Shifting Oubliettes of Lyhe Ghiah or The Excitatron 6000, where the rewards and excitement multiply.
How to Obtain Treasure Maps
To participate in treasure hunts, you first need a map. Here’s how to get one:
Gathering:
Players with gathering jobs at level 70 or higher can acquire maps while gathering from specific nodes. For example:
- Gazelleskin Maps can be found in level 70 gathering nodes.
- Zonureskin Maps are in level 80 nodes.
- Kumbhiraskin Maps appear in level 90 nodes.
Make sure “Decipher” is unlocked to use the maps.
Market Board:
If gathering isn’t your forte, you can purchase maps from the market board. Prices vary depending on the type of map and server economy.
Treasure Maps from Dungeons:
Occasionally, treasure maps can drop as rewards from certain high-level dungeons.
Preparing for a Treasure Hunt
Before embarking on a treasure hunt, there are a few things to prepare:
- Unlocking Treasure Maps: Complete the quest “Treasure Hunt” in Wineport (Eastern La Noscea) to unlock the treasure hunting mechanic.
- Forming a Party: Treasure maps are more enjoyable (and manageable) with a party of 4-8 players. Some maps require teamwork to handle the challenging monsters that spawn.
- Gear Up: Ensure your gear is up to date for your job’s level. Higher-level maps, like Zonureskin or Kumbhiraskin, require well-geared players to survive the tougher encounters.
- Bring Teleport Gil: Having Gil for teleportation saves time when traveling between map locations.
Rewards from Treasure Maps
The rewards from treasure maps can vary greatly but often include:
- Gil: Direct payouts of Gil are common and can be quite substantial.
- Crafting Materials: Rare materials used for crafting and market board trading.
- Minions and Mounts: Exclusive collectibles that can be sold or kept.
- Glamour and Housing Items: Popular among collectors.
- Allagan Tomestones: Used to obtain endgame gear or other rewards.
- Dungeons: A chance to enter specialized treasure dungeons, offering even greater rewards and additional layers of challenge.
Tips for Maximizing Gil from Treasure Maps
- Sell Rare Materials: Rare crafting materials obtained from treasure maps often fetch high prices on the market board. Check current trends and sell accordingly.
- Participate in Map Parties: Joining a map party increases your chances of entering treasure dungeons, where rewards are multiplied. Everyone in the party can contribute maps, making it a collaborative effort.
- Focus on Popular Maps: Maps like Zonureskin and Kumbhiraskin are in high demand because of their lucrative rewards. Prioritize these for maximum profit.
- Be Strategic about When to Sell: Market board prices fluctuate. Sell your loot during high-demand periods, such as just after a patch release when new recipes or items are introduced.
- Farm Regularly: Dedicate time to gathering maps yourself. This minimizes your initial investment and increases your overall profit.
Fun Factor: Why Treasure Maps Are Worth It
While the Gil is a significant draw, treasure maps offer more than just monetary gain. They provide a social and engaging activity that breaks the monotony of daily grinds. Whether you’re exploring beautiful landscapes, strategizing with friends, or facing off against powerful foes, treasure maps add an element of unpredictability and excitement to FFXIV.
Additionally, the chance to discover exclusive items, minions, and mounts makes each treasure hunt a unique experience. The camaraderie and shared victories with your party are often the most rewarding part of the journey.
Conclusion
Treasure maps are a fantastic way to earn Gil while injecting a sense of adventure into your FFXIV gameplay. With preparation, strategy, and a bit of luck, treasure maps can be both profitable and immensely entertaining. So gather your friends, grab a map, and embark on an unforgettable treasure-hunting journey across Eorzea!